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El Metate
Master Critic Reviews (4 Lists)
El Metate
8.0
Colorful neighborhood standby with a big menu spanning fish tacos to tortas. It’s easy for families: counter ordering, quick table service, and kid-friendly options.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fish Tacos, Carnitas in Chile Verde, Torta Cubana
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Broad, family-friendly menu with quick service in a lively space.
Who should go: Families needing varied choices under one roof
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner for fastest seating
What to order: Fish tacos; carnitas chile verde; torta cubana
Insider tip: Weekend lunch is busiest—order ahead online to skip the line.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only along Bryant and 22nd; meters can be scarce during peak lunch hours but easier after 7pm.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—jeans, T-shirts, and sneakers are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially during lunch rush; still fine for family conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes during peak dinner rush; counter moves quickly once seated.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 12:30pm; short 5–10 minute line after.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – solid range of veggie burritos, tacos, and enchiladas.
Vegan options: Limited – 2–3 items can be customized, but no dedicated vegan section.
Gluten-free options: Yes – corn tortillas and grilled meats are gluten-free friendly; no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a formal date—it’s casual and bustling—but fun for a laid-back lunch or early dinner with someone who appreciates neighborhood charm.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, tables are first-come, first-served. Arrive slightly before lunch or dinner peaks for quickest seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely—high chairs available, simple kids’ menu options, and counter service makes it easy for families with young children.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and broader menu variety than most sit-down Mexican spots in the Mission.
Skip if: You’re seeking upscale ambience, cocktails, or a quieter dinner setting—try Prubechu or Californios instead.
El Metate
7.8
Colorful Bryant Street counter serving big, value-driven burritos alongside fish tacos and tortas. Friendly service and consistent pacing make it a reliable neighborhood option.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fish burrito, Carnitas verde burrito, Shrimp burrito
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Neighborhood stalwart with strong value and seafood options.
Who should go: Budget-minded locals
When to visit: Midday 11:30–1:00 for quickest turnover
What to order: Fish burrito; carnitas verde; shrimp burrito
Insider tip: Grab salsa roja at the counter—great on seafood burritos.
El Metate
8.2
Bright Bryant Street standby with a lively room and a broad menu. Fish tacos and grilled meats are the taco draw, with fast service and fair pricing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fish tacos, Carne asada tacos, Al pastor tacos
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Reliable, speedy tacos in a cheerful sit-down setting.
Who should go: Families and casual groups
When to visit: Weeknights before 7pm for the shortest wait
What to order: Fish tacos; carne asada; pastor
Insider tip: Pair tacos with house salsas and pickled veg at the counter.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Bryant and nearby 17th Street; generally easier before 6pm but fills up fast during dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—most diners wear jeans or work attire; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate – lively conversation possible, though it can get a bit louder during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes at peak; tables turn quickly since service is fast.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; easy to walk in and find a seat.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – grilled veggie tacos, quesadillas, and rice/bean plates available.
Vegan options: Limited – a few taco fillings and sides can be made vegan upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes – corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but no dedicated prep space.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? More casual than romantic, but works for a relaxed lunch or informal dinner with shared tacos.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – walk-ins only; tables turn quickly and staff keeps things moving efficiently.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – high chairs available, friendly staff, and kid-pleasing taco and quesadilla options.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and broader menu than nearby taquerias; ideal for families who want sit-down comfort.
Skip if: You’re after a late-night taco run or street-style stand—this is more of a casual sit-down meal spot.
El Metate
7.9
Neighborhood staple for fish tacos, tortas, and hearty combo plates. Bright, casual room and a broad menu make it an easy everyday pick.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fish tacos, Carnitas torta, Chile verde plate
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Broad, affordable menu with dependable fish tacos and tortas.
Who should go: Casual groups and weeknight diners
When to visit: Weeknights before 7pm for fastest service
What to order: Fish tacos, carnitas torta, chile verde
Insider tip: Grab house salsas and pickled veggies for extra kick.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Bryant and 22nd can be tricky during peak dinner hours; meters until 6pm but generally free afterward.
Dress code: Ultra casual—come as you are; jeans, hoodies, and weekday attire fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation-friendly at lunch, slightly louder during dinner rush.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on takeout volume; tables turn quickly.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though takeout line can form around noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—plenty of meatless options including veggie tacos, quesadillas, and enchiladas.
Vegan options: Limited—can modify some dishes by skipping cheese or sour cream; ask staff for suggestions.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most corn-based tacos and plates are gluten-free, but kitchen isn’t certified.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual hangouts than first dates—it’s bright, informal, and counter-service rather than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins only. Even on busy nights, turnover is quick and you’ll usually find a spot within 15 minutes.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely. Spacious seating, mild options, and quick service make it ideal for families with kids under 12.
Best For
Better for: Consistent, affordable everyday Mexican comfort food—especially fish tacos and combo plates that stay reliable over time.
Skip if: You’re seeking upscale ambiance, full bar service, or craft cocktails—El Metate is more about hearty plates than atmosphere.