Welcome to our guide on the Best Mexican Restaurants in San Francisco! If you’re a fan of flavorful dishes, vibrant spices, and authentic Mexican cuisine, then you’re in for a treat. San Francisco boasts a diverse culinary scene, and its Mexican restaurants are no exception. From sizzling fajitas to mouthwatering tacos, we’ve scoured the city to bring you a curated list of the absolute Best Mexican Restaurants in San Francisco. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure that will leave your taste buds begging for more!
Lolo
Address: 974 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Phone: +1 (415) 643-5656
Website: lolosf.com
Details: $$, Mexican restaurant
Lolo, a Mexican restaurant located in San Francisco, offers a delightful dining experience that will satisfy your Latin cuisine cravings. The restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere and exceptional staff create a welcoming environment for guests. Even on a busy Wednesday night, the reasonable wait time was well worth it. The well-balanced and flavorful drinks perfectly complement the outstanding food served at Lolo.
Visitors who have experienced Lolo in Guadalajara will be pleasantly surprised by the unique menu offered at the San Francisco location. The fantastic flavors, combined with the funky and lively ambiance, create a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re a local or a frequent visitor to San Francisco, Lolo has become a must-visit destination for Mexican cuisine enthusiasts.
Lolo stands out among the dining options in San Francisco, offering excellent Mexican tapas and top-notch service. The restaurant’s inventive take on traditional Mexican dishes, combined with quality drinks, adds a special touch to every meal. From the delectable empanadas to the mouthwatering buñuelo dessert, Lolo’s menu showcases a vibrant and inventive fusion of Latin and American styles. Families will also appreciate the perfectly portioned tacos enjoyed by their children.
Located in the Mission District, Lolo is easily accessible and worth the visit. The quirky decor and extensive cocktail selection add to the overall appeal of the restaurant. Making a reservation, even on the same day, is recommended to minimize wait times. Lolo’s friendly hostess and attentive staff ensure that guests feel welcomed and well taken care of. With delicious food, unique flavors, and a vibrant atmosphere, Lolo is a must-try Mexican restaurant in San Francisco.
Gracias Madre
Address: 2211 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Phone: +1 (323) 978-2170
Website: gracias-madre.com
Details: $$, Mexican restaurant
Gracias Madre, located in San Francisco’s Mission Area, is a vegan Mexican restaurant that offers a truly refreshing and unique dining experience. The staff at Gracias Madre are efficient, friendly, and attentive, ensuring a pleasant visit for guests. The restaurant’s neat and clean ambiance adds to the overall dining experience.
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The menu at Gracias Madre is a standout, offering a nice and varied selection of dishes that showcase authentic Mexican flavors. Despite being plant-based, the food at Gracias Madre is incredibly rich in flavor and satisfying. From the outstanding mole enchiladas to the delicious quesadilla with cheese and sweet potatoes, every dish is a culinary delight. The menu caters to both vegans and non-vegans, providing options that will leave everyone satisfied and energized.
Gracias Madre goes above and beyond to deliver an authentic Mexican experience while maintaining a focus on clean and plant-based cuisine. The restaurant’s commitment to using organic and locally sourced ingredients contributes to the high quality and flavor of their dishes. With great service, a vibrant atmosphere, and reasonable prices, Gracias Madre is highly recommended for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone seeking a unique and delicious dining experience in San Francisco.
Don Pisto’s
Address: 510 Union St, San Francisco, CA 94133
Phone: +1 (415) 395-0939
Website: donpistos.com
Details: $$, Mexican restaurant
Don Pisto’s, a hidden gem in San Francisco, offers an exceptional dining experience with its friendly staff, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious menu. The service at Don Pisto’s is top-notch, with attentive and knowledgeable staff ensuring a memorable visit. The restaurant’s bustling ambience adds to the overall dining experience, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends or family.
The menu at Don Pisto’s may be simple, but the flavors are anything but. From the mouthwatering tacos to the flavorful margaritas, every dish is prepared with care and attention to detail. The street corn appetizer and mushroom enchiladas are standout favorites, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to quality and taste. With generous portions and fresh ingredients, Don Pisto’s delivers a satisfying and memorable dining experience.
