Highlights
- Live music
oChef » Cilantro – San Francisco
Cilantro - San Francisco
Photo from Cilantro
Cilantro at a glance
San Francisco North Beach
- 🌮 Mexican Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $11–$20
mentioned by 158 of the guests
#498 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#25 Mexican Restaurant out of 134 in San Francisco
Excellent
8.2 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
493
Reviews
84.8%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Delicious food
- Quick service
- Good value
Frequently criticized
- Food inconsistency
- Cold atmosphere
- Parking issues
The restaurant, Cilantro SF Taqueria, is a vibrant Mexican Restaurant in San Francisco’s North Beach neighborhood, inviting you to experience its lively atmosphere. You can enjoy delicious food accompanied by live music, making for a memorable outing.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a relaxed meal, Cilantro offers a casual setting perfect for any occasion. Discover a taste of Mexico right here in the city.
Overview: Introducting Cilantro
Cilantro offers a generally positive dining experience, often praised for its flavorful food and very reasonable prices. Many guests appreciate the welcoming staff who contribute to a pleasant visit, making it a comfortable spot for many.
However, some experiences point to occasional inconsistencies in food quality and an atmosphere that can sometimes feel cold. Parking can also be a bit of a challenge in the area, which is worth noting before your visit.
Excellent
8.2
out of 10
493
Reviews
84.8%
Satisfaction
55
negative
20
neutral
418
positive
Cilantro achieves a solid overall score of 8.2, indicating a generally positive experience for many diners. This is supported by a strong customer satisfaction rate of 84.8%, suggesting most visitors leave content.
These figures are drawn from a substantial body of feedback, with 493 comments reviewed, showing a clear lean towards positive experiences with 418 favorable remarks against 55 critical ones. Diving deeper, Service stands out with an impressive (8.6), frequently noted for its attentiveness and speed.
The Food also earns high marks (8.1), consistently highlighted for its taste and generous portions. Guests also find good Value (8.2) for their money, while the Ambience (7.7) provides a pleasant, if sometimes basic, backdrop for dining.
What people like
- Delicious, ample portions
- Attentive, quick service
- Excellent value for money
What people don't like
- Inconsistent food quality
- Uncomfortable atmosphere
- Challenging parking
With a strong recommendation score of 8.3, Cilantro generally delivers a satisfying experience, particularly if you’re seeking flavorful Mexican food with generous portions and efficient service. It’s a solid choice for a casual meal where value is a priority.
While some visitors have noted occasional inconsistencies in food quality or a less-than-ideal atmosphere, these seem to be exceptions. If you prioritize good food and quick service at a fair price, this spot is certainly worth considering.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Cilantro
Food (8.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 98% of the guests
When it comes to the food, this place generally hits the mark! With a solid score of 8.1 and a fantastic customer satisfaction rate of 84.4%, its clear many diners are leaving happy. Out of 275 comments, a whopping 232 rave about delicious items like the birria torta, powerful flavors, and an authentic taco experience, often praising the generous portions.
However, its not all perfect. There were 34 negative comments, with some serious concerns like food poisoning being reported. Other diners mentioned issues with cold meat, underwhelming dishes, or a microwaved tortilla, suggesting some inconsistency in quality.
Food
275
Reviews
84%
Satisfaction
34
negative
9
neutral
232
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Authentic, bold flavors
- Generous food portions
- Delicious tacos, burritos
What people don't like
- Reported food poisoning
- Inconsistent meat quality
- Underwhelming dishes
Often praised
- foodWhat a nice find! My experience at this restaurant was characterized by super reasonable prices, good food, and service with a smile. It's a no-frills establishment, offering honest and efficient service.
- tacosIf you’re visiting SF, run to Cilantro SF Tacos. They serve world-class tacos, nachos, and burritos with the kind of genuine, stellar service that turns a meal into a highlight of your trip. Thanks Juan Carlos for your warm welcoming!
- burritosThe nachos were very tasty and generous. The burritos were excellent. The Swiss quesadilla was very large and delicious.
- FoodFood was good!
