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oChef » Taqueria El Farolito – San Francisco
Taqueria El Farolito - San Francisco
Photo from Taqueria El Farolito
Taqueria El Farolito at a glance
San Francisco Excelsior
- 🌮 Mexican Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $11–$20
mentioned by 75 of the guests
#1782 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#94 Mexican Restaurant out of 134 in San Francisco
Good
6.8 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
352
Reviews
63.6%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Exceptional food
- Attentive service
- Good value
Frequently criticized
- Inconsistent cleanliness
- Challenging parking
- Hidden charges
The restaurant Taqueria El Farolito is a vibrant Mexican Restaurant nestled in San Francisco’s Excelsior neighborhood. You will discover a casual dining spot where the warmth of a fireplace creates an inviting atmosphere.
This establishment is known for its authentic flavors and a menu that caters to various tastes, making it a local favorite for a quick bite or a relaxed meal.
Overview: Introducting Taqueria El Farolito
Taqueria El Farolito offers a straightforward dining experience, often celebrated for its robust food and generous portions, especially for those seeking a late-night meal. While it embraces a no-frills taqueria identity, some patrons find the ambience and cleanliness to be inconsistent, and parking can be a challenge.
Despite these points, the establishment maintains a reputation for providing solid value and generally attentive service. It’s a place where the focus remains squarely on the culinary offerings, making it a go-to for many seeking satisfying Mexican fare.
Good
6.8
out of 10
352
Reviews
63.6%
Satisfaction
102
negative
26
neutral
224
positive
Overall, Taqueria El Farolito earns a solid restaurant score of 6.8, positioning it as a generally good option, though customer satisfaction sits at a mixed 63.6%. This suggests that while many find the experience positive, a notable portion of diners have reservations.
These insights are drawn from 352 customer comments, with 224 positive remarks balancing against 102 negative ones. The Food (7.1) clearly stands out as the strongest aspect, frequently receiving high praise for its quality and flavor.
Service (6.9) also performs well, indicating that staff generally provide a good experience. However, Ambience (5.9) and Value (5.6) register as more average, suggesting areas where the experience might not consistently meet expectations.
What people like
- Exceptional food quality
- Attentive service
- Good value for money
What people don't like
- Inconsistent cleanliness
- Challenging parking
- Hidden charges
If you’re in search of substantial, flavorful Mexican food, particularly during late hours, Taqueria El Farolito is worth considering. With a recommendation score of 7, it’s a place that delivers on its core promise of satisfying meals, especially if you prioritize taste and portion size over a polished dining setting.
However, approach with an understanding that the ambience is functional rather than fancy, and be prepared for potential parking difficulties or minor service quirks. It’s a practical choice for a casual, hearty meal where the food is the main event.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Taqueria El Farolito
Food (7.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 99% of the guests
When it comes to the food, this spot generally hits the mark, earning a 7.1 score, which is pretty good! With 133 positive remarks out of 197 total, many rave about the delicious burritos and tacos, praising their authentic flavor and generous portions. Youll often hear about the food being made with love and consistently good quality.
However, its not all perfect, as customer satisfaction sits at a mixed 67.5%. There are 50 negative comments, with some concerns about the meat being dry or bland, and occasional issues with portion size. A few even mentioned serious food safety standards concerns, which is definitely something to consider.
Food
197
Reviews
67%
Satisfaction
50
negative
14
neutral
133
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Generous portions
- Authentic flavor
- Amazing burritos
What people don't like
- Bland flavor
- Inconsistent quality
- Food safety concerns
Often praised
- foodI had the best lengua and tripa tacos I've ever tasted in my life. The food quality was exceptional, a perfect 5 out of 5. While the line had a lot of 'weird people, ' it was absolutely worth the wait.
- burritosone of the best burritos I've ever had
- tacosI would never bring a friend on a diet here, as that's not what this place is for. It's a no-frills, greasy spoon type of Mexican Taqueria & late-night haunt serving comfort food like tacos & SF style burritos. Trust me, it tastes best in the wee hours after last call at the bar or as a pregame meal to help you last the night.
- salsa barThe salsa bar that came with the chips was great
- FoodFood:5
- GuadalajaraI much prefer Guadalajara across the street, both the people and the food.
- burritoI have ordered the same burrito at literally EVERY taqueria on Mission St. This is (and for the past 30 years has been) the best taqueria in SF.
- chipsTonight's take-out was my usual order, a carnitas (deep fried pork) super burrito for $12. 25 and chips for $0. 75.