Located in the Italian neighborhood of North Beach, Don Pisto’s surprises guests with its excellent Mexican cuisine. The friendly and informative staff take pride in their offerings, providing helpful descriptions and recommendations. Whether you’re craving seafood and chips or the delectable asado, Don Pisto’s delivers delicious food at a great price. If you’re looking for a hidden gem in San Francisco, make sure to visit Don Pisto’s and indulge in their outstanding Mexican fare.
Matador
Address: 679 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: +1 (415) 923-8146
Website: matadorsf.com
Details: $$, Mexican restaurant
Matador, a charming Mexican restaurant in San Francisco, offers an amazing dining experience with its friendly staff, relaxed atmosphere, and delectable menu. From the moment you step into Matador, the warm and inviting ambiance sets the stage for a memorable meal. The staff goes above and beyond, providing exceptional customer service and ensuring that guests have a delightful dining experience.
The menu at Matador is filled with delicious options that cater to a variety of tastes. The tacos are a standout, with flavorful fillings that will leave you wanting more. Whether you opt for the fried shrimp taco or the barbacoa and al pastor tacos, each bite is a burst of authentic Mexican flavors. The drinks, such as the spicy margaritas, are tastefully made and complement the food perfectly.
Matador’s dedication to quality extends to its service as well. The bartenders and servers are attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, ensuring that guests feel well taken care of. Whether you’re dining alone or with a group, the staff works seamlessly to create a positive and enjoyable dining experience. With outdoor seating available, Matador provides a charming setting to savor the delicious food and drinks they have to offer.
In summary, Matador is a must-visit Mexican restaurant in San Francisco. With its friendly staff, relaxed atmosphere, and mouthwatering menu, it promises an amazing dining experience for all who visit.
Nopalito
Address: 306 Broderick St, San Francisco, CA 94117
Phone: +1 (415) 437-0303
Website: nopalitosf.com
Details: $$, Mexican restaurant
Nopalito, located in San Francisco, offers an outstanding dining experience with its flavorful and elevated Mexican cuisine, friendly staff, and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant prides itself on providing excellent value for money, delivering top-notch food that exceeds expectations. From the delicious Cranistas to the refreshing summer Sangria, Nopalito offers a range of must-try dishes that will satisfy any craving for Mexican cuisine.
With a focus on organic and sustainable ingredients, Nopalito takes everyday Mexican food and transforms it into a remarkable dining experience. The dishes are not only visually appealing but also packed with complex flavors. The menu caters to various dietary needs, including options for vegans and gluten-free diners. Ordering at Nopalito is made easy with the use of modern technology, allowing guests to conveniently order and pay via the Toast Order app.
Nopalito’s casual atmosphere and friendly staff contribute to the overall enjoyment of the dining experience. The cocktails and food are not only delicious but also served with efficiency, ensuring a pleasant visit. The restaurant’s location is easily accessible and offers a lovely walk from downtown San Francisco. With its commitment to authentic Mexican flavors and exceptional service, Nopalito is a must-visit restaurant that promises a memorable meal in a welcoming environment.
Tropisueno
Address: 75 Yerba Buena Ln, San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: +1 (415) 985-2264
Website: tropisueno.com
Details: $$, Mexican restaurant
Tropisueno, a hidden gem in San Francisco, offers a fantastic dining experience with its authentic Mexican cuisine, vibrant atmosphere, and excellent service. The menu provides a wide range of choices, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From the flavorful chips and salsa to the delicious burritos and tacos, the food at Tropisueno is fresh, tasty, and reasonably priced.
The restaurant’s lively atmosphere creates a vibrant dining experience, making it a perfect spot for a fun night out or a casual lunch with friends. The staff at Tropisueno is friendly and attentive, providing exceptional service and ensuring a memorable visit. The cafeteria-style ordering system adds to the unique dining experience, allowing guests to customize their meals and explore the various options available.
Tropisueno stands out for its standout dishes, such as the mouthwatering chile relleno, and its diverse salsa bar, offering a range of delicious options. Vegetarian and gluten-free guests will find plenty of choices on the menu, making it a versatile dining destination for all dietary preferences. Whether you’re enjoying the crispy chips, indulging in the creamy corn enchilada, or savoring the flavors of the chile relleno, Tropisueno guarantees a delightful culinary adventure.
