In English, nopalito means:

1. Slice of cactus.
2. Ingredient.
3. A little prick.

Stuck? Us, too — on the tiny new Western Addition joint named for all of the above.

The new concept from the Nopa folks serves organic Mexican fare in contemporary quarters.

Starters like fish tacos, ceviche, and chorizo tortas are enough to make you loco, but save room for chicken mole, stewed pork pozole, and cinnamon-and-beer-braised carnitas. And we dig the decor: zinc counter, lime green mosaic wall, recycled can pendant lights, and tables made from fallen oak trees.

The heated outdoor patio makes us yearn for micheladas and ice-cold cans of Tecate garnished with salt and lime.

That’s the story, and we’re sticking to it.

Nopalito, 306 Broderick Street, between Oak and Fell Streets (415-437-0303 or nopalitosf.com).