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Tex-Mex seems to be falling out of vogue at the moment, thanks to an influx of pure-blooded Mex-Mex eateries doling out regional south-of-border specialties. But that hasn't stopped Carroll Gardens crowds from cramming into the two floors and back garden of Lobo, which branched out to a new, nearly identical outpost on Fifth Avenue in Park Slope. Though Lobo does its darnedest to convince tequila-craving diners that they've stumbled into an authentic bordertown cantina--witness the sun-bleached longhorn skulls, the barbed-wire sculptures, the rice and beans-con-everything menu--most dishes are too bland to be considered authentic. An enchilada and taco combo known as The Wolf could benefit from peppery flame, as could the rubbery chipotle shrimp. The saving grace undoubtedly comes in the form of the generously spiked margaritas, all made with a choice of fresh juices and a well-parsed selection of premium tequilas. — Jon Steinberg

Blood-orange margarita with silver patron tequila, $9