Papito Hayes
Address: 425 Hayes St A, San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: +1 (415) 554-0541
Website: papitohayessf.com
Details: $$, Mexican restaurant
Located in the vibrant Hayes Valley, Papito Hayes is a Mexican restaurant that offers an outstanding dining experience. The staff at Papito Hayes is friendly and provides wonderful service, ensuring a memorable visit. The menu is diverse, offering a wide range of options for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re craving shrimp enchiladas, steak burritos, or fried chicken quesadillas, the food at Papito Hayes is delicious and made with fresh ingredients.
The cozy atmosphere adds to the dining experience, and the location in Hayes Valley, known for its cool vibe, enhances the overall ambiance. The restaurant’s popularity is a testament to its quality, with both locals and tourists appreciating the authentic flavors and generous portions. From the flavorful tacos to the tantalizing appetizers, every dish at Papito Hayes is crafted with care and attention to detail.
The blood orange margaritas are a great way to start your meal, and the attentive staff ensures that you have a pleasant dining experience. Despite its busy nature, the service remains efficient and attentive, ensuring that guests are well taken care of. Papito Hayes is a go-to spot for Baja-style tacos and burritos, and their pozole is highly recommended for a comforting meal on a cold day. Whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch or a night out, Papito Hayes promises exceptional food, a welcoming atmosphere, and friendly service.
West of Pecos
Address: 550 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Phone: +1 (415) 252-7000
Website: westofpecos.com
Details: $$, Southwestern restaurant (US)
Located in the heart of the vibrant Mission District, West of Pecos is a Mexican restaurant that offers a delightful dining experience. The staff at West of Pecos is warm and attentive, providing quick and well-coordinated service. The margaritas are stellar, and the guacamole with chips is delicious. One highlight of the menu is the smoked brisket tacos, which are simply ridiculous in their flavor and tenderness.
This restaurant is a great alternative to traditional Mexican food, with creative twists on classic dishes. The BBQ jackfruit quesadillas with jalapeño tortillas and the campfire cornbread skillet with whipped piquillo molasses butter are mouthwatering options. The smoked chicken enchiladas are also highly recommended. The food at West of Pecos is outstanding, prepared with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor.
The atmosphere at West of Pecos is lively and energetic, making it a perfect spot for a fun night out. The restaurant offers a happy hour menu with discounted drinks and appetizers, and the service is excellent, with friendly bartenders and attentive staff. Whether you’re enjoying a casual snack or a full meal, West of Pecos delivers great food, a welcoming ambiance, and top-notch service. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in their delicious guacamole, incredible salads, crispy Brussels sprouts, vegan delights, and, of course, their famous margaritas.
Tacolicious
Address: 741 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Phone: +1 (415) 649-6077
Website: tacolicious.com
Details: $, Mexican restaurant
Located in the vibrant Mission District, Tacolicious is a Mexican restaurant that lives up to its name. The staff is friendly and welcoming, providing excellent service throughout your dining experience. The chips and salsa are a perfect start, with the warm salsa being a delightful surprise. The menu offers a wide variety of taco combinations, appealing to even the pickiest eaters. Each taco is packed with delicious flavors that will leave you wanting more. From the mouthwatering fried chicken to the flavorful hamburguesa tortas, every dish at Tacolicious is a treat.
The atmosphere at Tacolicious is lively and fun, making it a great place to gather with friends or enjoy a couple’s night out. The restaurant offers a great selection of tequilas and tasty cocktails to accompany your meal. The vibe is energetic, and the outdoor seating area with strings of lights adds a charming touch to the ambiance. The staff is attentive and personable, ensuring that you have a memorable dining experience.
Tacolicious offers a fresh and flavorful take on Mexican cuisine. The gourmet-style tacos, delicious guacamole, and great selection of beers and cocktails make it a standout Mexican restaurant. The prices are reasonable, making it even more appealing in the bustling city of San Francisco. Whether you’re a taco lover or looking for an authentic Mexican dining experience, Tacolicious is the place to be.
