Californians sure know how they want their tacos, and in many cities in this state, you will find the best of the best taquerias creating perfect tacos just as you want. But nothing really quite matches the supremacy of tacos in San Francisco.
With the abundant supply of fresh seafood along with farm-to-table produce, the taco scene in San Francisco gets vivid with a bounty of choices. Whether you are a local or a hungry tourist, the taco spots in San Francisco sure know how to fulfil every taco lover’s dream.
Famous restaurants like La Taqueria are known for their years of expertise in taco making while modern dining places like Lolo give you a unique experience every time. If you are exploring the best tacos in San Francisco, stop by these amazing places to grab a delicious bite.
7 Essential Taco Places In San Francisco To Explore
1) La Taqueria
Image Credit: Jean L via Google Maps
Nationally acclaimed for its rice-free burritos, La Taqueria in San Francisco's Mission district is beloved for its mouthwatering tacos. Bursting with juicy carnitas and flavorful carne asada, these tacos are generously filled with meat, guacamole, sour cream, and cheese, offering a satisfying meal in just one or two bites. Opt for the "super" version for added indulgence. With its iconic white storefront and perpetual crowds, La Taqueria is an essential stop for authentic Mexican flavours in the city.
Location: 2889 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Open Hours: Wed-Sat: 11 am–8:45 pm; Sun: 11 am–7:45 pm; Mon-Tue: Closed
Must Try: Rice-Free Burritos, Carnitas, Carne Asada Corn Quesadilla
Price For 2: $20 approx.
2) Lolo
Image Credit: Lolo
Lolo’s in San Francisco's Mission District calls patrons to savour the best modern Mexican cuisine. Their signature Taco Tropical with a zesty blend of spices, panko-coated shrimp topped with vibrant salsa and chipotle aioli all placed in one a refreshing jicama tortilla is a must-try if you are coming for the first time. Pair your meals with light and refreshing baby kale salad. The eclectic scene of this taqueria is ever-changing, so harness your seatbelt to go on a new journey with every visit.
Location: 974 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Open Hours: Mon-Sat: 5:30–10 pm; Sun: Closed
Must Try: Taco Tropical, Fried Chicken Taco, "Al Pastor" Cauliflower Tacos, Fried Avocado Tacos.
Price For 2: $40 approx.
3) La Torta Gorda
Image Credit: Jon Franks via Google Maps
This cosy family-owned eatery hailing from Puebla, Mexico specialises in bringing the true flavours of Mexico to San Fran. While the eatery is renowned for its signature tortas, don't overlook the meaty tacos, especially the oversized "Taco Placero," flavoured by the shop's delectable salsas verde and rojo. Delight in Armando Macuil's Pueblan specialities, like the taco árabe, a fusion of Lebanese and Mexican cuisine featuring marinated pork butt stuffed into tortillas sourced directly from Puebla. Customise your taco experience with a choice of his signature salsas, including the zesty salsa verde crudo.
Location: 2833 24th St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Open Hours: Mon-Fri: 9 am–6 pm; Sat-Sun: 10 am–4 pm
Must Try: Taco Placero, Taco Árabe
Price For 2: $20 approx.
4) Cielito Lindo
Image Credit: Cielito Lindo
Cielito Lindo is a beloved taco spot for all San Franciscans where you will get to savour the essence of California. Their signature quesa birria tacos promise to elevate your taco meal, featuring tender meat, gooey cheese, and flavorful consomme that's simply out of this world. Indulge in the burnt cheesy ends for an extra treat and don't forget to drizzle on their hot sauce for a spicy kick. Conveniently located near Ocean Beach, gather your loved ones for a taco party after a day of seaside fun.
Location: 3440 Balboa St, San Francisco, CA 94121
Open Hours: Mon-Sun: 8:30 am–7:30 pm
Must Try: Quesa birria tacos, Consomme, Burnt cheesy ends
Price For 2: $30 approx.
5) Tacos El Patron
Image Credit: Tacos El Patron
Tacos El Patron promises a taco adventure like never before. This ultimate taco stop at Mission District gives you an array of choices with proteins that will tantalise your taste buds. Their quesa birria tacos, overflowing with tender meat, fresh onions, and melty cheese, are sure quite a messy delight but its worth savouring. Their signature Taco Patrón, loaded with grilled shrimp and cheese is also a popular option on the menu.
Location: 1500 S Van Ness Ave #100, San Francisco, CA 94110
Open Hours: Mon-Sun: 10 am–10 pm
Must Try: Quesa birria tacos, Taco Patrón
Price For 2: $20 approx.
6) La Gallinita Meat Market
Discover La Gallinita, a cosy spot in The Mission district blending a meat market, Mexicatessen, and taquería. Run by the Vasquez family for over 60 years, it's a local treasure. Don't miss their cecina tacos, featuring thinly sliced, air-dried meat crisped on the grill. Be wary of the fiery salsa rojo! Open from 9am to 5 pm (closing at 2 p.m. on Sundays), it's the perfect spot for authentic flavours and warm smiles from Sal, still slicing carne with joy at nearly 80 years old.
Location: 2989 24th St #4133, San Francisco, CA 94110
Open Hours: Mon-Sat: 8 am–5 pm; Sun: 8 am–2 pm
Must Try: Cecina tacos
Price For 2: $30 approx.
7) El Gallo Giro
Image Credit: D Lo via Google Maps
El Gallo Giro stands tall as one of the finest taco trucks around, serving up mouthwatering carnitas and grilled chicken. Catch them parked at their usual spot on 23rd Street and Treat Avenue in The Mission, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Since 2002, Elena Caballero and Jose Perez have delighted customers with their signature carnitas—salted pork leg cooked to perfection and crisped up on the grill. Pair it with their flavorful salsa roja for a truly satisfying experience.
Location: 986-998 Treat Ave, San Francisco, CA 94110
Open Hours: Mon-Fri: 10 am–5 pm; Sat-Sun: Closed
Must Try: Juicy Carnitas, Grilled Chicken
Price For 2: $20 approx.
When you're hungry and craving tacos in San Francisco, make sure to check out these amazing places where you’ll get the true taste of the city. The tacos come loaded with flavours, so every bite becomes a memory engraved deep in your soul.
