Stefanie from San Francisco

About me I grew up in Vacaville, 45 miles east of San Francisco, and moved back to San Francisco 3 years ago after spending 8 years in Washington, DC. While I was on the East Coast, the Bay Area was never far from my heart or email exchanges. People would constantly ask me, “What unique things should I do when I visit San Francisco?” I would write back pages and pages of suggest...

Apr 10, 2025

Taquerias El Farolito San Francisco

Best burrito in America?

""Taquerias El Farolito" San Francisco has the best burrito in America... The question is not if you should go to El Farolito, but what to order: carnitas."

There is an ongoing debate in America about who can claim the best burrito. This debate is not merely friendly banter. Sides have been drawn and regional pride is at steak, pun intended.

So the question is not if you should go to El Farolito, as it is known by locals, but what you should order. The answer: carnitas. The preferred method is in a burrito but acceptable forms also include tacos. The carnitas burrito is fried pork, rice, beans, onions, tomatoes, and cilantro all wrapped in a giant flour tortilla. Veterans of El Farolito will often add guacamole or slices of avocado.

If you chose to get tacos, keep it simple. I prefer the traditional tacos with meat, cilantro, onions, and salsa. There are two locations in the Mission. If it is your first time, I suggest the Mission street location. There is a pretty good chance there will be a line out the door, especially if it is after midnight. To beat the late night rush, pop over for lunch!

Restaurants

About this spot

2779 Mission St

Burrito:

US$

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