A Guide to the Best Mexican Eats

San Francisco is famous for its diverse food scene, and when it comes to Mexican cuisine, the city and surrounding Bay Area have some of the best taquerias you'll find. Whether you're a local or visiting, these top taquerias will satisfy your cravings for authentic tacos, burritos, and more. Let's dive into some of the best spots to grab a bite.

1. La Taqueria

Location: Mission District, San Francisco

La Taqueria is an institution in San Francisco’s Mission District and often tops the list for the best tacos in town. Their carnitas tacos and burritos are iconic, and the “super” version with cheese, guacamole, and sour cream is a crowd favorite. La Taqueria’s burritos are famously served without rice, allowing the meat, beans, and fresh ingredients to shine. Don’t forget to ask for crispy grilled tortillas!

2. El Farolito

Location: Various locations in San Francisco

El Farolito is another legendary spot, especially if you're looking for late-night eats. Known for its massive burritos, El Farolito offers a wide selection of fillings, but their al pastor and carne asada are standout choices. Their salsa bar is a bonus, allowing you to customize your meal with various spicy options. If you're looking for something different, their quesadilla suiza is a cheesy, indulgent alternative.

3. Taqueria Cancun

Location: Mission District, San Francisco

Bright yellow walls and vibrant decorations welcome you into Taqueria Cancun, a staple for those seeking flavorful burritos and tacos. Their veggie burritos are packed with fresh ingredients, making it a favorite among vegetarians, while their meat options, like chorizo and carne asada, are bursting with flavor. Pair your meal with a cold horchata for the full experience.

4. El Metate

Location: Mission District, San Francisco

El Metate is a hidden gem, offering a more casual dining experience without sacrificing flavor. Their tacos, burritos, and enchiladas are made with fresh ingredients, and the portions are generous. The grilled fish tacos are a favorite here, but the carnitas burrito also holds its own among locals. It’s a great spot for a quick lunch or takeout.

5. Tacolicious

Location: Various locations in San Francisco and Palo Alto

For those seeking a more upscale taqueria experience, Tacolicious offers creative taco options in a trendy, lively atmosphere. With locations in San Francisco and Palo Alto, this spot is perfect for group dinners or happy hour. Try their guajillo-braised short rib or Baja-style fish tacos, and pair them with one of their signature margaritas for a refreshing treat. It’s also a great spot for sampling different taco fillings with friends.

6. La Palma Mexicatessen

Location: Mission District, San Francisco

Part taqueria, part Mexican deli, La Palma Mexicatessen offers handmade tortillas that make their tacos stand out. Whether you choose their carne asada, carnitas, or chicken tacos, the fresh, warm tortillas elevate the entire experience. They also offer a variety of other traditional Mexican dishes like tamales and enchiladas, making it a versatile stop for any meal.

7. Los Coyotes Taqueria

Location: Daly City, near San Francisco

Just south of San Francisco, Los Coyotes Taqueria in Daly City is a local favorite known for its huge burritos and affordable prices. Their carne asada and lengua tacos are delicious, and the homemade salsa packs a flavorful punch. This spot is great if you're looking to venture outside the city for authentic, no-frills Mexican food.

8. Chavez Supermarket Taqueria

Location: Redwood City, near San Francisco

Located in Redwood City, Chavez Supermarket Taqueria is a grocery store and taqueria combined, offering an array of freshly made Mexican dishes. Their al pastor and carnitas tacos are crowd-pleasers, and the convenience of picking up fresh groceries after your meal is a plus. Chavez’s authentic flavors make it worth the trip from San Francisco.

9. Taqueria El Buen Sabor

Location: Mission District, San Francisco

As its name suggests, El Buen Sabor (meaning “good flavor”) delivers on taste with its fresh ingredients and well-seasoned meats. Their grilled chicken and carne asada tacos are a must-try, and their burritos are packed with all the essentials for a satisfying meal. El Buen Sabor is a solid choice for anyone seeking a quick and tasty taco fix.

10. Don Pistos

Location: North Beach, San Francisco

While not a traditional taqueria, Don Pistos offers modern takes on Mexican street food in a lively setting. Their tacos are served family-style, perfect for sharing with friends. Their soft shell crab and pork belly tacos are unique highlights on the menu. Located in the North Beach area, it's a great spot to relax and enjoy a fresh twist on taco classics.

Conclusion: San Francisco and its neighboring cities are home to some of the finest taquerias, each offering something unique. From hole-in-the-wall joints like El Farolito to upscale experiences at Tacolicious, there's a taqueria for every craving. Next time you're in the Bay Area, be sure to explore these top spots and savor the rich, authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine.