El Tepa - 2198 Folsom St (@ 18th)
Visited: 12/15/09
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$ about 6?
Overall Description: For the most part a decent, but below-average burrito. There was just this underlying taste that I didn't like too much. It was certainly not offensive, but unspectacular.
Composition: (out of 5) 3 - Solid enough, but there were unexpected pockets of different textures.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 2.5 - This time there was too much rice and beans, not enough sour cream/guac/salsa/cheese (there's almost never enough cheese). Nothing was distasteful, but it wasn't fresh or bursting with flavor.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - I could have ate more of this but instead opted to only do half as I wasn't especially hungry and knew I could make use of it later. But it was two small meals instead of a large and medium one as I'm used to.
Taste: (out of 10) 4.5 - Not bad, but so underwhelming it's scoring just shy of a medium
Value: (out of 5) 3.5 - It was relatively cheap, but for a sub-par burrito, that's not a great value, is it?
Total Score: (out of 28) 15.5 - Would I eat here again? No. I'd recommend pretty much anyplace else, and it's not open very late, so I doubt I'll be back. But it's not too bad...probably makes a mean something-or-other.
Additional Comments: Chips and salsa equally underwhelming.
December 31, 2009
November 17, 2009
El Taco Loco (24th @ Mission)
Tl Taco Loco - 3274 24th St
Visited: 11/17/09
Ordered: Vegetarian Burrito
Cost:$5.30
Overall Description: Very standard Mission-typed burrito with nothing explempary, but nothing bad. I did not see that lettuce was in the burrito - should've asked for it without, but that's a common thread amongst my posts. It was fast at least as it should be if it's a standard Super Veg (meaning, same burrito, sans meat).
Composition: (out of 5) 3 - Very typically lettuce/salsa/sour cream on one side, rice/beans on tha otha. There could've been more cheese, n tha lettuce made it drippy, but it was at least consistent like that.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3 - Tasty overall, but nothing special in the ingredients. Would've liked a little tomato and thought it was lacking in spice/zing
Size: (out of 3) 2.5 - I finished it in one sitting. However I was starving so I will give it almost the full score.
Taste: (out of 10) 6 - Standard, but tasty. Predictable taste, but a little better then some other places nearby.
Value: (out of 5) 3.5 - Not sure how late this place is open, but I liked that the board said it would cost 5.30, and it did (after tax!).
Total Score: (out of 28) 18 - Sounds about right to me. Decent burrito, quick n easy.
Additional Comments: Chips were stale.
Visited: 11/17/09
Ordered: Vegetarian Burrito
Cost:$5.30
Overall Description: Very standard Mission-typed burrito with nothing explempary, but nothing bad. I did not see that lettuce was in the burrito - should've asked for it without, but that's a common thread amongst my posts. It was fast at least as it should be if it's a standard Super Veg (meaning, same burrito, sans meat).
Composition: (out of 5) 3 - Very typically lettuce/salsa/sour cream on one side, rice/beans on tha otha. There could've been more cheese, n tha lettuce made it drippy, but it was at least consistent like that.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3 - Tasty overall, but nothing special in the ingredients. Would've liked a little tomato and thought it was lacking in spice/zing
Size: (out of 3) 2.5 - I finished it in one sitting. However I was starving so I will give it almost the full score.
Taste: (out of 10) 6 - Standard, but tasty. Predictable taste, but a little better then some other places nearby.
Value: (out of 5) 3.5 - Not sure how late this place is open, but I liked that the board said it would cost 5.30, and it did (after tax!).
Total Score: (out of 28) 18 - Sounds about right to me. Decent burrito, quick n easy.
Additional Comments: Chips were stale.
November 3, 2009
El Toro (Valencia & 17th)
Name of Taqueria - 598 Valencia St
Visited: 11/3/09
Ordered: Super Vegetarian Burrito
Cost: 6ish?
Overall Description: I've been here before and was satisfied, but it was before my official rating system went into place. It was pretty much what I remembered - tasty, filling, but not outstanding in any way.
Composition: (out of 5) 3.5 - They didn't do anything wrong - except that I asked for no lettuce and they gave me lettuce. So minus a point for that. Otherwise, pretty good - right amount of cheese, rolled well, etc.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 4 - No complaints here - I had the black beans and there was plenty of flavor. I would have preferred straight-up avocado to the guacamole, but it wasn't too drippy or mushy.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - It looked plenty big - but I did finish it off.
Taste: (out of 10) 6.5 - Again, nothing outstanding, but fulfilling and tasty. A little shy of a 7 b/c of the lettuce/guacamole, but other then that it was satisfying.
Value: (out of 5) 4 - Would go here again, no problem.
Total Score: (out of 28) 20 - Solid entry - El Toro, you have earned my respect.
Additional Comments: The salsa were mislabeled, but it wasn't too hard to figure out. The interior of here is really lacking to many of the other places in the neighborhood - feels a bit plastic and there's not much decoration. So there's definitely better places to get that "Mission Burrito-y" feel.
Visited: 11/3/09
Ordered: Super Vegetarian Burrito
Cost: 6ish?
Overall Description: I've been here before and was satisfied, but it was before my official rating system went into place. It was pretty much what I remembered - tasty, filling, but not outstanding in any way.
Composition: (out of 5) 3.5 - They didn't do anything wrong - except that I asked for no lettuce and they gave me lettuce. So minus a point for that. Otherwise, pretty good - right amount of cheese, rolled well, etc.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 4 - No complaints here - I had the black beans and there was plenty of flavor. I would have preferred straight-up avocado to the guacamole, but it wasn't too drippy or mushy.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - It looked plenty big - but I did finish it off.
Taste: (out of 10) 6.5 - Again, nothing outstanding, but fulfilling and tasty. A little shy of a 7 b/c of the lettuce/guacamole, but other then that it was satisfying.
Value: (out of 5) 4 - Would go here again, no problem.
Total Score: (out of 28) 20 - Solid entry - El Toro, you have earned my respect.
Additional Comments: The salsa were mislabeled, but it wasn't too hard to figure out. The interior of here is really lacking to many of the other places in the neighborhood - feels a bit plastic and there's not much decoration. So there's definitely better places to get that "Mission Burrito-y" feel.
September 28, 2009
El Tonayense (24th & Shotwell)
El Tonayense - 3150 24th St.
Visited: 9/28/09
Ordered: Super Vegetarian Burrito
Cost: $6.02
Overall Description: I asked for no onions...I was tempted to ask for no lettuce but then it seemed there wouldn't have been much in the burrito. They boast that their South Western Veggie Burrito is delicious...and in retrospect I should have gotten that. Although I can't guarantee I would've have liked it THAT much more.
Composition: (out of 5) 1 - Beans and rice on one side, tomato and sauce and lettuce on the other. The burrito was too messy and didn't have enough beans, rice or cheese - and the guac was pretty runny as well. At least it was wrapped correctly
Ingredients: (out of 5) 2 - Beans and rice were tasty but they were totally overshadowed by what was ranch dressing or something similar.
Size: (out of 3) 1.5 - It looked big enough but was not rolled especially tight so it was not full of ingredients. I finished mine in one sitting because I didn't want to eat the rest of it again.
Taste: (out of 10) 3 - I didn't vomit, but I did not enjoy this burrito, it lacked pretty much everything. Where was the cheese?
Value: (out of 5) 1 - I'm docking an extra point here because the burrito was $6.02 cents and I had a twenty and one penny. Instead of coming up a penny short, I got 99 cents in change. Fuck this place.
Total Score: (out of 28) 8.5 - I had fairly high hopes for this place as it shares it's name w. the trucks all over the mission. I haven't eaten at the trucks as I sorta question their sanitation, and am never that hungry, but it was expected this place to be at least bearable. Considering my current favorite Guadalajara is RIGHT across the street, I will not ever eat here again. Especially considering the 6.02 price tag (really?)
