La Altena - 2588 Mission St. (@ 22nd)
Visited: 9/8/10
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$6.60
Overall Description: I had intentionally put this place off b/c I've eaten at their "outer" mission location and HATED it. There were no surprises here - just a subpar burrito.
Composition: (out of 5) 1 - First bite was all rice, couple bites later it was all lettuce and sour cream. Eventually when things settled themselves out, there were beans and rice on one side and sour cream, lettuce, and pico de gallo on the other. I saw no avocado in the burrito, whether whole or in guacamole form.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 2 - Nothing special here. Not bad tasting, but not great tasting. My friend said his carnitas were okay though.
Size: (out of 3) 1.5 - My veggie burrito was long but thin - probably b/c they just made a regular burrito without meat.
Taste: (out of 10) 3 - Maybe I'm just rating lower then usual because I'm tired of lesser burritos, but I knew this was going to be a sad entry, and this was only confirmed as I ate it. Let me put it this way - I knew I was going to cook later that night because I wasn't going to bring the other half of it home.
Value: (out of 5) 1 - There's no reason to get a burrito here, especially b/c its close to so many other respectable taquerias. I admit I might be a little bit of a burrito snob by now, and I was expecting to dislike this place, but that doesn't make the burrito any better.
Total Score: (out of 28) 8.5 - Why front? Another shitty burrito for over 6 dollars.
Additional Comments: Chips and salsa were very much like El Farolito, which is not their strong suit. Boring salsa with dry/stale chips, little decor - there's really no reason to ever set foot in this place again. Damn, I'm getting bitter.
Showing posts with label review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label review. Show all posts
September 8, 2010
August 11, 2010
Unofficial Entry - Sonia's (16th & Van Ness)
Since my definition of a "taqueria" is limited to places that have a counter a place to sit, this is not an official entry. While a small place, this is a table-service establishment
Sonia's Restaurant - 2943 16th St (@ Van Ness)
Visited: 6/7/10?
Ordered: Vegetarian Burrito
Cost:$6(?)
Overall Description: I hadn't reviewed this place b/c it didn't count, so I'm trying to remember specifics. We went here b/c the interior was basically bars - looked like an old convenience store had been abandoned. Burrito wasn't too bad though.
Composition: (out of 5) 2.5 - Nothing special if I remember correctly. The beans kind of sat at the bottom - not rolled especially tight, but didn't fall apart. There was real avocado, but other then that, rice, beans, and lettuce, that was it....
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3 - What was there was tasty enough - but there wasn't much substance to it. No cheese or sour cream or anything tomato! And they bring you sriracha for hot sauce. While hilarious, it's not mexican....
Size: (out of 3) 3 - Pretty sure I ate all of it but was quite full afterwards
Taste: (out of 10) 5 - I remember thinking it was fine, but nothing special. So a 5 it is.
Value: (out of 5) 2 - I guess it's not so much the value, but this is not a hot-spot by any means, and almost every burrito a few blocks away on Valencia is better, so I'd rather eat there.
Total Score: (out of 28) 15.5 - The woman here was super sweet, but the food just doesn't seem that good.
Additional Comments: There's a lot of Yelp reviews about it being less then clean, but considering this is hipster heaven, it didn't bother me. The shady front is hilarious though. The salsa was very guatemalean - mostly onion and vinegar, but had a nice bite to it.
Sonia's Restaurant - 2943 16th St (@ Van Ness)
Visited: 6/7/10?
Ordered: Vegetarian Burrito
Cost:$6(?)
Overall Description: I hadn't reviewed this place b/c it didn't count, so I'm trying to remember specifics. We went here b/c the interior was basically bars - looked like an old convenience store had been abandoned. Burrito wasn't too bad though.
Composition: (out of 5) 2.5 - Nothing special if I remember correctly. The beans kind of sat at the bottom - not rolled especially tight, but didn't fall apart. There was real avocado, but other then that, rice, beans, and lettuce, that was it....
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3 - What was there was tasty enough - but there wasn't much substance to it. No cheese or sour cream or anything tomato! And they bring you sriracha for hot sauce. While hilarious, it's not mexican....
Size: (out of 3) 3 - Pretty sure I ate all of it but was quite full afterwards
Taste: (out of 10) 5 - I remember thinking it was fine, but nothing special. So a 5 it is.
Value: (out of 5) 2 - I guess it's not so much the value, but this is not a hot-spot by any means, and almost every burrito a few blocks away on Valencia is better, so I'd rather eat there.
Total Score: (out of 28) 15.5 - The woman here was super sweet, but the food just doesn't seem that good.
