Original Mission Burrito San Francisco
San Francisco is a city of many delights, but perhaps none quite as mouthwatering as the Original Mission Burrito. This iconic dish has been a staple of San Francisco cuisine for decades, beloved by locals and visitors alike. But what makes it so special? In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the history, ingredients, and culture of the Original Mission Burrito, and explore why it remains one of the most beloved foods in the city.
A brief history
The story of the Original Mission Burrito begins in the 1960s, in San Francisco's Mission District. This vibrant neighborhood was home to many working-class residents, including a large Latino population. At the time, burritos were a popular food in the area, but they were typically small and simple, filled with just a few ingredients.
That all changed when a little restaurant called El Faro opened its doors. El Faro was founded by a man named Febronio Ontiveros, who had previously worked as a dishwasher and cook in various restaurants around the city. Ontiveros had a vision for a bigger, heartier burrito that would satisfy even the hungriest customers.
He began experimenting with different fillings and techniques, eventually settling on a combination of rice, beans, meat, cheese, and salsa, all wrapped up in a giant flour tortilla. The result was the Original Mission Burrito, a behemoth of a burrito that quickly became a sensation in the neighborhood.
The ingredients
One of the key factors that sets the Original Mission Burrito apart from other burritos is the quality of its ingredients. The tortillas are made fresh daily, and are soft and pliable, yet sturdy enough to hold a hefty filling. The rice and beans are both cooked from scratch, with plenty of flavor from onions, garlic, and Mexican spices. The meat is typically grilled or slow-cooked to perfection, and the salsa is fresh and zesty.
Of course, the exact ingredients of a Mission Burrito can vary depending on the restaurant, and there are plenty of variations to be found around the city. Some places add guacamole or sour cream, while others offer vegetarian or vegan options. But at its core, the Original Mission Burrito is a simple and satisfying dish that highlights the best of Mexican cuisine.
The culture
Aside from its delicious taste, the Original Mission Burrito is also an important cultural symbol in San Francisco. The Mission District has long been a hub of Latino culture and activism, with a rich history of art, music, and social justice movements.
The Mission Burrito is a reflection of this vibrant culture, and has become a beloved icon of the neighborhood. It's not hard to find murals and street art around the city that pay tribute to the burrito, and many restaurants proudly display signs proclaiming themselves as the home of the Original Mission Burrito.
Where to find it
If you're visiting San Francisco and want to try the Original Mission Burrito for yourself, there are plenty of places to choose from. Some of the most popular spots include La Taqueria, El Farolito, and Taqueria Cancun, all of which have long lines of devoted fans waiting for a taste of their famous burritos.
Of course, there are countless other restaurants and taquerias in the Mission District and beyond that serve up their own version of the dish. The best way to find your favorite is to follow your nose and try as many as you can!
Conclusion
The Original Mission Burrito is more than just a meal – it's a cultural touchstone that represents the best of San Francisco's Latino heritage. Whether you're a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, trying a Mission Burrito is an essential part of any San Francisco experience. So grab a napkin, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the deliciousness!