La Parilla Grill

I’ve been told parilla means grill, so technically doesn’t La Parilla Grill mean "the grill grill"? Well, the location on Polk Street that opened up a couple of years ago has definitely seen better days. When it originally opened, it was more of an upscale version compared to its brothers and sisters. It was actually a really cool space – big, airy, outdoor seating, and a full bar. I recall drinks being really cheap and tasty! After closing for what felt like 6 months, they re-opened and went back to their ghetto roots. The upscale Mexican restaurant just didn’t resonate with patrons that are familiar with the hole in the wall version on the corner of Columbus in North Beach (yea, you know it!).

I’ve only been back one other time since they re-opened and again last night. Unfortunately, my impression hasn’t changed much. The menu includes the regulars – burritos, tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, etc. They do boast that they have the "best chicken". I did try the chicken platter last time and it was good but nothing special. This time I had a quesadilla. It was rather ordinary. Filled with chicken, cheese, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream ($9). Other diners got the steak tacos ($4) and the enchiladas ($10). They also offer a variety of sides including corn, rice, potato and macaroni salad, and yucca frites ($2-4). Since when is macaroni salad Mexican?? I’m hoping the chips and salsa they brought was on the house but we asked for guacamole and who knew the guac was going to cost $9!

There’s no longer a full bar so you have your choice of domestic beers on tap and of course foreign beers. Although they do offer waiter service, it’s probably a better idea to just order up at the front. Our service was horrible. Plus they didn’t have any change and wouldn’t split credit cards on our bill. I’d rather walk the 3 blocks and go to Nick’s Crispy Tacos!

(415) 359-1212