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oChef » Mestiza – San Francisco
Mestiza - San Francisco
Photo from Mestiza
Mestiza at a glance
San Francisco Mission Bay
- 🥢 Fusion Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $31–$40
mentioned by 25 of the guests
#922 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#7 Fusion Restaurant out of 14 in San Francisco
Good
7.7 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
358
Reviews
79.6%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Outdoor patio
- Great service
- Good food
Frequently criticized
- Kitchen delays
- Unclear hours
- Minor annoyances
The restaurant Mestiza, a vibrant Fusion Restaurant in San Francisco’s lively Mission Bay, invites you to explore a world of innovative flavors. You’ll find a menu rich with organic dishes and small plates, perfect for those seeking fresh, high-quality ingredients.
This trendy spot offers a casual atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for a quick bite or a relaxed meal with friends, complete with cocktails and wine.
Overview: Introducting Mestiza
Mestiza offers a generally welcoming experience, particularly noted for its charming outdoor setting. Guests often praise the pleasant vibe and the inviting outdoor patio , making it a comfortable spot to dine.
However, some minor issues like occasional mosquitoes or sticky tables have been mentioned. The culinary offerings are frequently described as flavorful and varied, with many appreciating the diverse menu.
The service is often highlighted for its attentiveness, though a few patrons have experienced kitchen delays or confusion regarding the opening status .
Good
7.7
out of 10
358
Reviews
79.6%
Satisfaction
58
negative
15
neutral
285
positive
Mestiza achieves a solid 7.7 overall, indicating a good dining experience, with customer satisfaction standing at a strong 79.6% . This positive sentiment is well-supported by 285 positive remarks against 58 negative ones, out of 358 total comments.
The Ambience (7.9) and Service (7.9) both score particularly well, significantly contributing to the positive perception. The Food (7.6) is also highly regarded for its quality and variety, while Value (6.6) is seen as average, with some finding it reasonable, especially for family meals.
What people like
- Charming outdoor patio
- Attentive, friendly service
- Flavorful, varied food
What people don't like
- Occasional kitchen delays
- Unclear opening hours
- Minor ambience issues
Mestiza presents a generally positive dining option, particularly if you appreciate a pleasant outdoor setting and attentive staff. With a Recommendation Score of 7.9 , it’s a place worth considering for a relaxed meal.
However, be mindful of potential service inconsistencies or unclear operating hours. If you prioritize a charming atmosphere and well-regarded food, Mestiza could be a good fit, but it’s wise to check their current schedule beforehand.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Mestiza
Food (7.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 97% of the guests
The food here generally hits the mark, earning a good score of 7.6 and a good customer satisfaction rating of 78.3%. Many diners raved about delicious options like the mushroom tofu sisig, spicy plum salad, and chicken skewers, appreciating the generous vegetarian options available. This positive sentiment is reflected in 166 positive remarks.
However, some experiences werent as stellar, with 37 negative comments pointing to an inconsistency of dishes. Concerns arose about food not always being fresh, particularly with raw beans and some dishes being overly salty. It seems theres room for improvement in maintaining quality across the board.
Food
212
Reviews
78%
Satisfaction
37
negative
9
neutral
166
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious fusion dishes
- Generous portions
- Great vegetarian options
What people don't like
- Inconsistent dish quality
- Food not fresh
- Overly salty dishes
Often praised
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic. It's a great neighborhood gem offering healthy, interesting, and delicious food. The service was good, and they also have a nice patio for when the weather is pleasant.
- pork adobopork adobo and shrimp gambas, which came with rice, and everything was delicious
- Filipino foodMy experience at the restaurant was quite positive. They offer a pretty good selection of both Mexican and Filipino food, which is a nice variety. The drinks were also pretty good.
- lechon biteslechon bites to start, and they were super tender and flavorful
- lumpiaMost of the menu items are vegetarian, which is fantastic! While they do have meat dishes, like the tasty lechon bites, you won't miss them with their vegetarian versions of lumpia and sisig. The entrance is small and easy to miss, sandwiched between two other closed storefronts and District.
- mushroom sisigThe ingredients are incredibly fresh, and anything featuring fruit is superb. The mushroom sisig is also very yummy. The seating area is a back patio, which is really cute.
- portionsThe food was quite tasty - nothing too strong or overpowering. They also gave out generous portions. The service was also good.
- veggie pancitAs a group of 4, we had a fantastic experience at the restaurant. We ordered the Malaait meal with plum slaw, the veggie pancit, two pork adobos, lumpia, miso bok choy, and an additional side of rice. The portions were generous, and it was enough for all of us.
