Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
oChef » El Burrito Express – San Francisco
El Burrito Express - San Francisco
Photo from El Burrito Express
El Burrito Express at a glance
San Francisco Parkside
- 🌮 Mexican Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $11–$20
mentioned by 58 of the guests
#1921 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#106 Mexican Restaurant out of 134 in San Francisco
Good
6.6 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
326
Reviews
61%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Delicious burritos
- Affordable prices
- Fast service
Frequently criticized
- Inconsistent service
- Parking challenges
- No restroom
The Mexican restaurant El Burrito Express in San Francisco’s Parkside neighborhood offers you a perfect spot for a quick bite. You’ll find a casual atmosphere where you can enjoy authentic flavors.
Whether you’re grabbing lunch on the go or settling in for dinner, this local favorite provides a welcoming experience. It’s known for its efficient service and delicious, fresh Mexican cuisine, making it a convenient choice for any meal.
Overview: Introducting El Burrito Express
El Burrito Express offers a straightforward experience for those seeking satisfying Mexican fare. Many patrons consistently praise the delicious burritos and the generally affordable prices, making it a popular choice for a quick meal.
However, some recent feedback points to occasional issues with service and order accuracy, suggesting a need for more consistency. This establishment is often described as a classic local spot, appreciated for its unpretentious atmosphere and generous portions.
While the food remains a draw, visitors should manage expectations regarding the overall dining experience, which can sometimes be a mixed bag.
Good
6.6
out of 10
326
Reviews
61%
Satisfaction
99
negative
28
neutral
199
positive
El Burrito Express garners an overall restaurant score of 6.6 out of 10, placing it in the average category. Customer satisfaction stands at 61%, indicating a mixed reception among diners.
This assessment is drawn from 326 customer observations, comprising 199 positive remarks and 99 negative comments. The Food is a clear strength, scoring well (7.2) and being the most discussed aspect.
Both Service (5.5) and Value (5.6) are perceived as average, with opinions varying. The Ambience (5.9) also falls into the average range, often noted for its casual, no-frills character, but sometimes for practical challenges.
What people like
- Delicious burritos
- Affordable prices
- Fast service
What people don't like
- Inconsistent service
- Parking challenges
- No public restroom
El Burrito Express is a practical choice if you’re after a quick, filling meal without breaking the bank. While the food generally hits the mark, be prepared for potentially average service and a no-frills atmosphere that might not suit everyone.
With a recommendation score of 6.9, it’s a place worth considering for its core offerings, especially if you prioritize taste and value over a polished dining experience. It’s a solid option for a casual takeout.
Similar Restaurants in San Francisco
- Mexican Restaurant
9.3
out of 10
out of 10
689
97.5%
- $$
- Bernal Heights
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Mexican Restaurant
8.9
out of 10
out of 10
292
90.8%
- $$
- Lower Nob Hill
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Mexican Restaurant
8.9
out of 10
out of 10
306
93.1%
- $$
- Mission District
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Mexican Restaurant
8.9
out of 10
out of 10
68
98.5%
- $$
- Silver Terrace
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Mexican Restaurant
8.8
out of 10
out of 10
99
90.9%
- $$
- Mission District
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Mexican Restaurant
8.7
out of 10
out of 10
115
84.3%
- $$
- South of Market
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
Verdict: Our expert take on El Burrito Express
Food (7.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 90% of the guests
When it comes to the food, youre looking at a pretty solid experience! With a score of 7.2 and customer satisfaction at 72.4%, the general consensus is good. Many rave about the delicious burritos, especially the carne asada, and appreciate the generous portions and authentic Mexican food, based on 144 positive remarks out of 199 total opinions.
However, its not always perfect. About 46 opinions mention issues like bland flavor, inconsistent meat quality, or food sometimes arriving cold. While many find the food tasty, some experiences point to a lack of flavor in certain dishes or concerns about ingredients, suggesting there can be some hit-or-miss moments.
Food
199
Reviews
72%
Satisfaction
46
negative
9
neutral
144
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious burritos
- Huge portions
- Authentic Mexican food
What people don't like
- Bland flavor
- Poor meat quality
- Food served cold
Often praised
- foodExcellent food, just the same as many years ago
- burritosThey are very good indeed 😊. Even though we live over 60 miles away, my kids always ask me to get them a burrito on my way back home. It's worth the drive on any day.
- burritoMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I had the BEST burrito on the West Side of the city, specifically the spicy chicken El Bronco, which was a perfect order. I also loved the salsas and the CHIPS were OUT OF THIS WORLD!
