Quick history lesson, folks. That giant Chipotle burrito originated in the Mission District of San Francisco in the 60s when local taquerias started loading up tons of ingredients in large tortillas. Naturally, I gravitate to this area whenever I’m craving good Mexican food. Taqueria Vallarta isn’t as well known as, say El Faro/Farolito, but it’s definitely a gem that deserves a spotlight.
This taqueria gets brownie points for being located right next to the Balmy Street Murals – a popular alleyway of beautiful murals depicting the history of the neighborhood and Latin American countries’ historic struggles. I was starving when I entered and I immediately made a beeline to the back order counter. Later I realized I missed out on another cool feature – a $2 taco stand right at the entrance with your choice of meat. I ordered a carne asada “super” quesadilla with a regular flour tortilla (they also have the options of whole wheat, spinach, and tomato tortillas – pretty cool).
My order came with chips and I picked out the orange habanero sauce and a green chili sauce. The habanero sauce was actually very, very spicy, and so good until it got to the point where I couldn’t eat it anymore. The quesadilla was amazing as well. It’s what I would call a SF-style quesadilla, filled with tons of meat and other fresh ingredients, so much so that it looked like a flattened burrito. The carne asada was juicy and tender, and the entire meal was extremely satisfying, even with my mouth still burning from that habanero sauce!
Definitely a great place to try some high-quality and authentic Mexican food. Also a great opportunity to experience the history of this neighborhood and maybe even check out the murals during an after-dinner stroll.
Mission not Colorado burrito at www.TheFoodSpotlight.com.
List of 100 amazing dishes around Berkeley at The Food Spotlight 100!