XICA
Mexican restaurant · North Waterfront ·
Entirely gluten-free Mexican fare with vegan options and margs
Entirely gluten-free Mexican fare with vegan options and margs
"Here to add some zing to casual waterfront brunch-lunch is Xica. The gluten-free Mexican spot smack dab in Levi’s Plaza is feel-good energy personified. It’s got bold murals, plants, upbeat music filling the colossal space, and a sunny patio next to a trickling fountain. Prepare for shrimp tacos on dragon fruit-infused tortillas, fried egg-topped chilaquiles, and extra bready chicken and waffles. Xica, unlike the news cycle and your inbox, is a happy place. So do the smart thing and come here if you need a fuel-up after an Embarcadero stroll, or just stepped off a cruise ship at Pier 27." - lani conway, julia chen 1
"Cascading waterfalls and a colossal fountain—no, you’re not at the pearly gates. It’s the patio at Xica in Levi’s Plaza. The entirely gluten-free Mexican spot is feel-good personified. Grab a table in the sun next to an oversized palm, and let the sounds of water evaporate any stress caused by the latest news cycle. You’ll dine on vegetable tacos on dragon fruit-infused tortillas, fried egg-topped chilaquiles, and sizable rice bowls topped with carnitas while listening to upbeat music. Do the right thing and come here with friends, co-workers, and anyone looking for tranquility at dinner or a weekday morning." - lani conway, julia chen 1, ricky rodriguez, patrick wong
"You won't find a speck of gluten at this sunny North Beach Mexican restaurant. Order their fantastic chilaquiles and sit on the patio with a big glass of iced cold horchata next time you need a quick break during your workday—or anytime it’s above 70 degrees." - julia chen 1, ricky rodriguez, patrick wong
"Maria Elena Esquivel and her husband Ignacio Perez opened the doors to Xica, a sprawling homage to both their family and the future of dining — otherwise known as accessibility-focused options. Everything here is gluten-free and numerous items can be made vegan and vegetarian. Try the crispy flautas." - Paolo Bicchieri
"San Francisco’s waterfront got a big helping of gluten-free Mexican fare when Maria Elena Esquivel opened her restaurant Xica in March 2023. The entrepreneur returned to Levi’s Plaza where she first launched the business as a take-out window years ago; the crispy flautas and carne asada fries are smart choices here." - Paolo Bicchieri, Eater Staff