Additional Comments:
Visited: 9/28/09
Ordered: Super Vegetarian Burrito
Cost: $6.02
Overall Description: I asked for no onions...I was tempted to ask for no lettuce but then it seemed there wouldn't have been much in the burrito. They boast that their South Western Veggie Burrito is delicious...and in retrospect I should have gotten that. Although I can't guarantee I would've have liked it THAT much more.
Composition: (out of 5) 1 - Beans and rice on one side, tomato and sauce and lettuce on the other. The burrito was too messy and didn't have enough beans, rice or cheese - and the guac was pretty runny as well. At least it was wrapped correctly
Ingredients: (out of 5) 2 - Beans and rice were tasty but they were totally overshadowed by what was ranch dressing or something similar.
Size: (out of 3) 1.5 - It looked big enough but was not rolled especially tight so it was not full of ingredients. I finished mine in one sitting because I didn't want to eat the rest of it again.
Taste: (out of 10) 3 - I didn't vomit, but I did not enjoy this burrito, it lacked pretty much everything. Where was the cheese?
Value: (out of 5) 1 - I'm docking an extra point here because the burrito was $6.02 cents and I had a twenty and one penny. Instead of coming up a penny short, I got 99 cents in change. Fuck this place.
Total Score: (out of 28) 8.5 - I had fairly high hopes for this place as it shares it's name w. the trucks all over the mission. I haven't eaten at the trucks as I sorta question their sanitation, and am never that hungry, but it was expected this place to be at least bearable. Considering my current favorite Guadalajara is RIGHT across the street, I will not ever eat here again. Especially considering the 6.02 price tag (really?)
Additional Comments:
September 9, 2009
El Castillito (Mission & 17th)
El Castillito - 2029 Mission St.
Visited: 9/8/09
Ordered: Vegetarian Burrito
Cost:$ 5.69
Overall Description: I asked for no onions, as the ingredients specifically noted onions. However, I think this means they also withheld the hot salsa that was supposed to be in my burrito, so it lacked zing. Actually, it probably would've lacked zing anyway, but at least it would've been spicy. This was a good sized burrito with fresh ingredients, but it came across pretty bland all over.
Composition: (out of 5) 2 - I almost gave it a three, but there wasn't enough beans so the burrito felt poorly distributed, and there was lettuce in it - which I would've asked they leave out if it had been on the menu. Also the lack of salsa, which I shouldn't hold against them maybe, but I will anyway.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3.5 - Actually, everything in this burrito was very fresh, so it tasted decent. However the beans and rice were pretty bland, they put lettuce in there, and I felt there was way too much sour cream.
Size: (out of 3) 3 - Can't argue with the size - this thing was big and felt like a real burrito (as opposed to my last post).
Taste: (out of 10) 5 - Nothing bad, but nothing overwhelmingly good. As I mentioned, it felt under-seasoned and the first bite was not bursting with burrito-y goodness, so I'm giving it the most neutral score I can.
Value: (out of 5) 3 - Decent price for a decent size, but I wouldn't suggest it to anyone (although it's certainly better then El Balazo across the street) (which got a better rating for a chile relleno - means an eventual revist).
Total Score: (out of 28) 16.5 - Not a contender, but not offensive.
Additional Comments: When I asked how my friend's chicken burrito was she made the "so-so/meh" sign with her hands, so it wasn't just me!
Visited: 9/8/09
Ordered: Vegetarian Burrito
Cost:$ 5.69
Overall Description: I asked for no onions, as the ingredients specifically noted onions. However, I think this means they also withheld the hot salsa that was supposed to be in my burrito, so it lacked zing. Actually, it probably would've lacked zing anyway, but at least it would've been spicy. This was a good sized burrito with fresh ingredients, but it came across pretty bland all over.
Composition: (out of 5) 2 - I almost gave it a three, but there wasn't enough beans so the burrito felt poorly distributed, and there was lettuce in it - which I would've asked they leave out if it had been on the menu. Also the lack of salsa, which I shouldn't hold against them maybe, but I will anyway.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3.5 - Actually, everything in this burrito was very fresh, so it tasted decent. However the beans and rice were pretty bland, they put lettuce in there, and I felt there was way too much sour cream.
Size: (out of 3) 3 - Can't argue with the size - this thing was big and felt like a real burrito (as opposed to my last post).
Taste: (out of 10) 5 - Nothing bad, but nothing overwhelmingly good. As I mentioned, it felt under-seasoned and the first bite was not bursting with burrito-y goodness, so I'm giving it the most neutral score I can.
Value: (out of 5) 3 - Decent price for a decent size, but I wouldn't suggest it to anyone (although it's certainly better then El Balazo across the street) (which got a better rating for a chile relleno - means an eventual revist).
Total Score: (out of 28) 16.5 - Not a contender, but not offensive.
Additional Comments: When I asked how my friend's chicken burrito was she made the "so-so/meh" sign with her hands, so it wasn't just me!
August 25, 2009
La Taqueria (Mission @ 25th)
La Taqueria - 2889 Mission St.
Visited: 8/24/09
Ordered: Veggie w. Avocado and Sour Cream
Cost:$5.67
Overall Description: We knew this was not going to be the standard burrito from the get-go. The burrito size was decent, but it was way squishier then I'm accustomed to for a wrapped entity. Overall, this burrito was subpar at best, but the staff was super nice.
Composition: (out of 5) 2 - Wrapped poorly and messily. There was no tension in this burrito so the ingredients sort of sloshed around. My buddy's Carne Asada dripped everywhere. Also, they used sliced cheese instead of shredded, so all the cheese was on one side of the burrito.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 2 - I don't think I had any rice in this burrito! The Sour Cream was kind of watery, and the guacamole felt overpowering because there werent enough ingredients. The black beans were fine I guess.
Size: (out of 3) 1.5 - Well, it looked big, but because it wasn't bursting full of burrito goodness, it was pretty easy to finish off. And I was a little hungry by the time I got home (granted a few beers later).
Taste: (out of 10) 4 - I think I'm being slightly generous here - this burrito wasn't bad by any means, but I was very under-impressed. I'm likely just being nice to accommodate for my educated palate.
Value: (out of 5) 2 - I walked in and saw that a veggie burrito was 3.60. That's a deal! However when I made sure to get the sour cream and avocado that is standard w. all the Super Burritos I get, it ended up being about as much as any other place. Factor in that this place closes early (I've tried going in the past as I've biked past it so many times), and the burrito is loose, this is not a deal.
Total Score: (out of 28) 11.5 - That speaks for itself. This is the worst burrito I've had on this side of Ceasar Chavez except for the Taqueria San Jose that I am purposefully postponing reviews for.
Additional Comments: Awful busy for such an awful burrito.
Visited: 8/24/09
Ordered: Veggie w. Avocado and Sour Cream
Cost:$5.67
Overall Description: We knew this was not going to be the standard burrito from the get-go. The burrito size was decent, but it was way squishier then I'm accustomed to for a wrapped entity. Overall, this burrito was subpar at best, but the staff was super nice.
Composition: (out of 5) 2 - Wrapped poorly and messily. There was no tension in this burrito so the ingredients sort of sloshed around. My buddy's Carne Asada dripped everywhere. Also, they used sliced cheese instead of shredded, so all the cheese was on one side of the burrito.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 2 - I don't think I had any rice in this burrito! The Sour Cream was kind of watery, and the guacamole felt overpowering because there werent enough ingredients. The black beans were fine I guess.
Size: (out of 3) 1.5 - Well, it looked big, but because it wasn't bursting full of burrito goodness, it was pretty easy to finish off. And I was a little hungry by the time I got home (granted a few beers later).
Taste: (out of 10) 4 - I think I'm being slightly generous here - this burrito wasn't bad by any means, but I was very under-impressed. I'm likely just being nice to accommodate for my educated palate.
Value: (out of 5) 2 - I walked in and saw that a veggie burrito was 3.60. That's a deal! However when I made sure to get the sour cream and avocado that is standard w. all the Super Burritos I get, it ended up being about as much as any other place. Factor in that this place closes early (I've tried going in the past as I've biked past it so many times), and the burrito is loose, this is not a deal.
Total Score: (out of 28) 11.5 - That speaks for itself. This is the worst burrito I've had on this side of Ceasar Chavez except for the Taqueria San Jose that I am purposefully postponing reviews for.
Additional Comments: Awful busy for such an awful burrito.
August 4, 2009
Pancho Villa Taqueria (16th @ Valencia)
El Pancho Villa - 3071 16th St
Visited: 8/3/09
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$
Overall Description: Good, not fantastic.
Composition: (out of 5) 3 Well put together, but a bit heavy on the sour cream and rice actually. I did like the salsa blend throughout. Lots of diced tomatoes however - I like tomatoes plenty, probably more then most people, but this was a little excessive in terms of flavor and texture. I also had to ask them to omit the lettuce - a flaw in my opinion.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 4 - Even though the pot my black beans came from looked a little "left over", the ingredients were all pretty fresh. The overabundant tomatoes had flavor and the cheese and salsa complimentation made up for the rice and sour cream mild over kill.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - Eh, I ate this without much problem.
Taste: (out of 10) 7 - This was a good burrito - but it didn't wow me. I don't know, could be because Ive had SOO MANY veggie burritos of similar composition, but I still think from time to time I should bite into something and just think "hell yeah, this is a 9 or 10!"
Value: (out of 5) 4 - This place is open late and quality - also the 16th street location means it's both closer to the bars then El Farolito, as well as other relatively decent late-night options.
Total Score: (out of 28) 20 - Solid entry, not kicking out any favorites, but I'd wanted to go here for a while and was not at all disappointed.
Additional Comments: Habenero salsa here was also tasty, although I didn't like it as much as Guadalajara. This place is always pretty busy, and has more seating then other late-night places so it's a good go-to I would imagine.
Visited: 8/3/09
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$
Overall Description: Good, not fantastic.
Composition: (out of 5) 3 Well put together, but a bit heavy on the sour cream and rice actually. I did like the salsa blend throughout. Lots of diced tomatoes however - I like tomatoes plenty, probably more then most people, but this was a little excessive in terms of flavor and texture. I also had to ask them to omit the lettuce - a flaw in my opinion.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 4 - Even though the pot my black beans came from looked a little "left over", the ingredients were all pretty fresh. The overabundant tomatoes had flavor and the cheese and salsa complimentation made up for the rice and sour cream mild over kill.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - Eh, I ate this without much problem.
Taste: (out of 10) 7 - This was a good burrito - but it didn't wow me. I don't know, could be because Ive had SOO MANY veggie burritos of similar composition, but I still think from time to time I should bite into something and just think "hell yeah, this is a 9 or 10!"
Value: (out of 5) 4 - This place is open late and quality - also the 16th street location means it's both closer to the bars then El Farolito, as well as other relatively decent late-night options.
Total Score: (out of 28) 20 - Solid entry, not kicking out any favorites, but I'd wanted to go here for a while and was not at all disappointed.
Additional Comments: Habenero salsa here was also tasty, although I didn't like it as much as Guadalajara. This place is always pretty busy, and has more seating then other late-night places so it's a good go-to I would imagine.
Taqueria Guadalajara (24th @ Shotwell)
Taqueria Guadalajara - 3146 24th St
Visited: 7/20/09
Ordered: Si[er Veggie Burrito
Cost:$6ish?
Overall Description: This was a damn good burrito in a sweet little location. I remember being quite impressed with my first bite, and the seating area indoors had these quaint little seats that added an extra air of atmosphere. While not amazing, this was a solid and delicious burrito.
Composition: (out of 5) 4 - Each bite was similar to the last, the sour cream was not overwhelming, and I remember a lot of flavor.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 4 - Plenty of flavor, although not the freshest I've ever had. They used avocado instead of guac, the beans had plenty of flavor, and the rice was a nice texture without being too moist.
Size: (out of 3) 3 - I ate most of this and then the rest later, so it satisfied by size requirements
Taste: (out of 10) 8 - While quite tasty, this burrito did not go "Above and Beyond" in terms of flavor.
Value: (out of 5) 5 - If I could remember how much this was, I might give it a five - I liked this burrito and this location a lot.
Total Score: (out of 28) 24 - A nice score from an unexpected taqueria amongst many on 24th st!
Additional Comments: The habenero salsa is amazing - delicious, flavorful, and that great kind of spice - starts in your mouth and travels down your throat!
Visited: 7/20/09
Ordered: Si[er Veggie Burrito
Cost:$6ish?
Overall Description: This was a damn good burrito in a sweet little location. I remember being quite impressed with my first bite, and the seating area indoors had these quaint little seats that added an extra air of atmosphere. While not amazing, this was a solid and delicious burrito.
Composition: (out of 5) 4 - Each bite was similar to the last, the sour cream was not overwhelming, and I remember a lot of flavor.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 4 - Plenty of flavor, although not the freshest I've ever had. They used avocado instead of guac, the beans had plenty of flavor, and the rice was a nice texture without being too moist.
Size: (out of 3) 3 - I ate most of this and then the rest later, so it satisfied by size requirements
Taste: (out of 10) 8 - While quite tasty, this burrito did not go "Above and Beyond" in terms of flavor.
Value: (out of 5) 5 - If I could remember how much this was, I might give it a five - I liked this burrito and this location a lot.
Total Score: (out of 28) 24 - A nice score from an unexpected taqueria amongst many on 24th st!
Additional Comments: The habenero salsa is amazing - delicious, flavorful, and that great kind of spice - starts in your mouth and travels down your throat!
July 20, 2009
Mariachi's Taqueria (Valencia @ 16th)
Mariachi's Taqueria - 508 Valencia St (@ 16th)
Visited:7/16/09
Ordered: Grilled California
Cost:$7 and change
Overall Description: Almost went with another burrito but it didn't have rice so I felt it would not compare effectively. Full of mushrooms, peppers, zucchini, mango salsa, cheese, but no guac, on a sundried tomato? wrap.
Composition: (out of 5) 3 - It would be easy to give this a 5 if it weren't for the fact that they just don't wrap their burritos very well here and they always fall apart. I think they need larger tortillas - perhaps the flavored ones are stiffer? Whatever it is, any burrito that needs to be eaten with a fork is not a winner for me, but the combination of grilled veggies and mango salsa worked well otherwise.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 5 - Great ingredients, although I would've liked to see some guacamole AND mango salsa. Oh well, this is definitely the freshest place I've visited yet.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - Finishing a burrito here is totally doable, but it's large enough to warrant a 2
Taste: (out of 10) 7 - Quite tasty, although the tortilla was a little dry. I like the rice, but it could have been more flavorful, and the beans weren't anything special. However the freshly grilled veggies made up for other places it was lacking - it almost got a higher rating, but it wasn't quite a burrito in some ways.
Value: (out of 5) 4 - More expensive and longer wait then the local taquerias, but it was worth it.
Total Score: (out of 28) 21 - A good burrito at an okay price, this is a bit different from your standard mexican burritos so I probably won't eat here all that often, but for something different this is a great place to check out.
Additional Comments:
Visited:7/16/09
Ordered: Grilled California
Cost:$7 and change
Overall Description: Almost went with another burrito but it didn't have rice so I felt it would not compare effectively. Full of mushrooms, peppers, zucchini, mango salsa, cheese, but no guac, on a sundried tomato? wrap.
