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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in San Francisco

Taco lunch spots

Made for those who refuse to settle for anything less than a handheld taco when the midday hunger hits.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tahona Mercado image 1
Tahona Mercado image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with custom hardwood tables and premier tequila and mezcal selection creates a refreshingly remodeled space. Atmosphere feels easy and inviting, suited for casual dining or a date. Tacos stand out with fresh tortillas and unique flavors, complemented by a well-curated market of authentic Mexican products.

Lunch features pre-made foods and specialty tortillas alongside agave spirits. The spot serves solid meals without needing prior review checks.

Tacos here feature fresh tortillas and fillings like roasted poblano, mushroom, and prime rib that burst with flavor. Portions are generous, with tender, juicy meat often brined, making each taco rich and satisfying.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the tacos."

"These tacos are delicious, loaded with tasty meat."

"The quesabirria tacos and molletes at this Lunch Spot are so fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Mezcal tasting events are held on select evenings; check the schedule for details.

2

Pop-up events occur on weekends, featuring local vendors and unique offerings.

3

The shop offers a curated selection of authentic Mexican products and artisan goods.

02
Al Pastor Papi image 1
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.

Lunch here offers a straightforward, satisfying experience with a focus on Al Pastor dishes. The spot works well for a quick family meal or a casual afternoon bite.

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."

"I was so happy they have a permanent Lunch Spot location."

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.

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.

Great food and generous portions make it a solid choice for lunch. Lunch plates come in under $15, fitting a budget-conscious lunch plan.

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."

"The salsas here are fresh, with a delicious citrus lime balance and jalapeño kick."

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

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
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.

Excellent food makes it a solid choice for weekday lunch or a casual catch-up. The spot works well for a quick meal while exploring nearby markets.

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 lechon sandwich at this Lunch Spot is divine and packed with flavor."

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.

05
Cenote image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a cute fast casual vibe with well-decorated, clean space and ample seating. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, suitable for relaxed chats and people watching. Crowd enjoys quality Mexican food with notable margaritas and vegetarian options.

Lunch offers a high quality, fresh menu with affordable prices. The spot stands out downtown for its unique and pleasant lunch options.

Shrimp, carnitas, and chicken al pastor stand out among the street tacos. Breakfast tacos come with a delicious and super tasty flavor profile.

People are saying

"I thought the street tacos, like asada and carnitas, were super tasty."

"I enjoyed the happy hour here; it was nice."

"This lunch spot's breakfast burrito is stuffed with bacon, beans, and avocado."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with great portions and prices.

2

Breakfast special available with a large menu from 8 to 11 am.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian options.

06
Barrera's Cocina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a cozy multi-tier layout and an upper terrace offering outside views creates a warm and lively atmosphere despite loud music. The space feels like a chic, bustling living room with family-friendly energy. Handcrafted margaritas and outstanding tacos and chips complement the inviting vibe.

Lunch offers a memorable dining experience with dishes that stand out. The spot earns strong recommendations for midday meals.

Tacos come in rich birria, sweet and spicy Al Pastor, and crispy Baja styles. Lengua tacos are braised for 5 hours, diced finely, and served on homemade blue corn tortillas.

People are saying

"The fish and shrimp tacos were fresh, grilled, and flavorful."

"It's a cute and cozy place with a warm feeling."

"The birria tacos at this Lunch Spot are to die for."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 25% off during weekdays from 4-6pm.

2

The restaurant does not serve alcohol but allows BYOB with no corkage fee.

3

Prices for entrees average around $15, making it affordable for most diners.

07
Question Mark Tavern image 1

Neighborhood lounge with eclectic vibe and unique decor offers a chill atmosphere and live music. Space includes private karaoke rooms and a tech-savvy buzzer entry system. Regulars enjoy perks like key fob access, while views of the skyline add to the roomy, welcoming feel.

Lunch offers a great atmosphere for working professionals and features signs around the neighborhood inviting a stop-in. Meals serve well for a late lunch on weekdays.

Beef tacos feature flavorful fillings and pair well with garlic wings. Taco Tuesdays happen regularly, adding to the happy hour vibe with burgers and bar snacks.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was surprisingly superb."

"The service at this Lunch Spot is always friendly and welcoming."

"Jeremy helped me plan the best Halloween party ever."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Thursday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

3

Karaoke starts at 10pm on Tuesdays with a two-drink minimum.

08
ZOË Cocktail Bar & Bites image 1

Open space with high ceilings creates a spacious, comfortable setting. Live DJs spin on multiple nights, fueling a lively, energetic atmosphere where music gets people dancing. The vibe blends elements of sports bar, dive, and club, making it crowded and loud but also fun and stylish.

Lunch features street tacos and happy hour specials. The spot suits a quick drink and bite midday.

