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Why the Mission District, you might be asking? Well, one of the most iconic food products from San Francisco has to be “THE San Francisco treat.” I bet you even just sang that jingle in your head. It was in the Mission District that Rice-a-Roni got its start, and today it is a multi-ethnic melting pot full of great eats. This list of Mission District Restaurants should help you out!
While there are loads of food options, there are not so many hotels in this area. Nearby neighborhoods have affordable San Francisco hotels, and great public transportation means you can get to the Mission easily. So if your travels have you hitting this great neighborhood, or if you prefer to plan your trips around great food, here’s the 411.
Where to Eat in the Mission District of San Francisco
The Main Bite
There’s a good chance that whichever ethnic cuisine you’re craving, you can find it in the Mission. Most recently, the neighborhood has seen a large Mexican and Central American influence. It’s not a secret that you can find some of the city’s best taquerias in the neighborhood. It’s also where the Mission burrito was created.
In the 1960s, this style of burrito became popular and is differentiated by its large size and inclusion of multiple fillings not found in traditional burritos, and it’s always wrapped in aluminum foil. This dish is a staple in San Francisco, and many locals are loyal to one restaurant or another. Where should you go? Chances are you’ll hit a home run anywhere.
If you’re hungrier for meat, try Lolinda, an Argentinian steakhouse that boasts it “combines Latin American flavors with Californian sensibilities.” The menu is a mix of local ingredients infused with Latin and Argentinian flavors at what is arguably a very affordable price. The real winners might be the desserts. You can order cookies (alfajores) and milk, or churros and chocolate, along with several other equally delicious items.
For the true foodie? Try the pasta tasting – $89 with several courses of delicacies – with a vegetarian option also! Have it paired with a wine tasting for another $59 – for the ultimate event. It is certainly a Mission District Restaurants list necessity.
Of course, in the home of Rice-a-Roni, an Italian restaurant has to make the cut. Flour + Water has a daily changing menu of dishes that includes handmade pastas. Neapolitan pizzas made in a wood-fired stove are also on offer.
If you can’t choose just one pasta dish, try their seasonal pasta tastings, where you’ll be offered multiple courses (there are seven on the spring menu) to choose your favorite for next time.
Do we know if any of these places are doing pandemic-friendly carry-out? I just moved to the Mission and I\’d love to check these out! I\’ve been ordering my seafood online recently and would love to have a meal prepared by somebody else!