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Underdogs Tres
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Underdogs Tres
8.3
Modern taqueria–sports bar hybrid known for weekday happy hour street tacos and fast ticket times near 9th & Irving. Locals drop in for $3 taco deals, TVs for games, and a lively bar scene.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al Pastor Street Tacos, Fish Tacos, Queso Fundido
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: $3 street tacos during weekday happy hour in a sports-bar setting.
Who should go: After-work crews and game watchers
When to visit: Weekdays 4:30–6pm for best taco pricing
What to order: Al pastor, fish tacos, queso fundido
Insider tip: Bar seats get the quickest HH orders and best TV sightlines.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Irving and 9th can be competitive during dinner hours; best luck is on side streets before 6pm. No private lot or valet.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, jerseys, and hoodies are totally fine. It’s a sports-bar vibe, not a date-night setting.
Noise level: Loud during games and happy hour rush, moderate otherwise. Expect raised voices to hear friends.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes for a table, faster if you take bar seating.
Weekday lunch: No wait; service is fast and counter-driven.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several options like veggie tacos and quesadillas.
Vegan options: Limited – some fillings and sides can be made vegan on request.
Gluten-free options: Partially – corn tortillas are gluten-free but fryers are shared.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal unless your date is into sports or casual hangs—lively, crowded, and fun but not intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. It’s first-come, first-served with quick turnover. Bar seats open up often during happy hour.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes during daytime or early evenings; kids love the tacos. Gets loud later during games.
Best For
Better for: Faster service, cheaper tacos, and more lively sports energy than nearby sit-down cantinas.
Skip if: You’re after a quiet meal or elevated margarita experience—try Sunset Cantina or Celia’s instead.
Underdogs Tres
8.3
Modern taqueria–sports bar hybrid in the Inner Sunset known for lively game-day energy and a reliable weekday happy hour with discounted street tacos and drinks. The kitchen balances classic fillings with crisp fry work and fast ticket times, making it an easy after-work stop near 9th & Irving.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baja Fish Taco, Queso Fundido, Carne Asada Street Taco
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Weekday happy hour with $3 street tacos and drink deals.
Who should go: After-work crews and sports fans
When to visit: Mon–Fri, late afternoon before games start
What to order: Fish tacos, queso fundido, al pastor
Insider tip: Snag bar seating for fastest service and TV sightlines.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Irving and 9th Avenue; fills up quickly after 5pm but usually manageable before happy hour ends.
Dress code: Casual—jerseys, hoodies, and jeans are standard; no dress code enforced.
Noise level: High during game nights; moderate at other times—conversation possible but expect lively background noise.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes depending on sports events; bar seats often open sooner.
Weekday lunch: No wait or short line during peak happy hour.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian tacos, quesadillas, and bowls available on the main menu.
Vegan options: Limited—request modifications (hold cheese/sour cream) on veggie tacos or bowls.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free; fryer shared so cross-contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re both into casual, energetic settings—great for a fun, low-pressure meetup over margaritas but too loud for intimate conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins only; arrive before 6pm for best odds or grab bar seating if it’s full.
Is it kid-friendly? Early evenings before 7pm are fine for families; high chairs available but the bar vibe dominates later at night.
Best For
Better for: Lively happy hour energy, fast service, and game-day atmosphere—ideal for groups or post-work hangs.
Skip if: You’re looking for quiet dining or elevated cocktails; try a calmer cantina-style spot instead.
Underdogs Tres
8.3
Modern taqueria-sports bar hybrid known for street-style tacos and the indulgent “Nick’s Way” crispy-cheese upgrade. Reliable for quick rounds of tacos, drinks, and the game in the heart of the Inner Sunset.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas 'Nick's Way' Tacos, Al Pastor Street Tacos, Pollo Asado Street Tacos
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Crispy-cheese 'Nick’s Way' tacos with lively sports-bar energy.
Who should go: Friends who want tacos with the game
When to visit: Weeknights 6–8pm for easier seating
What to order: Nick’s Way carnitas, al pastor trio, chips & salsa
Insider tip: Bar seats flip faster than tables during big games.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Irving and nearby residential blocks; it fills quickly after 6pm, so allow extra time on weekends.