Composition: (out of 5) 3 - It would be easy to give this a 5 if it weren't for the fact that they just don't wrap their burritos very well here and they always fall apart. I think they need larger tortillas - perhaps the flavored ones are stiffer? Whatever it is, any burrito that needs to be eaten with a fork is not a winner for me, but the combination of grilled veggies and mango salsa worked well otherwise.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 5 - Great ingredients, although I would've liked to see some guacamole AND mango salsa. Oh well, this is definitely the freshest place I've visited yet.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - Finishing a burrito here is totally doable, but it's large enough to warrant a 2
Taste: (out of 10) 7 - Quite tasty, although the tortilla was a little dry. I like the rice, but it could have been more flavorful, and the beans weren't anything special. However the freshly grilled veggies made up for other places it was lacking - it almost got a higher rating, but it wasn't quite a burrito in some ways.
Value: (out of 5) 4 - More expensive and longer wait then the local taquerias, but it was worth it.
Total Score: (out of 28) 21 - A good burrito at an okay price, this is a bit different from your standard mexican burritos so I probably won't eat here all that often, but for something different this is a great place to check out.
Additional Comments:
La Corneta (Mission @ 23rd)
La Corneta - 2731 Mission St.
Visited:7/10/09
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$ 6.25
Overall Description: Everyone raves about this place, and I had what I thought was a small but tasty burrito there before. However, this visit was completely different to what I remembered. I had a very average but large burrito for a decent price.
Composition: (out of 5) 3 - They use lettuce, which is a big no-no for me. Other then that it was pretty tasty, solid, didn't get too drippy and each bite was much like the last.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3 - Nothing stellar, but nothing I could complain about. Other then the lettuce, they did use avocado instead of guacamole, and the rice and beans and salsa were tasty, but didn't stand out that strongly.
Size: (out of 3) 3 - I really thought I remembered this place making unsatisfactory small burritos, but this one was quite large. I ate half of it then put the other half away for a second meal.
Taste: (out of 10) 6.5 - Just shy of getting a 7 because I didn't find it all that impressive, but it was enjoyable enough both fresh and as a leftover so I wanted to give it more then a 5
Value: (out of 5) 4 - This place works, it just closes earlier then most of it's counterparts.
Total Score: (out of 28) 19.5 - Good, not great. Confusing because I was expecting a smaller burrito that tasted excellent. Guess they make em differently on Friday nights?
Additional Comments: Chips and salsa pretty bland and stale. Too bad, there's lots of space to sit here.
Visited:7/10/09
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$ 6.25
Overall Description: Everyone raves about this place, and I had what I thought was a small but tasty burrito there before. However, this visit was completely different to what I remembered. I had a very average but large burrito for a decent price.
Composition: (out of 5) 3 - They use lettuce, which is a big no-no for me. Other then that it was pretty tasty, solid, didn't get too drippy and each bite was much like the last.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3 - Nothing stellar, but nothing I could complain about. Other then the lettuce, they did use avocado instead of guacamole, and the rice and beans and salsa were tasty, but didn't stand out that strongly.
Size: (out of 3) 3 - I really thought I remembered this place making unsatisfactory small burritos, but this one was quite large. I ate half of it then put the other half away for a second meal.
Taste: (out of 10) 6.5 - Just shy of getting a 7 because I didn't find it all that impressive, but it was enjoyable enough both fresh and as a leftover so I wanted to give it more then a 5
Value: (out of 5) 4 - This place works, it just closes earlier then most of it's counterparts.
Total Score: (out of 28) 19.5 - Good, not great. Confusing because I was expecting a smaller burrito that tasted excellent. Guess they make em differently on Friday nights?
Additional Comments: Chips and salsa pretty bland and stale. Too bad, there's lots of space to sit here.
July 8, 2009
La Vallarta (24th & Treat)
Taqueria Vallarta - 3033 24th St
Visited: 7/3/09
Ordered: Super Grill Burrito
Cost:$6.40
Overall Description: I've definitely been to this place once before, but I just got something cheap and quick as I was starving and freezing. I didn't quite know what to order - their regular veggie burrito had sour cream and guac and I wanted something a little more unique to this place, so I settled on the Super Grilled Burrito (or something along those lines). It had carrots, peppers, other veggies, etc. It was tasty, but I felt like there was too much sour cream and not enough substance over all.
Composition: (out of 5) 3.5 - This burrito stayed together well, and each bite was about as good as the next. I had to dock a few points because the shredded carrots sank to the bottom of the burrito, so my leftover meal was all carrots, instead of the other good stuff. Also, it was kind of sloppier near the end then I thought - all that sour cream.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 4 - I did enjoy the combination of ingredients and it gave it a flavor that was more complex then most of the other burritos I've tried. Far from perfect, but an interesting combination so I rated it a little higher then I might've.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - Big but not huge. I could have finished this in a sitting if I hadn't had a snack a little before.
Taste: (out of 10) 6.5 - Good but not great. Too much sour cream, some uneveness in the cut of the veggies, and something not quite right about it prevent this from scoring higher. But it did give me the satisfying first bite I was craving at that point in time.
Value: (out of 5) 3.5 - Cheap, open late, good size, and tasty enough - a good entry but not quite enough to make it a new champion.
Total Score: (out of 28) 19.5 - As mentioned above, I think this burrito is pretty good, especially if you are looking for something authentic but slightly off the beaten path (mission st). I will probably swing by here again for late nite cheap burritos and tacos, but skip the super grill most likely.
Additional Comments: Open late on weeknights and they have a big menu and large seating area - it's nice to have some space inside!
Visited: 7/3/09
Ordered: Super Grill Burrito
Cost:$6.40
Overall Description: I've definitely been to this place once before, but I just got something cheap and quick as I was starving and freezing. I didn't quite know what to order - their regular veggie burrito had sour cream and guac and I wanted something a little more unique to this place, so I settled on the Super Grilled Burrito (or something along those lines). It had carrots, peppers, other veggies, etc. It was tasty, but I felt like there was too much sour cream and not enough substance over all.
Composition: (out of 5) 3.5 - This burrito stayed together well, and each bite was about as good as the next. I had to dock a few points because the shredded carrots sank to the bottom of the burrito, so my leftover meal was all carrots, instead of the other good stuff. Also, it was kind of sloppier near the end then I thought - all that sour cream.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 4 - I did enjoy the combination of ingredients and it gave it a flavor that was more complex then most of the other burritos I've tried. Far from perfect, but an interesting combination so I rated it a little higher then I might've.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - Big but not huge. I could have finished this in a sitting if I hadn't had a snack a little before.
Taste: (out of 10) 6.5 - Good but not great. Too much sour cream, some uneveness in the cut of the veggies, and something not quite right about it prevent this from scoring higher. But it did give me the satisfying first bite I was craving at that point in time.
Value: (out of 5) 3.5 - Cheap, open late, good size, and tasty enough - a good entry but not quite enough to make it a new champion.
Total Score: (out of 28) 19.5 - As mentioned above, I think this burrito is pretty good, especially if you are looking for something authentic but slightly off the beaten path (mission st). I will probably swing by here again for late nite cheap burritos and tacos, but skip the super grill most likely.
Additional Comments: Open late on weeknights and they have a big menu and large seating area - it's nice to have some space inside!
June 25, 2009
Taqueria Cancun (Mission & 18th)
Taqueria Cancun - 2288 Mission St.
Visited: 6/20/09
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$6 (can't remember if it was 6 or 7 rounded up)
Overall Description: Disappointing for the most part - perhaps it was the fact that it was near the end of the afternoon of a beautiful day and they'd been quite busy, but why is it that every place that boasts "Best Veggie Burrito" ends up lacking so much? I've eaten at the Market St. location a few times - which I enjoyed, and the Outer Mission once or twice (which I didn't), so I pretty much thought this was going to tromp both of them. Instead, it reminded me a lot of that less-then-stellar burrito I've had at the Outer Mission location.
Composition: (out of 5) 2 - This burrito was pretty un-uniform. Most of the time, the sour cream and cilantro hung out on one side of the burrito while the beans and rice were on the other. It didn't fall apart in my hands until the very end, but it was a bit messy for the BART ride I was taking while eating it.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3 - A 3 only because they use actual avocado instead of guacamole. The rice was dry, the beans weren't especially tasty, and there wasn't enough cheese.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - It looked like a decent size, but I had no trouble finishing it and then running for hours afterwards, so definitely not a 3
Taste: (out of 10) 4 - I think it's obvious this burrito bored me. I've listed all the specifics about why I didn't think it held up - and seriously a little more cheese would've made such a difference. It didn't make me gag or gross me out, but it fell flat in so many areas I had to give it less then a 5.
Value: (out of 5) 2 - There are burritos this cheap that are much tastier - although this place is open late and is never as slamming busy as El Farolito, so you could do worse.
Total Score: (out of 28) 13 -
Additional Comments:
Visited: 6/20/09
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$6 (can't remember if it was 6 or 7 rounded up)
Overall Description: Disappointing for the most part - perhaps it was the fact that it was near the end of the afternoon of a beautiful day and they'd been quite busy, but why is it that every place that boasts "Best Veggie Burrito" ends up lacking so much? I've eaten at the Market St. location a few times - which I enjoyed, and the Outer Mission once or twice (which I didn't), so I pretty much thought this was going to tromp both of them. Instead, it reminded me a lot of that less-then-stellar burrito I've had at the Outer Mission location.
Composition: (out of 5) 2 - This burrito was pretty un-uniform. Most of the time, the sour cream and cilantro hung out on one side of the burrito while the beans and rice were on the other. It didn't fall apart in my hands until the very end, but it was a bit messy for the BART ride I was taking while eating it.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3 - A 3 only because they use actual avocado instead of guacamole. The rice was dry, the beans weren't especially tasty, and there wasn't enough cheese.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - It looked like a decent size, but I had no trouble finishing it and then running for hours afterwards, so definitely not a 3
Taste: (out of 10) 4 - I think it's obvious this burrito bored me. I've listed all the specifics about why I didn't think it held up - and seriously a little more cheese would've made such a difference. It didn't make me gag or gross me out, but it fell flat in so many areas I had to give it less then a 5.
Value: (out of 5) 2 - There are burritos this cheap that are much tastier - although this place is open late and is never as slamming busy as El Farolito, so you could do worse.
Total Score: (out of 28) 13 -
Additional Comments:
May 26, 2009
Los Coyotes (16th & Mission)
Los Coyotes - 3036 16th St.
Visited: 5/20/09
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$7
Overall Description: A bit bland all around, but not a bad burrito. I am starting to think that my quest should almost be for the WORST burrito, as any taqueria in the Mission that can't pull off a veggie burrito should be exposed to the world.
Composition: (out of 5) 3 - Not bad, not great. Well wrapped, and tasty enough through out, although it could have used a bit more cheese, and lost the lettuce.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3 - Again, nothing stellar, but it didn't taste wrong. Used guacamole instead of avocado, rice was tasty but a little dry, but overall it was a satisfying meal.
Size: (out of 3) 3 - Not the largest burrito I've had, but I was relatively full when I finished it and had enough for a small meal later, so it passed that test completely.
Taste: (out of 10) 6 - Not enough cheese, nothing especially grabbing about the ingredients, and lack of spice gives this a just above average rating.
Value: (out of 5) 3 - Could this burrito be any more average?
Total Score: (out of 28) 18 - I don't think I'll be visiting this place again unless it's the only thing open, but if I do end up here, it won't be a horrible mistake to eat here a second time.
Additional Comments:
Visited: 5/20/09
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$7
Overall Description: A bit bland all around, but not a bad burrito. I am starting to think that my quest should almost be for the WORST burrito, as any taqueria in the Mission that can't pull off a veggie burrito should be exposed to the world.
Composition: (out of 5) 3 - Not bad, not great. Well wrapped, and tasty enough through out, although it could have used a bit more cheese, and lost the lettuce.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3 - Again, nothing stellar, but it didn't taste wrong. Used guacamole instead of avocado, rice was tasty but a little dry, but overall it was a satisfying meal.
Size: (out of 3) 3 - Not the largest burrito I've had, but I was relatively full when I finished it and had enough for a small meal later, so it passed that test completely.
Taste: (out of 10) 6 - Not enough cheese, nothing especially grabbing about the ingredients, and lack of spice gives this a just above average rating.
Value: (out of 5) 3 - Could this burrito be any more average?
Total Score: (out of 28) 18 - I don't think I'll be visiting this place again unless it's the only thing open, but if I do end up here, it won't be a horrible mistake to eat here a second time.
Additional Comments:
May 6, 2009
El Buen Sabor (18th & Valencia)
El Buen Sabor - 699 Valencia
Visited: 5/5/09
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$7
Overall Description: A good burrito - but not as good as I remember them being. Maybe its that I've gotten the Chile Relleno burrito here and really loved it, maybe it was the fact that it was cinco de mayo and they had plenty on their plates, I don't know. But while tasty, this burrito certainly didn't blow me away.
Composition: (out of 5) 4 - No complaints here, it stayed together just fine, each bite was delicious, and there was a fair amount of guacamole throughout. I've toyed with getting their California Veggie burrito and think I will eventually try that - that burrito is pretty loaded w. veggies and probably has more problems staying together.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3 - Guac instead of avocado, the black beans were a little flavorless, and it wasn't the freshest burrito I've ever had, but things were good overall.
Size: (out of 3) 3 - A good size - I was starving when I bit into it, and I left just a little bit to save room for the margaritas and beer I was going to wash everything down with
Taste: (out of 10) 7 - Solid, tasty, but not "HOLY SHIT THIS IS GOOD!". I think I like their standard beans better then the black, but the rice had a lot of flavor to it.
Value: (out of 5) 4 - Nothing bad to say, and a bit cheaper then some of the other places, but I was a little dissapointed as I really remember this place being something special, and it was just good.
Total Score: (out of 28) 21 - Certainly a contender, but no El Farolito....
Additional Comments:They totally skimped on the chips, but we think that was because of Cinco de Mayo. I like their salsas a lot (i mix the green and red together usually).
Visited: 5/5/09
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$7
Overall Description: A good burrito - but not as good as I remember them being. Maybe its that I've gotten the Chile Relleno burrito here and really loved it, maybe it was the fact that it was cinco de mayo and they had plenty on their plates, I don't know. But while tasty, this burrito certainly didn't blow me away.
Composition: (out of 5) 4 - No complaints here, it stayed together just fine, each bite was delicious, and there was a fair amount of guacamole throughout. I've toyed with getting their California Veggie burrito and think I will eventually try that - that burrito is pretty loaded w. veggies and probably has more problems staying together.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3 - Guac instead of avocado, the black beans were a little flavorless, and it wasn't the freshest burrito I've ever had, but things were good overall.
Size: (out of 3) 3 - A good size - I was starving when I bit into it, and I left just a little bit to save room for the margaritas and beer I was going to wash everything down with
Taste: (out of 10) 7 - Solid, tasty, but not "HOLY SHIT THIS IS GOOD!". I think I like their standard beans better then the black, but the rice had a lot of flavor to it.
Value: (out of 5) 4 - Nothing bad to say, and a bit cheaper then some of the other places, but I was a little dissapointed as I really remember this place being something special, and it was just good.
Total Score: (out of 28) 21 - Certainly a contender, but no El Farolito....
Additional Comments:They totally skimped on the chips, but we think that was because of Cinco de Mayo. I like their salsas a lot (i mix the green and red together usually).
April 19, 2009
Papalote (24th & Valenica)
Papalote Mexican Grill - 3409 24th Street
Visited: 4/19/09
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$6.83
Overall Description: I liked my burrito for the most part, although it did take a while. I think this is because it came with potato, mushroom, and carrot, which tasted pretty fresh. An interesting choice of veggies - I could have had grilled eggplant and zucchini, which strike me as more obvious burrito filling, but I'm trying to evaluate "Veggie Burritos" as dictated by the shop. I think this place has some great entrees and breakfasts, and they have an excellent choice of beans (vegan black bean refried, which I had) and wraps, but their burrito didn't stand above and beyond to me.
Composition: (out of 5) 4 - Put together pretty well actually, each bite was a little different from the ones before and after it. The potatoes and carrots gave it an interesting consistency, and there was a good amount of sour cream. I would've liked some more cheese however.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 4 - Everything tasted pretty fresh and I ended up enjoying the combination of the vegetables. Rice and beans were tasty as well, but they used guac instead of avocado, and there was a bit too much garlic for me as well - also what seemed like a lack of tomatoes/salsa.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - It was a bit on the small side actually, but the potatoes weighed it down and made it more filling then a burrito that size generally would be. I stopped eating with about 4 or 5 bites left.
Taste: (out of 10) 6.5 - This burrito was plenty tasty and had some interesting consistencies, but it didn't blow me away. Also, some of the bites were really heavy with onions and garlic, and others weren't. In general I felt like this burrito was lacking in a lot of little ways, which eventually added up. I also waited for what felt like forever for it, which tainted my final evaluation a little bit. I'll eat here again, but I probably won't get a burrito.
Value: (out of 5) 3 - Nothing spectacular.
Total Score: (out of 28) 19.5 - I had really high hopes for this place, and while I was not disappointed, I was not blown away in general. It had been a while since I had a burrito with potatoes in it though which can be delicious. My first California Burrito was in San Diego years ago and I remember being surprised at how good potatoes in burritos were. Papalote does some stuff right - but this is not a contender in my "best burrito" search.
Additional Comments: Tasty chips and salsa, nice people at the counter, Reed's ginger beer and regular beer, Papalote is pretty good for mid-ranged "cheap" mexican.
Visited: 4/19/09
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$6.83
Overall Description: I liked my burrito for the most part, although it did take a while. I think this is because it came with potato, mushroom, and carrot, which tasted pretty fresh. An interesting choice of veggies - I could have had grilled eggplant and zucchini, which strike me as more obvious burrito filling, but I'm trying to evaluate "Veggie Burritos" as dictated by the shop. I think this place has some great entrees and breakfasts, and they have an excellent choice of beans (vegan black bean refried, which I had) and wraps, but their burrito didn't stand above and beyond to me.
Composition: (out of 5) 4 - Put together pretty well actually, each bite was a little different from the ones before and after it. The potatoes and carrots gave it an interesting consistency, and there was a good amount of sour cream. I would've liked some more cheese however.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 4 - Everything tasted pretty fresh and I ended up enjoying the combination of the vegetables. Rice and beans were tasty as well, but they used guac instead of avocado, and there was a bit too much garlic for me as well - also what seemed like a lack of tomatoes/salsa.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - It was a bit on the small side actually, but the potatoes weighed it down and made it more filling then a burrito that size generally would be. I stopped eating with about 4 or 5 bites left.
Taste: (out of 10) 6.5 - This burrito was plenty tasty and had some interesting consistencies, but it didn't blow me away. Also, some of the bites were really heavy with onions and garlic, and others weren't. In general I felt like this burrito was lacking in a lot of little ways, which eventually added up. I also waited for what felt like forever for it, which tainted my final evaluation a little bit. I'll eat here again, but I probably won't get a burrito.
Value: (out of 5) 3 - Nothing spectacular.
Total Score: (out of 28) 19.5 - I had really high hopes for this place, and while I was not disappointed, I was not blown away in general. It had been a while since I had a burrito with potatoes in it though which can be delicious. My first California Burrito was in San Diego years ago and I remember being surprised at how good potatoes in burritos were. Papalote does some stuff right - but this is not a contender in my "best burrito" search.
Additional Comments: Tasty chips and salsa, nice people at the counter, Reed's ginger beer and regular beer, Papalote is pretty good for mid-ranged "cheap" mexican.
April 13, 2009
El Farolito (24th & Mission)
El Farolito - 2950 24th St.
Visited: 4/12/09
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$6
Overall Description: This was one of my first burritos in the city, so it has sort of set the standard. However, a friend of mine had never been and I figured I needed to go remind myself why I thought this particular place was so good. I have to admit - I was not disappointed. The burrito was every bit as tasty as I remember them being (recently I have started getting their Veggie Torta instead of the burrito b/c it's definitely the best torta I've found). There's a reason this place has a line out of the door pretty much nonstop when other taquerias are empty.
Composition: (out of 5) 4 - Solidly wrapped, and able to stand on it's own. The only thing I don't like here is that the wrap is done very fast, and this means that parts of the tortilla ALWAYS fold up inside itself. Some people might like this as it adds an extra consistency, but I like my tortilla on the OUTSIDE of my burrito.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3.5 - Not quite a four because honestly none of this stuff is SUPER fresh, but they do use avocado instead of guacamole, and their rice is pretty tasty. The beans actually aren't the best I've had, but all in all things are tasty and far from stale.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - After seeing the El Balazo burrito, I have a new idea of what a LARGE burrito is. This is a good size, definitely a lot of food for one sitting, but is nowhere near as large as the El Balazo super.
Taste: (out of 10) 8.5 - Goddamn, these burritos are good. Satisfying, filling, each bite is slightly different from the one before it, and it sits in your stomach like lead, but the first half of this burrito is always delicious, even more so on a late night when you've been waiting for 20 minutes just to get it. I would actually like them to be just a touch spicier, and sometimes the cheese is all deposited in one section which detracts, but after a few months of not having an El Farolito super veg, I am kind of wondering what the fuck is wrong w. me.
Value: (out of 5) 5 - 6 bucks for a great super burrito - can't beat that.
Total Score: (out of 28) 23 Not too shabby at all. I sort of think if this place scored better then a 64 on their last health exam I'd be inclined to rate everything a little higher, but for now, the bar is set high, but not unobtainably so.
Additional Comments: Some of the best chips in the city.
Visited: 4/12/09
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$6
Overall Description: This was one of my first burritos in the city, so it has sort of set the standard. However, a friend of mine had never been and I figured I needed to go remind myself why I thought this particular place was so good. I have to admit - I was not disappointed. The burrito was every bit as tasty as I remember them being (recently I have started getting their Veggie Torta instead of the burrito b/c it's definitely the best torta I've found). There's a reason this place has a line out of the door pretty much nonstop when other taquerias are empty.
Composition: (out of 5) 4 - Solidly wrapped, and able to stand on it's own. The only thing I don't like here is that the wrap is done very fast, and this means that parts of the tortilla ALWAYS fold up inside itself. Some people might like this as it adds an extra consistency, but I like my tortilla on the OUTSIDE of my burrito.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3.5 - Not quite a four because honestly none of this stuff is SUPER fresh, but they do use avocado instead of guacamole, and their rice is pretty tasty. The beans actually aren't the best I've had, but all in all things are tasty and far from stale.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - After seeing the El Balazo burrito, I have a new idea of what a LARGE burrito is. This is a good size, definitely a lot of food for one sitting, but is nowhere near as large as the El Balazo super.
Taste: (out of 10) 8.5 - Goddamn, these burritos are good. Satisfying, filling, each bite is slightly different from the one before it, and it sits in your stomach like lead, but the first half of this burrito is always delicious, even more so on a late night when you've been waiting for 20 minutes just to get it. I would actually like them to be just a touch spicier, and sometimes the cheese is all deposited in one section which detracts, but after a few months of not having an El Farolito super veg, I am kind of wondering what the fuck is wrong w. me.
Value: (out of 5) 5 - 6 bucks for a great super burrito - can't beat that.
