ZipPicks Awards
Best Late Night Mexican in the Mission District
Best Cheap Eats Mexican in the Mission District
Best Late Night Tacos in the Mission District
Best Cheap Eats Tacos in the Mission District
Master Critic Review
El Farolito
8.0
A 24-hour Mission District taqueria where forearm-length super burritos under $10 feed multiple meals. Al pastor and carne asada get open-flame treatment; the salsa bar supplements every order. Cash only, lines out the door on weekend nights, but throughput stays efficient. Some report recent consistency wobbles—dry burritos appearing alongside the usual standards—but 30-year regulars still show up.
Must-Try Dishes:
Super Burrito Carne Asada, Super Burrito Al Pastor, Super Burrito Carnitas
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: 24-hour Mission taqueria serving two-pound burritos with open-flame grilled meats
Who should go: Late-night burrito seekers and Mission regulars
When to visit: 2am for the true experience; lunch for shorter lines
What to order: Super burrito with carne asada or al pastor; the quesadilla suiza for cheese lovers
Insider tip: They're open 24 hours—this is SF's definitive late-night burrito
Logistics & Planning
Weekend wait: Lines out door after midnight but move fast—staff efficient despite crowds
Dietary Options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? No - this is a late-night taqueria with counter service, fluorescent lighting, and cramped seating. Lines can be long and seating chaotic. Perfect for casual late-night eats, not romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - this is counter-service, order-at-the-window style. No reservations. Open until 1:45-2:45am depending on the day. Expect lines late night after bars close. Cash only.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - the casual taqueria atmosphere works for families during daytime hours. Simple, affordable menu options. Not recommended for late-night visits with kids given the bar crowd.
Is it good for groups? Possible but cramped - limited seating means large groups need to be flexible. Friends often bring out-of-towners here. No private dining; grab seats where you can.
Is there outdoor seating? Limited - some outdoor seating available, but the focus is quick-service burritos and tacos. Not a lingering dining experience.
Best For
Better for: Post-bar burritos till 2:30am Fri-Sat. Cash only, brick-sized portions
Hours
Monday10am - 3am
Tuesday10am - 3am
Wednesday10am - 3am
Thursday10am - 3:30am
Friday10am - 3:30am
Saturday10am - 3am
Sunday10am - 12am