Garlic Prawns
@ Pancho Villa Taqueria

The Dish:

While many visitors have burritos on the brain at this Mission street haunt, the Mexican-style dinner platters are the winning combo. If you love the magical flavor of garlic and shrimp, the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth Grilled Prawn dinner platter is going to be your new San Francisco treat. Made to order right in front of you, this protein and carb-loaded dish with warm tortillas, Spanish rice, and beans will have your friends (and other diners) salivating and wishing they ordered the same.

Key Ingredients: Shrimp prawns, garlic, green onions, mushrooms, avocado, beans, rice, tortillas

The Place:

From locals, tourists, musicians, techies, students, suits, and the young and the old, Pancho Villa is one of those special kinds of places that comfortably attract all walks of life. Immediately upon arrival, you are greeted by a friendly security guard that graciously opens the door for each and every guest. From carne asada tacos to chile verde chicken quesadillas to tofu ranchero burritos, this is a champion spot with carnivores and vegetarians alike. Bonus points for the not-to-be-missed generous and multi-varietal salsa bar.

Other Menu Musts:

The Agua Frescas are refreshing and plentiful. While many spots only serve two flavors at most, Pancho Villa offers up to seven varieties simultaneously including fruity favorites like Tamarind, Strawberry, Watermelon, Lemon Lime, and Cantaloupe.

Local Insider Tips:

• Pancho Villa's sprawling space offers a rotating art gallery of sorts with works by local artists displayed prominently on their walls.
• From 3-5pm all summer long, enjoy Happy Hour at Pancho Villa with $1 tacos and $1 Agua Frescas Monday-Friday.

Recommended By:

Mika Takeuchi is a Tokyo-born, California-based writer and entrepreneur. In addition to working in restaurants, Mika has ventured across the globe, dining and seeking out dishes from street food to haute cuisine. She is a contributing author of the book "Creating a Meal You'll Love" and founder of the website/blog, Food Fashionista. Her company and writings have been featured in The Washington Post, BlackboardEats, Culinary Trends, and more.

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