Total Score: (out of 28) 23 Not too shabby at all. I sort of think if this place scored better then a 64 on their last health exam I'd be inclined to rate everything a little higher, but for now, the bar is set high, but not unobtainably so.
Additional Comments: Some of the best chips in the city.
March 31, 2009
El Balazo (18th & Mission)
El Balazo - 2187 Mission St.
Visited: 3/31/09
Ordered: Chile Relleno (Super)
Cost:$6 and change
Overall Description: Somehow I had not noticed this big yellow building near 18th st. before. A little research tells me this is the most recent addition to the El Balazo chain which exists in N California. For such a high profile location, it seems a little unnoticed....
I had a chile relleno super burrito - misunderstanding the menu that every burrito available could be upgraded to a super. My friend had a al pastor burrito (non-super, if I remember correctly). We'd had two beers at this point, leading me to decide if potential intoxification will be factored into my rating scale. The Answer: Nope (although certain taquerias may need to be revisited).
Composition: (out of 5) 3 - this thing was HUGE, but that meant it was a little cumbersome to handle. I was holding mine by the edge of the paper bag before transferring it to my backpack - and the weight of the burrito broke the bag, making it fall out of my hands. My buddy's al pastor split open after the first few bites. There was also lettuce (which I don't like) but it wasn't too noticeable. The chile relleno was chopped up a lot as well and the cheese was cut into square cubes, instead of being melted and gooey.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3 - The mexican rice it was naturally served with was fine, although a little dry. My Black beans were fine - nothing extraordinary, but had a bit of their own flavor. It seemed that there was a LOT of sour cream too. Everything else was not especially noteable.
Size: (out of 3) 3 - HUGE! HUGE! Probably the biggest burrito I have ever looked at. After eating half of it, it still sort of felt like a shotput in my hand. Both of us ate half of it with the intention of getting an additional meal out of it.
Taste: (out of 10) 5 - Slightly better then passable, but this did not have the satisfying "Ahh" feeling as I bit into that big wrapped bomb to my tastebuds. The burrito was more then adequate, but not stellar, and I couldn't justify a rating above 6 here. Let's put it this way: I easily put it down halfway through without being tempted to continue. In retrospect, I may have wanted to try the actual veggie burrito (I think I need to revisit the guidelines and try to stick to a veggie burrito whenever one is offered). *NOTE* When I went back to the second half of this burrito the next day, it was actually a little on the gross side. I've dropped the score down from a 6 to a 5 because of this.
Value: (out of 5) 4 - If you are starving, you can get a regular veg burrito (beans rice cheese) that is likely enormous for under 4 dollars. I would have given this place a 5 on value, but my $4.50 burrito turned into 7 w/ tip after making it super. Not bad, but not a complete steal. I'm also factoring in taste with value. Although, this place may very well warrant another trip sometime.
Total Score: (out of 28) 18 As I review more burritos, we'll see where this falls in with the rest of them. This burrito tried, and it's size was impressive, but not even a contender in terms of being "the Best"
Additional Comments:The Chips were kind of stale, we didn't grab salsa as we were on the go. Woman behind the counter seemed very nice, and the decor was a little sloppy, but nice.
Visited: 3/31/09
Ordered: Chile Relleno (Super)
Cost:$6 and change
Overall Description: Somehow I had not noticed this big yellow building near 18th st. before. A little research tells me this is the most recent addition to the El Balazo chain which exists in N California. For such a high profile location, it seems a little unnoticed....
I had a chile relleno super burrito - misunderstanding the menu that every burrito available could be upgraded to a super. My friend had a al pastor burrito (non-super, if I remember correctly). We'd had two beers at this point, leading me to decide if potential intoxification will be factored into my rating scale. The Answer: Nope (although certain taquerias may need to be revisited).
Composition: (out of 5) 3 - this thing was HUGE, but that meant it was a little cumbersome to handle. I was holding mine by the edge of the paper bag before transferring it to my backpack - and the weight of the burrito broke the bag, making it fall out of my hands. My buddy's al pastor split open after the first few bites. There was also lettuce (which I don't like) but it wasn't too noticeable. The chile relleno was chopped up a lot as well and the cheese was cut into square cubes, instead of being melted and gooey.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3 - The mexican rice it was naturally served with was fine, although a little dry. My Black beans were fine - nothing extraordinary, but had a bit of their own flavor. It seemed that there was a LOT of sour cream too. Everything else was not especially noteable.
Size: (out of 3) 3 - HUGE! HUGE! Probably the biggest burrito I have ever looked at. After eating half of it, it still sort of felt like a shotput in my hand. Both of us ate half of it with the intention of getting an additional meal out of it.
Taste: (out of 10) 5 - Slightly better then passable, but this did not have the satisfying "Ahh" feeling as I bit into that big wrapped bomb to my tastebuds. The burrito was more then adequate, but not stellar, and I couldn't justify a rating above 6 here. Let's put it this way: I easily put it down halfway through without being tempted to continue. In retrospect, I may have wanted to try the actual veggie burrito (I think I need to revisit the guidelines and try to stick to a veggie burrito whenever one is offered). *NOTE* When I went back to the second half of this burrito the next day, it was actually a little on the gross side. I've dropped the score down from a 6 to a 5 because of this.
Value: (out of 5) 4 - If you are starving, you can get a regular veg burrito (beans rice cheese) that is likely enormous for under 4 dollars. I would have given this place a 5 on value, but my $4.50 burrito turned into 7 w/ tip after making it super. Not bad, but not a complete steal. I'm also factoring in taste with value. Although, this place may very well warrant another trip sometime.
Total Score: (out of 28) 18 As I review more burritos, we'll see where this falls in with the rest of them. This burrito tried, and it's size was impressive, but not even a contender in terms of being "the Best"
Additional Comments:The Chips were kind of stale, we didn't grab salsa as we were on the go. Woman behind the counter seemed very nice, and the decor was a little sloppy, but nice.
March 26, 2009
How I Will Rate the Burritos
All official testings will adhere to the following guidelines:
* The Super Veggie Burrito is the best thing to order for overall superiority. As mentioned, black beans will generally be sought out, but not necessarily. Super Veggie Burritos must contain: rice, beans, cheese, avo/guac, and sour cream. While it is okay to score based on a burrito other then a super veggie, it should only be done in special circumstances. In general, if the place I am visiting has a burrito they call a "Veggie Burrito" I will generally choose that.
* Each Burrito will be graded on:
- Composition (5 points). This mostly means how the burrito is wrapped, if it stays together the whole way through, how easy it is to eat, how evenly distributed the ingredients are in the wrap. Good burritos should stay delicious the whole way through, not getting too soggy or falling apart.
- Ingredients (5 points). This both means the quality of the ingredients added, but also any special ingredients specific to the local taqueria, or anything else that qualifies.
- Size (3 points). A good burrito should be enormous. Ideally, finishing the best burrito in one sitting is a menacing challenge, however not necessarily. The easiest way to lose points here is for me to finish a burrito on a relatively empty stomach and still be starving (especially if I had a soda and some chips).
- Taste (10 points). After all, this is what really matters isn't it? Great taste can trump any of these other factors. I will do my best not to let intoxication factor into this scoring, but I cannot promise. And finally,
- Value (5 points). Not just how much the burrito was, but how much it felt like it was worth. Burritos should be between 5 and 8 dollars.
This does only add up to 28, but that's my age as of writing this, 5 points on size just seemed like too much, and I couldn't think of any other categories.
*subject to change if I feel like it cuz I'm in charge*
* The Super Veggie Burrito is the best thing to order for overall superiority. As mentioned, black beans will generally be sought out, but not necessarily. Super Veggie Burritos must contain: rice, beans, cheese, avo/guac, and sour cream. While it is okay to score based on a burrito other then a super veggie, it should only be done in special circumstances. In general, if the place I am visiting has a burrito they call a "Veggie Burrito" I will generally choose that.
