Lolita

Located in the burgeoning Midtown Village, Lolita serves delicious contemporary Mexican fare. It’s a popular BYOB housed in an intimate storefront, where on weekends the wait for a table can approach an hour at times.

All of this adds to the experience — the simple, no frills atmosphere that accompanies so many of Center City’s BYOBs allows you to enjoy the food and the company even more.

While the design is straightforward, the restaurant is nonetheless chic — dark wood tables and modern lighting complement exposed brick walls and a tiled floor. Similarly, a fun and sophisticated bunch seem to be the restaurant’s most frequent patrons.

As for the fare, the kitchen embraces simple ingredients, yet the food will speak to you with assertive flavors, textures and colors. Favorites include lobster and sea scallop ceviche, Morita-cumin grilled beef tenderloin, and guacamole with a mix of sweet potato, taro and blue corn chips.

Bring a group; Lolita a great spot for a dinner with friends. And don’t forget your cash, as credit cards are not accepted.

Insider Tip

BYOT – While you are more than welcome to bring a bottle of wine, you should really pick up a bottle of tequila on your way. Lolita’s fresh squeezed margarita mixes, watermelon and wild mint, are superb and sold by the pitcher for you to mix with your tequila at your table. (There’s a Premium Collection Wine & Spirits store a block away at 1218 Chestnut Street, (215) 560 – 4380.)

Description partially provided by the Center City District