TAQUERIA EL FAROLITO

Living in the Bay Area we are lucky to have access to hundreds of Mexican restaurants. We enjoy going to the ‘City’ (San Francisco) to taquerias that we have never tried before. Periodically, newspapers and magazines publish a ‘Best of’ list and ‘Taqueria El Farolito’ always makes the grade. We fueled the racing Honda and sped across the bridge. It was time visit the ‘Mission District’ and experience some authentic, urban, taqueria grub.

The Mission district is a colorful, ethnically diverse, crowded, gritty neighborhood. Parking is a scarce commodity in this area, so when we found a spot on the same block we considered ourselves very lucky. I had planned ahead with a pocketful of quarters. The meter would only allow us 30 minutes to dine. The clock began to tick.

We arrived to a short line inside a well worn dining establishment. You placed your order at the counter, helped yourself to the salsa bar and take a seat until your number is called. The prices were more than reasonable. The four salsas were fresh and vibrant. This was a great start to our meal. When a restaurant takes the time to make flavorful and fresh accompaniments, it is a good indicator of the food to come.

Steak burritos were our choice today. (Chile Verde was not on the menu). I do not like this word but it seems appropriate; quintessential burritos filled our plate today. Perfectly tender beef with the kiss of the grill flavor was the star. So many taquerias skimp on the carne but not today. Fresh avocado, sour cream, pinto beans (your choice), and rice all rolled up in a soft flour tortillas made for a very filling lunch. The clock was ticking. Should I run out and feed the meter?
    We finished our lunch and returned to the Racing Honda. The meter was flashing a bright red expired sign. Luckily the meter maid was probably enjoying a burrito herself. Taqueria El Farolito is a great place to grab a burrito.

2779 Mission St

(between 24th St & 23rd St) 

San Francisco, CA 94110