Mexicano in the Mix

the tablehopper | 5:56 pm | November 13, 2008 | Foodie 411

Chilayo, a new fast-casual 65-seat restaurant, has opened in Cow Hollow. Chilayo is a Jaliscan stew-like dish of pork loin with vegetables, and owner Jorge Saldana said to expect some new dishes on Chilayo’s menu, many inspired by the mercado and sidewalk stands of Mexico. A peek at the menu includes authentic and affordable enchiladas, tamales, tlacoyos, plus a number of tortas (like one with poblano rajas!), a taquito special each day, and seafood dishes. Everything will be a la carte, instead of the standard beans and rice combo plates. Ingredients from his organic farm in Sonoma County will be featured, including a variety of heirloom tomatoes and peppers, and even farm-fresh eggs. Lunch and dinner will be served daily 10am–10pm, with breakfast on the weekends.

• 2150 Chestnut St. at Steiner, 415-674-1814

Coming in early 2009 will be Gracias Madre, the first 100% organic and vegan taqueria in the Mission. The 75-seat project is from the Café Gratitude folks, and will feature a stone grinder and tortilleria (tortilla press/cooker) from Mexico, plus organic heirloom varieties of corn, also from Mexico. They will also get some corn and other produce from the BeLove Farm in Fairfield, also owned by Café Gratitude. Look for dishes like two kinds of guacamole, seasonal tamales, a pupusa, torta, enchilada, mole, and of course, tacos, like shiitake with purslane, or butternut squash and caramelized onion. There will also be lots of vegetable side dishes, rice, beans, and a chocolate plate, plus organic beer on tap from Eel River, and look for a Sunday brunch with Latin DJs. The look will be a rustic ranch style, with murals from local muralists. Hours will be 11am–11pm daily. The owners look forward to working with Mission High, and offering organic and vegan options for those who love taqueria eats, but don’t want to compromise for non-organic choices. It’s a complete build-out (the former space was a children’s bookstore and press), so look for a February opening.

• 2211 Mission St. at 18th St.

Marcia Gagliardi writes a popular weekly e-column about the SF dining scene, “the tablehopper.” Subscribe for free at www.tablehopper.com and get it in your inbox every Tuesday. Got news? Email Marcia at taste@sanfrancisco.travel.