Taqueria Las Pencas #1 — Restaurant in South San Francisco

I’ve ate here many times before, food is always awesome . Too bad I can’t say the same about the cashier! I was ordering and told her to take off the tacos I had added a few seconds ago, and to my surprise she said she couldn’t remove it. I asked her why and she said there was no button that allows her remove an item. ( mind you I still hadn’t paid and was still actively ordering) I was upset and told her to just cancel the whole order and she proceeded to say she would have to call her manager on the phone to do so since they weren’t there. This took about 10 minutes and she finally came back and removed the one item I didn’t want anymore. I ended up just getting two items but didn’t feel comfortable eating it afterwards since I saw them take my dish to the side near the back. Not sure if they messed with my order so I ended up giving it to a homeless outside. Not coming back here anymore...

Tapatia is usually the spot people associate with SSF but I'm here to tell you, Las Pencas can give them a run for their money. The 3 salsas were so flavorful and not watered down like other taqueria's salsas sometimes are. They were intense and spicy and I want to take them home in a jug. I got the taco salad which was super packed with flavor. The cheese, radishes, chicken, beans, lettuce (they even had purple lettuce in there). the chicken to ingredient ratio was perfect! It definitely wasn't your typical iceberg lettuce, glob of sour cream and canned beans. Tasted more like fine-dining Mexican but with the atmosphere and price of a taqueria. This place was next...

The Carne Asada Nachos were a knockout—crispy chips loaded with tender, flavorful steak, gooey cheese, and just the right amount of toppings. It’s a hearty plate that’s perfect for sharing (or not—no judgment!).

But the real star for me? The Gorditas de Chorizo. These were next-level good—perfectly crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with savory, spicy chorizo that melts in your mouth. Easily one of the best gorditas I’ve had anywhere.

The staff is friendly, the vibe is casual, and the food speaks for itself. If you’re in the area and looking for authentic Mexican eats that go beyond the basics, Las Pencas is...