Picante

About the Business

Specialties

Picante is a fast-casual style restaurant celebrating the flavors and traditions of the seven regions of Mexico with dishes like cochinita pibil, sopa azteca, enchiladas verdes and fish tacos with hand made tortillas. The thoughtfully curated menu has something for everyone, in a place that is relaxed, inviting, and accommodating to even the largest groups. Like the recipes we collect throughout our journeys to Mexico, the artwork adorning our walls, takes us on a south of the border adventure. Taste the flavors of real Mexico, through the recipes shared with us by top Mexican chefs and home cooks alike who taught us the time-honored traditions of their regions. Smell our freshly grilled and stewed meats as they waft through the restaurant. Toasted chiles and pumpkin seeds permeate the air along with the scent of piping hot corn tortillas as they come off the comal. You'll be whisked away on a culinary tour of Mexico, one delicious bite and sip at a time. Join us today, no reservations needed.

History

Established in 1994.

Picante is an expression of our love for Mexico. A celebration of real Mexican cuisine, not of those imposters that are poured out of cans. Love is why we grind corn daily for our tortillas, import Mexican herbs, spices and chiles, and have local artisans craft cheeses that replicate the nuances of fresh Mexican cheeses. Love also explains everything from the naturally raised meats we grill, simmer and stew for some of our dishes, to the Mexican folk art we sleuth out for our walls. Now, the traditional food at Picante may not be coming from a grandmother's kitchen somewhere in Mexico. But, judging from the reactions we get, it's pretty close.

Meet the Business Owner

Business owner information

Jim M.

Business Owner

A Berkeley native, Jim Maser has always enjoyed cooking for friends and family. To express his love for Mexico, he opened Picante in 1994 and continues to travel to Mexico exploring its history through its cuisine.