San Francisco’s vibrant taco scene is a tapestry of flavors and traditions. From bustling food trucks serving up authentic street-style tacos to cozy taquerias offering innovative fusion creations, San Francisco’s taco spots are a testament to the city’s love affair with this beloved dish. This guide highlights the top taco spots in the city.
In a nation crazy about tacos, every city boasts its champions. San Francisco, a melting pot of flavors and traditions, is a prime example. From humble food trucks to bustling taquerías, the search for the city’s best tacos is also a journey through its neighborhoods and a glimpse into the soul of its vibrant community. Join us as we explore the delicious tortillas and perfectly seasoned meats of San Francisco’s top taco spots
Tacos El Patron
9.2/10 (1069 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 415-829-7315
Birria tacosVariety of saucesComplimentary chips and salsa
Tacos El Patron is a popular spot with a wide array of taco options that customers seem to enjoy. The Birria taco has been praised for its juiciness and rich flavors, leaving diners feeling satisfied. The variety of sauces available, including the green sauce and salsa, adds an extra kick to the meal. The self-serve sauce area is a convenient touch, allowing guests to customize their tacos to their liking. The complimentary chips and salsa are a nice touch, adding to the overall dining experience. The staff is friendly and the ambiance is welcoming, making it a great stop for some delicious comfort food on-the-go.
Taquería El Farolito
9/10 (5133 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 415-824-7877
Flavorful super burritosFresh avocadoLarge portions
Taquería El Farolito in San Francisco is known for its flavorful and filling Mexican cuisine. The super taco with steak is a must-try, as the meat is seasoned to perfection and the avocado is fresh. The large portions, low prices, and complementary chips and salsa make dining here a fantastic value. The super burritos, particularly the al pastor and steak options, are delicious and very satisfying. There is plenty of seating both inside and on the covered patio in the back, with fast service ensuring a quick and enjoyable meal.
Cilantro SF Taqueria
9/10 (770 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 415-655-9948
Generous portion sizesAuthentic Mexican flavorsVegetarian options
Cilantro SF Taqueria stands out among the overpriced San Francisco restaurants with its generous portion sizes and reasonable prices, offering the taste of authentic Mexican cuisine that reminds customers of home. The no-nonsense service paired with delicious chilaquiles and breakfast served all day makes this taqueria a must-visit spot for those looking for a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.
Taqueria Cancun
9/10 (2201 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 415-252-9560
Flavorful Carne AsadaSpecial Wet BurritoLaid-back Atmosphere
Taqueria Cancun in the Mission District of San Francisco is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican cuisine. The Carne Asada Tacos are a standout, with flavorful and tender meat in generous portions. The laid-back atmosphere and quick, friendly service make it a perfect spot for a casual night out with friends or family. The burritos are also a hit, especially the special wet burrito, served in a large portion and accompanied by delicious tortilla chips. Taqueria Cancun truly embodies the essence of Mexican food in the heart of the city.
Street Taco
9/10 (145 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 415-872-9906
Delicious street foodQuick serviceAffordable prices
Street Taco seems to be a popular spot among locals, offering delicious and fresh Mexican street food options like tacos, quesadillas, burritos, and street bowls. The menu includes a variety of options at an affordable price point of around ten dollars per plate. The clean atmosphere and the ability to watch the cooks in action add to the overall dining experience. The service is known to be quick and efficient, making it a great choice for those looking for a convenient and satisfying Mexican meal.
Taqueria Cazadores
9/10 (327 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 415-503-0340
Flavorful tacosAffordable pricesFriendly staff
Taqueria Cazadores is a hidden gem in the heart of the city, offering delicious Mexican fare at affordable prices. The regular taco and super taco were flavorful and satisfying, and the taquitos fritos were a nostalgic and tasty treat. The staff was friendly and the convenient location made it a perfect spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
Taqueria Mana
9/10 (339 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 415-421-3781
Al pastor surf tacosCarne asada burritoFriendly staff
Taqueria Mana, a hidden gem near Union Square, is a must-try for Mexican cuisine enthusiasts. The Al pastor surf tacos and carne asada burritos are standout dishes, showcasing fresh ingredients and excellent seasoning. The friendly staff and casual ambiance add to the overall experience, making it a top choice for a quick and satisfying meal in San Francisco.
