The Best Mexican Restaurants In San Francisco
There is a lot of Mexican food in this city. Here’s where to get the best.
Where we've featured it
Krescent Carasso
"Honey, we have a babysitter tonight and we are going to hit the town."
“But we have to be home by ten.”
“Also, I just got back from a bike ride so I’m wearing bike shorts.”
“Cool?”
“Cool.”
This is how we imagine fifty percent of people end up at Padrecito in Cole Valley. It’s fun but not too crazy or loud, with great food and superb drinks, and it seems like many people there are escaping their kids. Or, they couldn’t get a babysitter and brought the kids with them.
There's a neighborhood-y feel about Padrecito, with plenty of people on dates, people in sweatshirts, and everything in between. It’s a place you can go and feel comfortable, no matter what San Francisco-centric activity you’re coming from. The crowd is a little older (this is Cole Valley) but that doesn’t stop anyone from having a good time.
Krescent Carasso
The food is upscale Mexican, and all around very well-executed. You'll find consistently tasty tacos, but if you are morally opposed to paying $7 for one, this may not be your spot. That being said, they are excellent to eat, pretty to look at, and are packed to the edge of the tortilla with fixings. Enchiladas and breakfast-for-dinner can also make for a great meal.
Locals and non-locals alike rely on Padrecito as an always solid option - as well suited for casual date night in your bike shorts, as it is for taco Tuesday with the ladies. You might see your boss and his wife too, but they’ll probably be chugging margaritas with everybody else.
Food Rundown
Not just a breakfast food - Padrecito makes them an all-the-time food. The spicy verdes version has veggies and smoked bacon and it rules. A bit soggy, but it works.
Crudo de Atun
This guy can be a little hit or miss, not the most flavorful and not a must order.
Arugula on tacos is somewhat off, but it works. Very solid, not mindblowing.
Saucy delights. The worst thing about this is that you only get two per order. The pickled onion slaw situation is a nice addition. It will be messy, but that’s ok.
A little sweet from the strawberry enmermelado (that would be Spanish for marmalade), but the duck is a little crispy and a lot delicious.
Enchiladas de Res
Standout of the menu. The beef is super tender and the rich kale really goes well with it. It doesn’t hurt that the sauce will make you want to lick the plate.
Crispy Brussel Sprouts
Yes, we are in San Francisco so even Mexican restaurants serve fried brussel sprouts. If you need some vegetables in your life, these are an unhealthy and extremely good way to do so.
