Top 5: Mission-Style Burritos in San Francisco

Although the identities of the true creators is still up for debate, it is generally agreed the Mission-style burrito was created some time in the 1960s in San Francisco’s Mission District. Unlike a traditional burrito, the mission-style uses a much larger tortilla, and includes a larger portion of rice as well as cheese, guacamole, salsa and vegetables like pico de gallo and avocado.

Most importantly for some — a true mission-style is served in aluminum foil, making it easy to consume on the go. While dozens of new taquerias show up around the Bay Area every year, only a few can be heralded as the best of the best.

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El Farolito

This hole-in-the-wall burrito joint may not be as fancy as other destinations, but it makes up for it with flavor and craftsmanship. Their simple but hearty beef and thick slices of avocado explain why owners refer to their dish as the “best burrito in America.”

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La Taqueria

For 30 years, La Taqueria has been delivering cheap prices, quick service and tasty mission-style burritos. What more can a burrito purist ask for?

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Taqueria Cancun

With flavor as loud as their brightly paintedyellow and red walls, the Taqueria Cancun is known for their plump burritos and late-night hours.

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Papalote

For a carefully assembled, non-greasy alternative to the typical burrito slop, Papalote is the place to go.

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HRD Coffee Shop

Unlike most taquerias, HRD Coffee Shop is a fusion restaurant. And although it has a fair amount of competition from the menu — including Middle Eastern, Cajun, Asian and American delights — their smothered burritos stand above the rest.