Once, in college, a date took me swing dancing. Having never taken lessons, I spent the entire evening sipping punch and watching other guys wow my date with fancy footwork and practiced twirls. Alone at home after the failed excursion, I vowed to learn how to dance.

Of course once the fall TV schedule hit my vow was forgotten. That is, forgotten until I visited Mazatlan in Puyallup.

Mazatlan is a Mexican-style restaurant operating a salsa club every Saturday night. The dancing happens at the rear of the restaurant in a large, unassuming room better suited for conference luncheons or overflow restaurant seating. Early on customers near the dance floor still order food, and waitresses weave in and out carrying plates of enchiladas. But as the witching hour approaches, plates of food disappear and are replaced by shots of tequila and Mexican beers. Dapper men dressed in slacks and leather shoes order at the bar in Spanish. Tanned, fit ladies dance to a Reggaeton and Top 40 playlist on the makeshift dance floor.

I order a strong but pricey Tequila Sunrise and join a stable of single men admiring the dancing. Because although the club is stacked with ladies, most are arm-and-arm with a man. The guys and I watch as DJ Mauro ups the fog machine, hypes the crowd in Spanish and spins his unique mix of Latin-infused music.

Then around midnight, Mauro announces something about salsa. The dance floor totally clears except for three couples. A poppy, exciting brand of 21st century salsa music comes over the speakers. From my spot in the stable, I witness the most intricate, talented and sensual dancing I have ever seen. Like out of a movie, the couples move effortlessly, hardly missing a step. Other couples join, adding their own spin on the salsa style. Single guys who know how to dance pick out the one or two ladies still waiting to be asked. The dance floor fills.

I listen to the salsa rhythm until Mazatlan closes.

I leave awed by the movements and vow, once again, to learn how to shake my rump.

Mazatlan Mexican Restaurant

Salsa Night
9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Saturdays, no cover
13018 Meridian E., Puyallup
253.770.8702