Padrecito Heats Up Cole Valley, Starting Tomorrow

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[Photos: Nathan Ziebell]

The trio of Nate Valentine, Sam Josi, and Stryker Scales, who are behind Mamacita, Tipsy Pig, Blue Barn, and Umami, are finally ready to rock with Padrecito, their new Mexican restaurant in the former EOS space in Cole Valley that was first announced more than a year ago. (Longtime followers of this project may recall that it was once named Papazote, then, after similarly-named Papalote complained, it had a brief life as Bocazote before acquiring a name more similar to sister Mexican spot Mamacita.) After a couple of days of soft-opening tryouts, Padrecito is officially opening to the public tomorrow (though the windows were still papered over during our photo shoot this weekend).

The menu was developed by executive chef Luis Contreras in partnership with Josi, and features produce from Josi's grandmother's farm in Sonoma, alongside sustainably raised meats from the likes of Marin Sun Farms. Offerings include lamb meatballs with guajillo mole, two kinds each of chilaquiles and enchiladas (with options like duck carnitas, pork belly with brussels sprouts, and braised brisket), and a wide range of tacos, from crispy chicken to braised bacon and goat barbacoa. Nothing is over $15; the full menu is viewable here.

The beverage side of the equation was coordinated by David Ruiz, and features seasonal, primarily agave-based drinks like the namesake Padrecito (a margarita variant with blanco tequila, mezcal, lime, and agave), and the La Rosa, with chipotle vodka, lemon, berry, and grapefruit marmalade. Drinks are $8-11, and the full cocktail menu can be seen here. (Graphic-design nerds should definitely click through; it's really inventive and well-done.)

The 75-seat restaurant was designed by Britt Hull, Valentine's cousin, and it's a looker, adding a hip Mexican element to the de rigueur reclaimed wood. The initial plan is to open from 5:30-10 pm Tuesday-Sunday, adding brunch and lunch once things have settled. The team also hopes to eventually add Mondays and keep the bar open a bit later.

· Mamacita Team Takes EOS Space [~ ESF ~]
· Mamacita Guys Name Their Cole Valley Spot: Bocazote [~ ESF ~]