Bar Review - Leapin’ lizards

Tequila. Ta-Kill-Ya.

You don’t have to swear it off forever just because you drank too much Pepe Lopez one night in college and woke up feeling like you had a cinder block on your head. Spend a little more for the good stuff — drink a little less of it — and you’ll enjoy the unique taste and wake up feeling fine.

Gecko Lounge in Virginia-Highland has a mind-blowing selection of top-shelf tequilas that can be ordered in “flights” of three 1-oz. shot glasses dropped in the holes of a wooden paddle. You choose from a list in one of four categories ranging from $9-$23.

If straight shots are too macho for you, enjoy a house margarita, or one of several specialty flavors that don’t stray too far from tradition to be offensive. The Geckorita is made with melon liqueur, and the mango ‘rita is a blast despite the $7.50 price tag.

The food is a pleasant surprise. The thick queso is satisfying, and an entree of tequila shrimp ($8.75) comes with a plateful of tasty sides like guacamole and black bean salsa. The seven shrimp are marinated with a salty spice mixture reminiscent of Old Bay that make them a great accompaniment to the liquor. Soft tacos and quesadillas with a variety of fillings are also available ($4.75-$6.25).

The dark green walls, string lights on the ceiling and intriguing artwork give the place a cozy yet classy air. But the crowd skews young, and the atmosphere is appropriately rowdy given the emphasis on agave concoctions. Come during the week to avoid the inevitable frat boys looking to permanently ruin their relationship with the cactus juice. (At least there are no sombreros on the walls for them — or you — to put on.)

Gecko, 1035 N. Highland Ave. Mon.-Thurs., 4 p.m.-2 a.m.; Fri. 4 p.m.-4 a.m.; Sat. 4 p.m.-3 a.m.; Sun. 1 p.m.-midnight. 404-873-4449.??