What is the best Mexican restaurant in The Excelsior?

El Farolito is our top pick for Mexican restaurants in The Excelsior, scoring 8.6/10. Open very late with fast-moving lines and dialed-in taco meats.

Any insider tips for El Farolito?

Cash rules the pace—bring bills for fastest service.

What should I order at El Farolito?

Adobada taco; carne asada taco; lengua if available

When should I visit El Farolito?

Post-9pm for shorter lines and fresh griddle

Who should go to El Farolito?

Night owls and taco traditionalists

Any insider tips for Taqueria Guadalajara?

Scan the specials board—rotating meats appear without announcement.

What should I order at Taqueria Guadalajara?

Carnitas tacos; shrimp tacos; salsa roja on the side

When should I visit Taqueria Guadalajara?

Early evening before prime rush

Who should go to Taqueria Guadalajara?

Groups who want speedy counter service

Any insider tips for Mexico Tipico?

Ask about margarita flavors—seasonal options rotate beyond classic lime.

What should I order at Mexico Tipico?

Shrimp molcajete, pollo fundido, house margarita

When should I visit Mexico Tipico?

Weekdays 2–6pm for best Happy Hour value

Who should go to Mexico Tipico?

After-work crews craving classic Mexican and margs

Any insider tips for Taqueria El Jalapeño?

Ask for a well-done tortilla for extra char and structure.

What should I order at Taqueria El Jalapeño?

Lengua tacos; carnitas tacos; extra salsa roja

When should I visit Taqueria El Jalapeño?

Lunch hour opening to beat the rush

Best Mexican Restaurants in The Excelsior (94112)

4 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked

Last Updated: March 2026

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Our Top Pick

El Farolito

Open very late with fast-moving lines and dialed-in taco meats.

Notable Picks

#1 El Farolito

8.6

$ Excelsior

Vibes: Late Night Legends Quick Bites Champions Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Hidden Gems Heaven

Beloved Mission-born taqueria’s Excelsior outpost known for hefty super burritos, late-night hours, and fast-moving lines. Expect griddled tortillas, well-seasoned meats, and consistent execution that keeps locals returning.

Must-Try Dishes: Adobada (al pastor) tacos, Carne asada tacos, Super quesabirria taco (weekend special)

What Makes it Special: Open very late with fast-moving lines and dialed-in taco meats.

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#2 Taqueria Guadalajara

8.1

$ Outer Mission

Vibes: Quick Bites Champions Family Friendly Favorites Group Dining Gatherings

Long-running counter-service spot with a deep menu, generous portions, and a lively late-night scene. Salsas hit bright and spicy; super burritos and pastor tacos are the standards.

Must-Try Dishes: Carnitas tacos, Carne asada tacos, Shrimp tacos

What Makes it Special: Crowd-pleasing tacos with a strong salsa bar and late hours.

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Worthy Picks

#3 Mexico Tipico

7.9

$ Excelsior

Vibes: Happy Hour Hotspots Group Dining Gatherings Family Friendly Favorites Comfort Food Classics

Sit-down Mexican comfort classics served in a family-friendly room on Mission Street. Enchiladas, combo plates, and weekend-style dishes deliver steady value without fuss.

Must-Try Dishes: Shrimp Molcajete, Pollo Fundido, Weekend Birria

What Makes it Special: Legit weekday Happy Hour with a full tequila program in the Excelsior.

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#4 Taqueria El Jalapeño

7.7

$ Westwood Park

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

Compact Ocean Avenue counter turning out affordable tacos and burritos with quick service. Straightforward fillings, balanced salsas, and reliable value make it a convenient everyday stop.

Must-Try Dishes: Lengua tacos, Carnitas tacos, Shrimp tacos

What Makes it Special: Big, unfussy tacos at wallet-friendly prices on Ocean Ave.

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