Re-opening in May after a remodeling, Cactus Restaurant is a cheerful, colorful Mexican and Southwestern outpost in downtown Kirkland with hand-painted walls and pleasant lighting. Leather banquettes invite groups to linger over premier tequilas and superb house cocktails while nibbling on delicious tapas, bocaditos, or antojitos. Sharing with friends means you can taste more of the delights the chef has to offer, but pay attention to the menu insert. It features a menu that the chef uses to experiment with dishes and treat his guests to some real treasures. If you are lucky and it is available (because the menu is constantly changing), try Braised Lamb Tacos with Tomatillo-mint salsa and Cotija cheese served on house-made corn tortillas with cumin black beans and Spanish rice.

Park Ln, Kirkland, WA 98033, 425-893-9799

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