Candente

At Candente, a Tex-Mex restaurant in Montrose, there are hits and misses, but with the right combination plate or some sizzling fajitas, a meal here can be a good time. The dining room has some industrial/diner vibes, but the breezy patio feels like a modern lunch spot where you’d want to wear a large pair of sunglasses and a dramatic floppy hat. Service here is sharp, with almost psychic servers swinging by to check on you before you even realize what you need. While there are some traditional Mexican dishes at Candente, you should stick to Tex-Mex pillars here, like skirt steak fajitas, brisket enchiladas, and frozen margaritas. 

Food Rundown

photo credit: Gianni Greene

Pollo Al Candente

A chicken enchilada, a smoked chicken flauta, and chicken tostada all walk into a combination plate at Candente. We don’t have a punchline for that joke, but each element is delicious and makes the combination plate worth getting.

photo credit: Gianni Greene

Brisket Enchiladas

One thing you can count on a Tex-Mex joint to do is add brisket onto any item they can. The brisket enchiladas are tender and smoky from the brisket and covered in a pile of melted cheese.

photo credit: Gianni Greene

Chile Con Queso

Candente’s queso is sufficiently gooey and might require a refresh of the housemade chips to finish off a bowl. Get it topped with taco meat or chopped brisket.