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Qué Chulada Mexican Restaurant
Master Critic Reviews (8 Lists)
Qué Chulada Mexican Restaurant
7.8
Family-owned taqueria turning out hearty plates and quesabirria with friendly service. Rotating happy-hour specials make tacos and drinks an easy Outer Richmond add-on.
Must-Try Dishes:
Quesabirria tacos, Carnitas tacos, Shrimp tacos
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Neighborhood taqueria with rotating happy-hour food and drink deals.
Who should go: Casual taco runs and budget seekers
When to visit: Late afternoon for quickest counter service
What to order: Quesabirria tacos, carnitas tacos, shrimp tacos
Insider tip: Ask about off-board specials—combo pricing pops up.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking along Balboa and nearby side streets; tends to fill up around 6pm but turnover is steady.
Dress code: Completely casual—come as you are, jeans and hoodies are standard.
Noise level: Moderate chatter from tables and counter orders; easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during the early dinner rush, especially on taco nights.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk right up to the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—bean, cheese, and veggie taco options are always available.
Vegan options: Limited—request customization to skip cheese or crema; staff is accommodating.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most tacos are on corn tortillas, though no certified prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re going for relaxed and unfussy—great for casual hangouts, not a romantic setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, it’s counter-service and walk-in only. Tables usually open up quickly even during busy hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—plenty of seating, quick service, and mild taco options make it easy for families with younger kids.
Best For
Better for: Quick, inexpensive tacos and cheerful service make it a go-to for neighborhood regulars.
Skip if: You’re looking for craft cocktails or a sit-down bar experience—try Tommy’s Mexican instead.
Qué Chulada Mexican Restaurant
7.8
Casual, family-owned spot turning out quesabirria, hefty burritos, and budget-friendly plates. Look for rotating happy-hour promos that make tacos and drinks an easy Outer Richmond stop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Quesabirria Tacos, Wet Burrito, Chile Relleno
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.7
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Value-driven Mexican staples with occasional happy-hour food and drink deals.
Who should go: Budget-minded taco and burrito fans
When to visit: Late afternoon for quickest service
What to order: Quesabirria tacos, wet burrito, chile relleno
Insider tip: Ask about off-board specials—birria and combo pricing pop up.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Balboa and nearby residential blocks is free but can be tight during dinner hours; aim for side streets between 4–6pm for better luck.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, hoodies, and everyday wear are perfectly fine; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Low to moderate — you can easily hold a conversation even during busy hours.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes at peak times; often faster for takeout orders.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk right up to the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — veggie burritos, quesadillas, and chile relleno plates are available.
Vegan options: Limited — a few items like bean burritos can be made vegan if you skip cheese and sour cream.
Gluten-free options: Partially — corn tortillas are safe, but the kitchen does not operate a separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re keeping it casual — it’s more of a laid-back taco stop than a romantic setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in only, and tables turn quickly even at peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — relaxed counter service, mild menu items, and quick turnaround make it easy for families with younger kids.
Best For
Better for: Faster, cheaper, and friendlier than larger Mexican chains in the area; a solid pick for quick eats or takeout value.
Skip if: You’re looking for craft cocktails, polished ambiance, or a long sit-down dinner — this is more of a casual comfort spot.
Qué Chulada Mexican Restaurant
7.9
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Group Dining Gatherings
Quick Bites Champions
Family-run Geary spot with street-style tacos, birria, and home-style plates in a casual sit-down setting. Friendly service and shareable combos make it an easy group option.
Must-Try Dishes:
Birria tacos, Al pastor taco, Taco sampler plate
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Street-style tacos alongside homey plates in a relaxed room.
Who should go: Groups wanting easy sit-down tacos
When to visit: Weeknights 6–7pm for fastest seating
What to order: Birria tacos, al pastor taco, horchata
Insider tip: Call ahead for party trays if feeding a crowd.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Geary and side streets; usually available within a block before 7pm but tight on weekends.
Dress code: Casual; jeans and sneakers are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate; lively background chatter but still easy for group conversation.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes during peak hours, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins seated immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – veggie tacos, enchiladas, and rice/bean plates available.
Vegan options: Limited – a few options like veggie tacos or beans and rice (verify preparation).
