Any insider tips for Zona Rosa Mexican Grill?

Go light on toppings—let the salsa and meat shine.

What should I order at Zona Rosa Mexican Grill?

El Jefe asada tacos, chile verde chicken, horchata

When should I visit Zona Rosa Mexican Grill?

Lunch or early dinner for fastest counter flow

Who should go to Zona Rosa Mexican Grill?

Taco purists who prioritize meat and salsa

Any insider tips for Tacos El Tucán?

Ask for extra consommé—great for dipping or next-day leftovers.

What should I order at Tacos El Tucán?

Quesabirria trio, adobada tacos, vampiro

When should I visit Tacos El Tucán?

Fri–Sat after 11pm to skip dinner rush

Who should go to Tacos El Tucán?

Night owls seeking bold, meaty tacos

Any insider tips for El Castillito (Church Street)?

Ask for extra roja on the side for real heat.

What should I order at El Castillito (Church Street)?

Al pastor tacos, super burrito, shrimp taco

When should I visit El Castillito (Church Street)?

Early evening or late lunch to avoid rush

Who should go to El Castillito (Church Street)?

Taco fans craving big flavor on a budget

Any insider tips for Taco Boys?

Check Taco Tuesday: discount tacos and beer specials.

When should I visit Taco Boys?

Tue–Sat late night to avoid daytime crowds

Who should go to Taco Boys?

Mixed-diet groups and late-night snackers

Any insider tips for La Tortilla?

Call ahead for takeout during weekend prime time.

Who should go to La Tortilla?

Price-conscious eaters on the move

Best Cheap Eats Mexican Restaurants in The Castro (94114)

5 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated

Notable Picks

#1 Zona Rosa Mexican Grill

8.4

$$ Castro

Vibes: Quick Bites Champions Trendy Table Hotspots Comfort Food Classics

Family-run taqueria spotlighting smoky, slow-cooked meats and punchy salsas in a compact, colorful space. Known for El Jefe tacos and a focused menu that travels well for takeout.

Must-Try Dishes: El Jefe carne asada tacos, Chile verde chicken tacos, Horchata

What makes it special: Smoky meats and seriously spicy salsa in the Castro core.

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#2 Tacos El Tucán

8.3

$$ Castro

Vibes: Late Night Legends Quick Bites Champions Group Dining Gatherings Hidden Gems Heaven

Castro outpost of a Tijuana-style taco shop known for quesabirria, adobada, and handmade tortillas. Late weekend hours and bold seasoning make it a go-to after shows or bar-hopping.

Must-Try Dishes: Quesabirria tacos with consommé, Adobada (al pastor) tacos, Vampiro

What makes it special: Hand-pressed tortillas and Tijuana-style quesabirria served late.

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#3 El Castillito (Church Street)

8.2

$ Duboce Triangle

Vibes: Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Quick Bites Champions Comfort Food Classics Solo Dining Sanctuaries

Long-running Church & Market taqueria turning out generously filled tacos and burritos with speedy counter service. Beloved for al pastor and salsa roja heat, it’s a reliable value stop before or after Muni.

Must-Try Dishes: Al pastor tacos, Super burrito (asada or pastor), Shrimp taco

What makes it special: Classic SF taqueria flavor-to-price ratio with fast-moving line.

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Worthy Picks

#4 Taco Boys

7.9

$$$ Duboce Triangle

Vibes: Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Quick Bites Champions Family Friendly Favorites

Casual taqueria with a broad vegan menu alongside classic proteins, open late on weekends. Value-driven combo deals and plant-based options make it an easy group choice.

Must-Try Dishes: California burrito, Pastor vegano tacos, Loaded nachos (vegan or asada)

What makes it special: Rare Castro spot with extensive vegan Mexican options until late.

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#5 La Tortilla

7.8

$ The Castro

Vibes: Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Quick Bites Champions Family Friendly Favorites

Neighborhood counter spot serving straightforward tacos, burritos, and quesadillas at friendly prices. Convenient Castro location and steady portions make it a dependable weeknight choice.

Must-Try Dishes: Al pastor taco, Shrimp taco, Suiza quesadilla

What makes it special: Castro mainstay for affordable tacos and burritos with quick pickup.

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