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El Rancho Grande
Master Critic Review
El Rancho Grande
7.7
Casual taqueria in the former El Faro space with an old-school menu and late hours on weekends. Portions are generous and the line moves steadily.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas Burrito, California Burrito, Chile Relleno Burrito
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Big, classic Mission-style builds with friendly prices and late service.
Who should go: Late-night burrito hunters
When to visit: Post-concert weekends before midnight
What to order: Carnitas, California, chile relleno
Insider tip: Go easy on extras—default portions are sizable.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Haight can be tight on weekends; aim for nearby residential blocks after 9pm. No valet or lot available.
Dress code: Casual—hoodies and jeans are the norm; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially during late-night rushes; conversation possible but expect music and chatter.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes for dine-in or takeout after 9pm; line moves quickly.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; steady flow but fast turnover.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—beans, rice, and veggie burritos available; cheese and guacamole optional.
Vegan options: Limited—ask for no cheese or sour cream; grilled veggie burrito is adaptable.
Gluten-free options: Mostly gluten-free if avoiding flour tortillas; request corn tortillas instead.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for a casual hang or post-concert bite than a first date—it’s quick, bright, and communal rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—entirely walk-in; counter service means tables turn fast even during rush hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families frequent earlier hours; simple menu and fast service make it easy for kids.
Best For
Better for: Late-night burritos with generous fillings at wallet-friendly prices—beats most Haight options for speed and value.
Skip if: You’re after a quiet sit-down or premium ingredients; nearby spots like The Little Chihuahua fit that better.