* Each Burrito will be graded on:
- Composition (5 points). This mostly means how the burrito is wrapped, if it stays together the whole way through, how easy it is to eat, how evenly distributed the ingredients are in the wrap. Good burritos should stay delicious the whole way through, not getting too soggy or falling apart.
- Ingredients (5 points). This both means the quality of the ingredients added, but also any special ingredients specific to the local taqueria, or anything else that qualifies.
- Size (3 points). A good burrito should be enormous. Ideally, finishing the best burrito in one sitting is a menacing challenge, however not necessarily. The easiest way to lose points here is for me to finish a burrito on a relatively empty stomach and still be starving (especially if I had a soda and some chips).
- Taste (10 points). After all, this is what really matters isn't it? Great taste can trump any of these other factors. I will do my best not to let intoxication factor into this scoring, but I cannot promise. And finally,
- Value (5 points). Not just how much the burrito was, but how much it felt like it was worth. Burritos should be between 5 and 8 dollars.
This does only add up to 28, but that's my age as of writing this, 5 points on size just seemed like too much, and I couldn't think of any other categories.
*subject to change if I feel like it cuz I'm in charge*
Taqueria Master List
Okay, so this is the list I'll be working off. I'm grabbing my locations from Yelp, although if I find a place that isn't listed in Yelp it will still count. While I see potentials for problems w. alphabetical organization, it makes more sense then an east-to-west or other method.
This is a work in progress! At some point in time (hopefully) I will feel this list is complete and will say as much. At that point, please feel free to leave a comment with any taquerias I have missed that fall within my geographical confines (as well as location) and I will promptly add it. Until then - let me figure it out (that means no suggestions until I change the above text). Thanks for your cooperation.
I recognize that this means many of the places I have visited will not be reviewed officially. Also, if a taqueria has more then one location, I MUST visit the one in the Mission to count. And if a taqueria has more then one location in the Mission, I will review them separately. Further rules may follow.
La Altena (Mission & 22nd) 8.5
El Balazo (Mission & 18th)
El Buen Sabor (18th & Valencia)
Taqueria Cancun (18th & Mission)
Casa Sanchez (24th & Hampshire)
El Castillito (Mission & 18th)
La Corneta (Mission & 23rd)
Los Coyotes (16th & Mission)
La Espiga de Oro (24th & Alabama) 22
El Farolito (Mission & 24th)
Taqueria Guadalajara (24th & Shotwell)
Mariachi's Taqueria (Valencia & 16th)
El Metate (Bryant & 21st) 23.5
La Palma Mexicatessen (24th & Bryant)
Pancho Villa Taqueria (16th & Valencia)
Papalote (Valencia & 24th)
La Parilla Grill(Folsom & 25th)
La Pinata Tortas Y Jugos (Mission & 21st) 18
Taqueria San Jose (Mission & 24th) 7
Taqueria San Francisco (24th & York) 20
El Taco Loco (24th & Mission)
La Taqueria (Mission & 25th)
El Tepa (18th & Folsom) 15.5
El Tonayense (24th & Shotwell)
El Toro (Valencia & 16th)
Vallarta Taqueria (24th & Treat)
This is a work in progress! At some point in time (hopefully) I will feel this list is complete and will say as much. At that point, please feel free to leave a comment with any taquerias I have missed that fall within my geographical confines (as well as location) and I will promptly add it. Until then - let me figure it out (that means no suggestions until I change the above text). Thanks for your cooperation.
I recognize that this means many of the places I have visited will not be reviewed officially. Also, if a taqueria has more then one location, I MUST visit the one in the Mission to count. And if a taqueria has more then one location in the Mission, I will review them separately. Further rules may follow.
La Altena (Mission & 22nd) 8.5
El Balazo (Mission & 18th)
El Buen Sabor (18th & Valencia)
Taqueria Cancun (18th & Mission)
Casa Sanchez (24th & Hampshire)
El Castillito (Mission & 18th)
La Corneta (Mission & 23rd)
Los Coyotes (16th & Mission)
La Espiga de Oro (24th & Alabama) 22
El Farolito (Mission & 24th)
Taqueria Guadalajara (24th & Shotwell)
Mariachi's Taqueria (Valencia & 16th)
El Metate (Bryant & 21st) 23.5
La Palma Mexicatessen (24th & Bryant)
Pancho Villa Taqueria (16th & Valencia)
Papalote (Valencia & 24th)
La Parilla Grill(Folsom & 25th)
La Pinata Tortas Y Jugos (Mission & 21st) 18
Taqueria San Jose (Mission & 24th) 7
Taqueria San Francisco (24th & York) 20
El Taco Loco (24th & Mission)
La Taqueria (Mission & 25th)
El Tepa (18th & Folsom) 15.5
El Tonayense (24th & Shotwell)
El Toro (Valencia & 16th)
Vallarta Taqueria (24th & Treat)
March 24, 2009
I WILL FIND IT.....
I am officially on a quest to find the best veggie burrito in the area. Currently, that is the Mission District of San Francisco, and I will stick to this area until I have fully researched it (or move) - however there may be a burrito review from elsewhere from time to time. So, a couple basic groundrules:
* In general, I will try to base my judgement on the taste of a Super Veg Burrito - that is, rice, beans of any style (although I should probably lean towards black beans to keep it "veggie"), cheese, guac/avocado, sour cream, tomato, and possibly salsa, wrapped in a standard flour tortilla. I am allowed to alter my personal preferences by asking them to abstain from adding: lettuce, raw onions, or cilantro, as well as any additional ingredients that seem unnecessary to me. However, I am allowed to step outside of those guidelines as I wish for experiences sake, keeping in mind that the "integrity" of the unbiased testing may be compromised.
* I shall define the "Mission District" in the same way that Yelp! does, between duboce and Cesar Chavez Sts, Dolores and Potrero
* A general guideline for the places I visit: Any place that boasts being a "Taqueria" should be visited, however, I will try to visit any Mexican restaurant that allows you to order a burrito and eat it in the establishment without being "served". Sit-down Mexican restaurants and Taco Trucks are not necessarily included, although I will not ignore them (especially if they boast a must-try burrito).
* It is okay for me to recreate reviews from places I have tried, so long as I am absolutely sure I remember the burrito
* The categories will be defined as the search becomes more refined.
* This is my own damn opinion and may be colored by personal experience.
So! Step No. 1 is to recreate some damn reviews. Let's read on..... (now that I apparently care about this stupid quest).
* In general, I will try to base my judgement on the taste of a Super Veg Burrito - that is, rice, beans of any style (although I should probably lean towards black beans to keep it "veggie"), cheese, guac/avocado, sour cream, tomato, and possibly salsa, wrapped in a standard flour tortilla. I am allowed to alter my personal preferences by asking them to abstain from adding: lettuce, raw onions, or cilantro, as well as any additional ingredients that seem unnecessary to me. However, I am allowed to step outside of those guidelines as I wish for experiences sake, keeping in mind that the "integrity" of the unbiased testing may be compromised.
* I shall define the "Mission District" in the same way that Yelp! does, between duboce and Cesar Chavez Sts, Dolores and Potrero
* A general guideline for the places I visit: Any place that boasts being a "Taqueria" should be visited, however, I will try to visit any Mexican restaurant that allows you to order a burrito and eat it in the establishment without being "served". Sit-down Mexican restaurants and Taco Trucks are not necessarily included, although I will not ignore them (especially if they boast a must-try burrito).
* It is okay for me to recreate reviews from places I have tried, so long as I am absolutely sure I remember the burrito
* The categories will be defined as the search becomes more refined.
* This is my own damn opinion and may be colored by personal experience.
So! Step No. 1 is to recreate some damn reviews. Let's read on..... (now that I apparently care about this stupid quest).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)