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North Beach Cantina
Master Critic Reviews (10 Lists)
North Beach Cantina
8.2
Cal-Mex spot in the heart of North Beach pouring $7 house margs at weekday happy hour. Tacos, burritos, and shared plates land fast, making it an easy after-work meetup near Columbus.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas street tacos, Carne asada burrito, Chips, salsa & guac
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Weekday 3–6pm happy hour with well-priced margaritas and tacos.
Who should go: Friends meeting after work near Columbus
When to visit: Weekdays 3–6pm for happy hour pricing
What to order: Carnitas tacos, jalapeño-tinged house margarita, guac
Insider tip: Ask for a patio table for quicker bar access during happy hour.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited metered spots on Columbus and Vallejo, with tight competition after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; most guests arrive in jeans or work attire for after-office drinks.
Noise level: Lively during happy hour with music and chatter; moderate indoors, easier conversation on the patio.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes for groups after 6:30pm; bar seating turns faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, walk-ins welcome.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – veggie tacos, burrito bowls, and salads available.
Vegan options: Limited – a few customizable options if cheese and crema are omitted.
Gluten-free options: Yes – corn tortillas and some entrees are gluten-free, but shared fryer may concern celiacs.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual or second dates; upbeat energy and shared plates keep things easy, but volume can spike during happy hour.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – they don’t take reservations for small groups; arriving before 5pm usually guarantees a patio table.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat – daytime and early evenings are fine for families, though the bar crowd dominates later hours.
Best For
Better for: Group happy hours and casual outdoor tacos with quick bar service.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet sit-down dinner or refined Mexican cuisine; this spot leans social and lively.
North Beach Cantina
8.3
Full-service Mexican spot in the heart of North Beach with roomy seating and a broad menu that works for families. Street-style tacos, burritos, and kids-friendly plates pair with fast, attentive service and easygoing vibes.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wagyu quesabirria tacos, Baja fish tacos, Chicken chile verde
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Comfortable sit-down option with broad appeal and space for families.
Who should go: Families wanting full-service Mexican in North Beach
When to visit: Weeknights 5–7pm or weekend lunch for easiest seating
What to order: Wagyu quesabirria; Baja fish tacos; churro dessert
Insider tip: Ask for a corner table—better stroller parking and quieter noise levels.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, generally available on side streets west of Columbus Avenue; can be tight after 6pm—allow 10 minutes to find a spot.
Dress code: Casual and family-friendly; jeans, sneakers, and relaxed attire are all appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is easy at lunch but more energetic during dinner rush.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes without a reservation, especially between 6:30–8:00pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; immediate seating before 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian tacos, enchiladas, and salads clearly marked on the menu.
Vegan options: Limited—roughly three customizable options, mainly veggie tacos and rice bowls.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas and several entrees are gluten-free; staff knowledgeable about substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual meetups than romantic dinners—vibrant atmosphere and communal tables make it fun but not intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are welcome; early arrivals before 6pm or late-night visits after 8:30pm usually seat quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely—staff accommodate strollers, offer high chairs, and have a kid’s menu with quesadillas and mild tacos.
Best For
Better for: Spacious seating, upbeat service, and flexibility for mixed-age groups compared to smaller North Beach taquerias.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet, romantic setting or chef-driven modern Mexican experience—try Flores or Copita instead.
North Beach Cantina
7.8
Neighborhood cantina with a full bar and a menu that spans burritos, tacos, and coastal plates. Burritos run hefty and balanced, with options from breakfast builds to carne asada.
Must-Try Dishes:
Breakfast Burrito, Carne Asada Burrito, Veggie Burrito
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Full-bar cantina with burritos from breakfast to late afternoon.
Who should go: Groups wanting sit-down burritos and drinks
When to visit: Weeknights 6–7pm for easier tables
What to order: Breakfast burrito; carne asada; veggie
Insider tip: Bar seats turn over fastest; check the chalkboard for specials.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Columbus and nearby residential blocks; metered spots fill by 6pm, no valet service available.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—comfortable for family dinners or relaxed evenings with friends.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation possible at smaller tables, but bar area can get energetic during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick seating for smaller groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several burritos and tacos can be made vegetarian, plus salads and sides.
Vegan options: Limited – 2–3 customizable options; ask to omit cheese or sour cream.
Gluten-free options: Partial – corn tortillas available but burritos use flour; staff will advise on safe modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual meetups than romantic nights—fun vibe, solid margaritas, but not intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins welcome, especially before 6:30pm or at lunch; larger groups should call ahead on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—high chairs available and a flexible menu for kids; earlier hours are quieter for families.
Best For
Better for: Larger groups who want a sit-down burrito experience with drinks and shared plates.
Skip if: You’re craving authentic Mission-style burritos or quick late-night takeout—other spots specialize more in that.
