We saw the line of people outside on Thursday night. Then again on Friday and Saturday night. Sunday morning we knocked on the door and asked the hostess if we could make a reservation for dinner that night, menu unseen. We sensed that something was up on this corner of Polk and Washington. Dinner last night proved us correct. Finally, San Francisco has a fine Mexican restaurant that is so well priced you can even go during a week that does not contain a payday.
We studied the menu while sipping great minty Mojitos. And, as you can ask my Palm Springs pals, I am a gal who knows a great Mojito when it crosses my path. We started with the QUESO FUNDIDO ($7), melted Oaxacan cheese with chorizo, which arrived bubbling in a mini cast iron skillet.The melted cheese gets spooned on handmade corn tortillas then topped with a creamy chipotle sauce, guacamole and salsa. Oh boy. The BIRRIA ESTILO JALISCO ($16), slow cooked lamb stew with fresh oregano, onions and radish, was perfect for the rainy evening. And the house cured pork chop special ($18) served with spinach and mashed potatoes cooked with chorizo (you can never have too much chorizo in one meal) was superb.
You know when you look into the eyes of a small child and you realize at once that they have been here before? That is the lasting impression of our evening at La Parilla Grill. For a restaurant to feel so right after only being open for four days (grand opening soon), there could only be one explanation - it is an old soul restaurant. Hurry while you can still get in.
La Parilla Grill, 1760 Polk Street (at Washington), 415-359-1212.
On my last trip to San Francisco, I have a new discovery, thanks to your magazine. La Parilla Grill restaurant has introduced me to a whole world of fine Mexican cuisine I'd never experienced before. I look forward to go back on my next visit.
Posted by: North Carolina | October 02, 2006 at 01:59 PM
I saw the posting and was really touched. I hope it brings in lots of business for them.
Posted by: culinary muse | May 02, 2006 at 08:24 AM
FYI, your excellent review is hanging directly under their menu near the door. :)
Posted by: a geek | April 29, 2006 at 06:57 PM
I am so pleased that this great new restaurant is meeting with the approval of our readers. Bon Appetit!
Posted by: culinary muse | April 17, 2006 at 09:36 PM
I've eaten at La Parilla Grill three times already (I live just down the street). The fish tacos ARE superb. I also like their brunch menu. They even serve beet juice! The atmosphere is bustling, but not too busy - just how I like it - and the wait-staff are very attentive and caring. Highly recommended.
Posted by: Brad L. | April 16, 2006 at 01:53 PM