Los Ranchos

Hearty Nicaraguan chain for the extended family. Cuts of beef and gaucho-inspired decor make this the weekly lunch spot for heav-set Latino males trading tales of bravado and the place to bring Pops for his birthday. Traditional, tasty, and nothing like the superfluous shops of Cocowalk below. Order a whiskey at the bar and hear wistful tales of imaginary fortunes seized by the dictator du jour.

A meal at Los Ranchos may feel more like a short trip home for the Nicaraguan-born. This restaurant serves authentic regional cuisine accompanied by the sound of mariachi music. One can find such traditional specialties as gallo pinto (rice with pinto beans) and nacatamal (corn meal, pork, and rice wrapped in banana leaf). Steaks are also highly recommended. Nicaraguan drinks made from seeds,...