Burritos are as classic to San Francisco as the Golden Gate Bridge, our steep hills, and Karl the Fog. Whether you identify as a burrito-purist or fall on the side of loving the contested, but SF-original, Mission Style, one thing is common- you cannot live here without ever indulging in one of our many distinct taquerias. From late night refueling, to quick portable bites, and even for a heavenly bite of nostalgia, burritos are fundamental to both the culture and history of our immigrant-founded neighborhoods.
Here are the best burritos all around San Francisco that are even endorsed by celebrities, so that you know which ones to look out for the next time you need a fast, reliable, and affordably filling meal.
See also: Unwrapping The Stuffed History Of San Francisco's Distinctly Original Mission-Style Burrito
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2889 Mission St / (415) 285-7117 / Website
With a constant line out the door consisting of both beloved locals and visiting tourists, everyone knows La Taqueria is the place to go, especially with their large sign proclaiming it “home to the best tacos and burritos in the world." A trusted community landmark since 1973, the absolute must-order here is their Dorado-style burrito, which comes seared on the outside and stuffed with all the favorites on the inside- cheese, avocado, beans, all sans rice.
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2252 Clement St / (415) 387-4484 / Website
Gordo Taqueria is as prolific in the city as Victorian houses, and perhaps even more decorated. Stop into either their Richmond, Sunset, or Geary locations for a massive grilled burrito brimming with pico de gallo, beans, and your choice of carnitas, chile verde, beef, or even their All Meat for a decadent protein boost when exploring the neighborhood.
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3071 16th St / (415) 864-8840 / Website
Pancho Villa has seven distinct burrito variations, ensuring you find one to nourish you with their familial-style cooking while near the 16th Street BART station. Their vividly iconic storefront is as eyecatching as their Especial, Super, and Pura Carne burritos are mouthwatering, considering you even have the option to smother them in their signature savory sauce! Come in and feel right at home in this bright no-frills retreat, even treating yourself to their self-serve salsa bar.
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136 Church St / (415) 621-3428 / Website
If you thought you could only have a finite amount of burrito combinations, El Castillito just off of Duboce Park is waiting to blow your mind. Visit this cute and cozy shop for their exclusive offerings such as the Super Shrimp, Super Fish, Zapata, or Wet Burrito, all served with rice, beans, fresh cilantro, onions, and zesty salsa.
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2779 Mission St / (415) 824-7877 / Website
El Farolito is the acclaimed burrito of choice for several local prominent figures, including you soon enough. Cash-only with tight seating, it doesn't get anymore delightfully rustic than here, with many always lining up out the door for their generously gargantuan portions. Their burritos, as well as their quesadilla suiza, are immense examples, evident with the Pollo Asado Super Burrito packed with creamy avocado and spicy salsa for complex contrasts and mouthfeels. Another great contrast they uphold here is the under $10 price for such sizes!
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2884 24th St / (415) 647-1500 / Website
You may not expect it, but one of San Francisco's best burrito options comes right out of this grocery store and deli! With no indoor seating, you can stop in and grab your fast-made burrito with the freshest veggies, tortillas, meats, and homemade salsa to enjoy outdoors around the Mission. A genuine community anchor since 1953, they also thoughtfully offer an all-day menu, all for the most wallet-friendly prices (which you'll want to order extra salsa with).
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1777 Fulton St / (415) 776-0106 / Website
Papalote's salsa is absolutely divine and incredibly successful! You will want to douse everything with it, especially their highly revered vegetarian menu. Pictured here is their $10.95 Tofu Mole burrito, which is a deliciously modern reinvention, along with their Soyrizo and Grilled Veggie Burritos. Their perfectly tender Carne Asada, Camarones, and Chile Verde Burritos are also popular offerings, which you candip to your heart's desire in their sauces at either of their two vibrantly comforting venues.
No matter where you are in the city, burritos are the ultimate cheap and portable food option, and you can guarantee we take the craftsmanship seriously!
See also: The Ultimate Guide To A Day In The Vibrant Mission District
Photography by: Logan Jeffrey/Unsplash