Gluten-free options: Mostly yes – corn tortillas are gluten-free, but shared surfaces apply.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual meetups than romantic dinners; the lively vibe and casual seating make it low-pressure and fun.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – reservations aren’t common; walk-ins are the norm except for large weekend groups.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – very; families frequent it for easy seating, mild flavors, and quick service. High chairs available.
Best For
Better for: Group dining, family meals, and generous portions compared to most Geary taquerias.
Skip if: You’re seeking elevated presentation or craft cocktails – it’s more casual comfort than upscale dining.
Qué Chulada Mexican Restaurant
7.9
Vibes:
Hidden Gems Heaven
Family Friendly Favorites
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Family-owned taqueria on Geary serving fresh, home-style plates and street-style tacos at approachable prices. Friendly service and handmade touches make it a pleasant sit-down alternative to the usual grab-and-go spots.
Must-Try Dishes:
Birria Tacos, Chile Relleno, Street Tacos (Mix & Match)
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Warm, family-run spot with fresh, handmade preparations.
Who should go: Casual taco fans on a budget
When to visit: Weeknights for easy seating and quick service
What to order: Birria tacos, chile relleno, assorted street tacos
Insider tip: Call ahead for combo taco boxes during busy hours.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Geary and 23rd Avenue; spots open up more easily after 6:30pm but can be tight during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable — jeans, hoodies, and sneakers are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate — lively but you can hold a conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes during peak hours around 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; tables available immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — options include veggie tacos, cheese enchiladas, and chile relleno.
Vegan options: Limited — can modify veggie tacos or burritos upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes — corn tortillas available; avoid fried items due to shared oil.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? More casual than romantic — better suited for an easygoing, low-pressure meetup over tacos than a candlelit dinner.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s walk-in only and tables turn quickly, especially on weeknights.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — plenty of booth seating and mild menu items make it ideal for families with kids aged 4 and up.
Best For
Better for: Home-style plates and friendly table service compared to faster but more impersonal taquerias nearby.
Skip if: You’re after a full bar or trendy ambience — this is a neighborhood comfort stop, not a cocktail spot.
Qué Chulada Mexican Restaurant
7.9
Husband-and-wife–run taquería (opened 2023) bringing quesabirria, street tacos, and salsas to the Geary corridor. Casual counter setup with dine-in tables suits families who want fresh, made-to-order plates without the wait.
Must-Try Dishes:
Quesabirria tacos, Al pastor tacos, Carne asada fries
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Owner-operated taquería focusing on fresh, made-to-order staples.
Who should go: Families craving tacos without long waits
When to visit: Lunch 11–1 or early dinner before peak
What to order: Quesabirria, al pastor tacos, carne asada fries
Insider tip: Ask for consommé with the quesabirria for dipping.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Geary and cross streets is metered and fills quickly at lunch; evenings after 6pm usually open up nearby residential spots.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are. Jeans and sneakers are common, no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate—family chatter and music in the background, but normal conversation is easy.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes during the peak 6–7:30pm window; faster for takeout.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk in and order at the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—cheese quesadillas, veggie tacos, and rice/bean plates are available.
Vegan options: Limited—ask for tacos or burritos without cheese or crema; salsas and beans are vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most tacos use corn tortillas; avoid burritos and fries if sensitive.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual meetups than formal dates—laid-back counter service and lively energy keep it friendly and low-pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—no reservations are taken. Counter ordering and quick table turnover make walk-ins easy.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely—ample seating, quick service, and mild menu options suit families with kids of all ages.
Best For
Better for: Quick, freshly made tacos and birria with family-friendly pricing and service speed.
Skip if: You want cocktails, table service, or a quiet dining atmosphere—this is fast-casual and lively.
Qué Chulada Mexican Restaurant
8.2
Bright, family-run spot known for tidy wraps and clean flavors across al pastor, pollo asado, and veggie burritos. Portions land generous without bloat, and salsas lean fresh over fiery.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Burrito, Pollo Asado Burrito with Salsa Verde, Veggie Burrito with Guacamole
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Fresh, balanced burritos with notably neat construction and crisp salsas.
Who should go: Families and casual dine-in burrito fans
When to visit: Weeknights 5–6:30pm for easiest seating
What to order: Al Pastor, Pollo Asado Verde, Veggie with Guac
Insider tip: Add grilled jalapeños on the side for a smoky kick.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Balboa and surrounding side streets; generally available before 6pm but tighter on weekends.
