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Carne asada taco spots

A plate of carne asada tucked into a warm taco is the only meal that makes sense right now.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
Al Pastor Papi image 1
Al Pastor Papi image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with neat street theme and plentiful seating offers a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere filled with underground hip-hop music. The space feels spotless and hip, creating a relaxed vibe for quick bites or casual dining. It stands out for its authenticity and community focus.

Grilled perfectly and full of flavor, the carne asada shines in tacos and burrito bowls. It pairs well with other fillings like chicken and prawns, offering a delicious and satisfying option.

Tacos feature juicy marinated pork and fresh pineapple for a classic street-style taste. Unique options like crab stuffed tacos and cheese tacos al pastor add variety and bold flavors.

People are saying

"These tacos are flavorful, filling, and uniquely delicious."

"I found the Al Pastor tacos to be the tastiest I have ever had."

"The Carne Asada tacos were grilled perfectly and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located just around the block from Union Square.

2

Expect limited seating, especially during peak hours.

3

Prices are reasonable for a sit-down restaurant near Union Square.

02
Leo’s Tacos Truck image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican food truck with authentic kitchen setup and direct flame trompo cooking creates a cool vibe in a parking lot setting. Several steel and standing metal tables offer casual dining spots. Known for legendary Tacos al Pastor and quality carne asada, it draws a crowd seeking genuine flavors.

Carne asada features high-quality meat that is perfectly cooked and sliced. It is not fatty or greasy, with a texture that is neither too chewy nor too soft.

Tacos here stand out for their authentic Tacos al Pastor cooked with direct flame from trompo and served with pineapple. Each taco costs only 3 dollars and features flavorful, fresh ingredients with top quality corn tortillas.

People are saying

"This Mexican food truck has the most authentic tacos al pastor."

"I found the parking available to be surprisingly varied and great."

"I found the al pastor tacos to be the most authentic."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $3 each, but some meats like lengua cost $4.

2

Food is available until late at night, most nights until 11 pm.

3

There is an on-site parking lot and street parking available.

03
El Tepa Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a clean, bright space with a family-oriented atmosphere and self-serve salsa bar. The vibe is calm and welcoming, with fresh, flavorful tacos and generous portions. It attracts those seeking authentic Mexican food in a neat, airy setting.

Super burritos stand out with carne asada or grilled shrimp fillings. The Super Carne Asada taco and burritos pair well with horchata and deliver solid flavor.

Tacos here come generously stacked and very tasty with a range of options like super fresh shrimp, flavorful Al pastor, and rich Tacos de Cerdo. The fish and chicken tacos stand out for their authentic, delicious flavors.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be the very best in town."

"I had the best tacos I've ever tasted here."

"I love the super burritos with carne asada."

Good to know

1

The prices at El Tepa Taqueria are very reasonable.

2

Parking can be a problem; consider calling ahead to place an order.

3

The portions are large and generous.

04
Tacos El Tucan SF image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, colorful Mexican restaurant with vibrant outdoor seating and a salsa bar. Atmosphere feels chill and welcoming, capturing Tijuana street food culture. Popular spot for late-night dining with a lively, friendly vibe.

Carne asada shines in the Fire Carne Asada Super Burrito and the Carne Asada Red taco. The ElTucan fries with carne asada add a flavorful twist to the menu.

Tacos here deliver authentic Tijuana street flavor with meats like Carne Asada and Birria that are fresh and full of taste. Portions stay just right, not oily or oversized, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.

People are saying

"The birria tacos here are insanely good."

"The birria tacos here are insanely good."

"The Carne Asada tacos are seasoned and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Most tacos cost $3.50, which is reasonable for the area.

2

Expect a wait during busy dinner hours, especially on weekends.

3

Parking can be tough to access or find near the restaurant.

05
La Vaca Birria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with an upscale interior and clean, well-maintained seating offers a chill, easy vibe with loud reggaeton music. Atmosphere varies from insanely chilly to very hot, affecting comfort. Known for authentic halal Mexican food grilled over charcoal, it attracts those seeking quality and a lively setting.

Grilled over hickory charcoal, the carne asada offers a distinct smoky aroma and tender steak. Options include tacos and a smoked carne asada burrito praised for its fire-grilled flavor.

Birria tacos stand out with their smoky and slightly spicy flavor. Options like carne asada and brisket chorizo offer great variety, all at an inexpensive price point.

People are saying

"The tortillas here are perfectly cooked and crispy with a subtle beef fat flavor."

"I thought the Lengua and Beef Chorizo tacos were insane."

"The Carne Asada has a distinct smoky flavor and tender meat."

Good to know

1

Prices for most menu items are over $20, with some items being more expensive.

