The reviews are in: Cascabel is one of Santa Rosa's favorite spots for tasty Mexican fare. Start with an order of the house-made chips and salsa sampler (which gives you mild, medium, and hot options). Popular entrees include the brightly-hued conchinita pibil, topped with habanero salsa, red onions, and cilantro. Add a side of creamy rice and charros beans and you've got a hearty meal. You might also order a trio of tacos featuring various fillings ranging from Baja-style fish, to grilled steak, to slow-braised pork.

Regulars note that this place offers good happy hour deals, both at the traditional after-work time, and also after 9 p.m. for the late crowd. Try one of the bar's hand-crafted margaritas, or go for a flight of tequilas, along with an order of queso or a plate of fried calamari. Finally, no matter what time you visit, be sure to leave room for dessert, as the kitchen turns out everything from coconut-flavored flan to fiery, flambe-style ice cream.

Public Domain/Photo by Herson Rodriguez on Unsplash