- Kamayan dinnerCome to Mestiza for the Kamayan dinner, you won’t be disappointed!
- LumpiaLumpia was all great!
Frequently criticized
- foodThe food was below average. Lukewarm, not fresh
- chicken skewersthe chicken tasted like it had been cooked hours ago and finished quickly on the grill. It was bitter and chewy
- green beansUnfortunately, the chicken tasted like it had been cooked hours ago and was finished quickly on the grill, resulting in a bitter and chewy texture. The shrimp dishes we both ended up ordering did not taste fresh, and the green beans were not cooked. We understand that holidays can be challenging for produce orders, but I truly believe the restaurant, at least the kitchen, should probably not have opened today.
- Carne Asada tacowould not reccomend the carne asada: it was quite bland
- Garlic RiceMaybe pico de gallo and guacamole would work better. For me, the Garlic Rice wasn’t garlicky enough; the flavor was too subtle. I didn’t realize that the lumpia already comes with a little bit of achara, so I guess I didn’t need to order the side.
- Lechon KawaliLechon Kawali, I think it was lacking in some fundamentals. The cut of the pork belly was thin and had pretty much 0 meat, just fat.
- Lechon Kawali saucevery acidic sauce of soy and vinegar
- Philippine foodnot real Philippine food
- adoboThe ambiance is super inviting, and it’s a great place to chill. I tried the adobo, and while the flavors were rich and vinegary (as it should be), it leaned a little too salty for me. Their menu leans plant-forward with Filipino and Pacific Rim-inspired flavors, so there’s a lot of unique stuff to explore.
- beef tenderloinwe ordered the beef tenderloin instead, which ended up being out as well
If you're looking for creative fusion dishes with plenty of vegetarian choices and generous portions, this spot is worth a try. Just be aware that some guests have noted inconsistencies in dish quality and freshness, so your experience might vary.
Service (7.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 71% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot generally hits the mark, boasting a solid score of 7.9 and a customer satisfaction rate of 81.3%, both indicating a good experience. Based on 52 positive remarks out of 64 total, guests frequently praise the attentive staff, excellent service, and how well they accommodated their party. Many appreciated quick seating, personalized touches like the chef delivered the food and explained dishes, and the overall friendly demeanor of the team.
However, its not without its hiccups, with 11 negative comments pointing to some areas for improvement. Some patrons encountered issues with unreliable hours and posted information not being clear, leading to confusion about opening status. There were also instances of kitchen delays and orders being wrong, occasionally giving someone elses meal, which can certainly be a bummer.
Service
64
Reviews
81%
Satisfaction
11
negative
1
neutral
52
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Attentive, friendly staff
- Excellent, quick service
- Accommodating to parties
What people don't like
- Unreliable opening hours
- Kitchen delays
- Incorrect orders
Often praised
- serviceThey also gave out generous portions. The service was also good. There’s only one server and though it seems overwhelming, she still gave great service.
- staffThe staff was great sharing their suggestions
- serverOur server was attentive and non intrusive
- ServiceService was top notch.
- waitressThe waitress were nice though
- Amazing serviceThe Pulled Pork Adobo is succulent and comforting. Amazing service and beautiful cozy patio in the back to enjoy a wonderful meal. 💕
- Rogerspecial mention to Roger who lit up the place with his personality
- ServerServer was friendly and helpful
- accommodated our partyThey accommodated our party of 7 (with all our dietary restrictions)
- attentive staffhaving such an attentive staff
Frequently criticized
- hoursI was unsure if the restaurant was open when I arrived around 6: 30 PM on a Tuesday. It appeared closed, and I questioned if I was at the correct location.
- ServiceService was spotty when I went
- cashierCashier made a "note" to let them know to add the ingredients but still, nothing
- kitchen delaysHuge kitchen delays
- opening statusI was unsure if the restaurant was open when I arrived around 6: 30 PM on a Tuesday. It appeared closed, and I questioned if I was at the correct location. Upon further investigation, I discovered that the restaurant is currently only open Thursday through Saturday.
- order wronggetting the order wrong
- posted informationUpon further investigation, I discovered that the restaurant is currently only open Thursday through Saturday. This information was not posted anywhere, including on Google Maps. They also mentioned that their hours might change again soon, so visiting on a weekend is the safest bet.