2

The restaurant is now completely self-service with an iPad for ordering.

3

Parking in San Francisco may be difficult, so plan accordingly.

06
Taquería Las Katrina's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with vibrant decor and Day of the Dead decorations creates a cozy atmosphere with soft background music and dim lighting. The space feels inviting and reflects Mexican culture through colorful murals and tasteful design. It suits quiet meals or gatherings with friends and family.

Succulent carne asada appears in tacos, nachos, and a perfectly cooked, enormous super burrito.

Hard shell tacos stand out with crispy texture and rich flavor. Options like Tacos Al Pastor, shrimp tacos, and queso Birria tacos offer a mix of savory and fatty tastes that pair well with posole soup.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is amazing, especially the burritos."

"I've never had tacos this good, especially the fish and shrimp."

"The Carne Asada here is served with such friendly service."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of menu items including burritos, quesabirrias, and molcajetes.

2

Expect generous portion sizes that leave you satisfied.

3

Prices are reasonable, with a typical meal costing around $18.50.

07
El Rey Taquiza Artesanal image 1

Bright, clean space with handmade tortillas and a fresh salsa bar. Loud Mexican music and live mariachi create a lively, fun atmosphere. Large dining area welcomes groups, with bar seating and open kitchen views.

Carne asada shows up in tacos, burritos, and vampiros with rich flavor and consistent quality. Taco Tuesday offers a special deal with carne asada and al pastor tacos, making it a popular choice.

Tacos here feature lamb quesabirria, al pastor, and arrachera with juicy, flavorful fillings. The suadero and Tijuana-style chicken tacos stand out for their crisp texture and good guacamole pairing.

People are saying

"I found the tacos amazing, especially with handmade corn tortillas."

"The food here is really tasty and fresh."

"The carne asada here is super tasty and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos, making it a popular day to visit.

2

Karaoke happens every Friday night, starting at 9pm with a two-drink minimum.

3

The restaurant offers taco specials every day, not just on Taco Tuesday.

08
Cholita Linda image 1
Latin American restaurant

Wide open seating offers stunning bay views and a breezy outdoor patio. Lively Latin music creates a chill, Cuban-inspired atmosphere. The place draws a mix of locals and tourists enjoying casual, self-service dining by the water.

Tasty, juicy meat fills the carne asada tacos, making them more expensive but generously portioned. They stand out for their rich flavor compared to other taco options.

Fish tacos stand out with super tender, flaky fish and a crispy, perfectly fried shell. They come wrapped in double corn tortillas and topped with cabbage, herbs, crema, and hot sauce. Vegan options include tofu tacos, recommended without crema.

People are saying

"These fish tacos are out of this world."

"The fish tacos here are out of this world."

"The Carne Asada taco was tasty, juicy, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Cholita Linda does not provide table service.

2

Cholita Linda is handicap accessible.

3

There are no restrooms inside the restaurant, but public restrooms are available at the ferry building.

09
Taqueria Chapala image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small storefront with ample seating and a neat salsa bar offers a variety of Mexican dishes including tofu, lengua, and buche. Atmosphere is clean but basic, mostly catering to takeout with meals cooked to order. Food features large, flavorful burritos and tacos with simple ingredients like grilled meat, onion, and cilantro.

Carne asada appears in tacos and burritos with decent flavor but nothing too impressive. Tacos come on flour tortillas and pair well with al pastor options. Prices for burritos hover around $15.50.

Tacos come with grilled meat, onion, and cilantro as the main ingredients. Options include quesabirria, carne asada, al pastor, and crispy carnitas, all tasting fresh and not too salty.

People are saying

"This burrito is massive and packed with ingredients."

"I found the tacos to be ridiculously good."

"The carne asada tacos were delicious and hit the spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Expect a short wait as meals are cooked to order.

3

The restaurant accepts cash and offers discounts for cash payments.

10
Taqueria Vallarta image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic tacos with a dedicated taco bar serving various traditional meats. The space includes indoor and outdoor seating overlooking a lively street, creating a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere welcoming to the Latino community.

Carne asada shines in tacos and burritos with rich flavor and generous portions. Tacos come loaded with everything, making them a standout choice.

Small taco shells pack meaty and flavorful fillings like suadero and al pastor that are juicy and rich. Tacos come fast and deliver authentic Mexican taste with a satisfying punch.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food, especially the tacos, to be the best."

"I found the tacos here to be the best."

"I loved the carne asada tacos with everything."

Good to know

1

The restaurant serves tacos until 2am during the week and until 2:30am on Friday and Saturday.

2

Parking in the Mission District is generally tough.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere late at night, especially on weekends.

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