Mission and 24th Street in San Francisco is the epicenter for Latin businesses. While gourmet shops and eateries are opening up near this district, you still have the traditional family businesses that have customers keep coming back for more. This area is also filled with vibrant murals expressing the local culture and vibes of Mission. On our tour, we got to view and learn about these paintings and the artist. Join me on Edible Excursion’s Mission 24th Street tour, where we tasted yummy sandwiches, the best Mexican food and a cone of ice cream!
STOP ONE // WISE SONS
Our first stop was Wise Sons, a Jewish deli that became well known for their pastrami sandwiches! We sat on a long bench outside the shop while we waited for our food. The interior has a wall filled with portraits of all the family and friends that have supported Wise Sons throughout the years. The place feels welcoming and warm which reflects into the food they serve. We got to sample half of the pastrami sandwich, the bread was absolutely perfect and I drizzled their house-mustard to add even more flavor. We also got to taste some tangy pickles and washed it down with a cream celery soda. Usually, the lines are out the doors, so that’s when you know their food is good!
STOP TWO // D’MAIZE
Next, we walked down 24th street and hopped into D’Maize. They had a beautiful outdoor space in the back which is apparently rare for San Francisco. Chef Luis came out to talk to the tour group about how they started and about the food they make. While he shared his story, we got to try their pupusa! It’s a small portion, but they are packed with yummy ingredients and fresh off the griddle. We got to taste their tamarind agua fresca, which was super refreshing. D’Maize is well known for their catering service!
STOP THREE // LA PALMA MEXICATESSEN
Our next stop was La Palma, a small place known for their masa. We got to see behind the scenes where they turned their fresh corn into masa which then can be used for tamales, tortillas and other things. There we got to try a tamale with a side of house-made tortilla chips and salsa! The food here at this Mexicatessen is absolutely amazing. If I lived here I’d be a regular tortilla customer!
STOP FOUR // EL FAROLITO
Next on our walking tour was El Farolito, one of the best spots in Mission to get an al pastor taco! Filled with yellow benches and an old-school jukebox playing latin tunes, this hole in the wall is authentic from it’s interior to the food. We got to taste their al pastor taco and a cup of horchata. Their food is on the spicy side, just a warning for those who can’t really handle the heat. The horchata is a perfect pairing with the taco, which is tasty even with some spice!
STOP FIVE // HUMPHRY SLOCOMBE
A bay area favorite, Humphry Slocombe is known for their innovative ice cream flavors and incredible taste. Once we entered the cute little parlor, we all fell in line to try some ice cream. Our tour guide, suggested we sample as many flavors as we wanted! Once we fell in love with one, we were able to get it in a full-size cone or cup. I tried the Secret Breakfast, which is Bourbon and corn flakes and Andy had the corn flavor, Diebencorn. Even in cold San Francisco weather, our whole group enjoyed their ice cream with smiles on their face!
Thank you, Lisa for being an amazing and knowledgeable tour guide! Don't forget to book your Edible Excursion Food Tour when you visit San Francisco next!
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