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Mezcalito
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Mezcalito
8.6
Agave-centric bar serving regional Mexican plates with a late-night kitchen on Fridays and Saturdays. Locals come for well-executed tacos, ceviche, and cocktails in a lively Russian Hill room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tacos al Pastor, Tacos de Pescado, Enchiladas Roja
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Serious mezcal list with a kitchen that runs to midnight on weekends.
Who should go: Cocktail lovers craving modern Mexican bites
When to visit: Fri–Sat after 9pm for peak energy
What to order: Al pastor tacos, pescado tacos, enchiladas roja
Insider tip: Snag the upstairs Espadín room for small groups.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited and competitive after 7pm on weekends, best bet is nearby Polk Street garages.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and nice tops are fine, but most guests lean a bit dressy for the bar vibe.
Noise level: Loud after 9pm with music and chatter; conversation works for groups but not ideal for intimate talks.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation after 8pm; reservations recommended.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service; opens at 5pm, typically short waits before 7pm on weekdays.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple taco and small plate options, plus sides like esquites and guacamole.
Vegan options: Limited—about 2–3 dishes can be adjusted on request (e.g., veggie tacos, chips and salsa).
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas are gluten-free and several dishes can be adapted; ask staff for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a lively, energetic cocktail bar vibe. Not ideal for quiet romance but great for a fun, stylish night out.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights before 7pm, but weekends after 8pm almost always require a reservation or a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really—this is more of a cocktail-driven bar with a late-night scene. Best for adults and not suited for young children.
Best For
Better for: Strong mezcal and tequila program paired with modern Mexican bites in a high-energy atmosphere.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet, family-friendly dinner or need a broad vegan menu—opt for a more casual Mexican spot instead.
Mezcalito
8.6
Agave-focused bar-kitchen on Russian Hill serving polished regional Mexican plates with tacos that stay available into late hours on weekends. Locals lean on al pastor and pescado tacos with cocktails when the rest of Polk winds down.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor tacos, Pescado tacos, Birria quesabirria
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Serious mezcal program paired with late-running taco service.
Who should go: Cocktail lovers craving tacos
When to visit: Fri–Sat after 9pm for peak energy
What to order: Al pastor, pescado, birria quesabirria
Insider tip: Slide upstairs or bar seats for faster rounds and tacos.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is metered on Polk and side streets, often tight after 7pm. No valet service is provided.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but most guests lean dressy due to the bar scene.
Noise level: Lively; music and crowd energy make it moderately loud—conversation possible but raised voices may be needed during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation after 8pm
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though the kitchen may open later in the day
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian taco and starter options are available.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 tacos can be modified, but menu leans toward meat and seafood.
Gluten-free options: Yes—several tacos use corn tortillas, but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, mezcal cocktails, and a stylish vibe make it a fun choice, though it can get loud on weekends.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—bar and upstairs seating are often available, but expect a wait on busy weekends without a booking.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—the focus is on cocktails and late-night energy. Older teens might be fine early evening, but it’s best for adults.
Best For
Better for: Best for pairing quality cocktails with tacos in a lively, stylish setting—ideal for groups or a fun night out.
Skip if: If you want a quiet, family-oriented taco dinner or a fully vegan-friendly menu, consider alternatives.
Mezcalito
8.5
Oaxacan-leaning cocktails meet regional Mexican small plates in a lively Polk Street room where the bar drives the energy. Happy hour brings strong margaritas and taco deals that make this a reliable after-work meet-up spot.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor tacos (HH 3-for specials), Baja fish tacos, Taquitos de papa
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Serious agave program with HH taco and drink deals.
Who should go: Cocktail lovers chasing agave and tacos
When to visit: Daily 5–6pm (4–6pm weekends) happy hour window
What to order: HH margarita; al pastor tacos; Baja fish tacos
Insider tip: Grab bar seats right at 5pm for fastest HH service.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Polk can be tough after 6pm; best bet is nearby paid garages within 2–3 blocks.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and sneakers are fine but most guests lean dressy for evening cocktails.
Noise level: Lively and energetic; conversation is possible but expect raised voices during peak happy hour.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; bar seats may open sooner if you arrive early.
Weekday lunch: Not open for lunch service; opens late afternoon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – multiple small plates and tacos with veggies, mushrooms, and cheese.
Vegan options: Limited – 2–3 items can be modified but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Yes – corn tortillas and several dishes are gluten-free friendly, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – Mezcalito’s vibrant cocktails and stylish atmosphere make it a fun, high-energy first date spot. Just note the noise level if you want quieter conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weekdays if you arrive at or before happy hour starts; weekends typically require a reservation or a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal – the focus is on cocktails and late-night energy. Best suited for adults 21+.
Best For
Better for: Excellent agave cocktails and Oaxacan-inspired flavors make it a standout for happy hour compared to more generic Mexican spots nearby.
Skip if: If you’re looking for a quiet, family-friendly dinner or a large menu of hearty entrées, consider alternatives.