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Underdogs Too
Master Critic Reviews (10 Lists)
Underdogs Too
8.2
Modern taqueria–sports bar hybrid opened in 2018 serving crisp baja-style tacos, burritos, wings, and weekend chilaquiles. Locals post up for game-day energy, solid margaritas, and a broad menu that travels well for takeout.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baja Fish Taco, Surf & Turf Burrito, Chilaquiles (weekends)
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Sports-bar buzz meets a focused taco and burrito program.
Who should go: Game-day crews and taco lovers
When to visit: Weeknights and early games for easier seating
What to order: Baja fish tacos; wings; weekend chilaquiles
Insider tip: $3 Taco Tuesday runs evenings with beer specials.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Taraval and nearby side streets is generally available but can fill quickly on weekends and during major sporting events.
Dress code: Casual—game-day jerseys, jeans, and hoodies are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Lively—expect energetic sports-bar volume during games but manageable conversation at off-peak times.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during peak games or brunch rushes.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick turnover at the bar and tables.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple taco and burrito options with beans, grilled veggies, or Impossible protein.
Vegan options: Limited—can modify veggie tacos or bowls by removing cheese and crema.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas and some bowls are naturally gluten-free; staff is knowledgeable about substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re both into sports or casual hangs—it’s fun and energetic, not intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are welcome. Expect waits during big games, but weekday nights and afternoons are easy.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—casual vibe with a kids’ menu, high chairs, and friendly staff. Early evenings are best for families before it gets loud.
Best For
Better for: Casual group gatherings and watching the game over solid tacos and margaritas.
Skip if: You’re looking for quiet conversation, upscale dining, or strictly traditional Mexican fare.
Underdogs Too
8.3
Modern taqueria-sports bar on Taraval known for street-style tacos and lively service. The kitchen turns out well-seasoned fillings (al pastor, carnitas, pollo asado) with consistent execution and a beach-adjacent crowd that keeps it buzzing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas 'Nick's Way' taco, Al pastor street tacos, Grilled salmon taco
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Street-style tacos with sports-bar energy and strong execution.
Who should go: Taco fans who want beers and games
When to visit: Weeknights or Taco Tuesday after 4:30pm
What to order: Carnitas Nick’s Way; al pastor; grilled salmon taco
Insider tip: Taco Tuesday brings $3 street tacos—arrive early for shorter waits.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Taraval is metered but generally available; nearby residential blocks offer additional free parking after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual — locals drop by in jeans, hoodies, or beachwear; no dress code enforced.
Noise level: Moderate-to-loud — TVs and crowd energy make it lively during games, quieter mid-afternoon.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes, especially during prime games or Taco Tuesday evenings.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; fast counter service for dine-in or takeout.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — veggie tacos, nachos, and salads available; fillings like grilled veggies or beans are well-seasoned.
Vegan options: Limited — 1–2 taco options can be made vegan by skipping cheese and crema.
Gluten-free options: Yes — corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free and kitchen accommodates requests with care.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Fun and informal, best for casual first dates or activity-based meetups; not ideal if you want quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — first-come, first-served seating; tables turn quickly but fill up during sports broadcasts.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — daytime and early evenings welcome families; high chairs available and staff are accommodating.
Best For
Better for: Best for lively group hangs, watching games, or taco nights with drinks — stronger bar energy than most taquerias.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for quiet dining or fully traditional Mexican fare; it leans modern and social.
Underdogs Too
8.1
Modern taqueria-sports bar that also fries a solid batch of classic wings. Sauces cover the spectrum from buffalo to mango habanero, served with celery and house dressings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Buffalo Wings, Mango Habanero Wings, House Blue Cheese & Celery
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Full sports-bar energy with multiple wing sauces and quick pacing.
Who should go: Game-day groups and sauce samplers
When to visit: Taco Tuesday or early game days
What to order: Buffalo, mango habanero, ranch or blue cheese
Insider tip: Sit near the bar for fastest refills and wing re-ups.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Taraval and nearby side streets; generally available but fills quickly during game nights.
Dress code: Casual and sporty—team jerseys, hoodies, and sneakers all fit in.
Noise level: Loud during peak sports events; moderate otherwise—expect energetic chatter and TVs throughout.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during big games or Taco Tuesday rush.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick table turnover before 1:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian tacos, nachos, and salads are available.
