Actually Pretty Awesome

Actually Pretty Awesome: Lolo’s Mexican- and Turkish-Influenced Small Plates

Taco Tropical at Lolo
Taco Tropical at Lolo Photo: Virginia Miller

Lolo remains an underrated gem. Ask many a local and they haven’t heard of it, though it has been open a couple years. With eclectic design by Lorena Zertuche, the space is decorated with recycled materials, including newspaper lining the walls and brightly colored patio furniture. It’s a bit retro with South American flair.

But the real reason to go is the food. Fusing cuisines of Mexico and Turkey, it’s a meeting of Latin and Asian flavors unlike anything else in the city.

Order house-made Lambrusco Sangria or a glass of Malbec and choose from a mix of inventive small plates. Their signature small plate has been a winner since day one. Simply named Taco Tropical, juicy, panko-crusted shrimp rest on sheets of jicama that act as a tortilla. Topped with tropical fruit relish and chipotle aioli, each bite bursts with fresh flavor.

There is no lack of creativity throughout the menu. Octopus Tiradito is delicate, thinly-shaved octopus, drizzled in casacabel (a chili) aioli, dotted with sea salt. Dumplings are stuffed with ricotta and huitlacoche (yes, corn smut, a savory, earthy fungus popular in Mexico). The Middle East shows up in a vegetarian kofte: minced croquettes of carrot and apricot, flavored with numerous spices.

Each dish tastes more intriguing than it sounds, while the dining experience is casual, hip, and colorful. We suggest you head to the Mission to try this special neighborhood restaurant.

Anyhow, it’s been a pleasure filling in as SF Grubstreet Editor these last two days. Jay will return next week. In the meantime, enjoy your holiday weekend.

Cheers!
Virginia
(The Perfect Spot, SF Bay Guardian)


Earlier on Actually Pretty Awesome:
The Trip and the Pickles at Bar Tartine
A Dinner of Small Plates at Frances
The Fondue Service at Fondue Cowboy
Brunch at Barndiva

Actually Pretty Awesome: Lolo’s Mexican- and Turkish-Influenced Small