- Mexican foodMy experience at this neighborhood staple was positive. The restaurant offers good quality Mexican food with fast service. They have a wide range of options including burritos, tacos, plates, salads, and sodas, with vegetarian options available.
- carne asadaI got the El NorCal burrito and a chicken quesadilla, which came with two chips and two salsas. I really liked the NorCal burrito as the carne asada was very juicy. Though I could have used more guacamole, half of the burrito was a meal for me.
- carnitasMy burrito was delicious. The chunks of carnitas were big and flavorful, and I loved the amount of cheese they added. It's not a mission burrito, but it's perfect to have in the neighborhood.
- El NorCal burritoEl NorCal burrito is the one.
- FoodFood:5
- NorCal burritoI always get the NorCal and green salsa. It's solid every time
- portion sizedefinitely big enough to fill you up
Frequently criticized
- burritoI asked for an el norcal, but I received a burrito with only rice and fried beans. This was not what I expected.
- burritosone of the worst burritos I've ever had
- flavorThe burrito I ordered was far from fresh—the meat tasted like it was leftover from the day before. It was dry and lacked any real flavor. The clerk also didn’t seem to like her job; she looked grumpy and unwelcoming.
- foodfood has gone way downhill
- meatI was really disappointed with my visit. The burrito I ordered was far from fresh—the meat tasted like it was leftover from the day before. It was dry and lacked any real flavor.
- American cheeseAmerican cheese did not go well with it
- Bronco burritoordered a Bronco burrito and zero flavor
- Expresso sauceI'm a fan of the NorCal burrito, though I prefer it without the "Expresso" sauce. It's a huge portion and comes with chips and salsa.
- Mexican fooddoes not resemble Mexican food
- Nachos Grandedoes not live up to its name
If you're craving hearty, authentic Mexican food with huge portions, this spot is definitely worth a try, especially for their burritos. Just be aware that some experiences mention inconsistencies in flavor or quality, so manage your expectations for every single dish.
Service (5.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 52% of the guests
Based on 32 positive remarks out of 68 total, many customers praise the friendly staff and fast, quick service, especially for pickup and online orders where you can often skip the line. People appreciate the efficient and welcoming team, making for a smooth experience. However, with 31 negative comments, there's a noticeable downside.
Some patrons report long waiting times, disorganized orders, and issues with wrong orders or pickup fulfillment. The cashier and other staff have occasionally been described as rude or unfriendly, leading to a mixed bag. The service scores an average 5.5 with a mixed 47.1% customer satisfaction.
Service
68
Reviews
47%
Satisfaction
31
negative
5
neutral
32
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly staff
- Fast service
- Quick pickup
What people don't like
- Rude staff
- Long waiting times
- Wrong orders
Often praised
- serviceMy experience at this neighborhood staple was positive. The restaurant offers good quality Mexican food with fast service. They have a wide range of options including burritos, tacos, plates, salads, and sodas, with vegetarian options available.
- staffI also loved the salsas and the CHIPS were OUT OF THIS WORLD! This spot is a neighborhood favorite, and the staff is always amazingly friendly! If you’re on the fence, you MUST try it!
- ServiceService:5
- Friendly staffFriendly staff
- La Playa TaqueriaLa Playa is $3 cheaper with more ingredients... friendly and smiling
- StaffStaff work hard and are friendly.
- call aheadcall ahead you can get what you want ready
- fastCheap, fast, good, filling burrito
- foodyour food will be served quickly
- friendly efficient serviceFriendly efficient service
Frequently criticized
- serviceThe service received a score of 1
- staffThe staff were friendly, and the food was good and affordable. Now, after living in Mexico for 2 years and returning, it's disappointing that they are not friendly, seem disorganized with orders, and the food doesn't taste as good, often missing ingredients. Additionally, the menu doesn't reflect the correct prices for some items, but does for others.
- cashierthe cashier was rude
- waiting timelines and waiting is sometimes a bit long
- app ordernot app... if line is busy don't place an order
- clerkIt was dry and lacked any real flavor. The clerk also didn’t seem to like her job; she looked grumpy and unwelcoming. To make matters worse, there's no public restroom available, which was very inconvenient.
- cookthe so called cook used her hand to dig those food
- fulfillment timeI really don’t understand how the order after mine, and a large order of that, gets his order before mine. I ordered a simple quesadilla, a simple breakfast quesadilla, and a simple baby burrito, which would’ve taken a fraction of the time for fulfillment.
