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The Little Chihuahua (Lower Haight)
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
The Little Chihuahua (Lower Haight)
8.1
Lower Haight fast-casual spot with responsibly sourced proteins and specialty burritos. Sauces lean bright and herbaceous, and the kitchen handles dietary tweaks smoothly.
Must-Try Dishes:
Garlic Shrimp Burrito, Chile Verde Pork Burrito, Plantain & Black Bean Burrito
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Well-sourced fillings and crisp, fresh salsas in polished fast-casual service.
Who should go: Ingredient-focused burrito fans
When to visit: Weeknights before 7pm for shortest waits
What to order: Garlic shrimp, chile verde, plantain-black bean
Insider tip: Ask for half-and-half beans to fine-tune texture.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Haight and Pierce is limited, especially after 6pm. Try nearby residential blocks on Waller or Steiner for better odds.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—jeans, hoodies, and sneakers are standard.
Noise level: Moderate during peak dinner hours; conversations are easy at off-peak times.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes depending on takeout volume; lines move quickly.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; counter ordering is efficient.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetarian burritos, bowls, and quesadillas built around plantains, mushrooms, or tofu.
Vegan options: Yes—vegan-friendly proteins and salsas clearly marked; staff accommodate substitutions.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas and bowls available; staff can advise on cross-contact risks.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only for a casual one—shared chips and margaritas work for relaxed conversation, but the counter-service format isn’t especially intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, it’s walk-in only. Peak hours can get crowded, but turnover is quick and takeout is an easy fallback.
Is it kid-friendly? Definitely—families frequent it for quick service, kid-sized burritos, and mild salsas. High chairs and outdoor seating are available.
Best For
Better for: Cleaner ingredients and brighter flavors than most taquerias; particularly strong on shrimp and veggie burritos.
Skip if: You’re seeking a sit-down, table-service experience or a late-night spot—this one closes earlier and leans casual.
The Little Chihuahua (Lower Haight)
7.8
Neighborhood taqueria (since 2007) focused on wholesome ingredients and wide veg options. Lines move quickly; portions are generous with reliable salsas and grilled proteins.
Must-Try Dishes:
Plantain burrito, Salmon tacos, Chile verde tofu burrito
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Local mini-chain flagship with sustainable sourcing and veg-forward options.
Who should go: Families and burrito traditionalists
When to visit: Off-peak 2–5pm for fastest counter service
What to order: Plantain burrito, salmon tacos, chile verde tofu
Insider tip: Ask for the spicier salsa—staff will point you to the hottest pick.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; spots can be tight during dinner hours but easier mid-afternoon.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, tees, and hoodies are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation-friendly except during peak lunch rush.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes at peak times; turnover is fast.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, even during the noon hour.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple burritos, tacos, and bowls with grilled vegetables or tofu.
Vegan options: Yes—several plant-based options including tofu and vegetable burritos; request no dairy.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas and bowls available; cross-contact possible but staff is accommodating.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual meetups than romantic dates—counter service and quick turnover make it relaxed but not intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-in only; tables open frequently and turnover is quick.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—high chairs available and menu items like quesadillas and rice plates are kid-approved.
Best For
Better for: Wholesome, customizable burritos and vegetarian-friendly Mexican fare in a low-stress setting.
Skip if: You’re looking for a full-service experience, cocktails, or a quiet sit-down meal.