Any insider tips for Californios?

Pay attention to the tortillas—the sourdough and heirloom corn varieties are made in-house with particular mastery.

What should I order at Californios?

The $325 tasting menu is the only option. Add the $197 wine pairing for the complete experience.

When should I visit Californios?

Tuesday through Saturday, 5-10pm; allow 3-4 hours for the full experience.

Who should go to Californios?

Diners ready to experience Mexican fine dining at its highest level.

Any insider tips for Azúcar Lounge?

Order at the bar during HH—food tickets move faster from there.

What should I order at Azúcar Lounge?

Al pastor tacos; carne asada; house margarita

When should I visit Azúcar Lounge?

Weekday happy hour for best pricing

Who should go to Azúcar Lounge?

Friends meeting for drinks plus tacos

Any insider tips for El Capitan Taqueria?

Ask for grilled onions and jalapeños on the side—no extra charge.

What should I order at El Capitan Taqueria?

Al pastor super burrito; asada tacos; suiza

When should I visit El Capitan Taqueria?

Late evening when lines thin but kitchen’s still humming

Who should go to El Capitan Taqueria?

Budget-minded taco and burrito fans

Best Mexican Restaurants in SoMa (94103)

Q: What is the best Mexican restaurant in SoMa?

Californios is our top pick for Mexican restaurants in SoMa, scoring 9.0/10. The only two-Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant in the United States, where Chef Val Cantú elevates Mexican cuisine through a 16-course seasonal tasting menu.

3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked

Last Updated: August 2026

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Our Top Pick

Californios

The only two-Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant in the United States, where Chef Val Cantú elevates Mexican cuisine through a 16-course seasonal tasting menu.

Essential Picks

#1 Californios

9.0

$$$$ SOMA

Vibes: Luxury Dining Elite Date Night Magic Birthday & Celebration Central

Chef Val M. Cantu’s two-Michelin-star tasting menu refracts Mexican flavors through meticulous technique and seasonal California product. Diners choose it for polished service, a serene room, and compositions that move from tostadas to moles with precision.

Must-Try Dishes: Mezcal-Battered Black Cod Tostada with Huitlacoche Crema, Smoked Quail in House Mole with Heirloom Corn Tortilla, Caviar-Topped Plantain Tostada

What Makes it Special: The only two-Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant in the United States, where Chef Val Cantú elevates Mexican cuisine through a 16-course seasonal tasting menu.

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Worthy Picks

#2 Azúcar Lounge

7.9

$$ SOMA

Vibes: Happy Hour Hotspots Girls Night Out Approved Trendy Table Hotspots Quick Bites Champions

Casual SoMa spot for Mexican street-food staples, margaritas, and mezcal with quick service before concerts or nights out. Locals come for tacos, churros, and a lively room that works for groups and happy hour.

Must-Try Dishes: Al pastor tacos, Carne asada tacos, Veggie/Meat Nacho Wednesday

What Makes it Special: Mixes strong agave cocktails with street-food tacos and weekly deals.

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#3 El Capitan Taqueria

7.7

$ SOMA

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

Late-hours taqueria serving Mission-style burritos, plates, and churros to SoMa night owls. It’s a reliable, budget stop with fast counter service and generous portions.

Must-Try Dishes: Al pastor super burrito, Carne asada tacos, Quesadilla suiza

What Makes it Special: Big portions, late hours, and a broad menu for every craving.

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