- Mexican foodI had the best tacos I've had in years. If you're looking for really good Mexican food without all of the extra fancy tourist stuff, this is the place to go. The food was excellent, and the atmosphere was great, both rated 5/5.
- nachosHe gave us tomato for the baby. The nachos were very tasty and generous. The burritos were excellent.
- burritoLoved their burrito which is ample and filling in size in addition to being tasty.
- carne asadaand the carne asada, it was all delicious
- portion sizegood size of size portion
- portionsMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The food was absolutely delicious, and the portions were excellent. I was also very impressed with the service, which was fast and the staff were incredibly friendly.
Frequently criticized
- foodfood taste just nothing special
- meatUnfortunately, it was not a good experience. The meat was cold and the presentation was uninspired. The tacos were very disappointing, though the burrito was okay.
- Mexican foodMy experience at this restaurant was marked by super inconsistency and very mediocre Mexican food. On some days, the ingredients were fresh and tasted good, but on other days, the meat tasted old, dry, and tough.
- food poisoningATTENTION! As someone mentioned 3 weeks ago about food poisoning, me and my husband are now at emergency room after eating their food. We were visiting SF from NYC.
- tacosThe meat was cold and the presentation was uninspired. The tacos were very disappointing, though the burrito was okay.
- FoodFood:1
- burnt and toastedme salio de todo tostado, todo quemado
- burritosHowever, as someone knowledgeable about Mexican food, I found the dishes to be underwhelming. We tried the tacos, burritos, and taquitos, but honestly, from a culinary perspective, it didn’t really do it for me.
- carne asada tacomeat on the carne asada taco was lukewarm and even cold
- carnitas / Al pastor burritoMy experience at Cilantro was really terrible. I got awful food poisoning after eating a carnitas / Al pastor burrito on Friday, Jan 17th. I had eaten here before on several occasions with no issues, but this time was really bad.
If you're craving authentic Mexican food with bold flavors and generous portions, this spot is definitely worth a try. Just be aware that a few diners have reported serious issues, so while many love it, there might be some inconsistency to consider.
Service (8.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 76% of the guests
It seems the service here is truly a highlight, with an impressive score of 8.6 and customer satisfaction soaring at 89.5%. Many of the 111 positive comments praise the friendly service and how orders are ready quickly. Special shout-outs often go to Juan Carlos for his attentive care, even with allergy accommodation.
However, not every experience was perfect, as reflected in 11 negative remarks out of 124 total. Some guests encountered issues like missing cutlery and napkins for takeout or confusion regarding the wifi password. A few mentioned an unfriendly waitress or generally poor service, suggesting there's a little room for consistency.
Service
124
Reviews
89%
Satisfaction
11
negative
2
neutral
111
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, fast service
- Attentive staff
- Allergy accommodation
What people don't like
- Missing takeout items
- Wifi password confusion
- Inconsistent staff friendliness
Often praised
- serviceMy experience at this wonderful little place in San Francisco was largely positive, especially regarding the food. The enchiladas and rice were delicious, and the food was served quickly. The only significant issue was the cold atmosphere due to the door being open.
- staffMy experience at this restaurant was centered around a pretty serious burrito. The staff was very nice, contributing to a positive overall experience. I can confidently say it's worth the stop!
- Juan CarlosWe tried several different dishes, and they were all delicious. Juan Carlos was very attentive and made sure to offer the best options for me, as I am allergic to peppers. The shrimp cake was incredibly tasty.
- ServiceService:5
- wait timeNo wait time.
- Wait timeWait time:No wait
- service speedServicio rápido
- Food preparationComida preparada rápido
- allergy accommodationWe tried several different dishes, and they were all delicious. Juan Carlos was very attentive and made sure to offer the best options for me, as I am allergic to peppers. The shrimp cake was incredibly tasty.
- attentionThanks Carlos for your attention
Frequently criticized
- servicethe woman working the counter was kind of bad and today she was awful
- ServiceService:2
- acknowledgementDidn’t acknowledge him when no one else was there
- cutlery and napkinsThe flavors were excellent, and they successfully followed instructions on customizations for this takeout order. However, I had to go back twice because of insufficient cutlery and napkins, even though I was told they were included. My advice is to check your bag before leaving.
