Californios

One of my top locations for Mexican food. Entered near eleven, it wasn't packed. Had a friend come into town and asked me to take him here again. This place has a great feel to it.

One of my preferred places for delicious Mexican food. Great location to chill, eat some good food. The place has a great feel to it. They have so many good reviews for a reason.

Mexican food at this spot - yummy. i love eating here. fast and courteous service. i can see why they have a lot of positive reviews.

I don't like writing negative reviews but I do have to admit I was disappointed with Californios. Going to a Mexican 2 Michelin star restaurant I was expecting bold and powerful flavors, instead I found most plates nice to look at but with forgettable flavor. The experience itself was nice but not worthy of the cost or what I've come to expect from two stars. My favorite plate was the plantain bread which was truly fantastic, some of the best bread and spread I've had. I don't have much more to highlight for the level of cost and expectation I had, especially since I absolutely love Mexican food (perhaps this made it even more disappointing). I unfortunately cannot recommend Californios as a restaurant, given the level of competition of fine dining restaurants in SF it just doesn't hit the mark. Maybe at 1 star and half the price I would've been satisfied with the food and experience.

Great service, solid, inventive food. The soft drink pairing was lovely, each distinct, well chosen, and creative. They really go above and beyond. Prior to dinner they sent an email form about dietary restrictions and asked for any music suggestions. I mentioned my dining partner and I enjoy white noise, not expecting anything out of it. At dinner, they alluded to it by playing a whole bunch of rain-themed songs like Purple Rain. These review systems only allow 5 stars up top so I'm adding a sixth one here: *