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May 13, 2014 2 min read

Take a Look Inside Papito West in Hayes Valley

Take a Look Inside Papito West in Hayes Valley
Seating at Papito West, with mural by Matthew James McGowan in the background. Photo: Dana Eastland. © tablehopper.com.
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A report by Dana Eastland. As previously reported in tablehopper, Jocelyn Bulow of Chez Maman and co-owner David Alexander are expanding a second Potrero mainstay into Hayes Valley. This time, it’s a second outpost of Papito, called PAPITO WEST. It’s going into the former Moishe’s Pippic space (which sadly closed after 26 years) and is opening Monday May 19th.

The space has been almost unrecognizably transformed, from a deli of a certain vintage to a clean, sleek, modern space. The exterior is bright red and modern, though they have kept the shape of the round sign. The ceiling has been stripped to reveal exposed wood beams, and a skylight has been added, making the space feel open and airy. A chandelier of bundled, exposed bulbs adds the minimal and open vibe. A bar up front seats eight, while two leather banquette booths in the back can hold larger groups. Windows open to the street, where three tables will offer outdoor seating as well. The back wall is completely covered in a Dia de los Muertos-inspired mural by artist Matthew James McGowan, giving it a distinctly San Francisco style.

The menu by chef Reynol Martinez—most recently at Machka in the FiDi—is in the same vein as the original Papito (think organic Mexican food, with antojitos, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, tortas, and larger plates), but with a focus on seafood and the addition of a raw bar. There will be a changing oyster of the day, as well as a crudo plate, and a shellfish platter with oysters, prawns, mussels, and clams. Ceviche makes an appearance as well, and the mignonette will have a bit of a kick from jalapeño and other Latin ingredients. There is also more seafood on the on the entrée list, from striped sea bass served Veracruz style to mussels in a green broth with tequila, corn, zucchini, and bell peppers.

An expanded bar menu matches the less-casual vibe of this new location. The wine list will have 10 options of both red and white, along with a rosé and three different bubbly choices. There are six beers on tap, including Anchor IPA, Ommegang Rare Vos, Negra Modelo, and Pacifico. They’ve also got a selection of margaritas made with agave wine, including a spicy chipotle version. The beer and wine license should be kicking in any day now, hopefully in time for the opening.

The opening date is Monday May 19th, and hours will be Mon-Fri 11:30am-11pm, and Sat-Sun for brunch 10:30am-4pm and dinner 4pm-11pm. A happy hour may be coming soon too. 425A Hayes St. at Gough, 415-554-0541.

Seating at Papito West, with mural by Matthew James McGowan in the background. Photo: Dana Eastland. © tablehopper.com.

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The open kitchen and a peek at the bar. Photo: Dana Eastland. © tablehopper.com.
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The exterior. Photo: Dana Eastland. © tablehopper.com.
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