El Norteño Taco Truck
9.4/10 (171 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 415-756-1220
Flavorful tacosFriendly serviceFair pricing
El Norteño Taco Truck is a must-visit for those in search of flavorful tacos with tender, well-seasoned meats. The service is friendly and the pricing is fair, making it a hidden gem for those looking for a quick and delicious meal on the go. The small corner lot location may lack seating, but the quality of the food and service more than makes up for it. The variety of drink options and unique offerings like goat meat set this taco truck apart from the rest.
El Gallo Giro
9.6/10 (133 reviews)
| Directions | +1 415-240-1224
Crispy CarnitasFlavorful ChicharronesFriendly Service
El Gallo Giro is a hidden gem in San Francisco, serving up some of the best Mexican street food in town. The crispy, flavorful carnitas steal the show, with customers raving about the perfect balance of crispy edges and tender meat. The tacos are a must-try, and the chicharrones bring a nice kick of spice to every bite. The friendly and efficient service adds to the overall experience, making this family-owned business a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
El Farolito
9/10 (273 reviews)
| Directions | +1 415-913-7771
Authentic tacosOffal optionsGreen salsa
El Farolito stands out for its authentic tacos and offal options, offering a diverse menu that caters to any craving. Despite the small location, the value for money is unparalleled, with generous portions and delicious flavors that keep customers coming back for more. The Chile Relleno Super Burrito is a standout dish, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to quality and taste. The green salsa adds the perfect kick to every bite, making for a messy yet delightful dining experience. With a variety of options and friendly service, El Farolito is a must-visit for anyone seeking flavorful Mexican fare in San Francisco.
El Metate
9.2/10 (263 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 415-641-7209
Authentic flavorsLively salsa barReasonable prices
El Metate is a spot for authentic Mexican food with a laid-back atmosphere and efficient service. The chicken tamales are warm and juicy, the pozole a crowd favorite, and the salsa bar a hit with patrons. The expansive menu offers classic dishes like enchiladas and burritos at reasonable prices, making it a go-to choice for those craving a taste of Mexico in San Francisco. The welcoming vibes and flavorful offerings at El Metate make it a standout in the Mission District dining scene.
Chuy’s Fiestas Taqueria lI
9/10 (118 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 415-529-1323
Flavorful tacosHandmade tortillasAffordable prices
Chuy’s Fiestas Taqueria II offers an impressive selection of tacos that are a must-try for taco enthusiasts. The handcrafted tortillas and flavorful fillings, such as carnitas, al pastor, and cochinita pibil, are sure to satisfy any taco craving. The cozy atmosphere and affordable prices make it a great choice for a delicious meal.
Loló
9.2/10 (1701 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 415-643-5656
Creative cocktailsVibrant atmosphereBursting flavors
Loló is a lively spot with a modern Mexican menu that offers a unique and flavorful dining experience. The shrimp taco was bursting with flavor, with soft melting shrimp and a twist on the flavor with the jicama tortilla. The fish tacos and carne asada tacos were favorites among customers, along with the creative and refreshing cocktails. The atmosphere is vibrant and colorful, making it an ideal choice for a fun night out. The only downside seems to be the occasional slower service, but overall, Loló is a great option in the Mission for those looking for something different and tasty.