$1 tacos shine during happy hour and Taco Tuesday specials. The shrimp & avocado taco stands out on the regular menu, while street tacos impress at lunch.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so fun and make delicious drinks."

"I really enjoyed the fish taco; it was nice."

"Kelley is a wonderful bartender and provided awesome service."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm, Monday to Friday, with great drink specials.

2

Taco Tuesday offers special pricing on tacos with no cover charge.

3

Karaoke night is every Thursday, starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

09
Saluhall SF image 1
Food court

Food court combines open, light-filled design with multiple levels hosting diverse restaurants and bars. Atmosphere stays relaxed and cozy with a refreshing vibe that connects to a nearby retail space. Frequented for local food options and a cooking school, it offers a lively yet chill environment.

Ample seating supports groups of all sizes for lunch. The spot suits family gatherings, team lunches, and accommodates vegan preferences well.

Vegan tacos stand out here, especially the mushroom ones with faux carnitas. Loaded fries also come highly recommended alongside the tacos.

People are saying

"I loved the variety of food options and vendors here."

"This lunch spot has tons of amazing goodies for everyone."

"You have to try the vegan tacos here; they're amazing."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens on Mondays at Saluhall SF.

2

The downstairs area opens at 8 AM for breakfast and coffee.

3

Happy hour runs after 5 PM on Thursdays with specialty drinks.

10
Broad Street Oyster Company image 1
Seafood restaurant

Open-space design offers breathtaking panoramic views of the bay, creating a cozy and lively atmosphere with bright decorations and rocking good music. The space features a fantastic bar setup and seafood display, attracting those seeking a fun vibe and casual feast.

Two Baja tacos come with good flavor and are not too oily, served alongside chips. Fish tacos stand out as extremely delicious and worth ordering.

People are saying

"The lobster roll was simple, warm, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious."

"The lobster roll with uni and hot butter really rocked."

"I had the lobster roll, which was cold and dressed."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is generous, and the staff are accommodating.

2

The prices were quite high, with $45 for tuna tartare.

3

Portions at Broad Street Oyster Company are small.

11
MARCELA'S TAQUERÍA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with just four compact tables creates an intimate, homey atmosphere. Quiet and heartfelt vibe suits those seeking authentic Mexican flavors made from fresh, homemade ingredients. Primarily takeout with vegetarian options and healthy portions distinguishes it from typical taquerias.

Construction teams eat here daily at lunch, showing its steady crowd. The super burrito serves as a filling meal, often enough for two people to share.

Tacos come in healthy portions with standout options like the El Pastor and fish tacos. They deliver a real deal taste that earns consistent approval.

People are saying

"You have to try the burritos; they're the best I've had."

"The breakfast tacos here are a 10 out of 10."

"This lunch spot's regular al pastor burrito is the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Marcela's Taquería is primarily a take-out establishment with limited seating.

2

Prices for burritos, chips, and a drink are around $20 plus tip.

3

Breakfast options are available all day at Marcela's Taquería.

12
Cousins Maine Lobster Restaurant - Pier 41 San Francisco image 1

Seafood restaurant offers waterfront views and a small, diner-style interior with celebrity photos on the walls. Atmosphere feels like fast food with plastic seating but remains quiet enough to enjoy meals. Outdoor area doubles indoor space, creating a casual vibe amid a lively pier setting.

Lunch here involves high cost and no bathrooms, which can be inconvenient for a quick meal.

Lobster tacos feature succulent, fresh lobster meat and claws cooked perfectly. They deliver a burst of flavor in every bite and pair well with other seafood options like lobster rolls and chowder.

People are saying

"I thought the lobster rolls were great and totally worth the price."

"The lobster tacos are succulent, fresh, and bursting with flavor."

"I was excited to try the Maine Specialty Whole Belly Clams at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

This place has no toilets, so plan accordingly.

2

The prices at the restaurant are quite high for a fast food place.

3

I found good gluten-free options available.

13
Tacolicious image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a loud, chaotic atmosphere with outdoor seating and a small terrace. The vibe is chill and casual, suitable for hanging out and playing games. Margaritas stand out as a notable drink option.

Offers a lunch special with two tacos and a choice of soup or salad for $17. Serves well for a late lunch on Sundays and a solid spot for a quick lunch break.

Tacos here stand out with flavorful fillings like chicken, beef, carnitas, and small shrimp that suit tacos well. Every taco comes with a spread of three salsas ranging from mild to extremely spicy, plus pickled onions that elevate each bite.

People are saying

"The tacos here are delicious, especially the carnitas."

"I loved their creative vegetarian tacos, especially the mushroom carnitas."

"These tacos are so flavorful, especially with the three tasty salsas."

Good to know

1

Expect high prices; tacos can cost $7 each.

2

Happy hour offers great specials on tacos and drinks.

3

Loteria game night features fun specials and a lively atmosphere.

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San Francisco, California

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