- mental agilityno mental agility for that position
- orderEven then, I felt ignored until I raised my voice. To make matters worse, there was a dispute about the order and what should have been put on my plate.
If you're looking for quick service and a friendly face, especially for pickup, you might have a great experience. However, be prepared for potential disorganization or longer waits, as service quality seems to vary.
Ambience (5.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 35% of the guests
While the ambience score sits at an average 5.9, customer satisfaction is a rather poor 33.3%, suggesting a mixed bag for many. However, based on 13 positive remarks out of 39 total, some patrons truly appreciate the hole in the wall charm and neighborhood vibe, especially being close to the ocean and finding parking surprisingly easy at times. On the flip side, 13 negative comments highlight significant drawbacks.
Many found the seating and waiting area to be small, with a general lack of indoor seating. The space can feel crowded inside and loud, making parking a consistent challenge for others.
Ambience
39
Reviews
33%
Satisfaction
13
negative
13
neutral
13
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Hole in the wall charm
- Neighborhood vibe
- Close to ocean
What people don't like
- Limited indoor seating
- Challenging parking
- Crowded and loud
Often praised
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- atmosphereatmosphere:5
- hole in the wallperfect hole in the wall type of place
- parkingPlenty of parking
- Sunset favoriteDefinitely a Sunset favorite!
- close to my houseThe food is good, and it's reasonably priced. Plus, it's close to my house.
- close to the oceanbest of all close to the ocean
- neighborhood vibeMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I had amazing delicious burritos that were complemented by a wonderful neighborhood vibe. The staff was incredibly friendly.
- placeGreat place to get something to go!
Frequently criticized
- ParkingParking is tough, but circle enough and you can find a space.
- Parking spaceSomewhat difficult to find parking
- crowded insideMy experience at the restaurant was stupendous, aside from it being a little crowded inside. The food was great, the services were good, and my food was served quickly.
- hearHard to hear.
- indoor seatingAs a nice bonus, they came with a little bag of chips. The atmosphere is primarily to-go focused, with not much indoor seating available.
- parkingSomewhat difficult to find parking
- parking spaceSomewhat difficult to find parking
- parking spacesparking spaces close by is a bit limited
- placeits not healthy
- public restroomThe clerk also didn’t seem to like her job; she looked grumpy and unwelcoming. To make matters worse, there's no public restroom available, which was very inconvenient. I expected much better.
If youre looking for a charming, local spot for takeout with a true hole in the wall feel, youll likely appreciate the vibe. However, if dining in with ample space, quiet, and easy parking is a priority, you might find this place a bit challenging.
Value (5.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 23% of the guests
When it comes to value, many customers appreciate finding consistently delicious food at affordable prices, often described as reasonably priced or even cheap. Theres a strong sentiment that you get great value for your money, making it a worthwhile stop for some. These 10 positive remarks highlight the appeal of their pricing.
However, the value proposition isnt universally loved. With a score of 5.6, indicating an average performance, and customer satisfaction at 50%, suggesting a mixed bag, some find the experience less than ideal. Several customers felt the food was overpriced garbage, with high prices for items, especially takeout, and even a debit card charge.
These 9 negative comments point to a pricey side that can disappoint.
Value
20
Reviews
50%
Satisfaction
9
negative
1
neutral
10
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Affordable prices
- Great value
What people don't like
- Overpriced items
- Debit card charge
- Inaccurate menu prices
Often praised
- priceVery reasonable price
- pricesI had the best authentic Mexican food I've had yet. The prices are reasonable, and best of all, it's close to the ocean. I opted for takeout for lunch, and the price per person was between $10–20.
- affordable pricesThis is a true hole in the wall with consistently delicious food served at affordable prices. The menu offers a great variety with lots of choices.
- cheapCheap, fast, good, filling burrito
- driveWorth the drive on any day
- great valuefor the price it has great value.
- reasonably pricedThis is my go-to burrito place. The food is good, and it's reasonably priced. Plus, it's close to my house.
- valuegreat value
Frequently criticized
- menu pricesNow, after living in Mexico for 2 years and returning, it's disappointing that they are not friendly, seem disorganized with orders, and the food doesn't taste as good, often missing ingredients. Additionally, the menu doesn't reflect the correct prices for some items, but does for others. The cheese burrito is listed as $7.
- pricesmuch more affordable. Now, it's $50 for 2 burritos
- debit card chargethey would chat large you $2.50 if you pay with debit card
- overpriced garbageoverpriced garbage.