Los Yucatecos Restaurant
9/10 (83 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 415-757-0685
House-made tortillasUnique Yucatecan cuisineCasual and welcoming ambiance
Los Yucatecos Restaurant is a hidden gem serving up authentic Yucatecan/Mexican cuisine in the neighborhood. The house-made tortillas are a standout feature, elevating each dish with their fresh taste and unique texture. The Conchita Pibil is bursting with flavor, but the Poc Chuc stole the show for me. The casual ambiance adds to the experience, giving it a down-to-earth appeal that shouldn’t be overlooked. The menu offers dishes you won’t find elsewhere, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts looking to try something new and delicious in a welcoming setting.
Tacos del barrio
9.6/10 (78 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 415-829-3371
Authentic Tijuana-style tacosFlavorful fillingsVariety of heat levels at salsa bar
Tacos del barrio is a must-try spot for authentic Tijuana-style tacos and flavorful fillings. The al pastor tacos with melted cheese, onion, and guacamole are a standout, along with the house-made tortillas and variety of heat levels at the salsa bar. The horchata with a hint of coconut and watermelon margaritas are exceptional drinks that complement the delicious food perfectly.
El Buen Comer
9.2/10 (543 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 415-817-1542
Traditional Mexican platesHandmade corn tortillasFriendly service
El Buen Comer in San Francisco’s Mission Bernal neighborhood is a hidden gem that serves traditional Mexican plates with delicious cocktails and consistent food. From guacamole and chips to sopes de Carnitas and fish tacos, the dishes are always flavorful and well-presented. The handmade corn tortillas are a standout, along with the friendly service that adds to the cozy and inviting atmosphere. Offering a taste of Mexico 🇲🇽 with every bite, this family-owned gem is definitely worth a try for anyone looking for an authentic Mexican dining experience.
Que Chulada
9.4/10 (220 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 415-702-6433
Authentic Mexican foodFlavorful birria tacosFriendly staff
Que Chulada is the perfect spot for those in search of authentic Mexican food. The birria tacos are a must-try, packed with flavor and perfectly seared. The Al pastor and chorizo options come highly recommended as well. The staff here is friendly and welcoming, adding to the overall experience. The salsa options, especially the spicy orange and flavorful green, are the perfect accompaniment to the delicious food. The breakfast burritos are a great way to start your day, with the chorizo, egg, and cheese combination being a standout choice. Whether you’re a taco lover or in the mood for a hearty burrito, Que Chulada has something for everyone to enjoy.
Taqueria El Buen Sabor
9/10 (1315 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 415-552-8816
Good valueAmple seatingFriendly service
Taqueria El Buen Sabor offers a modestly-priced dining experience with flavorful, fresh Mexican comfort food. The vegetable burrito is a standout, with perfectly cooked veggies and a generous portion size. The seating area accommodates a good number of guests, allowing for a comfortable dining experience. While the tofu portion may be lacking, the friendly staff and quick service make up for it. The overall atmosphere is inviting and clean, making it a worthwhile stop in the vibrant Mission neighborhood of San Francisco.
El Tepa Taqueria
9.4/10 (113 reviews)
| Directions | +1 415-255-8372
Fresh shrimp tacosGenerous portion sizesAbove-average flan
El Tepa Taqueria has earned a loyal following for its massive portion sizes, fresh seafood options, and friendly service. The shrimp tacos are a standout, with juicy, sweet shrimp that leave customers raving. The cleanliness and calm atmosphere also contribute to the positive dining experience. In addition to the tasty tacos, the flan and lime agua fresca are above average for a taqueria. The grilled chicken burrito is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, making El Tepa a go-to spot for Mexican food lovers in the Mission district.
Las Mestizas
9.2/10 (95 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 415-603-8381
Diverse Yucatan platterFlavor-packed house salsaCozy atmosphere
Located just away from the more popular spot Tacolicious, Las Mestizas is a hidden gem for those craving authentic Mexican cuisine. The Yucatan platter offers a diverse selection of dishes, both vegetarian and meat options. The lightly fried tortillas are a must-try, especially the salbutes and empanadas. And don’t forget to ask for the house salsa, it’s packed with flavor! The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make this place a perfect hole-in-the-wall for a casual Mexican meal.