Highlights
- Great wine list
- Great beer selection
oChef » Loló – San Francisco
Loló - San Francisco
Photo from Loló
Loló at a glance
San Francisco Mission District
- 🌮 Mexican Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $41–$50
mentioned by 100 of the guests
#1222 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#64 Mexican Restaurant out of 134 in San Francisco
Good
7.4 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
618
Reviews
71.4%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Creative cuisine
- Vibrant decor
Frequently criticized
- Expensive drinks
- Seating issues
The restaurant Loló, a vibrant Mexican restaurant in San Francisco’s lively Mission District, invites you to experience a culinary journey. You’ll discover a menu boasting healthy options and a great wine list, perfect for a cozy and trendy evening out.
This spot is known for its authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere, making it a must-visit for you.
Overview: Introducting Loló
Loló offers a distinctive dining experience, often celebrated for its vibrant decor and lively vibe that many find inviting. Guests frequently commend the creative dishes and the overall atmosphere, making it a memorable spot for those seeking something unique.
However, some diners have noted that certain seating arrangements, particularly in the basement, can feel less comfortable or conducive to conversation. There are also occasional mentions of slow service, which can sometimes detract from an otherwise enjoyable meal.
Good
7.4
out of 10
618
Reviews
71.4%
Satisfaction
140
negative
37
neutral
441
positive
Loló earns a solid overall score of 7.4, suggesting a generally positive dining experience for many. Customer satisfaction is also quite good at 71.4%, indicating that most patrons leave content with their visit.
This assessment is built upon 618 customer observations, with 441 positive remarks significantly outweighing 140 negative ones. The Food (7.7) is a clear highlight, frequently praised for its creativity and flavor.
Ambience (7.4) also contributes positively to the experience, often described as colorful and inviting. While Service (7) is generally seen as attentive, the Value (4.2) aspect receives lower marks, with some guests expressing concerns about pricing, especially for drinks.
What people like
- Creative, flavorful food
- Vibrant, eclectic decor
- Attentive, friendly staff
What people don't like
- High drink prices
- Inconsistent seating comfort
- Slow service sometimes
If you prioritize inventive cuisine and a lively atmosphere, Loló could be a worthwhile visit. The Recommendation Score of 7.7 suggests many find it a place to return to, particularly for its culinary offerings.
However, be prepared for a potentially higher bill, especially if you plan on enjoying several drinks, as value is a common concern. It’s a spot that delivers on flavor and setting, but might not be the most budget-friendly option.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Loló
Food (7.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 97% of the guests
The food here generally hits the mark, boasting a good score of 7.7 and a solid 76% customer satisfaction. With 278 positive remarks out of 366 pieces of feedback, many diners raved about the delicious tacos, unique flavor combinations, and excellent vegetarian options. The quality and freshness of ingredients, from fish tacos to house empanadas, frequently earned high praise.
However, not all 60 negative comments were without merit. Some guests noted issues with dry dishes, particularly certain tacos and carne asada, and a general lack of spice or flavor in others. A few also felt that some dishes, like birria quesadillas or ceviche, were underwhelming or had inconsistent portion sizes.
Food
366
Reviews
76%
Satisfaction
60
negative
28
neutral
278
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Unique flavor combinations
- Great vegetarian options
- Fresh, quality ingredients
What people don't like
- Inconsistent flavor
- Dry dishes
- Lacking spice
Often praised
- foodWe were led downstairs to a club-like atmosphere, but it was notably quieter than upstairs, allowing us to converse easily. The server was very helpful and friendly, and the food was quite good.
- drinksMy experience at this restaurant was mixed. While the drinks were great and our server, David, was exceptional, earning a full 5 stars, the interaction with the host was very negative. We were abruptly asked to leave our table without any prior notification of a time limit.
- cevicheThe grilled octopus was splendiferous and was a great temperature. I also tried the ceviche and the guac. The chips were warm, salty and plentiful.
- cocktailsThe cocktails are tasty and pretty creative
- fish tacosWe sat at the bar and the service was exceptional! Their homemade chips and salsa, as well as the fish tacos were delicious! We will definitely be stopping by on our next visit to SF.
- tacosThis was our nicest meal out during our entire road trip covering LA, Yosemite, and San Francisco. The food was so delicious with great flavors, especially the great tacos. The atmosphere was also fantastic, and the service was exceptional.
