Rojo Mexican Bistro, 401 Main St., Rochester (248) 601-9300

Two years after the first Rojo opened in Novi, downtown Rochester became the second location of the concept restaurant that was surprisingly spawned by the Andiamo restaurant group. Chef Luis Garza, a native of Linares, Mexico, came out of the Andiamo kitchen to write a menu reflecting his heritage and it was a hit from the start. (A third Rojo will open soon in St. Clair Shores on the site of the former Andiamo Lakefront Bistro).

While Rojo certainly doesn't neglect the the popular tortilla dishes that are expected in any Mexican spot, it goes beyond enchiladas and tacos with some signature dishes that will surely surprise those who've never tried pork chops in a sauce of roasted tomatillos and serrano peppers, or salmon pan-seared and accented with roasted poblano peppers, spinach and cream sauce.

The space, which was formerly an Andiamo location, was given a handsome update by designer Ron Rea, who used bottles of tequila as a decor element, and, of course, the classic margarita, made with fresh ingredients, is one of the drink specialties.

Recommended dishes: Guacamole prepared tableside, roasted poblano peppers filled with three cheeses, chicken mole de galina

Price range: Appetizers $6.99-$15.99. entrees $7.99-$34.99

Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Tuesday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Wednesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-midnight Friday, noon-midnight Saturday, noon-9 p.m. Sunday.

Credit cards: All major