- flavorI tried the Carne Asada Super Burrito, which cost about $13. It was huge and flavourful, and totally worth the price. They also have a good salsa bar.
- portionsGenerous portions so plan accordingly
Frequently criticized
- meatI ordered a super burrito of carne asada and was surprised by its very small size. There was a little bit of meat, no avocado, and only a little cheese. The salsas lacked any flavor.
- burritosif you order a burrito, they are stingy with the meat
- foodThe atmosphere was that of a regular, ordinary taqueria. There's nothing particularly bad to say about the place or the food, aside from the temperature issue and the fact that it was cold inside.
- tacosTres tacos que me comí me.dieron diarrea al instante
- FoodI was totally disappointed
- avocadoI ordered a super burrito of carne asada and was surprised by its very small size. There was a little bit of meat, no avocado, and only a little cheese. The salsas lacked any flavor.
- flavorI did not like the tacos. They lacked flavor. The tortilla was flat and the meat was not that tasty.
- LenguaOrdering Lengua is classified as extra meat
- avocado in quesadillaamount of avocado in the quesadilla was also meager
- black beansmy burritos had pinto beans in instead of black beans
If youre looking for generous portions and authentic Mexican flavors, especially in their burritos and tacos, its definitely worth a try. Just be aware that some experiences point to inconsistencies in quality and flavor, so manage your expectations.
Service (6.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 75% of the guests
When it comes to service, theres a lot to smile about! Many folks rave about the friendly and efficient staff, often praising the fast service and the convenience of being open late. With 53 positive remarks out of 79 total, it’s clear that many diners experience genuinely great service here, contributing to a solid score of 6.9.
However, its not always smooth sailing. A number of guests have faced challenges with unanswered phone orders and some less-than-stellar interactions with the cashier or other staff, leading to complaints about overall customer service and attitude. Issues with order correctness also pop up, contributing to a mixed customer satisfaction of 67.1%.
Service
79
Reviews
67%
Satisfaction
23
negative
3
neutral
53
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, efficient staff
- Fast service
- Open late hours
What people don't like
- Unanswered phone orders
- Poor staff attitude
- Incorrect order accuracy
Often praised
- serviceIn my opinion, they are the best in the bay, and nobody is messing with this location. I even took the Bart from east Oakland right before they closed, and they still took care of me. El Farolito has earned my respect!
- staffMost of the meats are pre-made and simply warmed up upon ordering. The staff are welcoming, well-trained, and understanding. For added comfort and safety, they even have a security officer present.
- ServiceService:5
- late hoursIt's also dirty inside. While it's the only place open really late and the food is cheap, I'm done with this place.
- open lateIts great because its open late
- waitwell worth the wait
- 1 a.m. serviceThey are just as good at 1 a.m. as they are at 1 p.m.
- attentionExcelente atención
- cashierAdditionally, the amount of avocado in my quesadilla was meager. On a positive note, the cashier was friendly and the price was affordable.
- chefSo, if you are going to order one, you need to do it in-person and it depends on your Spanish or the cashier. The chef did a great job with mine. It was seared, not too crispy or oily and had a great color.
Frequently criticized
- cookI noticed and told the cook that my burritos should have black beans. However, he ignored my words. When he was about to hand them to me, I reiterated that my burritos had pinto beans instead of black beans, and he told me it wasn't his problem and that I should speak with the cashier.
- customer serviceThat's really bad customer service
- serviceIf they would answer the phone to take your order, it would be the best service.
- staffThe staff ignored us and our questions pretending were not existing.
- ServiceService:2
- attitudeinsultingly obnoxious, you can tell their commitment to produce good food is just as bad as their attitude.
- cashierWhen he was about to hand them to me, I reiterated that my burritos had pinto beans instead of black beans, and he told me it wasn't his problem and that I should speak with the cashier. The cashier didn't resolve anything for me; he just said they were already made. On another note, I observed that they cook the meats 🍖 🤔 on the same part of the griddle, whether it's beef, chicken, carnitas, or al pastor.
- exchangeno podía cambiarlos
- managerThey also use the same spoon to serve the rice, beans, and who knows what else. When I asked for the manager, they laughed. Service was ignored, and food preparation was questionable.
- orderI love this food, but lately, my order has been wrong when I get home. This is so frustrating.
If youre looking for quick, in-person service, youll likely be pleased by the efficient staff. However, if you plan to call ahead or expect every interaction to be perfectly smooth, you might encounter some bumps in the road.