Additional Comments: There's a lot of Yelp reviews about it being less then clean, but considering this is hipster heaven, it didn't bother me. The shady front is hilarious though. The salsa was very guatemalean - mostly onion and vinegar, but had a nice bite to it.
El Faro (Folsom & 20th)
El Faro - 2399 Folsom St (@ 20th)
Visited: 8/11/10
Ordered: No Meat Burrito
Cost:$ 6 and change (5.50 + tax)
Overall Description: Possibly the wettest burrito I've ever had.
Composition: (out of 5) 1 - Loosely rolled and DRIPPING with liquid! The beans had liquid, both kinds of salsa had liquid, and the lettuce was wet. The ingredients were also lined up on top of each other, which ensured that there was no mix of flavors.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3 - Actually, everything tasted pretty good on it's own. The pico was definitely fresh and flavorful. There wasn't enough cheese however, and the "guac" was very liquidy (see a trend). But nothing tasted "bad".
Size: (out of 3) 3 - One of the bigger burritos I've had, although it really suffered from being loosely rolled. I ate half of it at the taqueria and was fine - although I also didn't eat any more b/c of how wet and unsatisfying it was.
Taste: (out of 10) 4 - I think I'm being nice by giving it a 4. Like I said, everything tasted fine, but the ingredients didn't mix together. Also, I just tried some of my leftover half, and while I don't expect burritos to be great cold, it was pretty gross.
Value: (out of 5) 1 - I can't see why I would ever come back here - at 6 bucks it's almost expensive, and while not far off of Mission, they also close at 7 pm. I do wonder if perhaps their baby burritos or beans and cheese minis are tastier since they are smaller and the ingredients tasted good.
Total Score: (out of 28) 12 - Too bad. I've biked past this place to work almost every day and was always curious about it. The staff was pretty friendly too, but both my friend and I weren't expecting much after we saw it being made.
Additional Comments: Chips were okay, the spicy salsa grew on me. The interior is done in tiles, which sort of works, but also has some cheesy real pictures up. It's kind of halfway between no decoration and some of the more atmospheric places I've seen. The bathroom was a little hard and I never found a light for it - a little creepy. But this place means well.
Visited: 8/11/10
Ordered: No Meat Burrito
Cost:$ 6 and change (5.50 + tax)
Overall Description: Possibly the wettest burrito I've ever had.
Composition: (out of 5) 1 - Loosely rolled and DRIPPING with liquid! The beans had liquid, both kinds of salsa had liquid, and the lettuce was wet. The ingredients were also lined up on top of each other, which ensured that there was no mix of flavors.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3 - Actually, everything tasted pretty good on it's own. The pico was definitely fresh and flavorful. There wasn't enough cheese however, and the "guac" was very liquidy (see a trend). But nothing tasted "bad".
Size: (out of 3) 3 - One of the bigger burritos I've had, although it really suffered from being loosely rolled. I ate half of it at the taqueria and was fine - although I also didn't eat any more b/c of how wet and unsatisfying it was.
Taste: (out of 10) 4 - I think I'm being nice by giving it a 4. Like I said, everything tasted fine, but the ingredients didn't mix together. Also, I just tried some of my leftover half, and while I don't expect burritos to be great cold, it was pretty gross.
Value: (out of 5) 1 - I can't see why I would ever come back here - at 6 bucks it's almost expensive, and while not far off of Mission, they also close at 7 pm. I do wonder if perhaps their baby burritos or beans and cheese minis are tastier since they are smaller and the ingredients tasted good.
Total Score: (out of 28) 12 - Too bad. I've biked past this place to work almost every day and was always curious about it. The staff was pretty friendly too, but both my friend and I weren't expecting much after we saw it being made.
Additional Comments: Chips were okay, the spicy salsa grew on me. The interior is done in tiles, which sort of works, but also has some cheesy real pictures up. It's kind of halfway between no decoration and some of the more atmospheric places I've seen. The bathroom was a little hard and I never found a light for it - a little creepy. But this place means well.
April 22, 2010
Taqueria San Francisco (24th & York)
Taqueria San Francisco - 2794 24th St. (@ York St.)
Visited: 4/22/10
Ordered: Super Vegetarian
Cost:$6.84
Overall Description: My first impression when I picked it up was actually not very good - the burrito was a little loose, and folded unevenly so there was sour cream coming out of one side. However, the first couple bites were pretty good, and then things got better (and spicier!). This place definitely has it's own charm, and I was glad to visit it.
