Since I never eat Mexican food back in Italy, I wanted to try Nopalito, a restaurant offering modern takes on classic Mexican cuisine with a Californian twist. They have two locations in San Francisco, one in the Inner Sunset and one near the Lower Haight (the original location). We decided to try the restaurant in the Inner Sunset since I was staying with a friend who lives near there.

The Inner Sunset location is quaint and simply decorated. We went here on a Friday night so the entire restaurant was packed! Nopalito doesn’t take reservations but you can call ahead and place your name on their waiting list, usually a hour wait.

Decor at the Inner Sunset Location.

We decided to order multiple items off the menu, mostly appetizers, to share them family style.

Complimentary Spicy Garbanzo Beans (6/10).

Tacos de Pescado al Pastor: Fish Tacos in Ancho Chili Adobo, Orange, and Salsa de Morita and Tomatillo (8/10).

Tamal Asado de Rajas: Corn Masa, Jalapeño, Carrots, Potatoes, Jack Cheese, Crema, Queso Fresco, and Cilantro Sauce (6.5/10).

Empanada con Deshebrada de Res: Fried Masa Pastry with Beef, Jalapeño,
Cabbage, Avocado, Queso Fresco, and Salsa Frita de Guajillo (8/10).

Quesadilla Roja con Chicharrón: Chile-corn Tortilla, Crispy Pork Belly, Salsa Cascabel, Jack Cheese, Queso Fresco, and Cilantro (7.5/10).

Carnitas: Braised Pork with Cabbage Salad, Pickled Jalapeño, and Salsa de Tomatillo (7/10).

All the food we tried was a nice change from traditional Mexican dishes. My favorite dishes of the night were the fish tacos and the empanada. The snapper fish tacos were light yet satisfying with moist pieces of white fish seared with spices, sweet yet tangy oranges, and crunchy cabbage. The beef empanada was well made with light crispy pastry stuffed with tender flavorful beef topped with creamy avocado and soft cheese.

Overall, I enjoyed the meal and therefore I would rate Nopalito at a 7-7.5/10. I would recommend coming to Nopalito for vibrant and fresh Mexican food in a casual upbeat atmosphere.