- cauliflower tacosI loved the unique combinations of flavors. We thoroughly enjoyed a variety of dishes, including the guacamole, empanadas, fried avocado tacos, cauliflower tacos, and the grilled broccolini and roasted beet tostadas. The restaurant boasts a lively atmosphere and interesting décor, making for a memorable dining experience.
- menuEverything offered on the menu was great
- FoodConsequently, I had to endure my dinner in a windy corridor, unable to voice further concerns. The food itself was fantastic, but the service and atmosphere detracted significantly from the overall experience.
- dishesMy experience at this restaurant was crazy cool! The spot is super cute, and the delicious dishes and amazing cocktails truly blew my mind. The atmosphere was fantastic, with everyone there being super sexy and hip.
Frequently criticized
- foodfood is okay, but for the price it’s under-flavored and underwhelming
- drinksThe birria quesadilla and mushrooms were great, truly a highlight. However, the drinks were pretty terrible, especially considering how expensive they are. The salsa that came with the tortilla chips was just okay.
- Mexican foodseeking fire Mexican food but was ultimately disappointed
- cauliflower tacoscauliflower tacos were disappointing; they lacked spice
- dessertsThe desserts were a bit hard
- flavorI was really looking forward to trying Lolo Taco, but unfortunately, it didn’t live up to the hype. The taco I ordered was way too dry—lacking both flavor and moisture. A good taco should be juicy and well-seasoned.
- guacamoleguacamole, which unfortunately needed more spice
- Food flavorFood lacks flavor
- Hard CiderHard Cider - $15 - small port like glass with a splash
- MargaritaMargarita - $18 - more ice than actual alcohol
If youre looking for creative Mexican food with unique flavor combinations and great vegetarian options, this spot is definitely worth a try. Just be mindful that some dishes might lack the spice or moisture youd expect, so choose wisely!
Service (7 out of 10)
mentioned by 67% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot generally hits the mark, earning a good score of 7. Many guests rave about the friendly staff, attentive staff, and how quick the food arrives, often highlighting specific servers for their excellent guidance. With 85 positive remarks out of 129 total, theres a strong current of appreciation for the teams efforts.
However, it's not always smooth sailing, as customer satisfaction sits at a mixed 65.9%. Some diners have experienced frustratingly long wait times, issues with the host, or felt their meal was rushed. There are also mentions of slow service, indicating that consistency can sometimes be an issue, with 41 negative comments pointing to areas for improvement.
Service
129
Reviews
65%
Satisfaction
41
negative
3
neutral
85
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Quick food delivery
- Excellent server guidance
What people don't like
- Long wait times
- Rushed dining experience
- Inconsistent host behavior
Often praised
- serviceMy experience at the restaurant was fantastic! I had excellent food and received excellent service. We chose to eat at the bar, which gave us a firsthand view of how efficient the staff was.
- staffLolo is currently a well-kept neighborhood secret, with no obvious signage, but its quality suggests this won't last long. The interior boasts a fun, eclectic design that complements the warm, knowledgeable staff and inventive dishes. The corn-fungus dumplings were delicious, and the panko-encrusted, flash-fried shrimp served on a jicama tortilla with tropical relish and chipotle aioli was simply heavenly.
- ServiceSuper friendly to dietary restrictions
- serverserver provided detailed guidance on options
- JuanitaOur host was Juanita, super friendly
- attentive staffI had the best tacos in SF, hands down. I also loved the decor and the attentive staff. It's a true gem in our city.
- attentivenessthe bartender's, waiter's, and host's attentiveness
- bartendersOur host, Juanita, was super friendly and made us feel very welcome. The atmosphere was warm, and the bartenders were really nice. The fish tacos were delicious 🖤.
- foodthe food comes out fast
- food arrived quicklyruoka tuli nopeasti
Frequently criticized
- serviceMy experience at this restaurant was marked by good food, which I rated a perfect 5 out of 5. However, the service was a bit slow. This was likely due to the restaurant being popular and usually packed.
- serverserver decided to remove every single item off the table... which was awkward and annoying
- tableWhile the drinks were great and our server, David, was exceptional, earning a full 5 stars, the interaction with the host was very negative. We were abruptly asked to leave our table without any prior notification of a time limit. The host lacked professionalism, stating "you need to leave we need this table" and walking away.
- checkThe decor is artsy and fun, though it contributes to a very loud atmosphere. The biggest downside was the service; my table waited 10 minutes after sitting before anyone approached, and it took another 15-20 minutes to get the check, even after flagging down a server a couple of times. Overall, it was an enjoyable meal, and if you're looking for a more sit-down Mexican experience in a neighborhood filled with casual taquerias, Loló is a good option.