Composition: (out of 5) 3 - While the burrito was pretty good, composition was a little uneven. Beans were on one side and salsa/spices mostly on another. The last few bites were tortilla and cheese. Thankfully they did not use lettuce, and had a decent amount of cheese. Tasty, but a little sloppy.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3.5 - Everything tasted good, but not great. They used avocado - it was a little mashed up, but not guacamole by any means. The salsa was pretty fresh and spicy, without being too much. The beans were whole and had plenty of flavor - more of a centerpiece of the burrito then a semi-solid component.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - A decent size, but loosely wrapped sometimes. I finished the whole thing in one sitting, leaving me full, but not STUFFED.
Taste: (out of 10) 8 - I'm giving an extra point here for how spicy this burrito was - which totally worked. Overall, this was satisfying and tasty, but nothing special. The salsa on the table was a little bland and the chips weren't anything special. But the burrito was tasty and had JUST the right kind of bite. My friend seemed to really enjoy his carnitas burrito as well.
Value: (out of 5) 3.5 - Hard to score this one, but I think this is accurate. A little off the beaten path of Mission St, but right on 24th. At almost 7 dollars it's not the cheapest burrito out there, but it's also a pretty tasty one. The space doesn't have the same flair as some of the other taquerias in the area with decoration and other flair, but you can sit at the bar and watch them make your food, and the people are friendly and QUICK. I will have to compare it to other places in the area.
Total Score: (out of 28) 20 - Scored a little better then I expected in the long run, but this was a decent little entry in the book. In retrospect, it's a better place then I gave it credit for.
Additional Comments: They have very classy t-shirts (hah) that my friend tried to purchase for me, but they were out of my size.
Visited: 4/22/10
Ordered: Super Vegetarian
Cost:$6.84
Overall Description: My first impression when I picked it up was actually not very good - the burrito was a little loose, and folded unevenly so there was sour cream coming out of one side. However, the first couple bites were pretty good, and then things got better (and spicier!). This place definitely has it's own charm, and I was glad to visit it.
Composition: (out of 5) 3 - While the burrito was pretty good, composition was a little uneven. Beans were on one side and salsa/spices mostly on another. The last few bites were tortilla and cheese. Thankfully they did not use lettuce, and had a decent amount of cheese. Tasty, but a little sloppy.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3.5 - Everything tasted good, but not great. They used avocado - it was a little mashed up, but not guacamole by any means. The salsa was pretty fresh and spicy, without being too much. The beans were whole and had plenty of flavor - more of a centerpiece of the burrito then a semi-solid component.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - A decent size, but loosely wrapped sometimes. I finished the whole thing in one sitting, leaving me full, but not STUFFED.
Taste: (out of 10) 8 - I'm giving an extra point here for how spicy this burrito was - which totally worked. Overall, this was satisfying and tasty, but nothing special. The salsa on the table was a little bland and the chips weren't anything special. But the burrito was tasty and had JUST the right kind of bite. My friend seemed to really enjoy his carnitas burrito as well.
Value: (out of 5) 3.5 - Hard to score this one, but I think this is accurate. A little off the beaten path of Mission St, but right on 24th. At almost 7 dollars it's not the cheapest burrito out there, but it's also a pretty tasty one. The space doesn't have the same flair as some of the other taquerias in the area with decoration and other flair, but you can sit at the bar and watch them make your food, and the people are friendly and QUICK. I will have to compare it to other places in the area.
Total Score: (out of 28) 20 - Scored a little better then I expected in the long run, but this was a decent little entry in the book. In retrospect, it's a better place then I gave it credit for.
Additional Comments: They have very classy t-shirts (hah) that my friend tried to purchase for me, but they were out of my size.
March 6, 2010
La Pinata Tortas Y Jugos (Mission $ 21st)
La Pinataa - 2471 Mission St (@ 21st St)
Visited: 3/2/10
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$ 5.75
Overall Description: A decent entry, but nothing earth-shattering. My order was placed w.o problems, however my companions encountered a language barrier. The kitsch of the place was nice, and this was a back up as La Quinta was closed.
Composition: (out of 5) 3.5 - It took a little while to get to the heart of this burrito, but when I got there, it was pretty good. A decent mix of flavors and consistencies, although nothing mind-blowing.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3.5 - Probably almost a five if they didn't use lettuce, but the different parts of this burrito were generally quite tasty. They use a guacamole mix instead of straight avocado, but it's pretty chunky and avocado heavy. The beans, rice, cheese, etc. are all flavorful, and once I got into the heart of the burrito it was pretty enjoyable.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - Granted, I was hungry, but I finished this in one sitting.
