lolosf.com

If you’ve spent any time in San Francisco’s Mission District, you know that it’s an enclave characterized by artful bohemia, hipster cool, and worldly Latin heat. So it’s no surprise that Lolo’s Mexican-Turkish small plates have captured a loyal following among those who appreciate surprising culinary offerings. The taco tropical (panko and spice-dusted shrimp, topped with a tropical relish), octopus tiradito, and duck confit with corn tortillas and grapefruit-jalapeno sauce are some of the interesting small plates worth savoring. The front dining room is intimate and subdued, while the rear room is a colorful space decorated with lively mix of pop art and art deco. Grab a seat along the bar and take advantage of Lolo’s extensive wine list, and be sure to chat up the friendly staff and owners, all Guadalajara natives. From the food to the drink, you’re in for an evening steeped in unexpected flavors and textures, and judging from the locale, you should expect nothing less.

3230 22nd Street    415.643.5656

bossanova.com

Hidden deep in San Francisco’s industrial SoMa district, Bossa Nova redefines favela chic. Inspired by the vibrant ghetto culture synonymous with Rio de Janeiro’s hillside communities, this soulful Brazilian lounge feels like a classic, tropical dancehall, where beautiful people come to celebrate life with sumptuous food, strong drinks, good company, and amazing rhythms. The creative, small plates arouse the senses with bold flavors and rich textures, such as Brazil nut-crusted queijo (goat cheese) with sweet cipollini onion jam, hamachi tiradito with rocoto chili and yuzu dressing, and steamed mussels with spicy tomato and cilantro in a coconut milk broth. Bossa’s signature Leblon caipirinha comes in classic (fiery cachaça, agave nectar, and crushed lime wedges), as well as luscious mango, raspberry, and passion fruit renditions. This hip and cozy space is lined with geometric cinderblocks on one end, and breezy windows with rough-hewn, wooden shutters on the other. True to its Brasileiro roots, the pulsating samba beats keep hips shaking until late, making Bossa Nova the most vibrant and sensual experience around.

139 8th Street   415 558 8008