- serviceservice has gone sharply downhill
- someone else's ordergiving me someone else's order
- waiting in the kitchenwaiting in the kitchen part
Overall, the service here is a strong point, with staff often going the extra mile to make your visit pleasant. While there are occasional snags with kitchen timing or unclear hours, you can generally expect a friendly and attentive experience, making it worth a try.
Ambience (7.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 68% of the guests
The ambience here is a real charmer! With a strong score of 7.9 and an impressive 84.9% customer satisfaction, it's clear guests adore the setting. Many of the 62 positive remarks highlight the beautiful back patio, inviting outdoor seating, and the overall cozy, intimate vibe, often made perfect with heaters and blankets for comfort.
However, a few minor points came up in the 8 negative comments. Some guests noted sticky tables or mentioned it could get a bit cold outside, despite the heaters. Mosquitoes were also a concern for some, and finding parking can be a bit of a challenge, along with a slightly unusual entrance.
Ambience
73
Reviews
84%
Satisfaction
8
negative
3
neutral
62
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Charming outdoor patio
- Cozy intimate vibe
- Comfortable heated seating
What people don't like
- Mosquitoes present
- Sticky tables
- Parking difficulties
Often praised
- atmosphereAtmosphere is wonderful; it's a small outdoor patio in a cozy warm space
- heatersI can picture having family gatherings here. Love the heaters! The only thing I did not like is that there are mosquitoes.
- outdoor patioespecially the outdoor patio—it’s perfect for hanging out
- patioThey have a nice patio when the weather is nice too
- outdoor spaceBeautiful outdoor space - well cared for plants and mural.
- placeHowever, venturing to the back revealed an amazing experience! I'm surprised there wasn't a line because this place is fantastic. The service was friendly, and the atmosphere/vibe was incredibly welcoming, truly feeling like "home.
- vibeWe finally checked out Mestiza since we live right across the street, and it was awesome! They only have outdoor seating, but they’ve made it super cute with lots of plants, wall art, and string lights—really nice vibe. We got the lechon bites to start, and they were super tender and flavorful.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:4
- DJ playingDJ playing on Friday nights
- Great locationGreat location!
Frequently criticized
- parkingno parking lot, pay the meter for the 3 dollar
- cold outsideA bit cold outside on the patio
- entranceit’s a very odd entrance
- front of houseFront of house is a bit messy feeling
- mosquitoesLove the heaters! The only thing I did not like is that there are mosquitoes. Since there are plants, it might be a good idea to plant citronella or anything that will get rid of the mosquitoes.
- sticky tablesOne thing I couldn't ignore: The tables were sticky
- tablesThe tables are small
If youre looking for a charming, cozy outdoor spot with a great vibe, this place is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared for potential parking challenges and maybe bring some bug spray if youre prone to mosquito bites!
Value (6.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 13% of the guests
When it comes to value, many customers found things to love, with 5 positive remarks out of 9 total. Folks often praised the reasonable prices and how its not too expensive, especially when considering family meals or sharing. The overall score for value sits at an average 6.6, suggesting a decent experience for many.
However, not everyone was thrilled, with 2 negative comments pointing to a high price for what they received. Some felt it was no longer worth the high price due to other issues, or that a burrito was the most theyd spent. This contributes to a mixed customer satisfaction of 55.6%, indicating some room for improvement.
Value
9
Reviews
55%
Satisfaction
2
negative
2
neutral
5
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Reasonable family meals
- Well-priced tacos
What people don't like
- High price for some
Often praised
- pricevery reasonably priced for SF if you get one of the family meals
- family mealsvery reasonably priced for SF if you get one of the family meals
- not too expensiveNot too expensive if you all share too
- reasonable pricesMy experience at the restaurant was very positive. I was impressed with the nice flavor and presentation of the food, and the reasonable prices made it even better. Although I didn't try the drinks this time, I am definitely planning to come back for sure!
Frequently criticized
- high priceI encountered huge kitchen delays, the staff got my order wrong, and at one point, I was given someone else's order. Given these issues, it's no longer worth the high price.
- priceAt $14 I'd have to say this is probably the most I've spent on a burrito
If youre looking for a good deal, especially with family meals or sharing, this spot can offer reasonable prices. However, be mindful that some items might feel a bit pricey for what you get. Its a mixed bag, so choose wisely to get the best value.
How are the prices at Mestiza?
You’re looking at roughly 38 per person – reported by 25 diners. That puts it in the $31–$40 category. For a Fusion Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
While the average is 38, most guests actually spend a bit less, often around the $21–$30 range, though some do opt for more premium experiences.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 25 reviews.
See how this restaurant’s value for money compares to similar spots in San Francisco.