SanJalisco Restaurant
Address: 901 S Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94110
Phone: +1 (415) 648-8383
Website: sanjalisco.com
Details: $, Mexican restaurant
SanJalisco Restaurant is a hidden gem located in the lively Mission District of San Francisco. The staff is friendly and welcoming, providing excellent service with a smile. The restaurant has a lovely decor that reflects the vibrant Mexican culture. The menu offers a wide variety of authentic Mexican dishes that are prepared with care and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast or a satisfying dinner, SanJalisco Restaurant won’t disappoint.
The portions at SanJalisco Restaurant are sizeable, ensuring that you leave feeling satisfied. The breakfast options, such as huevos divorciados and chorizo con huevos, are a must-try. For dessert, the flan pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee. The restaurant is often busy, but the wait is worth it. The atmosphere is casual and fun, with live musicians adding to the lively ambiance. The neighborhood feel and friendly regulars make SanJalisco a welcoming place for everyone.
SanJalisco Restaurant is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine. The homemade tortillas, flavorful salsas, and delicious beans showcase the attention to detail and dedication to quality. From the tasty sopa to the mouthwatering enchiladas, every dish is prepared with care and served in generous portions. The menu features traditional Mexican favorites as well as unique specialties, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The friendly and attentive service adds to the overall dining experience, making SanJalisco Restaurant a standout destination for Mexican food enthusiasts.
Please note that this description is a paraphrased version of the provided reviews and does not include any exact wording or specific references.
Padrecito
Address: 901 Cole St, San Francisco, CA 94117
Phone: +1 (415) 742-5505
Website: padrecitosf.com
Details: $$, Mexican restaurant
Padrecito is a vibrant and lively Mexican bar and restaurant located in the Cole Valley neighborhood of San Francisco. The staff is attentive and friendly, providing excellent service to guests. The atmosphere is modern and inviting, creating a great vibe for diners. The menu offers a variety of delicious options, showcasing the flavors of Mexico in a unique and flavorful way.
Whether you’re visiting for brunch or dinner, Padrecito offers a memorable dining experience. The brunch selections are particularly outstanding, with gluten-free options available that taste amazing. The chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, and migas are just a few of the Mexican-inspired dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. The drink menu is also impressive, featuring handcrafted cocktails and a good selection of beers and tequila.
The food at Padrecito is exceptional, with dishes that are bursting with flavor. From the duck hash to the skirt steak tacos, each bite is a delight. The guacamole and salsa make for a delicious start to your meal, and the enchiladas and empanadas are also recommended. The restaurant pays attention to detail, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients to create visually appealing and delectable dishes. While the prices reflect the quality of the ingredients and craftsmanship, the experience is worth every penny.
Please note that this description is a paraphrased version of the provided reviews and does not include any exact wording or specific references.
Flores
Address: 2030 Union St, San Francisco, CA 94123
Phone: +1 (415) 796-2926
Website: floressf.com
Details: $$, Mexican restaurant
Flores is a standout Mexican restaurant located in San Francisco, offering a delightful dining experience. The staff is attentive and provides great service, making guests feel welcomed and taken care of. The atmosphere is inviting, with rustic decor and a cozy outdoor seating area.
The food at Flores is truly exceptional, featuring authentic flavors and elevated dishes. From the mouthwatering ceviche and guacamole to the flavorful mole and enchiladas, every bite is a treat for the taste buds. The menu offers a good variety, showcasing the best of Mexican cuisine. The drinks are equally impressive, with mezcal-based cocktails and a top-notch Michelada.
The decor at Flores transports diners to Mexico, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. It captures the essence of a Mexican pueblo, evoking a sense of nostalgia for those familiar with the country. The service at Flores is outstanding, with attentive and friendly staff members who go above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience for guests.
Whether you’re visiting for lunch, dinner, or brunch, Flores is a must-visit destination for Mexican food lovers. The combination of fantastic food, great drinks, charming decor, and exceptional service makes it a standout restaurant in San Francisco.
Cadillac Bar & Grill
Address: 44 9th St, San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: +1 (415) 554-0181
Website: cadillacbarandgrill.com
Details: $$, Event venue
Cadillac Bar & Grill is a fantastic Mexican restaurant located in San Francisco, offering an exceptional dining experience. The staff provides great service, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable visit for guests. The atmosphere is lively and fun, making it a perfect spot for a gathering with friends or family.
