The Mission-style burrito
San Francisco is famous for its burritos. Surprised? The Mexican burrito is a popular lunch or dinner item around the world, but this classic dish has been given a unique twist in San Francisco, called the Mission-style burrito. Make it your mission to try at least one during your visit to the City by the Bay.
The Mission-style burrito originated in the 1960s in San Francisco’s Mission District. The neighbourhood was primarily home to Latinos and, consequently, dozens of taquerias, i.e. Mexican fast-food joints. The Mission-style burrito is a combination of beans, guacamole, sour cream, meat and vegetables; but what makes it so different from other burritos is its gigantic size, the addition of rice, and the fact that it’s wrapped in aluminium foil, which is essential to keep all the ingredients from spilling out.
San Francisco
Beyond discussion
There is an understanding in San Francisco that there are 3 things you never debate with friends: politics, religion and the best taqueria in town. Ask 10 random passers-by about their favourite taco joint and you’re bound to get 10 different answers. However, to all the people of San Francisco, quality is what matters most. The rice should not just be a filling, but have a good flavour, the beans need to be cooked perfectly, and the meat must be of excellent quality.Ultra-tender pork
Taqueria San Francisco is located at the end of the Taco Trail – a section of 24th Street between Mission and Potrero Hill filled with taquerias. The meat served here is so tender it must have fallen off the spit and landed right into your burrito. The al pastor burrito (slow-roasted marinated pork) is a popular choice. They also serve a version with steamed chicken. Both are irresistible.“The Taco Trail is a section of 24th Street between Mission and Potrero Hill filled with taquerias”