Nopalito

“The many followers of Nopalito will be overjoyed to have this comprehensive cookbook that chronicles their story through classic Mexican recipes, gorgeous photographs, and practical step-by-step instructions. May this work inspire you and bring you closer to some of the most delicious flavors out there. Salud!”—Gabriela Cámara, restaurateur and chef of Contramar and Cala

“What a thoughtful, inviting book! Page after page of beautiful, soul-satisfying dishes propelled me toward the kitchen to bring alive these honest flavors. These recipes were born from the real food of Mexico, then coaxed into a San Francisco existence at Nopalito under the guiding hand of Gonzalo Guzmán. As you read through the jam-packed salsas chapter, you’ll find your heart beating faster and faster: so many flavors and textures, so much joy to be had!”—Rick Bayless, chef-owner of Chicago’s Frontera Grill, Topolobampo, and Leña Brava, and host of public television’s Mexico: One Plate at a Time

“More than just a snapshot of a restaurant, Nopalito is an inspiring, enticing portrait of a cuisine. I want to eat this whole book. And with Guzmán’s pantry-stocking tips, stories, and hands-on guidance, I’m ready to start making masa and working my way up to platillos fuertes (big plates) projects.”—Adam Sachs, Editor in Chief, Saveur Magazine“The first cookbook from wildly popular Nopalito in San Francisco is full of favorite dishes from the restaurant—and so much more. The elevated homestyle cooking is in large part inspired by Guzmán’s upbringing in Veracruz; they look and taste beyond-fantastic. We especially love the guide for building your Mexican pantry and the index of more than a dozen salsas!” —Goop

Gonzalo Guzman was born in Veracruz, Mexico, and came to the United States as a young child. He began working at Kokkari restaurant in San Francisco as a dishwasher, but was soon promoted and went on to work his way up through the ranks at Boulevard, Chez Nous, and Nopa. In 2009, he partnered with Laurence and Allyson Jossel and Jeff Hanak to open Nopalito on Broderick Street. Guzman is now the chef of both the original Nopalito as well as a second location on Ninth Avenue, just outside Golden Gate Park.

Stacy Adimando is a food and travel journalist, and the test kitchen director at Saveur magazine. Her work has been published by NPR, Bon Appetit, Conde Nast Traveler, Food & Wine, Forbes, and many more. She lives in Brooklyn, New York.