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Barrio Ghirardelli Square
Master Critic Review
Barrio Ghirardelli Square
8.3
Modern Mexican at Ghirardelli Square with blue-corn tortillas, strong margaritas, and a bay-adjacent patio. Happy hour draws Wharf walkers for taco platters and shareables with a solid tequila list.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef Birria Tacos, Halibut Fish Tacos, Fried Shrimp Tacos
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Blue-corn taco platters and patio margaritas steps from the bay.
Who should go: Patio seekers who want tacos and tequila
When to visit: Weekdays late afternoon for happy hour deals
What to order: Birria tacos; halibut tacos; house margarita
Insider tip: Ask for current happy hour taco and sharable specials—menus rotate.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Validated parking available in the Ghirardelli Square garage; street parking is limited and metered until 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and sundresses fit right in, but avoid beachwear.
Noise level: Moderate buzz from the bar and patio chatter—conversation-friendly indoors.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially near sunset.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though patio tables fill by 4pm during happy hour.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—mushroom and roasted veggie tacos plus guacamole and salads.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 options, but staff can customize with substitutions.
Gluten-free options: Yes—blue-corn tortillas are gluten-free and cross-contact is minimal.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—patio views, cocktails, and shareable tacos make it an easygoing but lively choice for casual first dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually—walk-ins are accepted, but prime patio seats go early; join the waitlist via the host stand or Yelp during peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Moderately—daytime hours welcome families, but the evening crowd skews adult with a focus on cocktails.
Best For
Better for: Scenic waterfront vibes and polished modern Mexican plates that elevate the typical happy hour taco scene.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quick grab-and-go taco or a quiet dining experience away from tourist traffic.