- hosthost didn’t have the slightest professionalism
- wait timemy table waited 10 minutes from sitting until anyone came around
- ADA service animal lawclaims this establishment does not fall under the ADA service animal law
- SMSambiguous SMS “Press 1 to confirm”
- ServiceService:2
- another tablekindly asking for another table
If youre looking for a place with generally warm and efficient staff, this restaurant is often a great choice. Just be prepared that on busier nights, you might encounter some longer waits or a slightly rushed experience. Its worth a visit, but perhaps plan for off-peak times if you prefer a more relaxed pace.
Ambience (7.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 59% of the guests
When it comes to ambience, this spot generally hits the mark with a good score of 7.4 and a good customer satisfaction of 72.7%. Many guests, 72 out of 99, rave about the atmosphere, vibe, and decor. They love the lively, fun, and artistic design aesthetic, often describing it as a unique and special place that feels inviting and cozy.
However, not everyone is completely charmed. There are 23 negative comments, often pointing to issues like loud noise levels, particularly in the basement areas. Some found the seating tight, dark, or even humid, with mentions of an unpleasant smell or cold drafts near the door.
Ambience
99
Reviews
72%
Satisfaction
23
negative
4
neutral
72
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Lively, fun atmosphere
- Unique, artistic decor
- Cozy, inviting vibe
What people don't like
- Loud, noisy environment
- Dark, tight seating
- Unpleasant basement areas
Often praised
- atmosphereThis made it difficult to enjoy the meal and converse with friends. I would have preferred to sit on the main floor, where the atmosphere was more pleasant and it was much easier to hear your friends.
- decorthe decor is a delightful fever dream
- vibeEvery dish really impressed me with a really refreshing cocktail on the side. Really cool vibe in the restaurant and definitely worth trying out.
- ambienceTheir ambience is always amazing, lots of colors and amazing decorations
- placeVery solid and vibey place
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- atmosphere/decorationsI don't believe they can compete effectively for Mexican cuisine in the Mission. While I did enjoy the ceviche and the atmosphere/decorations, everything else left much to be desired.
- basement atmosphereclub-like atmosphere, but definitely a bit quieter
- cool picswant some cool pics from your night out
- creative spaceCreative space that feels inviting
Frequently criticized
- atmospherethe restaurant is very dark.
- basementsat us in the basement. It was humid and weird.
- seatingseating was tight
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:2
- ambianceit is not working!
- conversationkeskustelu oli hankalaa
- dining areasThey should get more light in the dining areas.
- doordon’t sit by the door. It’s so cold
- downstairs seatingWe were sat downstairs which I think is less nice than the upstairs
- entry doorWe've been seated in front of the entry door, hence windy and cold
If youre seeking a vibrant, uniquely decorated spot with a lively atmosphere, youll likely enjoy the experience. Just be mindful that some areas can get quite loud or feel a bit cramped, especially if you end up in the basement.
Value (4.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 15% of the guests
When it comes to value, some guests found the food to be quite moderately priced with pretty reasonable prices, making it a well priced restaurant where you can enjoy a meal without breaking the bank. Out of 24 customer comments, 6 leaned positive, suggesting that for some, the pricing hits the right note. However, the overall sentiment paints a different picture, with a score of 4.2 and a customer satisfaction of just 25%, indicating significant room for improvement.
Many felt it was a bit pricy or even overpriced for the portions, especially noting expensive drinks and discrepancies in menu prices. With 16 negative comments, it seems the price to value didn't quite hit the right spot for most.
Value
24
Reviews
25%
Satisfaction
16
negative
2
neutral
6
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Reasonable food prices
What people don't like
- Overpriced drinks
- Small portions
- Billing discrepancies
Often praised
- breaking the bankwithout breaking the bank
- moderately pricedFood is moderately priced
- pricePrezzo adeguato al cibo
- pricespretty reasonable prices
- pricingPricing and portion sizes are also super reasonable
- well priced restaurantalso a well priced restaurant
Frequently criticized
- priceThe service was great, and the food was tasty. However, the drinks were less than one would expect for the high prices. Having family who have owned restaurants, I understand alcohol is where you make money, but this place takes it to a new level.
- pricesThe prices were expensive for what it was
- cocktailscocktails are more expensive than the tacos
- drinksThe service was great, and the food was tasty. However, the drinks were less than one would expect for the high prices. Having family who have owned restaurants, I understand alcohol is where you make money, but this place takes it to a new level.
