Valencia Street in San Francisco’s Mission District is a culinary treasure trove brimming with a delightful mix of flavors, cultures, and histories. This bustling avenue has long been celebrated for its eclectic array of restaurants and eateries, each offering a unique gastronomic experience.
Valencia Street’s culinary history is deeply intertwined with the rich cultural tapestry of the Mission District, which is one of the oldest neighborhoods in San Francisco. Originally inhabited by the Ohlone people, the area saw the arrival of Spanish missionaries in the late 18th century. Fast forward to the 20th century, the neighborhood became a hub for Latin American immigrants, particularly from Mexico and Central America, bringing with them a vibrant food culture.
One of the street’s iconic eateries is La Taqueria, founded in 1973 by Miguel Jara. This humble taqueria quickly became a local favorite, renowned for its Mission-style burritos. Interestingly, La Taqueria does not include rice in their burritos, a decision that has sparked much debate among food aficionados. In 2014, it was awarded the title of America’s Best Burrito by FiveThirtyEight.
Another must-visit is Tartine Bakery, a cornerstone of Valencia Street's baking scene. Opened by Chad Robertson and Elisabeth Prueitt in 2002, Tartine has garnered a cult following, especially for its country bread, which takes nearly 24 hours to make. Fun fact: the bakery uses a 5-year-old sourdough starter named "Chadwick," a nod to its co-founder.
For those with a penchant for Japanese cuisine, Izakaya Rintaro is a gem. It was opened by Sylvan Mishima Brackett in 2014, who spent years honing his skills in Japan. The restaurant’s interior is designed to resemble a traditional Japanese izakaya, creating an authentic dining experience. Their handmade udon noodles and yakitori are particularly popular.
Valencia Street also hosts a variety of innovative dining spots, such as Mission Chinese Food. Launched by Danny Bowien in 2010, this restaurant started as a pop-up inside a dingy Chinese takeout. It quickly gained a reputation for its bold, spicy dishes that blend Chinese and American flavors. One quirky detail: the restaurant’s original location had a secret entrance through a neighboring pizza joint.
For a taste of Italy, Flour + Water is a standout. Opened by Thomas McNaughton in 2009, this restaurant focuses on handmade pasta and traditional Italian recipes with a modern twist. Their rigorous approach to pasta-making involves a custom-built, temperature-controlled pasta room to ensure the perfect texture.
Valencia Street is also home to Dandelion Chocolate, a bean-to-bar chocolate factory and café. Founded by Todd Masonis and Cameron Ring in 2010, Dandelion Chocolate sources single-origin cacao beans from around the world, emphasizing the unique flavors of each region. Visitors can take tours of the factory and participate in chocolate-making classes.
When it comes to drinks, ABV is a top spot for craft cocktails. Established by industry veterans Ryan Fitzgerald, Todd Smith, and Erik Reichborn-Kjennerud in 2014, ABV is known for its creative, seasonally-driven cocktail menu. A quirky touch: the bar has a secret menu that regulars can request, featuring off-the-menu concoctions.
For a more casual vibe, El Techo offers rooftop views along with delicious Latin American street food. Part of the Lolinda family, this rooftop bar is perfect for enjoying tacos and margaritas while taking in panoramic views of the city.
Valencia Street’s culinary delights are not just confined to restaurants. The street hosts several food festivals and events, such as the Valencia Street Food Fair, where local vendors showcase their best dishes.
In addition to its diverse food offerings, Valencia Street is known for its vibrant street art, including murals by renowned artists like Diego Rivera and Siqueiros. This blend of art and cuisine makes Valencia Street a sensory feast.
Hidden gems on Valencia Street include Foreign Cinema, where you can enjoy a meal while watching classic films projected on the wall. Opened in 1999 by Gayle Pirie and John Clark, it offers a unique dining experience that combines cinema and cuisine.
Lastly, for a sweet treat, Humphry Slocombe offers unconventional ice cream flavors like "Secret Breakfast" (bourbon and cornflakes). Founded by Jake Godby and Sean Vahey in 2008, this ice cream shop has become a local favorite for its inventive flavors.
Valencia Street's culinary scene is a delightful mix of history, culture, and innovation, making it a must-visit for food lovers.