The Mexican food and drinks here are fantastic. I came with a group of friends for brunch and we all tried different dishes. Every single plate was flavorful and well prepared. The vibrant atmosphere and great service made the experience even better. I will definitely be coming back.
Overview
When it comes to finding delicious and authentic Mexican food in San Francisco, Nopalito stands out as a top choice. Nestled at 306 Broderick St, San Francisco, CA 94117, this cozy eatery delivers a fantastic blend of traditional flavors and modern twists, making it a must-visit for anyone craving a satisfying meal in the heart of the city.
The menu at Nopalito is a celebration of vibrant Mexican cuisine, with dishes that showcase fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty taco, a rich bowl of pozole, or a flavorful tamale, this spot has something to satisfy every craving. Their tacos are a fan favorite, with options like carnitas, carne asada, and the ever-popular al pastor. Each taco is crafted with care, featuring tender, marinated meats paired with crisp vegetables, all served on a soft, warm tortilla.
For those seeking something more substantial, the menu includes a variety of entrees that highlight the essence of Mexican comfort food. The chile rellenos are a standout, with roasted poblano peppers stuffed with cheese and smothered in a rich tomato sauce. The dish is perfectly balanced, with the smoky heat of the peppers complementing the creamy cheese filling. Another favorite is the rich, flavorful mole, which pairs beautifully with chicken or beef. The deep, complex flavors of the mole are the result of slow-cooked ingredients that come together in perfect harmony, creating a sauce that lingers on your palate.
Nopalito is also known for its use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, which elevate every dish on the menu. Their commitment to quality ingredients shines through in every bite, with vegetables that are crisp and vibrant and meats that are always tender and flavorful. The use of organic, sustainable produce adds a layer of depth to the dishes, making them not only delicious but also eco-friendly.
The drink menu at Nopalito is just as impressive as the food. The cocktail selection features a range of refreshing beverages that pair perfectly with the bold flavors of the dishes. The margaritas are particularly popular, with a variety of flavors that include classic lime, spicy jalapeño, and even hibiscus. If you're in the mood for something non-alcoholic, the aguas frescas are a great choice. These refreshing, fruit-infused beverages are the perfect complement to any meal, offering a light, sweet contrast to the savory dishes.
One of the things that sets Nopalito apart from other Mexican restaurants in the area is its cozy yet vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant is small, with a casual vibe that makes it feel like a hidden gem. The décor is simple but charming, with colorful accents that reflect the warmth and vibrancy of Mexican culture. The staff is friendly and attentive, creating a welcoming environment that encourages diners to relax and enjoy their meals.
For those looking to explore the diverse flavors of Mexican cuisine, Nopalito offers a unique dining experience that combines authenticity with innovation. The dishes are inspired by traditional recipes passed down through generations, but with a modern twist that makes them feel fresh and exciting. Whether you're a longtime fan of Mexican food or new to the cuisine, Nopalito is sure to impress with its bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and warm atmosphere.
Don't just take our word for it-reviews from patrons rave about the quality of the food and the friendly service. Many visitors return again and again, drawn by the satisfying meals and the genuine love for Mexican cuisine that shines through in every dish. With its commitment to quality, Nopalito has become a staple for anyone in search of a great meal in San Francisco.
In short, if you're looking for a place to enjoy authentic Mexican food in a welcoming and lively setting, Nopalito is the spot. From their flavorful tacos to their rich mole, every dish is crafted with care and passion. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this restaurant is a must-try for anyone who appreciates the bold, vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine.
Good to know
Service options
âś“ Outdoor seating âś“ Delivery âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-inHighlights
âś“ Fast service âś“ Great cocktails âś“ Serves local specialtyPopular for
âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Solo diningAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible car park âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance âś“ Wheelchair-accessible seating âś“ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
âś“ Alcohol âś“ Beer âś“ Cocktails âś“ Coffee âś“ Comfort food âś“ Healthy options âś“ Late-night food âś“ Organic dishes âś“ Small plates âś“ Spirits âś“ Vegetarian options âś“ WineDining options
âś“ Brunch âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Catering âś“ Dessert âś“ Seating âś“ Table serviceAmenities
âś“ Bar on site âś“ Gender-neutral toilets âś“ ToiletAtmosphere
âś“ Casual âś“ Cosy âś“ TrendyCrowd
âś“ Family friendly âś“ Groups âś“ TouristsPlanning
âś“ Usually a wait âś“ Accepts reservationsPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile payments âś“ Credit cardsChildren
âś“ High chairsParking
âś“ Free of charge street parking âś“ Free parking lot âś“ Paid street parking âś“ ParkingPhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 1996 reviews
Im not very experienced in Mexican food, but this is one of the very best I've ever had. We started with a nice sweet nutty and creamy almond horchata. So refreshing. Then we ordered the fish tacos, quesadilla with chicharron and the birra main. The fish taco was sublime. Pun on the lime. It was so flavorful and delicious. The quesadilla was unusual. The soft taco layer was fried to a crisp shell with pulled pork and lovely chicharron overflowing. So juicy crunchy and umami. The birra was a pulled beef dish with rice. So good and filling. This is my favorite Mexican food place.
The carne asada with chorizo is amazing!! The carnitas are delicious too. Along with the curtido, pickled vegetables! We only get take out so can’t speak to in service.
I had the mole poblano enchiladas and they were delicious. The mole was rich, nutty and on the sweeter side, but I don't mind it. The rice was so good too, the carrots within the rice reminded me of the rice grandma made for me. I ordered the guava margarita, it was refreshing with just the right amount of sweetness. I was here around 6:30pm on a Friday, the place was busy and loud wich is expected but distracting. I order via QR wich is convenient, however a little unpersonable. It might be difficult getting a server's attention if you have questions about the menu, it was for me.
INCREDIBLE. Personally I came to San Fran with crazy high hopes of having a food experience to be reckoned with but this is one of the few that have lived up to the hype. Great food, good service and creative drinks. Everything is SF is overpriced so I don’t think I’ll regard on it a bunch besides to say this place is more reasonable than most for the flavors and presentation you’re getting. We had the ceviche, pollo pibil and Brussels spouts. All were extremely flavorful and well presented. Cocktails were super on point. Also they have a really nice Mezcal selection that I appreciate. Overall I think we’ll stop back in before leaving.
My wife and I had a great experience at Nopalito. The meal started strong with the totopos con chile—bold, smoky, and spicy, perfectly balanced by the salsa and queso cotija. The tacos de pescado were excellent, with just the right balance of heat and acidity. The quesadilla roja con chicharrón was a standout—crispy, rich, and deeply satisfying. We finished with a traditional arroz con leche, which hit the spot. Tip: Share everything.