North Beach Cantina
8.2
Neighborhood cantina with margaritas, tequila flights, and a sit-down menu of tacos, enchiladas, and grilled plates. Lively energy works for small groups before or after Washington Square.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas tacos, Enchiladas verdes, Carne asada plate
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Full bar and sit-down Mexican in the heart of North Beach.
Who should go: Friends meeting over margs
When to visit: Happy hour or early dinner before it fills
What to order: Carnitas tacos; enchiladas verdes; asada plate
Insider tip: Bar seats turn fast if the dining room is on a wait.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking around Washington Square is limited; best to use the North Beach Parking Garage on Vallejo or nearby paid lots.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and a nice top fit in, but many guests dress up for night outings or birthdays.
Noise level: Lively to loud during dinner and happy hour; conversation is doable at smaller tables but not intimate.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; bar seats may open faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though it can fill around noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – multiple vegetarian tacos, enchiladas, and salads available.
Vegan options: Limited – a few dishes can be customized; staff are accommodating.
Gluten-free options: Yes – corn tortillas and many entrées are naturally gluten-free; cross-contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a fun, casual date than an intimate one—great margaritas and upbeat energy, but noise levels can be high.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but expect a short wait on weekends. Bar and patio tables often turn quickly; call ahead for small groups.
Is it kid-friendly? Welcoming to families early in the evening, though the crowd shifts toward adults after 8pm. No kids’ menu but simple tacos work well.
Best For
Better for: Group dinners and lively nights out with tequila flights and full-service plates—more atmosphere than most North Beach Mexican spots.
Skip if: You’re seeking quiet dining or strictly authentic regional Mexican fare; this leans festive and Americanized.
North Beach Cantina
8.1
Casual Cal-Mex cantina with weekday happy hour featuring $7 house margs and taco specials. Quesabirria, Baja fish, and street-style tacos headline alongside chips, salsas, and game-day energy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Quesabirria Tacos, Baja Fish Tacos, Carne Asada Street Tacos
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Weekday happy hour with tacos and $7 house margaritas.
Who should go: Friends craving casual tacos and drinks
When to visit: Mon–Fri 3–6pm for best prices
What to order: Quesabirria; Baja fish tacos; chips & guac
Insider tip: Look for rotating HH bites—mini quesabirria often appears on the board.
North Beach Cantina
7.9
Neighborhood cantina with a full bar, sit-down service, and a from-scratch menu of tacos, bowls, and shareables. It’s one of the area’s more affordable table-service Mexican options near Washington Square.
Must-Try Dishes:
Birria tacos, Carnitas bowl, Tinga quesadilla
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Affordable sit-down Mexican with cocktails in the heart of North Beach.
Who should go: Groups wanting casual drinks and tacos
When to visit: Arrive before 7pm to dodge prime-time waits
What to order: Birria tacos; carnitas bowl; tinga quesadilla
Insider tip: Parklet seating often turns over faster than indoor tables.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—expect tight availability near Washington Square after 6pm; best to use the Vallejo Street Garage two blocks away.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and sneakers are fine but locals often lean polished for evening cocktails.
Noise level: Moderate—buzzing bar chatter but still manageable for group conversation or casual dates.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation around 7–8pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait before 1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—solid choices like veggie tacos, black bean bowls, and mushroom quesadillas.
Vegan options: Limited—request modifications on tacos or bowls; no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Partially—corn tortillas and some bowls are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Good for casual first dates—lively atmosphere, shareable plates, and solid margaritas, though it can get a bit loud for deep conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes—walk-ins accepted, especially for smaller parties; bar seating and parklet tables often open faster than indoor dining.
Is it kid-friendly? Moderately—staff are friendly with families, but the bar-forward energy suits older kids or early dinners better than toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Cocktail-forward casual meals with friends—more social and comfortable than nearby quick-service taquerias.
Skip if: You want quiet dining, extensive vegan options, or late-night hours; better suited for early evening hangs.
North Beach Cantina
7.7
Casual cantina with cocktails and a from-scratch menu that runs through tacos, bowls, and shareables. It’s a sit-down option near Washington Square that stays open to 10pm most nights—handy for later dinners when counter spots are slammed.
Must-Try Dishes:
Birria tacos, Carnitas bowl, Chicken tinga quesadilla
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Sit-down Mexican with a full bar near Washington Square.
Who should go: Groups wanting cocktails and a relaxed table
When to visit: Arrive before 7pm to avoid prime-time waits
What to order: Birria tacos; carnitas bowl; tinga quesadilla
Insider tip: Snag parklet seating for quicker seating on busy nights.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited spots on Stockton and Union after 6pm—use North Beach Garage on Vallejo if needed.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans fine, but polished tops and shoes fit the scene.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—easy conversation early, louder after 8pm with bar crowd.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without reservation after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; seating available on arrival.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian tacos, quesadillas, and bowls available.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 customizable items like veggie bowl or modified taco plate.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas and select bowls are gluten-free upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—casual but stylish vibe with cocktails and music; best for relaxed, conversation-friendly early evenings.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually—arrive before 7pm or try for parklet seating; late groups may face 30–45 minute waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—fine for older kids at early dinner hours, but evenings skew adult with bar energy.