Taste: (out of 10) 6.5 - This burrito definitely got better as I ate through it all, but was nothing amazing. More like, this is what a decent burrito should taste like - everything better is really good, anything worse is kind of crap.
Value: (out of 5) 3.5 - Almost a four - maybe to be re-evaluated, but while tasty, this didn't strike me as an amazing deal.
Total Score: (out of 28) 18 - Solid, decently priced burrito on mission st, but not anything special.
Additional Comments: Both meals my companions had were good, but not great. Chips and salsa were a little lacking, but the interior did have a mural. It looks like they were set up for an outside window, but aren't quite there yet. Also, there was a big fucking bag of carrots in the fridge:
Visited: 3/2/10
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$ 5.75
Overall Description: A decent entry, but nothing earth-shattering. My order was placed w.o problems, however my companions encountered a language barrier. The kitsch of the place was nice, and this was a back up as La Quinta was closed.
Composition: (out of 5) 3.5 - It took a little while to get to the heart of this burrito, but when I got there, it was pretty good. A decent mix of flavors and consistencies, although nothing mind-blowing.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 3.5 - Probably almost a five if they didn't use lettuce, but the different parts of this burrito were generally quite tasty. They use a guacamole mix instead of straight avocado, but it's pretty chunky and avocado heavy. The beans, rice, cheese, etc. are all flavorful, and once I got into the heart of the burrito it was pretty enjoyable.
Size: (out of 3) 2 - Granted, I was hungry, but I finished this in one sitting.
Taste: (out of 10) 6.5 - This burrito definitely got better as I ate through it all, but was nothing amazing. More like, this is what a decent burrito should taste like - everything better is really good, anything worse is kind of crap.
Value: (out of 5) 3.5 - Almost a four - maybe to be re-evaluated, but while tasty, this didn't strike me as an amazing deal.
Total Score: (out of 28) 18 - Solid, decently priced burrito on mission st, but not anything special.
Additional Comments: Both meals my companions had were good, but not great. Chips and salsa were a little lacking, but the interior did have a mural. It looks like they were set up for an outside window, but aren't quite there yet. Also, there was a big fucking bag of carrots in the fridge:
January 28, 2010
Taqueria San Jose (Mission & 24th)
Taqueria San Jose - 2830 Mission St (@ 24th)
Visited: 1/23/10
Ordered: Super Vegetarian Burrito
Cost:$8 bucks or some shit like that
Overall Description: Ugh. I was really dreading reviewing this place - I've eaten here twice before and been completely turned off both times, but it was before I started this blog. This place is almost kitty-corner to El Farolito, but never has a line, which should be ones first clue. I guess their convenient location keeps them in business, but this place should be avoided at all costs, especially if you eat veg.
Composition: (out of 5) 1 - I got a third into the burrito before seeing any guacamole or sour cream. The lettuce (lame!) consumes the most of the burrito so you can't get a bite without it. It seemed lacking in cheese, rice, beans, guac, sc - all it had in abundance was lettuce.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 1 - Once you get past the main part of this burrito, it becomes a sloppy wet mess. Think sour cream covered lettuce w. a little bit of beans. It drips every where - I even squeezed out some of the sour cream water and dug some of the lettuce out just so i could take a few more bites (for sustenance).
Size: (out of 3) 3 - I will give it this - this burrito was a very good size. However, since I didn't want to take home the more then a half I didn't finish, that doesn't translate to much.
Taste: (out of 10) 2 - I give this a 2 instead of a one because I didn't want to puke after eating it. However, if I had ate more of it, I can't say I wouldn't have wanted to puke.
Value: (out of 5) 1 - Huge price tag for potentially the worst burrito I've ever had. Fuck you Taq San Jose, and all yer patrons can go to hell too.
Total Score: (out of 28) 7 - That's right, 25%. So worthless. I've suffered enough and will never eat here again.
Additional Comments: The salsa selection was also poor. My friend got the veg nachos - sans beans. What arrived was a plate of nachos, covered in cheese and lettuce. More lettuce, really? Not even any salsa. This place blows - I'd rather return to La Taqueria for the mushiest burrito ever then suffer this kind of meal again.
Visited: 1/23/10
Ordered: Super Vegetarian Burrito
Cost:$8 bucks or some shit like that
Overall Description: Ugh. I was really dreading reviewing this place - I've eaten here twice before and been completely turned off both times, but it was before I started this blog. This place is almost kitty-corner to El Farolito, but never has a line, which should be ones first clue. I guess their convenient location keeps them in business, but this place should be avoided at all costs, especially if you eat veg.
