Given that the average annual temperature for the Twin Cities is in the 40-degree range, it's no wonder Chino Latino and its "hot zone" Latin American-global cuisine are so popular. Between the spicy food and the packed house, the place is downright steamy. And hot spots can be found everywhere: in the narrow, backlighted bar, the cozy bamboo lounge in the back, and especially at the congregation table, a big space where friends and strangers can eat-and-meet to their hearts' and stomachs' content. The convivial noise level is aided by a laundry list of cheekily named drinks (Kama Sutra Mama, anyone?) served in coconuts and pineapples and decorated with retro-cute plastic animals. There's also a generous selection of sake, house wines and beers on tap. Once you've plowed your way through the list of adult beverages, it's time to face the enormous menu. Tapas - more than 20 options. Plus sushi, satays, several entrées and desserts.
Full bar. Serving dinner and late-night nightly.
"Featuring "street food from the hot zones" plus cool drinks to match, Chino Latino remains its own hip universe where the Latin music throbs, the beautiful people slide by with funky cocktails, and the hypnotic orange bar casts its sultry glow on everyone."- Gayot