Zocalo is a great addition to the Junction Triangle community although I find that the hype of many reviewers to me seems a bit hyperbolic.
"Deconstructed sandwiches" which is what we used to call make your own is basically the premise of what is on offer. A lot of effort has been made to create plates that are organic, interesting, and sharable---- that's the best way to eat here, everybody buy a different dish and then everybody share. As a social activity this is hard to beat and overall the service, presentation, and vibe is warm.
Putting aside all the fun though, I found the food bland, especially the sausage. This shocked me considering how much care had obviously gone into preparing the food. The ingredient pairings were ok but lacking in pizazz or wow. I kept matching things up and waiting for a great taste but it never came. I also found the portions small, meaning that you almost need 2 dishes per person to feel you are having a proper dinner. Don't visit if you are hungry and short on cash. Visit with a group for an afternoon or after show snack.
I cant say that I liked the complete lack of decor either. It works in some places but in a narrow place like this it makes everything really loud and on our first visit we left because the music was really loud and the second time we were forced to hear two people at the bar drone on about themselves. Some art from local artists or even some minimal sound breaks would cure this issue and create a space that is cozy instead of boomy.
I'll drop by again in the future more for the fun than the food, give it a try and decide for yourself, at least you will have a good time sampling.