Chef Daniel Tellez, formerly of Copita in Sausalito, brings his newest project to life in the heart of San Francisco, with the launch of Taco Rouge, in Polk Gulch on the corner of Polk and Broadway. Taco Rouge is a fresh take on a San Francisco nightclub/restaurant venue: a vibey, iconic spot dating back to the 1960s – originally The Jumping Frog/Johnny Loves/Rouge/Nick’s Crispy Tacos, where nostalgia meets a new and exciting community gathering space.
Taco Rouge transitions from Mexican flavors by day to a lively honkytonk cantina by night, where fresh, house-made cocktails take center stage to a backdrop of themed music nights. Tacos, of course, are served late into the night with a take-out window available throughout all hours for ease and convenience. Taco Rouge combines a unique take on Mexican street style tacos, refreshing beverages, eclectic music, and vivid artwork created by local talent.
“Each Taco Rouge recipe is a fusion of authentic Mexican recipes with an innovative, California-inspired twist,” said Chef Tellez in a statement. “Our team of passionate chefs meticulously select the freshest ingredients to ensure every bite bursts with bold flavors and textures that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Mexico. Tacos by day and tequila with live music by night – what more could you want?”
As expected, tacos are at the forefront of Taco Rouge’s menu including Street Tacos al Pastor made from a vertical spit roasted taco al pastor; and Taco Arabe with marinated pork, cilantro labne and chipotle salsa served on pita bread–a tasty taco infused with the flavors of shawarma. The Polk and Broadway location has been a mainstay for Taco Tuesday which returns with Six Tecates & Six Tacos for $25 + $25 margarita pitchers.
Brunch is available Saturday – Sunday and includes items such as the Breakfast Tacos, Huevos Rancheros and Churro Pancakes, while watching weekend sports and sipping boozy, fresh-made cocktails such as Pink Sangria, Spiked Agua Fresca and Mezcal Spritz as well as coffee favorites like Mexican Coffee, seasonal Horchatas and the classic Spanish coffee cocktail, Carajillos. Taco Rouge will feature a large selection of tequila and mexcal with curated tasting menus along with several margarita variations.
Late-night, guests can expect a heavy emphasis on music with a state-of-the-art sound system and stage along with a rotation of DJs and live music including Salsa Saturdays to keep the non-stop party vibe going. A VIP mezzanine level overlooking the stage can be booked in advance.
Taco Rouge features more than 5,000 square feet with high-tops, red leather booths and cocktail seating for 200 plus six large screen TV’s, ideal for watching sports throughout the day. Ornate crystal chandeliers; vintage, gold-etched ceilings; wood-paneled walls and floors; along with a curated eclectic collection of California treasures will delight taco afficionados and late-night guests alike. A vibrant, bold mural and wall sculpture by artist Michael Brennan is certain to turn heads.
Taco Rouge is open Monday – Thursday, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. – 2 a.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. – 2 a.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. – 11 p.m. Bottle service is available. Booth reservations and VIP mezzanine tables can be booked online.
Taco Rouge is located at 1500 Broadway, San Francisco, CA 94109.
