8 Best Burrito Places In San Francisco, California
San Francisco’s burrito scene is nothing short of legendary, and the Mission District stands proudly at its heart, widely hailed as the birthplace of the iconic Mission-style burrito.
Over the years, I’ve dedicated myself to finding that perfect balance of savory meat, creamy beans, fluffy rice, fresh salsa, and a tortilla that holds it all together like a warm, edible blanket.
From unassuming hole-in-the-wall taquerias to food trucks with loyal cult followings, the city offers a burrito for every craving and mood. After countless taste tests and satisfied stomachs, I’m excited to share my absolute favorite spots that keep me coming back for more.
1. La Taqueria: The Mission District Crown Jewel
The first time I bit into La Taqueria’s carnitas burrito, I nearly wept with joy. This place doesn’t play by typical burrito rules!
Their iconic Mission-style creations famously skip the rice, letting the perfectly seasoned meats shine. The grilled dorado option, with its crispy exterior, changed my burrito standards forever. Owner Miguel Jara has maintained uncompromising quality since 1973, earning them a James Beard America’s Classic Award in 2017.
FiveThirtyEight crowned them America’s #1 burrito in 2014, and the perpetual line outside proves the hype is real. Worth every minute of waiting!
2. Taqueria El Farolito: Late-Night Burrito Heaven
My midnight burrito adventures almost always end at El Farolito. Something magical happens when their impossibly large al pastor burrito satisfies post-midnight cravings.
The fluorescent lighting and no-frills atmosphere are part of the charm. Their carne asada burrito has achieved cult status among locals, juicy, charred perfection wrapped with just the right amount of beans, cheese, and salsa. The tortillas somehow maintain structural integrity despite being packed to bursting.
Every Mission District night owl knows this ritual: join the late-night line, order at the counter, then savor every bite while perched on their plastic chairs.
3. Taqueria Cancún: Juicy Super Burrito Bliss
Remember that time I was feeling absolutely famished after a Giants game? Taqueria Cancún’s super burrito came to the rescue with its glorious heft and flavor explosion.
The slightly greasy quality isn’t a flaw, it’s a feature! Their burritos have this perfect moisture level that satisfies deep hunger like nothing else. The bright yellow walls and bustling atmosphere add to the experience, making each visit feel like a fiesta.
Their vegetarian options deserve special mention too. Even without meat, they manage to create flavor-packed bundles that don’t leave you missing anything. Their avocado salsa is particularly dreamy!
4. El Castillito: The Cheese-Crusted Wonder
Walking into El Castillito always feels like discovering a secret. Chef David Chang isn’t wrong about this place, it’s burrito artistry at its finest!
Their signature move? Melting cheese directly on the plancha before wrapping it around the burrito fillings. This creates a crispy, cheesy layer that adds incredible texture and flavor. FiveThirtyEight called it “the last that got away” in their burrito bracket, which perfectly captures how you’ll feel if you visit SF without trying it.
My personal obsession is their chile verde burrito, tender pork swimming in green sauce with that magical cheese crust holding everything together.
5. Papalote Mexican Grill: Home of the Triple Threat
My foodie friends always raise eyebrows when I suggest Papalote’s “Triple Threat” burrito. “Three proteins in one burrito? Isn’t that overkill?” Absolutely not!
The combination of carne asada, achiote chicken, and prawns creates a flavor symphony that made even Food Paradise take notice. What truly sets Papalote apart, though, is their legendary roasted tomato salsa, a velvety, smoky concoction I’ve tried (and failed) to recreate at home countless times.
Their Valencia Street location offers a more relaxed vibe than some Mission taquerias, making it perfect for savoring rather than rushing through your meal.
6. La Corneta Taqueria: Rice and Bean Perfection
I stumbled upon La Corneta years ago when caught in a sudden downpour in Glen Park. That unexpected shelter turned into a regular pilgrimage for their exceptional burritos.
What makes them special? The rice and beans, components many places treat as mere fillers, are seasoned to perfection here. Each grain of rice maintains its integrity, and the beans have this creamy quality that binds everything together beautifully.
Bon Appétit wasn’t wrong to include them in their top 8 picks. Their carnitas super burrito with extra green salsa has become my comfort food on foggy San Francisco days when nothing else will do.
7. Breakfast Little: Morning Burrito Innovation
“Who eats burritos for breakfast?” I used to wonder. Then I discovered Breakfast Little and became a morning burrito convert!
Their Salvadoran-influenced creations incorporate unexpected ingredients like sweet plátanos alongside savory eggs and crispy tater tots. The resulting flavor combinations are eye-opening, especially when you’re still half-asleep. The portions are intentionally more manageable than monster Mission burritos, perfect for starting your day without food coma.
Their café atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with friendly staff who remember regulars’ orders. My Saturday morning ritual now includes their veggie burrito with extra salsa verde before heading to Dolores Park.
8. Al Pastor Papi: Food Truck Burrito Innovation
Chasing Al Pastor Papi’s food truck around San Francisco has become something of a sport for me. Their Instagram updates determine my lunch plans more often than I’d like to admit!
Owner Miguel Escobedo brings serious creativity to the burrito game. His Tijuana-style creations feature house-made salsas tucked inside rather than served on the side, a game-changing approach. The vegan options here aren’t afterthoughts either; they’re carefully crafted flavor bombs that satisfy even dedicated carnivores.
The truck’s bright colors and the aroma of pork spinning on the trompo create an irresistible beacon. Their al pastor burrito with pineapple salsa represents San Francisco’s food innovation at its finest.