Overall, we think the pricing feels quite fair for a Fusion Restaurant in San Francisco. It offers a good balance, allowing for both more casual and slightly more indulgent dining experiences.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Mestiza
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Colleagues
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
9
Excellent Staff and Enjoyable Experience
I visited this restaurant with a few colleagues for dinner and a drink. The staff was great, offering excellent suggestions about what was good and what was worth trying. Kat and Marcella, who served us, were particularly helpful, and we even discussed the restaurant and the meaning of 'Mistiza'.
Overall, it was a very enjoyable experience. I would recommend it to anyone.
- staff10
- suggestions9
- experience9
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Family
Group Size
- Large Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
9
Delicious Filipino Feast with a Fun Vibe
My experience at Mestiza was really great! The food was truly delicious. We ordered the family meal and enjoyed the coconut curry, pork adobo, chicken lumpia, garlic rice, miso braised greens, collard greens, and Caesar salad.
It was satisfying to eat 7 to 10 vegetables during a filling meal. My personal favorites were the pork adobo, the curry sauce with rice, and the collard greens. The lumpia was also fantastic.
The cocktails, being soju-based, were perfect for me as I can't drink a lot of alcohol. While the tables are small and the plating is compact despite large portions, making it feel like playing Tetris, it contributes to a fun vibe on the patio. We even saw a party order the Kamayah feast, which looked impressive.
The front of house felt a bit messy and the entrance was odd, but the amazing meal more than made up for any waiting in the kitchen. I will definitely be back!
- food10
- coconut curry8
- pork adobo10
- tables5
- plating5
- front of house4
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Fantastic Filipino Flavors!
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The Lumpia, garlic fried rice, pork adobo, and noodles were all great. My Filipina girlfriend, who knows Filipino food well, also thought it was great, which is a true testament to the quality of the food.
The service was excellent, and the atmosphere was also top-notch. We enjoyed our meal on the outdoor patio, and the overall food quality was a perfect 5/5.
- Lumpia9
- garlic fried rice9
- pork adobo9
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Family Dinner
Group Type
- Family
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
7
Cozy Patio Gem with Mosquito Woes
Mestiza is quite a gem! They only have an outdoor patio, which is small but feels intimate and cozy. I can picture having family gatherings here.
Love the heaters! The only thing I did not like is that there are mosquitoes. Since there are plants, it might be a good idea to plant citronella or anything that will get rid of the mosquitoes.
The food was quite tasty - nothing too strong or overpowering. They also gave out generous portions. The service was also good.
There’s only one server and though it seems overwhelming, she still gave great service.
- outdoor patio8
- heaters9
- food7
- mosquitoes3
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Flavorful Food, Friendly Staff & Atmosphere
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The food was incredibly flavorful, and I also really appreciated the friendly atmosphere and staff. I definitely recommend this place.
- food10
- atmosphere10
- staff10
What Mestiza offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safespace
- Groups
Payments
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
- Restroom
Offerings
- Vegan options
- Quick bite
- Wine
- Beer
- Small plates
- Cocktails
- Organic dishes
- Vegetarian options
- Private dining room
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Catering
- Brunch
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Delivery
Parking
- Usually difficult to find a space
- Paid parking garage
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
What dining options and meal services are available at Mestiza?
At Mestiza, you can enjoy a variety of dining experiences, including brunch, lunch, and dinner. They offer both seating and counter service, and you can also arrange catering for your events. Don’t forget to explore their dessert menu!
Does Mestiza cater to specific dietary needs and offer convenient services?
Yes, Mestiza provides excellent options for you, including vegan and vegetarian dishes, alongside organic choices. You can dine-in, get takeout, or have delivery, and outdoor seating is available. They also offer a private dining room for special occasions.
What is the overall dining experience like at Mestiza?
Mestiza offers a good dining experience with an overall score of **7.7** and **79.6%** customer satisfaction. Its **Ambience** (7.9) and **Service** (7.9) are particularly strong, complemented by good **Food** (7.6), while **Value** (6.6) is considered average.
Does Mestiza offer a pleasant atmosphere?
Yes, Mestiza is known for its wonderful atmosphere, especially its outdoor patio which is described as cozy and well-cared for, often featuring plants, murals, and string lights. Some guests enjoy the vibe with a DJ playing on Friday nights.
Are there any common issues to be aware of at Mestiza?
Some patrons have noted occasional kitchen delays and confusion regarding opening status or hours. Minor ambience concerns like mosquitoes or sticky tables have also been mentioned.