Vegan options: Limited—some tacos can be made vegan on request; sauces may contain dairy.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas and select menu items are gluten-free, but fried items share oil.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date enjoys a lively, sports-bar vibe—better for casual meetups or watch parties than romantic dinners.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm, though large groups should arrive early during major games or promotions.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes during daytime hours; staff accommodate families, but it transitions to a bar scene after 8pm.
Best For
Better for: Game-day energy, fast service, and multiple sauce choices make it stronger than nearby pubs for casual wing sessions.
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner or fine dining experience—this is a high-energy bar setup built for crowds.
Underdogs Too
7.8
Modern taqueria-sports bar that opens early on weekends for breakfast. Breakfast burritos, tacos, and micheladas pair with plenty of TVs and an energetic parklet.
Must-Try Dishes:
Breakfast Burrito, Breakfast Tacos, Chilaquiles
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 6.3
What makes it special: Weekend breakfast with a sports-bar buzz and outdoor seating.
Who should go: Game-day brunch groups
When to visit: Arrive near 9–10am for easiest seating
What to order: Breakfast burrito, breakfast tacos, chilaquiles
Insider tip: Parklet seats are fastest—order at the bar to speed things up.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is generally available along Taraval and nearby residential blocks, though it can tighten up around brunch hours on weekends.
Dress code: Totally casual—hoodies, jerseys, and beachwear fit right in.
Noise level: Lively during games; conversation is easy at outside tables but louder inside near the bar.
Weekend wait: Usually no dinner rush—this is more of a daytime spot.
Weekday lunch: No wait—walk right up and order at the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—breakfast tacos, chilaquiles, and veggie burritos can all be made meat-free.
Vegan options: Limited—some items can be modified, but dairy and eggs feature heavily on the brunch menu.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas offer an easy gluten-free swap, though no separate prep zone is guaranteed.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your idea of a date involves mimosas, burritos, and game-day energy. It’s more casual-fun than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's counter service with open seating. Arrive before 10am for best outdoor spots on sunny days.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families often use the parklet. High chairs and kid-size plates make it workable for weekend brunch.
Best For
Better for: Best when you want breakfast tacos and sports screens in one place—few Outer Sunset brunch spots combine both.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for quiet conversation, specialty coffee, or polished plating—this is casual and rowdy by design.
Underdogs Too
8.2
Modern taqueria–sports bar with a lively atmosphere and a broad burrito lineup, from classic Mission builds to California and breakfast options. TVs, drinks, and a roomy setup make it a go-to for casual groups.
Must-Try Dishes:
San Francisco Burrito (carne asada), California Burrito, Breakfast Burrito (weekends)
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Sports-bar energy with a quality burrito program and weekend breakfast.
Who should go: Game-day groups and casual burrito lovers
When to visit: Early dinner before big games to avoid lines
What to order: San Francisco Burrito; California Burrito; Breakfast Burrito
Insider tip: Check Taco Tuesday deals; the burrito line moves fastest at the bar.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is generally available along Taraval Street, but it fills up quickly near dinner hours and game times. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual — jerseys, hoodies, and sneakers are all common. Come relaxed; no dressy vibe required.
Noise level: Lively, especially during major sporting events. Expect conversation-level noise early evenings, but it ramps up quickly once games start.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes during peak games or events; faster if seated at the bar.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait before 1:00pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several veggie burritos and tacos available, with grilled veggies and black beans as core fillings.
Vegan options: Limited — can customize veggie burrito by omitting cheese and sour cream.
Gluten-free options: Some options with corn tortillas; burritos use flour wraps, so ask for bowls if avoiding gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date enjoys casual energy and sports on TV. The vibe is more fun and social than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is first-come, first-served. Arriving early for games or during off-hours ensures a quick seat.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, during daytime hours. High chairs available and menu items like quesadillas work well for kids, though evenings can get loud.
Best For
Better for: Larger groups and sports fans who want burritos with a bar atmosphere — it's livelier and roomier than most taquerias.
Skip if: You’re looking for a quiet meal or an authentic, mom-and-pop Mission-style taqueria vibe — the sports-bar format dominates here.
