Nopalito, SF

Mexican food gone modern, and organic. Something we're not especially familiar with, but we couldn't help but notice that Nopalito is crowded 7 days a week until closing at 10:00pm. It may be because its carnitas made San Francisco's 7x7 list of things to try before you die, or the fact that the food is actually pretty delicious. All things considered, we had to check it out:

Neighborhood-friendly joint that places you on the waitlist over the phone, then calls you 10 minutes ahead of time to 'walk down.

Nopalito's recreation of the paletero cart. One of the first things you see when you're walking in. Sadly, there are no paletas in it.

Totopos and roasted garbanzo beans. Tortilla chips smothered in a spicy red sauce, topped with cotija cheese, crema for dipping, and lime. Impressive starter; every Mexican place should have them. Unfortunately, the totopos came with a price.

Shrimp Enchiladas. Its modernity? rice on top, rather than on the side of the enchiladas. We werent 100% on board with this fancy dish, but hey, its 'modern.'

Famous 7x7-listed carnitas. I was scared this place would leave me needing more food, but it was surprisingly more than enough. The carnitas were definitely tasty, juicy, and soft and the tomatillo salsa made for the perfect compliment. Its modernity? Lack of beans, or rice, and the inclusion of the curtido (pickled cabbage). Also, it only comes with 2 tortillas, which isnt enough given the amount of meat (speaking to taco enthusiasts here). Not to fear, ask for more, they'll gladly give them to you at no extra cost.

Drinks. While they arent pictured, this place hit the spot with the Mezcal-based drink. Not too many places, even traditional-Mexican ones, have jumped to openly and proudly using Mezcal. We recommend the Mezcal Paloma: Del Maguey Vida, grapefruit ~ Tall, Smokey, and Honest.