During this past month, I had the chance to sample some new restaurants. The first, Casa Teresa, is located at 6039 Snell, near the corner of Snell and Santa Teresa in San Jose. I sampled their vegetable burrito, which included beans, lettuce, rice, etc. I found the burrito to be pleasantly filling, but it lacked the spiciness that I had expected. My husband chose the chicken enchiladas in red sauce, and the bite I stole was very good. I also loved their fresh salsa and chips.

Earlier in December, I visited Cucina Poblana in Emeryville for my company's Christmas party. (They're located at the corner of 65th and Hollis Streets). I had my pick of a number of salsas: a fresh green; a red with yellow corn; a roasted, creamier pale red; and the like, all paired with bowls of fresh chips. After snagging a perfectly rendered margarita, I dug in to the salsas. Afterwards, out came hors d'oeuvres: white cheese quesadillas with peppers and onions; shrimp, crab, or chicken-topped pieces with cabbage, cilantro, and lime; salads of veggies and raw tuna seasoned up and drizzled with more lime....It was absolutely fantastic. I'll definitely return if I'm in the Emeryville area...