Underdogs Too
8.3
Modern taqueria meets neighborhood sports spot with speedy lunch pacing and a crowd-pleasing taco lineup. Spacious seating, TVs, and a parklet make it easy for families and groups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas 'Nick’s Way' taco, Fish taco, Chilaquiles (weekends)
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Family-friendly taco spot with game-day energy and a broader menu than a typical taqueria.
Who should go: Parents and groups wanting tacos with TV games
When to visit: Weeknights before 6:30pm or weekend lunch
What to order: Nick’s Way carnitas taco, fish taco, chilaquiles
Insider tip: Taco Tuesday deals run in the evening—good value for families and larger groups.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Taraval and nearby side streets is generally available, but it can fill up during dinner hours and game days. No valet or private lot.
Dress code: Completely casual — jeans, hoodies, and team gear are the norm. Families and groups come dressed for comfort.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — easy to chat at lunch, but volume picks up during major sports games or weekend nights.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes during peak games or Taco Tuesday; staff moves tables quickly.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, especially before noon or after 1:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several tacos, burritos, and bowls can be made vegetarian, including grilled veggie and Beyond options.
Vegan options: Limited — 2–3 customizable items; staff can help substitute cheese and sauces.
Gluten-free options: Yes — corn tortillas and bowls available; kitchen handles cross-contact carefully but not certified gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date’s into casual, energetic spots — it’s better for shared tacos and conversation during a game than quiet romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — all seating is first-come, first-served. Arrive early on weekends or during big sports events to avoid a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely. Booster seats and highchairs are available, service is fast, and there’s plenty of space for families, including outdoor parklet seating.
Best For
Better for: Lively group meals, casual family dinners, and watching sports over tacos and beers.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet dinner, romantic ambiance, or fine-dining experience.
Underdogs Too
8.3
Modern taqueria-meets-sports spot known for crispy and Nick’s Way tacos, burritos, and game-day energy. Kitchen stays open later than most of the Sunset, making it a reliable after-hours option for casual groups and families.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nick’s Way Carnitas Taco, Baja Fish Taco, Carne Asada Burrito
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Late kitchen hours with a crowd-pleasing taco lineup and TVs.
Who should go: Friends or families craving tacos after 9pm
When to visit: Fri–Sat late evening for the fullest menu
What to order: Nick’s Way carnitas, fish taco, carne asada burrito
Insider tip: Taco Tuesday runs until close—pair with the Tecate special.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Taraval and 40th Ave; tends to fill up after 7pm but usually a few spots open within a block.
Dress code: Casual—hoodies, jeans, and game-day attire fit right in.
Noise level: Lively during games with TVs on; moderate otherwise, conversation possible but energetic.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes around peak game nights; quicker if you grab bar seating.
Weekday lunch: No wait—usually easy seating by the window or patio.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—black bean, mushroom, and veggie tacos plus salads.
Vegan options: Limited—can modify several tacos or bowls by removing cheese and crema.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most tacos served on corn tortillas; burritos not recommended for strict GF diners.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual hangouts than romantic dates—great if you both enjoy tacos, sports, and relaxed conversation over beers.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins only. Best to arrive before 7pm or after 9pm on weekends to skip lines.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes during daytime and early dinner hours—booths and parklet seating work well for families, though the vibe turns louder after 9pm.
Best For
Better for: Later kitchen hours and lively sports-bar energy make it a go-to when most Sunset taquerias have closed.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet, sit-down Mexican dinner or upscale ambience—try a full-service cantina instead.
Underdogs Too
8.4
Modern taqueria-meets-sports spot known for crisp-edged tacos (including Nick’s Way), late kitchen hours on weekends, and efficient counter-to-table flow. Locals swing by after games for reliably seasoned meats and quick service without a sit-down fuss.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nick’s Way carnitas taco, Baja fish taco, Al pastor street taco
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Late-night taco service in a neighborhood with few after-10pm options.
Who should go: Night owls craving quick, satisfying tacos
When to visit: Fri–Sat late evening for the fullest late menu
What to order: Nick’s Way carnitas, Baja fish taco, al pastor street tacos
Insider tip: Taco Tuesday runs until close—pair with the Tecate special.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Taraval and nearby residential side streets; generally available before 9pm, tighter after 10pm.
Dress code: Ultra casual—hoodies, team jerseys, and flip-flops all fine.