- poor serviceaparte muy mal servicio
- waitressWe asked for the wifi password and first they told us they would give it to us when we ordered; however, once we ordered, they informed us that they didn't have the password, which was a bit strange. Additionally, the waitress was unfriendly, which made the experience not as pleasant as we had hoped.
- wifi passwordThe food was very good, but the service left quite a bit to be desired. We asked for the wifi password and first they told us they would give it to us when we ordered; however, once we ordered, they informed us that they didn't have the password, which was a bit strange. Additionally, the waitress was unfriendly, which made the experience not as pleasant as we had hoped.
Overall, the service here is a strong point, making for a pleasant dining experience. While a few minor hiccups like missing items or occasional unfriendliness can occur, the overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests youre likely to be well taken care of. Its definitely worth a visit if good service is high on your list.
Ambience (7.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 42% of the guests
When it comes to the vibe, this spot generally hits the mark with a 7.7 score, landing it firmly in the good category. Customers are feeling it too, with 75.8% satisfaction! Many of the 47 positive remarks praise the homely feel, calming playlist, and clean place, creating a vibrant atmosphere that makes you feel right at home, especially near Fishermans Wharf.
However, its not all sunshine and rainbows. Out of 62 total opinions, 8 pointed out some downsides. A few found the interior a bit basic, and there were mentions of flies inside.
Some also experienced a cold restaurant due to an open door, and finding parking can be a bit of a hassle.
Ambience
62
Reviews
75%
Satisfaction
8
negative
7
neutral
47
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Homely, clean atmosphere
- Calming music selection
- Family-friendly vibe
What people don't like
- Basic interior
- Flies were present
- Parking is difficult
Often praised
- atmosphereIt's a pleasant place where you can go to eat with your friends and family. The atmosphere is simple and cozy, with Mexican music playing at a moderate, non-noisy volume, unlike other restaurants. The food was delicious.
- placeThe Swiss quesadilla was very large and delicious. A recommendable place.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- ACThere is AC so it’s cool in here
- Kid-friendlinessKid-friendliness:Yes. Good options for kids
- Mexican musicMexican music with moderate volume and not noisy
- ambiencenice ambience. Set near Fisherman's Wharf this is a nice place with a cool vibe to it.
- bathroomThey do have a really nice bathroom
- calming playlistThe playlist is calming.
- chill spotChill spot
Frequently criticized
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:1
- Parking spaceDifficult to find parking
- atmosphereit was cold in the restaurant
- doorthe door was open and it was cold
- flies insideThere were flies inside
- interiorthe interior was very basic
- locationSmall location
- parkingSomewhat difficult to find parking
If youre looking for a generally pleasant and clean spot with a cozy, family-friendly vibe and good music, youll likely enjoy it. Just be prepared for a potentially basic interior, and maybe consider public transport or a walk if parking is a concern.
Value (8.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 27% of the guests
When it comes to value, this spot truly shines, boasting a good score of 8.2 and an impressive 87.5% customer satisfaction! With 28 positive remarks out of 32 total, guests frequently rave about the value for money, good prices, and fantastic value, often noting the generous portions and affordable menu options that make dining here a real treat. However, a couple of voices (2 out of 32) did find the prices a bit steep, with comments like Esta carisimo or Expensive for some rice.
While these are isolated incidents, it's worth noting that not everyone found it to be a steal, suggesting a slight variance in perception.
Value
32
Reviews
87%
Satisfaction
2
negative
2
neutral
28
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Excellent value
- Generous portions
- Affordable prices
What people don't like
- Some find expensive
Often praised
- priceDuring my recent visit to San Francisco, we had a good experience at this restaurant. Coming from Southern California, we found the food to be rich and the price accessible. Although it's a small place, we were able to get a table for 7 people and enjoyed our stay.
- pricesWe were at the taqueria on Mason Street at Francisco Street, and the food was absolutely delicious and the prices were very reasonable. Juan Carlos was incredibly friendly, attentive, and very helpful.