Best For
Better for: Ideal for casual groups who want cocktails and full-service dining near Washington Square.
Skip if: You’re seeking late-night eats past 10pm or quiet, romantic dining.
North Beach Cantina
7.6
Neighborhood Mexican spot with a weekend brunch playbook—breakfast tacos, chilaquiles, and micheladas alongside taqueria staples. Upbeat service and a room that handles groups without fuss.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chilaquiles, Breakfast Tacos, Michelada
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Mexican brunch standards with lively, casual service.
Who should go: Friends wanting chilaquiles and micheladas
When to visit: Weekend late morning for full brunch menu
What to order: Chilaquiles; breakfast tacos; burrito
Insider tip: Ask for salsa macha on the side for extra punch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited but possible on nearby Columbus or Stockton; garage options at North Beach Parking (735 Vallejo) within a 5-minute walk.
Dress code: Casual and relaxed—jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially during brunch hours when music and conversation overlap.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes typical wait if you arrive after 11:30am brunch rush.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before noon; quick seating for small groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – chilaquiles, veggie tacos, and breakfast burritos can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited – a few dishes like guacamole and black bean tacos qualify if ordered without cheese.
Gluten-free options: Yes – corn tortillas and rice-based sides make it workable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re going for casual and fun—it’s bright, energetic, and informal rather than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. Walk-ins are the norm, though expect short waits on weekends after 11am.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are common on weekends, and the staff is patient with children; no high chairs but booth seating helps.
Best For
Better for: Group-friendly Mexican brunches with a full michelada lineup and easygoing service.
Skip if: You’re seeking quiet conversation or refined presentation—this is casual, not polished.
North Beach Cantina
7.6
Neighborhood Mexican spot with a weekend brunch playbook—breakfast tacos, chilaquiles, and micheladas alongside their taqueria staples. Service is upbeat and the dining room handles groups without fuss.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chilaquiles verde with egg, Breakfast tacos (bacon/egg), Breakfast burrito with salsa macha
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Mexican brunch standards with lively, casual service.
Who should go: Friends wanting chilaquiles and micheladas
When to visit: Weekend late morning for full brunch menu
What to order: Chilaquiles; breakfast tacos; burrito
Insider tip: Ask for salsa macha on the side for extra punch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—limited on Grant and Vallejo; best luck before 10am or after 2pm.
Dress code: Casual—tees, jeans, and brunch wear all fine.
Noise level: Moderate—lively chatter, music in background, but conversation manageable.
Weekend wait: N/A—focuses on brunch and lunch service.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait except during peak taco rush (12–1pm).
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—plenty of veggie-friendly items like chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, and veggie tacos.
Vegan options: Limited—some tacos and sides can be customized, but ask staff for swaps.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas are gluten-free, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re keeping it casual—it’s more lively taqueria than intimate spot, better for shared plates and easy conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm; just expect a short wait on sunny weekend mornings.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—welcomes families and small groups; high chairs available and noise covers chatter from kids easily.
Best For
Better for: More energetic and social than most breakfast joints—great for groups craving Mexican flavors early in the day.
Skip if: You want a quiet or upscale brunch; head to Park Tavern or Surisan instead.
North Beach Cantina
8.0
Casual North Beach spot (opened 2022) serving street-style tacos and seafood tacos with a full bar and all-day crowd. Baja fish, wagyu quesabirria, and classic street tacos anchor a menu built for groups and easy walk-ins.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baja Fish Tacos, Wagyu Quesabirria (with consomé), Street-Style Carne Asada Tacos
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Seafood tacos and wagyu quesabirria alongside classic street tacos and a full bar.
Who should go: Friends meeting up for tacos and drinks
When to visit: Early dinner 5–6:30 pm to avoid waits
What to order: Baja fish; wagyu quesabirria; carne asada street tacos
Insider tip: Ask for the queso fundido with your preferred meat as a starter.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; it fills up fast after 6pm, but nearby garages on Vallejo and Stockton usually have open spots.
Dress code: Casual with a trendy edge—jeans and sneakers fine, but many guests dress up slightly for evening drinks.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; music and conversation make it buzzy but still manageable for group talk.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, quick seating for walk-ins.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—grilled veggie tacos, cheese quesadillas, and chips with guacamole available.
Vegan options: Limited—can request veggie tacos without cheese or crema.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most tacos use corn tortillas and can be prepared gluten-free upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, low-pressure meet-up than a formal date; upbeat vibe and shareable plates keep it fun and easy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common, but expect to wait during peak dinner hours. Bar seating often opens up first.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids; casual setting with tacos and fries, but evening crowd leans more adult with bar service.
Best For
Better for: Groups who want a fun taco night with cocktails and upbeat music in North Beach.
Skip if: You’re after a quiet dinner or strictly traditional Mexican fare—this leans modern and social.