Papalote Mexican Grill
The Verdict
"Get the Triple Threat burrito smothered in roasted tomato salsa. Buy a jar of that salsa to take home. The 24th Street location is the original and the better one."
What you need to know
Papalote is the Mission taqueria that changed the game. Their roasted tomato salsa is so good, so beloved, that they bottle and sell it. It’s won awards. People plan trips around it.
This is elevated Mission Mexican food. Still casual, still affordable, but with a clear commitment to quality ingredients and careful preparation that sets it apart.
What to Order
Triple Threat Burrito: Grilled chicken, carnitas, and carne asada in one burrito. It’s ambitious, and it works. Get it smothered in their signature roasted tomato salsa.
Carne Asada Burrito: If you want to keep it simple, this is one of the best in the city. The beef is well-marbled, properly seasoned, and the overall package is beautifully balanced.
Fish Tacos: Grilled or fried, both excellent. The fish is fresh, the cabbage is crisp, and the chipotle crema ties it together.
The Salsa: Get the roasted tomato salsa on everything. It’s smoky, slightly sweet, with enough heat to keep things interesting. You can buy jars to take home. You’ll want to.
What Makes It Different
Papalote uses sustainably raised, hormone-free meats and organic ingredients where possible. The chips are fried fresh. The guacamole is made to order. These details matter, and you can taste the difference.
The space is small and colorful, covered in murals that celebrate the Mission’s culture. It feels like a neighborhood spot because it is one. This is where local families come on weeknights.
Practical Info
The original location on 24th Street is the one to visit. There’s a second location on Fulton in the Western Addition.
Expect a short wait during peak hours. The small kitchen and commitment to freshness means things take slightly longer than at high-volume taquerias. It’s worth it.
The Reputation
Papalote regularly appears on “best burrito” lists and has won James Beard-adjacent recognition for their salsa. But what matters more is that it’s been a neighborhood institution since 1999, serving the Mission community with consistent quality and genuine care.
This is what happens when a taqueria decides to be great instead of just fast.
📍 Location: This restaurant is in The Mission District. Explore the neighborhood →
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What to get
Triple Threat Burrito smothered in roasted tomato salsa, carne asada burrito, fish tacos, jars of salsa to take home