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Cantina Los Mayas
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Cantina Los Mayas
8.1
San Francisco's first 100% Mexican wine bar, offering a unique blend of Yucatecan cuisine and an extensive selection of Mexican wines.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mole Negro Enchiladas, Cochinita Pibil Tacos, Churros with Chocolate Sauce
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Exclusive focus on Mexican wines paired with authentic Yucatecan dishes.
Who should go: Wine enthusiasts and lovers of regional Mexican cuisine.
When to visit: Evenings for a romantic dining experience.
What to order: Mole Negro Enchiladas, Cochinita Pibil Tacos, Churros with Chocolate Sauce.
Insider tip: Reserve a table in advance, especially on weekends.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but can be challenging after 6pm; consider using a nearby parking garage.
Dress code: Smart casual - jeans and nice tops are fine, but feel free to dress up for a more romantic vibe.
Noise level: Moderate - conversation is easily possible, but it can get a bit lively during peak hours.
Weekend wait: Expect a 45-60 minute wait without a reservation, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, but it can get busy during lunchtime.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - they offer a dedicated section for vegetarian dishes, including options like vegetarian tacos and mole.
Vegan options: Limited - there are a few vegan-friendly options like the guacamole and certain salsas.
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free options are available, and they take extra care with separate prep areas.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, the romantic ambiance combined with unique Mexican wine pairings makes for a memorable first date experience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s possible, but especially on weekends, a reservation is recommended to avoid long wait times.
Is it kid-friendly? While the focus is on wine and romantic dining, children are welcome. It’s best for older kids or those who enjoy a relaxed dining environment.
Best For
Better for: Cantina Los Mayas stands out for its exclusive focus on Mexican wines and Yucatecan cuisine, offering a truly unique dining experience in San Francisco.
Skip if: If you're looking for a family-oriented spot with a more traditional Mexican menu, there are other options in the area.
Cantina Los Mayas
8.1
Vibrant cantina offering a wide range of Mexican dishes and cocktails, perfect for family gatherings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mole Poblano, Carnitas Tacos, Chile Relleno
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Lively atmosphere with a diverse menu catering to all ages.
Who should go: Families and groups seeking a festive dining experience.
When to visit: Evenings for a lively atmosphere.
What to order: Array
Insider tip: Enjoy the house margaritas alongside your meal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but it can be difficult to find a spot during peak hours. Consider using nearby public parking lots.
Dress code: Casual - jeans and comfortable attire are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate to high - lively atmosphere suitable for groups, but still manageable for conversation.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without a reservation, especially on weekends.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, though it can get busy during lunch hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - several vegetarian options, including plant-based tacos and enchiladas.
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 vegan-friendly options like guacamole, salsas, and some taco fillings.
Gluten-free options: Yes - separate prep area to accommodate gluten-free diners.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a first date if you're seeking intimacy. However, it offers a fun, lively atmosphere for a more casual and relaxed experience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It's possible, but highly recommended to make a reservation, especially on weekends or during peak dining times to avoid long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - the vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu make it a great choice for families with kids. High chairs and kid-friendly meal options are available.
Best For
Better for: A festive, family-oriented dining experience with plenty of space for large groups and a lively atmosphere.
Skip if: Looking for a quiet, intimate meal, or if you're seeking fine-dining Mexican cuisine.
Cantina Los Mayas
8.5
Full-service Yucatecan cantina pairing tacos, panuchos, and jicama tortillas with a 100% Mexican wine list. It’s the Inner Richmond choice when you want elevated masa craft and a proper sit-down experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tacos de Mayas (house-made masa), Panuchos, Jicama Tacos
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Yucatecan tacos with a curated, all-Mexican wine program.
Who should go: Date nights and small groups
When to visit: Evenings; midweek for easier reservations
What to order: Tacos de Mayas; panuchos; jicama tacos
Insider tip: Ask staff for wine pairings by region—great with cochinita and seafood.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Clement and 10th Ave; can fill up by 6:30pm—arrive early or rideshare.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans fine, but most guests dress up a bit for date night.
Noise level: Moderate— lively music and chatter, but still easy to hold a conversation at smaller tables.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; dinner rush begins around 6:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several Yucatecan vegetable tacos and sides available.
Vegan options: Limited—about 2–3 options, mainly sides and modified tacos.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most dishes made with corn masa; jicama tortillas are gluten-free friendly.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—intimate lighting, attentive staff, and a wine-forward menu make it an excellent first-date choice without feeling too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible early evening on weekdays, but reservations are strongly recommended for weekends after 6:30pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially—best for adults or older teens; no kids’ menu and dining room leans upscale and date-oriented.
Best For
Better for: Upscale taco presentation, unique regional dishes, and Mexican wine pairings that elevate a standard taco night.
Skip if: You’re looking for fast-casual tacos or quick takeout—this is a full-service sit-down experience.