Considering I usually find myself walking past Nopalito a few times a week, I was kind of ashamed it took me as long as it did to get around to finally trying it. The place is always packed with people and overflowing with a fun, lively energy every time I wander by, so I had a feeling I was missing out on a great spot right under my nose—which turned out to be exactly the case.

Photo courtesy Jessica C., Yelp

The sister business of sorts to nearby NOPA, the awesome bar and restaurant that many consider to have rejuvenated the North of Panhandle / Western Addition neighborhood it resides in, Nopalito is smaller, more intimate and much more casual all-around. Nestled up next door to the Falletti Foods market, the restaurant specializes in serving upscale Mexican food with extra attention paid to using local, organic and sustainable ingredients and practices whenever possible. Continue reading →