The menu at Cadillac Bar & Grill is filled with delicious options that cater to different tastes. From flavorful tacos and fajitas to mouthwatering guacamole and empanadas, every dish is made with fresh ingredients and bursting with authentic Mexican flavors. The restaurant also offers a great selection of drinks, including their outstanding Cadillac margarita and refreshing cocktails.
Steeped in history, Cadillac Bar & Grill has its roots in the original Mexican Cadillac Bar, which opened in Mexico in 1926. The San Francisco location was established in 1982, and since then, it has become renowned for its authentic Mexican look and feel. With a red-painted ceiling, a high back bar, and white linens on tables, the restaurant captures the essence of a Mexican dining experience. The original features from the Cadillac Bar in Mexico were incorporated, ensuring an authentic and nostalgic atmosphere for diners.
For those seeking a memorable dining experience with great food, lively atmosphere, and friendly service, Cadillac Bar & Grill is a must-visit restaurant in San Francisco. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, fajitas, or delicious guacamole, this restaurant is sure to satisfy your cravings for authentic Mexican cuisine.
Californios
Address: 355 11th St, San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: +1 (415) 757-0994
Website: californiossf.com
Details: $$$$, Mexican restaurant
Californios is an extraordinary Mexican restaurant located in San Francisco, offering a remarkable dining experience. The staff provides impeccable service, ensuring a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests. The restaurant exudes a chic and intimate vibe, with an open kitchen that allows diners to witness the culinary magic happening right before their eyes.
The menu at Californios is a testament to creativity and innovation, showcasing elevated Mexican cuisine. Each dish is meticulously prepared, combining complex flavors and presenting them in an artistic and visually stunning manner. The tasting menu takes diners on a journey of 20 or more small tapas-like bites, showcasing the best of Mexican flavors and ingredients. The wine pairing option is highly recommended, as the sommelier’s selections perfectly complement the dishes.
The overall experience at Californios is nothing short of exceptional. From the knowledgeable and friendly staff to the refined ambiance, every detail is carefully curated to provide a memorable dining experience. While the restaurant has received two Michelin stars and accolades from renowned food critics, the focus remains on the authentic Mexican flavors and the enjoyment of the guests. Californios is a must-visit for those seeking sophisticated and inventive Mexican cuisine in San Francisco.
Underdogs Tres
Address: 1224 9th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94122
Phone: +1 (415) 566-8700
Website: underdogstres.com
Details: $, Mexican, Bar, Pub
Underdogs Tres is a lively and friendly Mexican eatery located in San Francisco. The staff is known for their exceptional service, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable dining experience. The menu offers a variety of delicious Mexican comfort food with a twist of American flavors. From mouthwatering burritos and tacos to flavorful nachos, every dish is prepared with care and served with generous portions.
The atmosphere at Underdogs Tres is vibrant and energetic, attracting both locals and visitors. The bar area is a popular spot to catch a game while enjoying a refreshing drink from their wide selection of craft beers and tequilas. The restaurant is often bustling with lively conversations and laughter, creating a lively and sociable ambiance.
Customers rave about the friendly service and the delectable food at Underdogs Tres. The fish tacos are highly recommended, especially when paired with one of their craft brews. The menu also features unique creations like the Elote con Queso and the Grilled Shrimp Tacos Nick’s way. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a place to watch sports with friends, Underdogs Tres is a go-to spot for delicious Mexican fare and a great time.
Underdogs Tres does not require reservations, but it can get busy during peak hours. Limited parking is available on the street.
In conclusion, San Francisco boasts a diverse and vibrant Mexican culinary scene, offering a range of outstanding restaurants that showcase the richness and flavors of Mexican cuisine. From authentic street food to elevated dining experiences, these Mexican restaurants in San Francisco truly stand out for their exceptional menus, welcoming atmospheres, and attentive staff. Whether you’re craving traditional tacos, mouthwatering burritos, or innovative Mexican fusion dishes, you’ll find a culinary adventure that will satisfy your cravings and leave you with a deep appreciation for the city’s Mexican culinary delights. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore these top-notch Mexican restaurants and indulge in a truly unforgettable dining experience.
