Parranga Taqueria & Cerveceria, a new “fine casual” Mexican restaurant restaurant from the team behind the popular Colibri in San Francisco, is the latest arrival on the scene and is set to open in the former Plant Café space in Strawberry Village on July 25, with a grand opening event and Mill Valley Chamber ribbon cutting set for one day earlier. The restaurant is donating 15 percent of all proceeds form its opening day to Bridge the Gap, a nonprofit organization that provides programming aimed at preparing Marin City students for college success.
Colibri and Parranga owner Eduardo Rallo and executive chef Jose Miguel Smith Bustos have created a menu that includes tacos, ensaladas and tortas “with bold Mexican flavors that combine fresh, slow-cooked rotisserie meats with Northern California ingredients.” The menu also boasts “fresh juices, agave wine margaritas and chilled cervezas” and an atmosphere that encourages eating “on communal tables and over board games and ping-pong.”
The renovated space, designed by Tirzah Ortiz of Walnut Creek’s Filthy Gorgeous, combines “the flair of New Mexico with contemporary California style, utilizing corrugated tin walls, vintage wood tables, colorful metal chairs, concrete floors and neon signage,” Rallo says.
The new eatery’s name stands for “endless joy, and represents a meaningful gathering place.” It is drawn from the tiny Mexican town, Parangaricutirimicuaro, where a volcano suddenly emerged in 1943, baffling scientists worldwide. “Parranga is a derivative of the longest word in the Mexican language and has since evolved into a playful tongue twister that brings joy to children all over,” Rallo says.
Parranga will be open for lunch and dinner to start, with breakfast and weekend brunch to follow.
The 411: Parranga Taqueria & Cerveceria opens Wednesday, July 25 at 800 Redwood Highway, Suite 801, with a grand opening event set for 6pm on July 24. MORE INFO.