Casual Mexican: Brickhouse offers an energetic, late-night vibe as well as a menu full of authentic Mexican dishes and saucy cocktails.

Look & Feel: The open-air spot is tucked away in a lane along Lan Kwai Fong, making it super easy to access after a night out on the town. Down the crowded alleyway you’ll find a lively and upbeat ambience that’s perfect for a Friday night or a mid-week celebration. Choose from a mix of seating styles — think window stools, big-group high tops and smaller spots for couples.

On the Menu: Sate your Mexican-food cravings at this trendy spot. There’s everything from Mexican-style street corn and the Molcajete nachos are a must-try to start off your meal. Then there’s a heaving taco platter where you can choose five types, such as ribeye, fish, spiced pork belly, chicken and a vegetarian option. You might lunge for the mains, but don’t miss the side dishes — the drunken pinto beans and fresh griddles tortillas are made fresh daily.

Service: The service is always great at Brickhouse even if it gets crowded at times.

Jeng: Our favorites include the watermelon salad ($85), which is a simple yet refreshing and flavorsome dish thanks to chunks of watermelons, lemon cucumber, goat feta, chili syrup, candied pepitas and mint. Another highlight is the taco platter ($250): The fish tacos ($55 each) — filled with chipotle aioli, avocado and cabbage — are full of flavor and stand out as some of the best in town. We’re also huge fans of the cocktails ($65-$125), which play with potent flavors like jalapeño, passion fruit and agave nectar.

Not So Jeng: The chili-spiked chocolate cake ($75) wasn’t quite up to our expectations. Next time, we’ll go for the coconut rice tamale ($85), a coconut rice pudding with goat’s milk caramel and Mezcal ice cream.

Great For: Friday night drinks, dinner with friends, spicing things up.

FYI: Brickhouse doesn’t take reservations, so head there early if you’re planning to have a big dinner!

This writeup was based on an independent tasting. The Loop doesn’t guarantee/sell restaurant review coverage. See our editorial policy here.