Dress code: Casual and sporty—jeans, jerseys, and hoodies are the norm; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Lively during games with moderate-to-loud chatter; conversation possible but expect crowd energy during peak matches.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during prime game hours; bar seating may open faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, quick service at the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several taco fillings like mushrooms and beans can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited – 1–2 items can be adapted by omitting cheese and sauces.
Gluten-free options: Yes – corn tortillas are gluten-free and they can prepare carefully if requested.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date enjoys casual, high-energy settings. It’s better for shared tacos and beers than quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – they operate first-come, first-served. Go early or during non-game hours for the best shot at a table.
Is it kid-friendly? Daytime and early evenings are fine for families; late nights skew adult with bar crowds and louder volume.
Best For
Better for: Game-day taco runs and casual group meetups with reliable drinks and quick food.
Skip if: You’re after a quiet meal, fine-dining atmosphere, or fully vegan options.
Underdogs Tres
8.3
Modern taqueria–meets–sports bar known for crispy Baja-style fish tacos, Mission burritos, and a lively game-day crowd. Kitchen runs to 10pm nightly with quick ticket times, solid margaritas, and consistent quality for late eats in the Inner Sunset.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baja Fish Tacos, California Burrito, Al Pastor Quesabirria
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: A reliable late-night kitchen pairing strong tacos with a full bar and TVs.
Who should go: Friends catching a game and tacos late
When to visit: 9–10pm for post-event bites and seats
What to order: Baja fish tacos, California burrito, carne asada fries
Insider tip: Ask for extra-crispy fish on tacos for peak texture.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Irving and 9th; meters run until 6pm and spots fill up quickly during game nights.
Dress code: Casual – jerseys, hoodies, and jeans fit right in; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Lively – sports on TV and bar chatter make it energetic but still manageable for group conversation.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes around 8–10pm, especially during major games.
Weekday lunch: No wait; walk right in or grab takeout.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several vegetarian tacos and burrito fillings like grilled veggies and Impossible meat.
Vegan options: Limited – can modify veggie tacos without cheese or crema.
Gluten-free options: Yes – corn tortillas and bowls are available, but shared kitchen surfaces mean potential cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date’s into tacos and sports – it’s more lively and casual than romantic, great for a fun first hang.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – it’s walk-in only. Arrive early during games or expect a short wait; bar seats turn over fastest.
Is it kid-friendly? Daytime yes, but evenings lean toward adult crowds. Kids welcome until about 8pm before the bar energy picks up.
Best For
Better for: Late-night taco runs with friends, game-day energy, and quick service when other kitchens are closed.
Skip if: You’re after a quiet dinner, romantic vibe, or full-service experience – this spot is loud and casual by design.
Underdogs Tres
8.4
Modern taqueria–meets–sports bar known for crispy “Nick’s Way” tacos, Mission-style burritos, and a roomy parklet near Golden Gate Park. Fast service, a kids menu, and plenty of TVs make it easy for families without sacrificing quality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nick’s Way carnitas taco, California burrito, Quesadilla for kids
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Signature crispy double-layer tacos and kid-friendly menu with speedy pacing.
Who should go: Families wanting lively tacos near the park
When to visit: Early dinner or weekend lunch for easiest seating
What to order: Nick’s Way tacos, California burrito, churros
Insider tip: Ask for the parklet; it’s quieter for strollers and high chairs.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Irving Street and nearby residential blocks; usually manageable before 6pm but tight on weekends.
Dress code: Casual—hoodies, jeans, and sneakers are perfectly fine; come as you are from the park or game.
Noise level: Lively during games but still family-manageable; moderate noise inside, quieter in the parklet.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes at peak hours; faster if you grab bar or parklet seating.
Weekday lunch: No wait or under 10 minutes most days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—black bean tacos, veggie burritos, and salads are solid picks.
