San Francisco’s burrito scene is legendary, and for good reason. The Mission District pioneered the super burrito, a foil-wrapped masterpiece stuffed with meat, beans, rice, and all the fixings that’s become a citywide obsession. From late-night joints serving crispy al pastor to hidden gems tucked inside corner stores, these eight spots represent the heart and soul of SF’s burrito culture.
1. Taqueria El Farolito (Mission, 24th & Mission)
Lines snake out the door past midnight, and everyone’s waiting for the same thing: a super burrito stuffed with crispy al pastor or tender carne asada that’s worth every minute. El Farolito has been a Mission District staple since the 1980s, earning its reputation one perfectly wrapped burrito at a time.
The flagship location at 24th and Mission is cash-only, so hit the ATM before you go. These burritos are massive, packed tight, and bursting with flavor that locals swear by.
Pro tip: stick to the original 24th Street spot for the most authentic experience and consistent quality.
2. La Taqueria (Mission)
Here’s where things get interesting: La Taqueria skips the rice entirely, letting the perfectly charred carne asada and creamy beans take center stage. This bold move earned them a James Beard America’s Classics award, proving that sometimes less really is more.
Expect a lively atmosphere and a line that moves faster than you’d think. The char on the meat has just the right amount of crisp and chew, wrapped tight in a warm tortilla.
This isn’t just another burrito spot—it’s an icon that changed how people think about what belongs inside that foil wrapper.
3. El Metate (Mission)
Slightly thinner and noticeably longer than your average burrito, El Metate’s version comes packed with juicy asada or chicken, smoky salsa, and generous scoops of guacamole and sour cream. The proportions feel just right, making every bite balanced and satisfying.
Grab a refreshing watermelon agua fresca to wash it down—the sweet fruit complements the savory, smoky flavors perfectly. The outdoor seating lets you soak up the Mission vibe while you eat.
This spot doesn’t chase awards or Instagram fame. It just quietly serves up delicious burritos that keep neighborhood regulars coming back week after week.
4. La Corneta Taqueria (Glen Park)
Customization is king at La Corneta, where made-to-order burritos let you build exactly what you’re craving. Creamy refried beans pair beautifully with smoky carne asada, and the tortilla holds everything together without falling apart halfway through.
What sets this place apart? An extra-spicy habanero salsa that’s surprisingly rare in San Francisco’s burrito scene. If you can handle the heat, it adds a fiery kick that elevates every bite.
While La Corneta has multiple locations, the Glen Park outpost consistently delivers the best quality and friendliest service, making it worth the trip across town.
5. Don Chuy’s Mexi-Mercado (Excelsior)
You’d never guess that one of the city’s best carnitas burritos hides in the back of a corner store, but that’s exactly what makes Don Chuy’s so special. The carnitas super burrito features crackly, tender pork with just the right amount of heat—perfectly seasoned and incredibly satisfying.
This Excelsior neighborhood gem flies under the radar compared to Mission District heavyweights. But locals know it’s worth making a burrito pilgrimage out here.
The casual, no-frills setting keeps the focus where it belongs: on the food. One bite of that crispy-edged carnitas and you’ll understand why people cross the city for it.
6. Taqueria Cancún (Mission)
When the late-night munchies hit, Taqueria Cancún answers with their famous burrito mojado—a wet burrito drenched in red chili sauce, topped with sour cream and salsas. It’s messy, it’s massive, and it’s absolutely delicious.
The menu describes it perfectly: a big one topped with enchilada sauce, green salsa, melted cheese, and sour cream. Most people plan to share, but good luck actually splitting it once you start eating.
Open late when other spots have closed, this Mission staple has saved countless hungry nights with burritos that comfort and satisfy in equal measure.
7. La Palma Mexicatessen Molino y Tortillería (Mission)
Part tortilla factory, part market, part taquería—La Palma does it all, and the fresh masa makes an obvious difference. Watching tortillas roll off the press while you wait for your burrito adds a special touch you won’t find at most spots.
The carnitas and carne asada burritos shine here, wrapped in those impossibly fresh tortillas. Eat them while they’re still warm for the best experience—the flavors and textures are at their peak.
Beyond burritos, you can stock up on fresh tortillas, specialty ingredients, and groceries. It’s a true taste of Mexican culinary tradition right in the Mission.
8. El Castillito (Duboce Triangle/Church St.)
Consistency can be tricky at El Castillito, but when they nail it, you get a melty, satisfying cannon of beans, rice, cheese, and crispy al pastor that hits the spot perfectly. It’s exactly the kind of comfort burrito you crave after a walk through Duboce Park.
Some visits might be greasier than others, but that’s part of the neighborhood charm. When everything comes together, it’s absolutely worth it.
The location near Duboce Triangle makes it convenient for a quick bite, and the classic super burrito style delivers familiar, comforting flavors that San Francisco burrito lovers appreciate.