If this were Spain, part of the experience of going to a tapas bar with friends would be everyone throwing their garbage on the floor. This behavior is customary, even expected. But New Mexico isn’t part of Spain anymore, and things are done a little differently here.

Enter James Campbell Caruso’s La Boca, the downtown tapas bar that recalls the fine Spanish tradition of the Southwest, but without all the colonialism and killing (you should also probably refrain from dumping trash on the floor). Order a plate of grilled artichokes with goat cheese for a tender, tangy dish with just the right amount of mint. The patatas bravas, a traditional favorite, come with a smear of creamy, just-spicy-enough salsa.

One should always be skeptical of seafood in the desert, but trust chef Caruso to deliver canelones with crab that are moist and delectable. In true Spanish style, La Boca’s cuisine invites you to bring friends and share, but be sure to make a reservation, as this intimate, 50-seat restaurant is thronged with diners nightly.