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The traditional Thanksgiving meal is filling and delightful, but it isn’t known for being especially spicy. Which is probably why, after the holiday feast and several plates of leftovers, I crave a little heat.
If you find yourself needing the same sort of fix, head to La SandÃa during happy hour. Start with the spicy orange margarita, made with el Jimador tequila infused in-house with serrano chiles and fresh oranges. The cocktail is both tart and sweet, and it finishes with a surprising bit of fire.
Then, build a light meal with small plates, such as tacos al pastor, with cubed adobo-marinated pork, grilled pineapple, and salsa verde; pork sopes, with slow-roasted pork shoulder, black bean purée, pickled onions, and an orange-habañero glaze; and torta sliders, made with shredded chicken, tomatoes, and a smoky chipotle sauce. Throw in some chips and a three-salsa combo, and you’ll leave with your craving satisfied and—at around $20—your wallet intact.
5 to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and all day Sunday, the Shops at Northfield Stapleton, 8340 E. 49th Ave., Unit 1690, 303-373-9100
4 p.m.-close, Monday through Sunday, the Vistas at Park Meadows, 8419 Park Meadows Center Dr., Lone Tree, 303-586-5511