- value for moneyThe value for money was good
- good pricesIt's a chill spot with super friendly staff. I was impressed by the incredible amount of food for the good prices.
- price per personThe food was excellent, and the atmosphere was also a perfect 5. I had no wait time and the price per person was between $10–20.
- Price per personPrice per person:$1–10
- economicoI had an ottimo burrito veggie which was delicious. The place itself is tranquillo (quiet), pulito (clean), and economico (affordable). It's conveniently located just a short walk away from the tourist traps on the promenade.
- fair pricesuper burritos, fair price
- fantastic valueis a fantastic value
- good pricetasty food for a good price
Frequently criticized
- priceExpensive for some rice
- pricesEsta carisimo
If youre looking for a place where your money goes a long way, this restaurant is generally a fantastic bet. The overwhelming majority agree youll get great food and generous portions without breaking the bank, making it a solid choice for value-conscious diners.
How are the prices at Cilantro?
You’re looking at roughly 19 per person – reported by 158 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 find themselves spending right in this sweet spot, showing prices cluster pretty consistently around the average.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 158 reviews.
How does this restaurant’s value compare 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 a solid choice for a casual meal.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Cilantro
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
2
Disappointing Food and Unfriendly Service
To be very honest, I was a little disappointed with their food and service. The food tasted nothing special, or actually less than Taco Bell. Contrary to what others might say, the staff was surprisingly unfriendly.
I would rather go to any other fast food place.
- food2
- service2
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
9
Authentic Mexican Food - A Must Try!
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I had authentic Mexican food that was a must for anyone with a taste for great Mexican. The enchiladas tasted just like Momma used to make.
The food was excellent, and the atmosphere was also a perfect 5. I had no wait time and the price per person was between $10–20.
- Mexican food10
- enchiladas10
- food10
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
6
Good food, poor service experience
We went to eat today. The food was very good, but the service left quite a bit to be desired. We asked for the wifi password and first they told us they would give it to us when we ordered; however, once we ordered, they informed us that they didn't have the password, which was a bit strange.
Additionally, the waitress was unfriendly, which made the experience not as pleasant as we had hoped.
- food9
- service2
- wifi password3
- waitress2
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
10
Excellent Food and Service!
We loved the food! And Juan Carlos's service was excellent! We will surely return during our stay in San Francisco!
- food10
- service10
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
9
Cozy Nook with Flavorful Nachos
My experience at this cozy spot, a little nook by the wharf, was quite enjoyable. I ordered the nachos and they had great flavor. The fresa agua fresca was delicious, and the salsas were flavorful with a good kick.
They also have a great music playlist. I will definitely come back to try the pozole.
- nachos9
- fresa agua fresca9
- salsas8
What Cilantro offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Crowd
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Breakfast
- Solo dining
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Quick bite
Dining options
- Catering
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- No-contact delivery
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Parking
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Casual
FAQs
What dining options are available at Cilantro SF Taqueria?
At Cilantro SF Taqueria, you can enjoy a variety of dining experiences. They offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with comfortable seating available. Additionally, if you’re planning an event, catering services are also provided to bring their delicious Mexican cuisine to your special occasion.
Does Cilantro SF Taqueria offer live music and vegetarian dishes?
Yes, Cilantro SF Taqueria enhances your dining experience with live music, creating a vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere. For those seeking plant-based meals, you’ll be pleased to find a selection of vegetarian options on their menu, ensuring there’s something delicious for everyone.
What is Cilantro's overall rating and what do customers think about it?
Cilantro holds an overall score of **8.2** with **84.8%** customer satisfaction. Guests particularly appreciate the **Service** (8.6), **Food** (8.1), and **Value** (8.2), while **Ambience** (7.7) is also rated well.
Is the food at Cilantro consistently good?
While many praise the delicious and ample portions, some experiences mention inconsistency in food quality, with occasional reports of cold or mediocre meat.
What is the dining atmosphere like at Cilantro?
The atmosphere is generally described as pleasant and cozy, with Mexican music. However, some guests have found it to be cold due to an open door, and noted issues like flies or a basic interior.