A project in the making for the past five years, Khalid Mushasha (Lolinda, Black Cat) and Chef Telmo Faria (Tacolicious, Uma Casa) introduced a new Portuguese fast casual concept in San Francisco’s Mission District in spring 2018. Hankering for a local venue to enjoy the chicken he grew up regularly eating in London, Mushasha teamed up with Faria to create Piri Pica, a concept showcasing flame-grilled piri piri chicken at the center of the menu. The flagship dish has finally been brought to life thanks to Faria’s passion and knowledge of the cuisine of Portugal. Piri Pica will open its doors in the former Frjtz space on Valencia Street with Mushasha leading operations and Faria at the helm of the kitchen.
“This is a long-time passion project for Khalid and I,” says Faria. “We bonded over a shared love for piri piri chicken years ago and Piri Pica fulfills our desire to bring this style of dining to the Bay Area.”
Piri piri-style chicken is a spicy dish with roots in Africa and Portugal. Growing up in Portugal’s Azores region, Faria’s menu will feature a combination of both the traditional chicken dish and flavors he was surrounded with as a child. The signature piri piri chicken will be available as a quarter, half, or whole bird with spice levels customizable to the diner’s choosing. Pork loin and shrimp will also be available as supplemental proteins alongside signature spicy and garlic herb sauces. Additionally, Piri Pica will offer vegetarian options, Mediterranean-influenced side dishes, and a locally-driven beer and wine list with Portuguese influence.
Served in a communal, counter-service environment, Piri Pica commits to an unwavering dedication to both fast and high quality health-minded dining. Designed by Craige Walters, the inviting atmosphere will offer a social venue of 60 seats including outdoor seating for an al fresco experience. The space is 1,800 square feet.
Piri Pica will exist independently of Faria’s Portuguese restaurant Uma Casa in San Francisco’s Noe Valley neighborhood. Uma Casa’s rising star chef, Nicole Marin, will step into the role of chef de cuisine to lead the kitchen alongside Faria. Marin’s promotion allows Faria the opportunity to focus his energy and passion on each restaurant as he brings Mushasha’s vision to life at Piri Pica.