Composition: (out of 5) 1 - I got a third into the burrito before seeing any guacamole or sour cream. The lettuce (lame!) consumes the most of the burrito so you can't get a bite without it. It seemed lacking in cheese, rice, beans, guac, sc - all it had in abundance was lettuce.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 1 - Once you get past the main part of this burrito, it becomes a sloppy wet mess. Think sour cream covered lettuce w. a little bit of beans. It drips every where - I even squeezed out some of the sour cream water and dug some of the lettuce out just so i could take a few more bites (for sustenance).
Size: (out of 3) 3 - I will give it this - this burrito was a very good size. However, since I didn't want to take home the more then a half I didn't finish, that doesn't translate to much.
Taste: (out of 10) 2 - I give this a 2 instead of a one because I didn't want to puke after eating it. However, if I had ate more of it, I can't say I wouldn't have wanted to puke.
Value: (out of 5) 1 - Huge price tag for potentially the worst burrito I've ever had. Fuck you Taq San Jose, and all yer patrons can go to hell too.
Total Score: (out of 28) 7 - That's right, 25%. So worthless. I've suffered enough and will never eat here again.
Additional Comments: The salsa selection was also poor. My friend got the veg nachos - sans beans. What arrived was a plate of nachos, covered in cheese and lettuce. More lettuce, really? Not even any salsa. This place blows - I'd rather return to La Taqueria for the mushiest burrito ever then suffer this kind of meal again.
January 15, 2010
El Metate (Bryant & 22nd)
El Metate - 2406 Bryant St.
Visited: 1/14
Ordered: Super Vegetarian
Cost:$6
Overall Description: This was a tasty burrito! It was longer and thinner then most of it's competition, but the vegetarian was a basic burrito w. actual veggies in it, which I think more places can benefit from.
Composition: (out of 5) 4 - For the most part I really enjoyed the breakup, but it was a little heavy on beans and not super heavy on rice. Also, it was unevenly wrapped so one end has considerably more tortilla then the other one. Also, most of the veggies ended up on the outside of the burrito instead of the middle.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 4 - Tasty stuff - not mind blowingly so, but everything was good and complimented each other. Could have used a little more guacamole however.
Size: (out of 3) 2.5 - I ate a little more of this and was satisfied, then finished the rest of it the day after. It was not as massive as some I've seen though, hence the .5 points away from a perfect 3.
Taste: (out of 10) 8 - Other then the lack of rice, I can't find much wrong with this burrito. While it did not blow me away, the first bite hit the spot just right and I thoroughly enjoyed the rest of it.
Value: (out of 5) 5 - 6 even is a good price for a burrito. Also this place let us buy beers across the street and bring them over, which was awesome!
Total Score: (out of 28) 23.5 - Pretty damn good all around!
Additional Comments: Chips were thick but tasty, and I do like the interior of this place a lot. Their other entrees are really good too, so while it's a little off the beaten path, it's worth the trip!
Visited: 1/14
Ordered: Super Vegetarian
Cost:$6
Overall Description: This was a tasty burrito! It was longer and thinner then most of it's competition, but the vegetarian was a basic burrito w. actual veggies in it, which I think more places can benefit from.
Composition: (out of 5) 4 - For the most part I really enjoyed the breakup, but it was a little heavy on beans and not super heavy on rice. Also, it was unevenly wrapped so one end has considerably more tortilla then the other one. Also, most of the veggies ended up on the outside of the burrito instead of the middle.
Ingredients: (out of 5) 4 - Tasty stuff - not mind blowingly so, but everything was good and complimented each other. Could have used a little more guacamole however.
Size: (out of 3) 2.5 - I ate a little more of this and was satisfied, then finished the rest of it the day after. It was not as massive as some I've seen though, hence the .5 points away from a perfect 3.
Taste: (out of 10) 8 - Other then the lack of rice, I can't find much wrong with this burrito. While it did not blow me away, the first bite hit the spot just right and I thoroughly enjoyed the rest of it.
Value: (out of 5) 5 - 6 even is a good price for a burrito. Also this place let us buy beers across the street and bring them over, which was awesome!
Total Score: (out of 28) 23.5 - Pretty damn good all around!
Additional Comments: Chips were thick but tasty, and I do like the interior of this place a lot. Their other entrees are really good too, so while it's a little off the beaten path, it's worth the trip!
December 31, 2009
El Tepa (18th & Folsom)
El Tepa - 2198 Folsom St (@ 18th)
Visited: 12/15/09
Ordered: Super Veggie Burrito
Cost:$ 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.
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.
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.
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).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)