José Pistola's

263 South 15th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102

Phone: 215-545-4102

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José Pistola’s is a low-light, exposed-bellies kind of bar. But it serves more than run-of-the-mill fried food: A simple, one-page Mexican menu boasts meats (poached, shredded chicken in roja or verde salsa, steak a la plancha or pork braised in fat and Mexican cola) that are layered on an array of starches. The soft tacos are traditionally unfussy and the sopes are large, hearty, house-made masa cakes get lost under the sour cream and shredded iceberg lettuce. And there are thoughtful fish tacos, like tempura-battered grouper chunks, coated in a spicy mayo and served with cabbage. Order a few for a snack or an assortment for dinner. But oddly, what you won’t find amongst their extensive bottle list is Mexican beer or a good margarita. Go figure.