Ambience (5.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 48% of the guests
When it comes to the vibe, this spot is a bit of a mixed bag, landing an average score of 5.9 and a mixed customer satisfaction of 48.1%. Still, many appreciate its charm! Out of 52 total opinions, 25 positive remarks highlight an old-school taqueria feel, a fresh and clean salsa bar, and a secure place with security.
Its even noted as kid friendly and wheelchair accessible, offering a welcoming atmosphere. However, 19 negative comments point to some areas needing attention. Some find the cafeteria esthetic a bit flat, and there are concerns about cleanliness and the place being dirty inside.
The loud place with constant soccer games and the difficult to find parking' are also frequently mentioned drawbacks that can detract from the overall experience.
Ambience
52
Reviews
48%
Satisfaction
19
negative
8
neutral
25
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Secure environment
- Kid-friendly vibe
- Accessible entrance
What people don't like
- Loud atmosphere
- Cleanliness concerns
- Challenging parking
Often praised
- atmospherethe atmosphere is a perfect 5/5
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- ATMan ATM for your convenience
- busyIt was something that put a smile on my face. They are busy again by the way. During the height of the pandemic, I was the only customer in there doing to-go.
- fresh and cleanThe salsa bar is fresh and clean
- kid friendlyIt's certainly kid friendly.
- late hoursthey close at 3am on Thursdays
- music or sports tvmusic or sports tv
- no-frills taqueriaIt’s a no-frills taqueria
- old-school taqueriasold-school taquerias from my youth
Frequently criticized
- parkingIt's a difficult area to park due to heavy traffic.
- parking spaceParking space:Somewhat difficult to find parking
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:2
- aspectque Mal aspecto para El farolito
- atmosphereThe atmosphere was somehow flat no energy
- cafeteria estheticThe place has a cafeteria esthetic.
- cleanlinessit’s dirty inside
- kitchenpienso que hay algo que está sucio en la cocina
- musiccon la musica que tienen tocando
- placePretty loud place
If youre looking for a no-frills, secure spot with an old-school vibe and dont mind a bit of noise or a parking hunt, this place could be for you. But if a pristine, quiet, and easily accessible ambience is your top priority, you might find it a bit challenging.
Value (5.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 26% of the guests
Based on 24 total opinions, the value here presents a mixed bag, reflected in an average 5.6 score and 54.2% customer satisfaction. Many diners appreciate the affordable and reasonable prices, often highlighting the bang for your buck and pricing for the portion. With 13 positive opinions, guests frequently find the food to be good and affordable, making it a solid choice for a filling meal.
However, the value proposition isn't without its challenges, as seen in 10 negative opinions. Some customers are frustrated by extra charges for things like chips or a bag to go, feeling that Free Chips should be standard. Others note higher prices compared to similar spots or mention hidden taxes, which can make the overall cost feel less appealing.
Value
24
Reviews
54%
Satisfaction
10
negative
1
neutral
13
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Affordable prices
- Good value
- Generous portions
What people don't like
- Extra charges
- Higher prices
- Hidden taxes
Often praised
- pricethe price affordable
- pricesThe prices are very moderate.
- Price per personPrice per person:$10–20
- affordablegood and affordable
- bang for your buckGreat bang for your buck too
- cheap filling Mexican foodmy go to spot for cheap filling Mexican food
- food priceIt's also dirty inside. While it's the only place open really late and the food is cheap, I'm done with this place.
- price per personprice per person between $10–20
- pricing for the portionappreciate the pricing for the portion
Frequently criticized
- Free ChipsEvery taqueria I have been to, they always give you Free Chips
- bag of chipsthey charge .75 cents for a bag of chips.
- bag to goCharge #3 Bag to Go
- burrito for take outpay $15.39 for a mediocre burrito for take out
- chipscharge you extra for chips
- hidden taxesTax on all the hidden taxes
- moneyno me devolvió mi dinero
- pricethe price more expensive
- price of lenguaprice of lengua has gone up post COVID
- pricesMy experience at this restaurant was similar to other locations of the chain, with good food. However, I noticed that everything is priced $1 or $2 more than at the Mission spots. Additionally, they don't have the same menu; for instance, they were unfamiliar with the 'Boss's Burrito' 🌯, which I then had to explain how they make it on 24th & Alabama.
If you're looking for an affordable and filling meal, this place generally delivers good value. Just be mindful of potential extra charges for common items like chips or bags, as these can add up and might make the overall price feel less competitive.
