Just like needing certain people on speed-dial for when you want to vent about meaningless drama until your voice is hoarse, you need a great Mexican restaurant standing by for social scenarios requiring margaritas and carne asada. La Cocina Oaxaqueña is that reliably excellent Mexican restaurant that’s necessary in your life, just like a friend who has the ability to always respond with “No, yeah, you’re absolutely right,” no matter what you say. There’s nothing particularly fancy about La Cocina Oaxaqueña—it’s a dimly-lit dining room with flag banner decorations and a soundtrack of sizzles. But the food is consistently delicious, and it’s the kind of place that hasn’t ever let us down. They have strong margaritas served by the pint glass, amazing unlimited salsa, housemade chips fried the second you order them, and Southern Mexican dishes ranging from sour-and-spicy camarones al mojo de ajo, crispy enchiladas topped with velvety mole, and al pastor tacos filled with saucy, braised pineapple-y pork. It’s also great for a variety of different situations. The large patio gets plenty of shade and is ideal for a tequila-fueled summer birthday dinner, while the not-very-crowded dining room’s darkness comes in handy for a date or exciting impromptu group hang. It even works for a venting session—between mouthfuls of guacamole, of course.