XICA: Experience Flavorful Gluten-Free Mexican Cuisine in San Francisco

The atmosphere was truly amazing, and the cocktails were unbelievably good. We ordered a large mango margarita for the table. The staff were very sweet and kind. We got fried corn and fries to share. We especially loved the corn! It was really delicious (just a little spicy) (Macha Corn Ribs). My boyfriend had the Beso Del Mar and absolutely loved it. I had the Enchiladas and highly recommend it. Very filling and incredibly fresh.

Might be my new spot for brunch. The elotito appetizer was delicious but a little awkward to eat. We had their creative take on chicken and waffles, duck confit quesadilla, and mole chilaquiles. No notes, but the chilaquiles was my personal favorite.

Visiting from Canada. Food is phenomenal. Esp. the corn ribs. We also loved the chicken tostadas and the enchiladas. We sat outside with the lovely sound of the fountain close by. Totally recommend!

I was planning a trip to the exploratorium and happened to see this pop up on maps. Saved it and immediately forgot about it. Well after we went to the exploratorium we went looking for lunch and I suggested this place. And dayum what a fire find! Everything was perfect—the staff, service, vibe, location, and the food of course. We ordered chips and salsa and a cheese quesadilla off the main menu, and chicken and CHURRO waffles and a huevos rancheros off their brunch menu. I won't describe our food in detail, but I will say this: whoever designed this recipes is a real chef. Nothing was too salty, spicy, or sweet. But everything had layers and well combined flavors that were *chef's kiss* You should absolutely hit this place up, if you're in the fence. Fwiw I'm from Texas and we have plenty of good Tex Mex and Mexican. This was something else though (not Cali Mex, which I decidedly don't prefer) and it felt like...home?... Ok pause, I just looked it up while writing this and IT IS something else: Chicana cuisine—which is apparently a unique blend of Mexican American cuisine that leans into indigenous cooking methods. Maybe that's the "home" feeling I was picking up on. Anyway. 11/10. Just go.

We visited Xica in San Francisco and I was immediately impressed — the entire restaurant is 100% gluten-free, which means no risk of cross-contamination. As someone with celiac disease, that gave me real peace of mind, and I had no symptoms after eating here. The interior is beautifully designed, with a clean, modern look and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. We ordered: • Quesadilla – 11 House-made large tortilla with cheese. • Street Tacos – 18 Three tacos topped with onion and avocado salsa. • Waffle Churros – 16 Crispy, sweet, and absolutely delicious — easily the highlight of the meal. I’d come back for those alone! While the dishes were generally tasty, I personally found the tacos a bit too meat-heavy. I was hoping for more fresh elements like tomato or greens to balance the flavors. That said, the ingredients were high quality, and the overall experience was still enjoyable. If you’re gluten-free, Xica is a fantastic and safe choice in San Francisco — and definitely don’t skip the waffle churros!

The food is delicious, gluten free for any celiac folks out there. The staff are great the drinks delicious. I was there several times, party of two and party of 10. Very accommodating and the prices aren't insane. So if you're looking for a place by the waterfront, it's a good one!

Had a great lunch at XICA. I sat outside on the terrace in the sun, which made the whole experience even better. The steak fajitas were delicious, full of flavour and perfectly cooked. Great atmosphere, friendly service, and a really nice spot to relax and enjoy Mexican food in San Francisco. Would definitely come back!

Best Mexican food ever. From the taquitos, corn ribs, empanadas, fish tacos etc etc. beautiful setting, delicious food, friendly staff. You can tho wrong. Wish they had one in NYC