How are the prices at Taqueria El Farolito?
You’re looking at roughly 18 per person – reported by 75 diners. That puts it in the $11–$20 category. For a Mexican Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Looking at what people actually spend, most guests are right in that sweet spot, with prices clustering heavily around the average. It’s clear what to expect!
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 75 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value for money stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
Overall, we think the pricing feels pretty fair for a Mexican spot in San Francisco. It offers a solid mid-range experience without breaking the bank, which is always a win!
Customer Reviews: what people think about Taqueria El Farolito
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
9
Authentic Mexican Gem in the Excelsior
My experience at this authentic, tasty Mexican restaurant in San Francisco's Excelsior neighborhood was fantastic. The service was both friendly and quick, contributing to a very positive overall visit.
- Mexican restaurant9
- service9
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
8
Great Food, Service Needs Improvement
My experience at this restaurant was primarily focused on the food, which I found to be very tasty. I've tried all the dishes they offer and would particularly recommend the Alambres dish with grilled meat and shrimp. However, the service could be better; if they would answer the phone to take your order, it would significantly improve the overall experience.
- food9
- Alambres dish9
- service4
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Group Type
- Solo Dinner
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
9
Delicious, Fast, and Affordable Eats!
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The food, while not the most visually appealing in the photo, was incredibly delicious, fast, and good. It's also very affordable.
I highly recommend the 75cents chips, which I loaded with sauce and sides. Be sure to order an entree alongside; you won't be disappointed! The food was great, and the service was equally great.
- food9
- chips9
- sauce and sides8
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
Noise Level
- Moderate
9
Reliable Quick Bites & Welcoming Staff
I've visited this restaurant many times, usually when I was hungry and needed a quick bite. It's a typical Mexican spot where you order at the counter and the food is brought to your table. Their menu offers a variety of options including tacos, burritos, plates, and soups.
Most of the meats are pre-made and simply warmed up upon ordering. The staff are welcoming, well-trained, and understanding. For added comfort and safety, they even have a security officer present.
This place is great for late-night munchies and when you want something easy. I highly recommend it to anyone on a limited time, looking for a quick meal, or if you're in the area and unsure where to eat. I might return in the future to try their other offerings.
- quick bite8
- order at the counter6
- staff9
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Moderate
2
Disappointing Burrito and Soupy Nachos
I'm usually not one to complain, but I feel compelled to share my experience at El Farolito, albeit with a heavy heart. Having grown up in the Mission, I know a good burrito, and El Farolito used to be a go-to for me in the Excelsior. It's been a long time since my last visit, and I was thoroughly disappointed.
My burrito was dry and lacked flavor. My friend's nachos were soupy, and the guacamole looked like 🤮. I'm sorry, but it's the truth.
- Service5
- burrito2
- nachos2
- guacamole1
What Taqueria El Farolito offers
Planning
- Reservations required
Crowd
- Tourists
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Kids' menu
- Good for kids
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Salad bar
- Organic dishes
- Quick bite
Dining options
- Seating
- Dessert
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
Parking
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Casual
FAQs
What kind of dining experience can you expect at Taqueria El Farolito in San Francisco?
At Taqueria El Farolito, you can enjoy a casual Mexican dining experience in the Excelsior neighborhood. The restaurant offers a salad bar, organic dishes, and is perfect for a quick bite. You can choose between outdoor seating or dine-in, with comfortable seating available for your meal or dessert.
Is Taqueria El Farolito suitable for families, and what are the payment and planning options?
Yes, Taqueria El Farolito is good for kids and offers a dedicated kids’ menu, making it a family-friendly choice. For your convenience, the restaurant accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments. Please note that reservations are required for dining, and paid street parking is available nearby.
How does Taqueria El Farolito generally rate?
Taqueria El Farolito holds a restaurant score of **6.8**, indicating a generally good experience. Its strongest aspects are **Food** (7.1) and **Service** (6.9), while **Ambience** (5.9) and **Value** (5.6) are considered more moderate.
What are the standout dishes or features at Taqueria El Farolito?
Customers frequently praise the **burritos** and **tacos** for their **flavor** and generous **portions**. The **salsa bar** is also a highlight, and the restaurant is noted for its convenient **late hours**.
Are there any common concerns visitors should be aware of?
Some patrons note issues with **cleanliness** and the overall **atmosphere**, as well as difficulties with **parking**. There are also occasional comments about extra **charges** for items like chips or bags.