Sneak Preview: Mission Taqueria

Forget everything you know about the space that used to be Nodding Head Brewery. The dark wood, the carpets, and the deep red upholstery, it’s all gone. If you want to take one last look, the 360 Google Maps view is still up.

Sam Mink‘s newest venture, Mission Taqueria, has breathed a new life into the space. Bright tiles, glowing neon and huge skylights filled with plants give the space an airy, lush feeling. It’s unrecognizable. Situated above Mink’s other restaurant, Oyster House. Mission Taqueria’s huge bay windows overlook Sansom Street, giving diners a perfect vantage point to spy on traffic below.

As you walk up the stairs you’re greeted by the new outdoor space. With lime green flooring and a single chaise, the tiny atrium is just big enough to sit an enjoy some appetizers and maybe even a midday cocktail.

Past the entryway, the restaurant opens into the main dining area. The kitchen is open, giving diners a full experience of the sights, sounds, and smells of the wood-fired grill roaring right next to them. Hanging baskets full of oranges and bananas hover over the juice bar where juices and desserts are crafted. The kitchen is headed up by chefs Brett Naylor and Andrew Sabin, and will be churning out tacos, ceviches, and all the standard taqueria fare. And while you wait, a custom made foosball table with room for eight players stands ready for some competition.

Beer hall style dining tables for hanging out.

Foosball for 8?

The bar will have margaritas, beer and wine on tap, as well as Rosita, a tequila-based negroni. And the fresh juices made daily from the juice bar will be incorporated into the cocktail program.

Beer, wine and cocktails on tap.

Temporary taco tattoo? Sign us up!

Mission Taqueria will be open for dinner starting this Thursday, August 11th. Lunch and brunch will be added soon. We’ve attached the full menu below, check it out before you head over.

And if you missed our live stream earlier today, watch it on our Facebook page to get an in-depth tour from Mission Taqueria’s GM Daniel McLaughlin.

Mission Taqueria Food Menu

Mission Taqueria Food Menu

Mission Taqueria Drink Menu

Mission Taqueria Drink Menu

Mission Taqueria [Foobooz]