SFReview
photo credit: Chloe List
Cala
This spot is Permanently Closed.
Included In
The last thing San Francisco, or the planet, needed was another “upscale Mexican” place that sells $6 tacos and “craft quesadillas” and guacamole smashed next to your table. (We get it, it’s handmade.)
San Francisco, however, did need Cala.
Cala could technically fit into that “upscale Mexican” category (gorgeous space, pricier food, run by a famous Mexico City chef), but the experience there is miles away from the overpriced, fancified stuff most places sling at you. You won’t find chips or deconstructed burritos or smashed-at-your-table guacamole at Cala. Instead, the menu is made up of uncomplicated, vegetable- and seafood-based, authentic Mexican food. And we absolutely love it.
Cala’s food is unlike any Mexican we’ve had in this country. A lot of their dishes are up there for “the best” of that food item we’ve had (like the sweet potato – more on that in the food rundown). Cala’s power is in its simplicity – it’s all about fresh, light flavors and quality ingredients that somehow come together in an unusual and delicious way. The food is so good you won’t even notice that there’s no beef, pork, or chicken anywhere on the menu.
The space is nice too, and the tree in the middle of the room makes the place feel like something that would belong on a “Cool Backyard Ideas” Pinterest board. The crowd is a nice mix as well, with actual adults, parents with little kids, hipsters, and people who definitely are cooler and richer than you, and since it’s a “gang’s all here” situation, it feels like everyone is welcome. Even the drinks (ask for an off-menu spicy margarita) are stupendous.
We are very pleased that Cala has brought some legitimate Mexican food to the city, and you should go as soon as possible. Prepare to be surprised and delighted and ready to book a food-focused trip to Mexico City. There are no chalupas in sight, and we couldn’t be happier.