- pricethe price was also astronomical for the quality
- pricey sidebut a little on the pricey side
- take outMy experience at the restaurant was centered around a take-out order of nachos. I found the price to be quite expensive for take out, costing almost $17 for the nachos. Despite being called 'Nachos Grande, ' they unfortunately did not live up to its name in terms of portion size or overall value.
If you're after generally affordable prices and great value, this place might be worth a try. However, be cautious, as some find certain items or takeout to be quite pricey, and watch out for potential extra charges.
How are the prices at El Burrito Express?
You’re looking at roughly 17 $ per person – reported by 58 diners. That puts it in the $11–$20 category. For a Mexican Restaurant in San Francisco, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Most guests spend within this $11–$20 range, showing a clear focus around the average, with only a few venturing into much cheaper or more premium options.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 58 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value for money compares to similar spots in San Francisco.
Overall, we think the pricing feels quite fair for a Mexican spot in San Francisco. It offers good value without breaking the bank, making it accessible for many.
Customer Reviews: what people think about El Burrito Express
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Takeout
Meal Type
- Breakfast
Wait Time
- Long (31+ min.)
3
Confusing Order Fulfillment
I understand, but sometimes restaurants put out orders after mine. I really don’t understand how the order after mine, and a large order of that, gets his order before mine. I ordered a simple quesadilla, a simple breakfast quesadilla, and a simple baby burrito, which would’ve taken a fraction of the time for fulfillment.
- simple quesadilla5
- breakfast quesadilla5
- baby burrito5
- order fulfillment2
- fulfillment time3
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
9
Nostalgic Burritos and Horchata
I used to live around the corner, and those wet burritos were basically all I ate in grad school. I'm so happy this place still exists. The horchata was always so good, too.
- wet burritos9
- horchata9
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Takeout
10
Amazing Mexican Food, Must Try!
I have been coming to this restaurant and ordering from them for a while now. Every time I get my order, it's amazing. Over time, I've tried many items on the menu.
My favorites are the tortas, which are always packed and full of flavor. For burritos, 'el Ohana' is truly one of a kind and delicious. It features pineapple, carnitas, mango salsa, and other favorites, making it a burrito definitely worth trying.
The two taco meal is also really good. I'm usually skeptical of hardshell tacos, but these are so good and simple in their toppings. I particularly enjoy the chorizo and ground beef options.
Overall, it's good Mexican food.
- tortas10
- el Ohana burrito10
- two taco meal9
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Dine-in
2
Carnitas Burrito Was Tasteless
I haven’t eaten here in a while, and unfortunately, the food has gone way downhill. I had a carnitas super burrito, which was one of the most tasteless burritos I’ve eaten. It was edible but really bland and nothing special compared to others I’ve tried.
Perhaps it was an off day?
- food2
- carnitas super burrito1
- bland2
Service Type
- Dine-in
1
Rude Staff, Unhealthy Environment
I would never recommend this place to anyone due to a white-haired woman who was incredibly rude and disrespectful to everyone visiting the restaurant. Please be aware of this place; it is not healthy.
- white hair women1
- place1
What El Burrito Express offers
Crowd
- College students
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Quick bite
- Beer
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Dinner
- Catering
- Lunch
- Breakfast
Service Options
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Delivery
Parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Casual
FAQs
What service options does El Burrito Express offer?
El Burrito Express provides flexible service options to suit your needs. You can enjoy a meal inside with their dine-in service, pick up your order for takeout, or have your favorite Mexican dishes delivered directly to you. It’s all about convenience for you.
Is El Burrito Express a good place for families?
Absolutely! El Burrito Express is known for being good for kids, making it an excellent choice for families. You’ll find a welcoming and casual environment where everyone can enjoy a delicious Mexican meal together, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for all.
What is the overall customer sentiment for El Burrito Express?
El Burrito Express has an overall restaurant score of 6.6 out of 10, with customer satisfaction at 61%. While the Food (7.2) is a strong point, Service (5.5), Value (5.6), and Ambience (5.9) are perceived as average.
What do customers appreciate most about El Burrito Express?
Customers frequently praise the delicious burritos, noting the generous portions and flavorful ingredients. Many also highlight the affordable prices and the speed of service, making it a convenient option for a quick meal.
Are there any common issues customers experience at El Burrito Express?
Some customers have reported inconsistent service, including unfriendliness or disorganization. Parking can also be a challenge, and the lack of a public restroom has been noted as an inconvenience.