On September 16, 1810 Father Miguel Hidalgo from Dolores, Mexico along with several conspirators – including Iganacio Allende and Doña Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez- rang the bell of his little church, calling everyone to rise up against the Spanish and cast off the 300 years of mostly devastating colonial rule (deadly epidemics that demolished the indigenous population, strict racial stratification, economic exploitation, etc.) This was the beginning of the Mexican Independence War, which lasted 10 years, and was pretty much a total downer. However! The end result – Mexican Independence – not only paved the way for Mexico’s self-determination, it also paved the way for an annual reventón of epic proportions. So it’s really the gift that keeps on giving. Here at Remezcla we want you to celebrate Mexican Independence in true Mexican style – con una corrida de juerga – so we’ve put together a guide for where to Eat/Drink/Party/Scream/Then Drunkenly Eat Some More in your city. ¡Qué viva México, carajo!
NY| MIA| CHI | LA | SF
Eating a foil wrapped super burrito with an Indio in the park is a fine way to spend a typical Sunday afternoon, but are you really gonna try to celebrate the independence of the country that gave the world corn, squash, chiles, tomatoes, avocados, chocolate, and even vanilla with a spinach tortilla wrap? No manches guey! Although a decent taqueria can be found on almost any corner in San Francisco, a first-rate Mexican restaurant can be hard to come by – so, here is our guide to top Mexican restaurants in which to celebrate the cuisine of Mexico.
(415) 346-8494
Mamacita has consistently been praised as one of the best Mexican restaurants in the Bay Area for their ability to elevate Mexican cuisine with their innovative use of local ingredients in highlighting traditional flavors. Downside? Well, it’s in the Marina. Fine dining at a reasonable price (awarded Michelin’s Bib Gourmand quality and value). Reservations can be hard to come by so call ahead!
(415) 440-2737
Another Bib Gourmand winner, this restaurant will be celebrating Mexican Independence Day all week with regional specials such as Chiles en Nogada made as authentic as possible with carne molida, seasonal dried fruits all topped with a creamy walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds.
REGALITO ROSTICERIA
3481 18th St., San Francisco, CA
(415) 503-0650
This SF fave features a menu full of Niman Ranch beef and free-range chicken – for those of you who like to know your meat is sourced humanely. It serves up regional dishes that can be hard to find in the Mission, despite all the great taquerias – and the handmade tortillas are delicious.
In the east bay, you can’t go wrong with Comal in Berkeley or Doña Tomás in Oakland. On a taqueria budget? Then head over to El Metate, Nopalito or Papolote Grill.
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With the Cine+Mas: SF Latino Film Festival running from the 13th through the 28th, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the Mexican experience through cinema. Check out our guide to Mexi-movies to watch!
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Curated by Jesus Varela