- expensive drinksThe birria quesadilla and mushrooms were great, truly a highlight. However, the drinks were pretty terrible, especially considering how expensive they are. The salsa that came with the tortilla chips was just okay.
- expensive sideIt is on the more expensive side
- final billprices charged on the final bill
- menu pricesmenu prices at Loló do not match the prices charged
- overchargingNot sure how long the overcharging has been going on
- overpricedoverpriced for the portions
If youre looking for a budget-friendly spot, this might not be your first choice, especially considering the feedback on drink prices and portion sizes. While some find the food moderately priced, be prepared for a potentially higher final bill than expected. Its a mixed bag, so weigh your options carefully.
How are the prices at Loló?
You’re looking at roughly 48 per person – reported by 100 diners. That puts it in the $41–$50 category. For a Mexican Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Looking at what folks usually spend, prices definitely cluster around this mid-range, with a good number of diners also spending a bit less in the 21 – 40 $ brackets, showing a nice mix without going too wild on the premium side.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 100 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
Overall, for a Mexican spot in San Francisco, we think the pricing feels pretty fair. It’s a good balance for quality without breaking the bank.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Loló
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Amazing Food, Atmosphere, and Service!
My experience at this restaurant was truly amazing. The food was incredibly fresh and delicious, and you can really taste the thought that went into every dish. The atmosphere made me feel right at home, and the service was excellent.
I highly recommend this place!
- food10
- menu9
- dish10
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
8
Creative Space with Favorite Shrimp Tacos
My experience at this restaurant was largely positive, centered around its creative space that felt very inviting. We sampled several dishes, including the guacamole, cauliflower tacos, and fried shrimp tacos. The fried shrimp tacos, served with a jicama tortilla, were our absolute favorite.
However, the cauliflower tacos could have used more flavor to enhance their taste. Despite this minor point, we loved the atmosphere and would definitely return.
- creative space9
- fried shrimp tacos10
- jicama tortilla8
- cauliflower tacos4
Price per Person
- $31–$40
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Solo Dinner
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Long (31+ min.)
Noise Level
- Loud
7
Great Food, Slow Service
My experience at this restaurant was marked by good food, which I rated a perfect 5 out of 5. However, the service was a bit slow. This was likely due to the restaurant being popular and usually packed.
Despite the slower service, I still believe it's worth going to try.
- food10
- service4
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Romantic Date
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
10
Excellent Service, Exquisite Food!
Evelin and Carlos provided excellent service. It's a beautiful place for dinners, chatting, and enjoying a moment. The food has an exquisite flavor 💕💕🩷.
I recommend it and will return 🥂💕.
- service10
- place9
- food10
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Large Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Favorite Restaurant for Any Occasion
This is one of our favorite restaurants, perfect for gathering friends or taking visitors. We consistently enjoy the excellent food, impeccable service, and delightful decor!
- food10
- service10
- decor10
What Loló offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Tourists
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
- Restroom
Offerings
- Healthy options
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Happy hour drinks
- Vegan options
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Cocktails
- Organic dishes
- Vegetarian options
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Dinner
- Seating
- Table service
- Dessert
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Takeout
Pets
- Dogs allowed
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of dining experience can you expect at Loló in San Francisco?
At Loló, you can enjoy a casual yet trendy Mexican dining experience in the Mission District. The menu features delicious small plates, healthy options, organic dishes, and extensive vegetarian and vegan choices. You’ll find a great wine list and a wide selection of beers and cocktails to complement your meal.
Does Loló offer flexible service options and amenities for guests?
Yes, Loló provides various service options including outdoor seating, dine-in, and takeout. You can make dinner reservations, and the venue is wheelchair accessible. Amenities include an onsite bar, free Wi-Fi, and gender-neutral restrooms. It’s also good for kids and allows dogs.
What are the standout features at Loló?
Loló is particularly noted for its creative and flavorful Food (7.7) and its vibrant, eclectic Ambience (7.4), which many guests find inviting and memorable.
How is the service at Loló?
Service at Loló generally receives good feedback (7), with many guests appreciating the attentive and friendly staff, though some experiences mention occasional slowness.
Is Loló considered good value for money?
While the overall score is 7.4 and customer satisfaction is 71.4%, Value (4.2) is an area where Loló receives lower marks. Guests often find prices, especially for drinks, to be on the higher side.