Dress code: Casual and family-friendly—jeans, sneakers, and hoodies are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate during dinner rush; easy to chat at most tables outside peak hours.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes around 6:30–8pm, faster for small parties.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, even for dine-in.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several veggie and bean-based burritos plus meat-free enchiladas.
Vegan options: Limited—2–3 adaptable options with omission of cheese and sour cream.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas available, but no fully separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual meetups than romantic dates; bright, friendly energy fits easy conversation over comfort food.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm and tables turn quickly, especially on weekdays.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—high chairs available, patient staff, and mild menu items work well for families with children under 10.
Best For
Better for: Cleaner presentation and fresher salsa flavors than most Mission-style spots in the Richmond.
Skip if: You’re after late-night burritos or spicy heat levels—the profile here leans bright and mild.
Qué Chulada Mexican Restaurant
7.9
Family-run taqueria on Geary known for birria-focused plates and straight-shooting street tacos. Portions are solid, service is friendly, and it’s an easy pick for casual sit-down taco nights.
Must-Try Dishes:
Quesabirria Tacos, Al Pastor Street Taco, Carne Asada Street Taco
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Birria-forward menu with dependable street tacos and warm hospitality.
Who should go: Casual taco fans and families
When to visit: Early evening on weekends to avoid lines
What to order: Quesabirria, al pastor street tacos, carne asada tacos
Insider tip: Ask for consommé on the side with any birria order.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Geary or nearby 23rd–25th Avenue is usually available, though it can tighten during dinner hours. No dedicated lot or valet service.
Dress code: Completely casual—come as you are; jeans, hoodies, and sneakers all common.
Noise level: Moderate—family chatter and music in the background, but conversation is easy at most tables.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes during peak family hours, especially 6–8pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; immediate seating or quick takeout turnaround.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian tacos and quesadillas available; kitchen accommodates swaps.
Vegan options: Limited—bean and veggie tacos possible, but some fillings use cheese or lard.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most tacos are naturally gluten-free on corn tortillas; cross-contact possible in shared prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date appreciates casual comfort—it’s more about hearty food and relaxed energy than ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm. Arrive before 7pm on weekends to avoid a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—staff are welcoming to families, and portions suit sharing. High chairs and booster seats available.
Best For
Better for: Larger groups or families wanting filling birria and straightforward taco plates with sit-down comfort.
Skip if: You’re seeking a trendy cocktail-driven taqueria or upscale date-night ambiance.
Qué Chulada Mexican Restaurant
8.4
Qué Chulada offers an authentic taste of Mexico with a cozy, casual vibe. Known for its flavorful tacos, fresh salsas, and margaritas, it’s a local favorite in the Richmond District.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tacos al Pastor, Chicken Mole, Churros
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Fresh, flavorful tacos and traditional Mexican fare in a laid-back setting.
Who should go: Taco lovers and casual diners looking for authentic Mexican food.
When to visit: Great for a quick bite or casual dinner any day.
What to order: Tacos al Pastor, Chicken Mole, Churros.
Insider tip: Ask for extra salsa – it’s house-made and adds a kick to any dish.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available, but can be difficult to find after 6pm. Consider using a nearby public lot.
Dress code: Casual – jeans and a t-shirt are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate – a lively atmosphere, but still easy to have a conversation.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30-45 minute wait without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically during lunch hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – there are vegetarian-friendly options, including veggie tacos and quesadillas.
Vegan options: Limited – a few vegan options like the guacamole and salsa, but no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free options available, with a separate prep area to avoid cross-contamination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – the casual, cozy atmosphere makes it perfect for a relaxed first date. Enjoy flavorful tacos and margaritas while keeping the vibe light and fun.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but it can be busy on weekends. It’s recommended to make a reservation if you’re going for dinner on a Friday or Saturday night.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – the casual setting and kid-friendly menu make it a great spot for families. There’s something for everyone, from tacos to churros.
Best For
Better for: Qué Chulada excels in providing authentic Mexican comfort food in a relaxed, no-frills environment. The tacos, in particular, stand out due to their flavor and freshness.
Skip if: If you’re looking for upscale dining or a quieter, more formal setting, this might not be the right place. Choose alternatives if you need a more refined ambiance.