From the moment that you walk into Mojave in Astoria, NY, one of the most popular after work watering holes in Ditmars, you feel as though you're in the American southwest.

The adobe-like decor, relaxing palette of colors throughout the restaurant as well as the authentic food and drinks transports you far, far away from the New York hustle and bustle. Not to mention a quick trip to Santa Fe !

There's a lot to like at Mojave. That peaceful, easy southwestern feeling pervades their gorgeous outdoor courtyard. It is a true oasis, tucked away in the back of the restaurant. Quite spacious, the courtyard is available for private parties.  It's the perfect setting for a birthday celebration or a wedding rehearsal dinner. You can also choose to hold your celebration in Mojave's private party room, which can accommodate up to 70 people.

Mojave's bottomless brunch is a real bargain at only $32.95. Just choose any brunch entree and get one and a half hours of bottomless Margaritas, Sangritas (the house cocktail), Mimosas or Bloody Marys. Mojave's everyday lunch and dinner menu  elevates what you have come to expect from southwestern-style food. There's a lot of creativity going on in the kitchen. Sizzling Fajita selections include skirt steak, chicken, grilled shrimp and campesinas, which translates to fire roasted market vegetables. All Fajita dishes are served with roasted peppers, onions and tomatoes, Queso fresco Chapeau and, the highlight of your meal, a pineapple mescal infusion.

If you're a fan of Quesadillas, enchiladas and tacos, you'll find them well represented on the menu. The blackened fish taco (order of three) is dressed with shredded cabbage, chipolte tomatillo salsa and a not too sweet or tart  Mango Pineapple salsa. Things get really interesting, culinary-wise, when you order one of the chef's signature dishes.The marquee headliner would have to be the Santa Fe Shepherd's pie. It is so good, that the Irish may have to consider re-inventing their National dish. This incredible pie consists of slow-simmered beef in bone marrow sauce, vegetable Bruinoise and creamy mac and cheese. Describing this dish simply does not do it justice. Another great choice is the Pechuga. Tantalize your appetite with a stuffed chicken breast, mole negro and a side of spinach rice. One of Mojave's most popular signature dishes is their version of the southern classic, chicken fried steak. Their chicken steak comes bathed in caramelized cream  onion gravy. Your side is sweet potato puree.

At Mojave, they prepare Guacamole, just the way it should be. Choose between traditional, crab chiplote salpicon or pineapple habanero. Spice things up with the Guacamole norracho which contains chile de arbol, jalapenos and vinegar. Ongoing specials include Happy Hour, Monday through Friday, from 4 PM to 7 PM. Get a thirst quenching four dollar draft or one of their fabulous Margaritas, for the price of only five dollars. These margaritas are far from average. They are made with 100% Agave Tequila and you can order them frozen or on the rocks.

Located just steps from the Ditmars Blvd. N and Q train stop, Mojave beckons you with open arms. You may have had a bad day at work. but your day will be looking a whole lot brighter when you kick back and relax at Mojave.

Mojave - Warm cream color walls, dark wood floors and furniture allow one to focus on the artistic design of the room, with three separate pitched ceilings made from spruce and fir strategically placed with hidden lighting on the walls. When evening falls, the flickering glow of candles adds comfortable warmth to the already pleasant ambiance. The food is Southwestern with of course authentic Mexican flare. From starters such as the hand hacked Haas avocado guacamole and MotherRoad Roadhouse Chili to entrees such as slow & low braised Short ribs of Angus beef, Mojave’s menu is both fun and interesting.