Philadelphia - August 31, 2007

Packing Pistolas

Jose Pistolas Opens

Winter’s coming. What better way to celebrate the end of the bikini’s fascist reign than by stuffing your pie hole?

Cozy up to the cold months with a huge burrito and microbrew from Jose Pistolas, Center City’s new taqueria tavern.

The laid-back watering hole, with its homey brick interior, brightly colored walls, and excellent view, is the brainchild of former Fergie’s bartenders Joe Gunn and Casey Parker. The menu created by executive chef Trevor Budny consists of classic and vegetarian Mexican treats.

Make your taste buds happy with homemade sopes served with refried beans, pickled onions, jalapenos, tomato, cilantro, lettuce, crema, and queso fresco. Or sample one of three $4 fish tacos — house-smoked swordfish, red snapper, or tempura-battered grouper.

Despite a selection of more than 80 beers, the spot is refreshingly unpretentious for those who don’t know a Hefeweizen from a hole in the wall. Sample a Foret, Belgium’s first organic ale. Or keep it real with a bottle of PBR.

Hey, that winter weight isn’t gonna gain itself.

Jose Pistolas, 263 South 15th Street (215-545-4102).