Vegan options: Limited—can modify tacos or burritos without cheese or crema; no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas and certain bowls are gluten-free; inform staff for prep awareness.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual meetups or group hangs than a romantic first date—fun vibe, but TVs dominate the room.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm; peak times may need a short wait, but turnover is quick thanks to counter ordering.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely—high chairs, a kids’ taco plate, and outdoor parklet seating make it ideal for families with toddlers or school-age kids.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and livelier sports energy than most taquerias, with food quality that tops typical game-day spots.
Skip if: You’re looking for quiet conversation, craft cocktails, or a candlelit atmosphere—try a sit-down Mexican restaurant instead.
Underdogs Tres
8.4
Modern taqueria-sports bar hybrid turning out grilled and battered tacos on house-pressed tortillas with salsas that actually bring heat. Service is efficient even when the game is on, and the Surfrider-certified ethos shows up in thoughtful sourcing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pescado estilo Baja, Al pastor street tacos, Carnitas ‘Nick’s Way’ (crispy style)
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: House-pressed tortillas and lively game-day energy with legit salsas.
Who should go: Taco fans who like watching the game
When to visit: Weeknights after 8pm or weekend lunch
What to order: Baja fish, al pastor, carnitas crispy
Insider tip: Ask for ‘Nick’s Way’ to get tacos crispy with melted cheese.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; availability improves after 8pm but can be tight during Giants or Warriors games. Metered spots on Irving and 9th often open up within a few blocks.
Dress code: Casual and game-day friendly—jeans, hoodies, and team jerseys are totally fine.
Noise level: Lively to loud during big games; moderate during off-hours. Conversation possible at side tables but tough near the bar.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for a table; bar seats may open faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait unless a game is on.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—grilled veggie tacos, quesadillas, and customizable bowls available.
Vegan options: Limited—can request no cheese or crema; salsas and tortillas are vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free and prepared separately upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date loves sports or casual vibes—energy is high and tables are close, so it’s more fun than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Underdogs operates on a walk-in basis; aim for before 6:30pm or after 8:30pm for quicker seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Mostly for older kids; volume and bar crowd can be high during games, but daytime visits are fine for families.
Best For
Better for: Game-day tacos, efficient service, and a lively crowd make it stronger for groups and sports fans than quieter taquerias.
Skip if: You’re seeking a calm, romantic, or traditional sit-down Mexican dining experience—try Nopalito or Sunset Cantina instead.
Underdogs Tres
8.4
Modern taqueria-meets-sports bar turning out crisp street tacos, California burritos, and game-day plates with quick, friendly service. Locals come for the lively patio, TV-lined room, and reliable execution across a big menu.
Must-Try Dishes:
Al pastor street tacos, California burrito, Beer-battered fish tacos
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: High-energy taqueria with sports-bar DNA and a deep taco lineup.
Who should go: Taco fans who love watching the game
When to visit: Weeknights or weekend lunch for faster seating
What to order: Al pastor tacos, Cali burrito, crispy fish taco
Insider tip: Taco Tuesday deals make sampling multiple fillings easy.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available on Irving and nearby side streets, but it fills up quickly on game days—arrive early or use nearby garages on 9th Avenue.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; jerseys and hoodies fit right in, especially during big games.
Noise level: Lively during sports broadcasts—expect cheering crowds and bar energy, quieter at off-peak lunch hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during major sporting events; bar seating may open faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick counter service and open tables.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple tacos and burritos with grilled veggies, beans, and cheese options.
Vegan options: Limited but doable—request veggie tacos or burritos without cheese and crema.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most tacos are served on corn tortillas, and staff accommodate with clear labeling.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual meetups or shared taco runs than romantic first dates; the lively bar energy suits social hangs.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Underdogs operates on a walk-in basis. Arrive early for large groups or during televised games to secure a table.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes during daytime hours—high chairs available and menu items like quesadillas and fries appeal to kids; evenings skew louder and bar-focused.
Best For
Better for: Game-day vibes, efficient service, and consistent tacos with local energy; few Mexican spots in the Sunset match the sports bar crossover appeal.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, upscale cocktails, or refined regional Mexican cuisine—this is more about energy and comfort than fine dining.