Noise level: Moderate to loud—TVs and post-game chatter make it lively but not overwhelming.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes for tables after 9pm; quick counter orders available.
Weekday lunch: No wait—steady but fast-moving counter service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetarian taco and burrito fillings plus customizable bowls.
Vegan options: Limited—grilled veggie tacos and chips with guac are the main go-tos.
Gluten-free options: Yes—tacos on corn tortillas, though fry oil is shared.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual hang or post-game bite than a romantic date. The energy is upbeat and informal—ideal if you both love tacos and sports.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's counter-service. Grab any open table after ordering, but larger groups may wait briefly during peak game times.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—kids’ portions, high chairs, and a friendly vibe. Noise level helps families blend right in.
Best For
Better for: Late-night taco cravings and casual group hangs where quick service and reliable flavor matter more than atmosphere.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet sit-down dinner, upscale cocktails, or romantic lighting—this is a sports-taqueria hybrid built for energy, not intimacy.
Underdogs Too
8.3
Modern taqueria-meets-sports spot known for well-seasoned street tacos, Mission-style burritos, and fast counter-to-table pacing. Locals use it for casual, affordable dinners with TVs and late-ish kitchen hours on weekends.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nick’s Way carnitas taco, Baja fish taco, Carne asada burrito
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Street tacos and burritos with late weekend hours in a sports-bar setting.
Who should go: Friends wanting fast, affordable taco night
When to visit: Fri–Sat evenings for the latest kitchen window
What to order: Nick’s Way carnitas, Baja fish taco, asada burrito
Insider tip: Taco Tuesday deals run until close; ask for extra-crisp tacos.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Taraval and nearby residential blocks; can fill up around dinner rush but usually manageable within a block or two.
Dress code: Casual—athleisure, jeans, and hoodies all fine. Game-day attire fits right in.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially during televised games; fine for casual conversation but not ideal for quiet chats.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes for a table, faster if you grab counter seating.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; steady but quick turnover.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—veggie tacos, quesadillas, and customizable burritos available.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 options like veggie tacos or custom no-cheese burrito.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas and some bowls work, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual hangs than first dates; fun energy, fast service, and shared tacos work well for low-key meetups.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins only, and turnover is quick. Arrive before 7:30pm on weekends to avoid lines.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families frequent it for casual dinners. Booster seats available and menu is approachable for younger diners.
Best For
Better for: Faster service, later hours, and a livelier sports vibe than most taquerias in the Sunset.
Skip if: You want a quiet sit-down meal or extensive cocktail program—this is built for speed and energy, not ambiance.
Underdogs Too
8.2
Modern taqueria–meets–sports bar known for $3 Taco Tuesday and a short weekday happy hour. Street tacos, Nick’s Way crispy-cheese tacos, and burritos pair with easy margaritas in a casual, beach-adjacent room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nick’s Way Tacos (crispy + soft, Monterey Jack), Street Tacos (carnitas or al pastor), California Burrito
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Weekday happy hour and $3 Taco Tuesday with beach-adjacent ease.
Who should go: Casual groups chasing drinks-and-tacos deals
When to visit: Weekdays 4:30–6pm; Tuesdays 4:30pm–close
What to order: Nick’s Way taco; carnitas street tacos; California Burrito
Insider tip: Slide in early for happy hour, then stay for the game at the bar.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Taraval and nearby side streets; generally easy before 6pm but fills up during game nights.
Dress code: Casual and coastal—tees, jeans, and hoodies are common; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Lively during games; moderate otherwise—conversation possible but expect bar chatter.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes for groups; bar seating often available faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; service is quick for takeout and dine-in.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several taco and burrito options using grilled veggies or Impossible meat.
Vegan options: Limited – 2–3 modifiable items if you skip cheese and sour cream.
Gluten-free options: Yes – most tacos use corn tortillas; burritos can be served as bowls.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re both into casual vibes—fun but noisy. Great for a low-stakes hang rather than a romantic night.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. It’s first-come, first-served; arrive early for happy hour or grab bar seats for fastest service.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes during daytime and early evening—plenty of casual seating and fast service. Gets louder after 7pm when bar crowd grows.
Best For
Better for: Better for casual group hangs, watching sports, and happy hour tacos than most nearby taquerias.
Skip if: Skip if you’re seeking quiet dining, upscale Mexican cuisine, or extensive vegan options.