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Don Chuy’s Mexi-Mercado
$ · Mexican, Burritos

544 Excelsior Ave, San Francisco, CA 94112 (415) 585-8092
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ZipPicks Awards

Best Burritos in the Excelsior Best Family Friendly Mexican in the Excelsior

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Don Chuy’s Mexi-Mercado 8.7
Excelsior
Vibes: Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Quick Bites Champions Hidden Gems Heaven Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Corner-store taqueria turning out oversized, tightly wrapped Mission-style burritos with famously crispy, tender carnitas. Order at the back counter, grab pickled jalapeños and carrots, and expect excellent value with steady daytime lines.
Must-Try Dishes: Carnitas super burrito, Chile verde burrito, Al pastor super burrito
Scores:
Value: 9.1 Service: 8.2 Consistency: 8.6 Food Quality: 9.3 Atmosphere: 6.6 Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Legendary crispy carnitas inside a humble corner-store taqueria.
Who should go: Burrito purists chasing peak carnitas
When to visit: Late morning or mid-afternoon for shortest waits
What to order: Carnitas super; chile verde; al pastor with everything
Insider tip: Ask for extra pickled jalapeños and carrots at the counter.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited street parking along Mission Street and nearby residential blocks; best luck within a block or two on secondary streets like Russia or Naples.
Dress code: Completely casual—come as you are, work clothes or hoodie fine.
Noise level: Low to moderate—mostly takeout flow and quick counter chatter; easy to hold a short conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–15 minutes for counter orders; steady but fast-moving line.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, even during peak noon rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—bean, veggie, and cheese burritos available on request.
Vegan options: Limited—can customize with rice, beans, pico de gallo, and guacamole (no cheese or sour cream).
Gluten-free options: Partially—corn tortillas available, but burritos use flour; no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date loves unpretentious, hole-in-the-wall gems and doesn’t mind counter seating—this is more about flavor than ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—no reservations accepted or needed. Limited stools and a small side counter; most opt for takeout.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably—simple menu, quick service, and mild options work for kids, though seating is minimal and no highchairs provided.
Best For
Better for: Authentic, value-packed burritos and standout carnitas at neighborhood pricing.
Skip if: You want sit-down comfort, margaritas, or a polished taqueria vibe—this is a pure grab-and-go burrito shop.

Hours

Monday9am - 7pm
Tuesday9am - 7pm
Wednesday9am - 7pm
Thursday9am - 7pm
Friday9am - 7pm
Saturday9am - 7pm
Sunday9am - 7pm