The Mission is easily one of San Francisco’s most colorful neighborhoods. A stroll along Valencia Street takes you past quaint cafes, designer boutiques, and charming book shops. Nearby alleys come alive with gritty street art. And as vibrant as the Mission is by day, evenings are just as decadent, with an equally vibrant food scene that’s taken off in recent years. From authentic Mexican restaurants to hole-in-the-wall dive bars, there’s something for every taste and temperament.

Pancho Villa Taqueria

If you’re in the mood for Mexican fare, you’re in the right neighborhood. Pancho Villa Taqueria is a popular spot, thanks to their flavorful tacos and spicy entrees. If dining for two, start off with their steak and nachos, served with chips, beans, cheese, and salsa. For something on the healthier side, their chicken and avocado Caesar salad is a safe bet. Best of all, they lets you customize everything from meat selections, salsas, and extra toppings. Order à la carte, or stick with one of their combo dinners.

Pica Pica Arepa

Mexican isn’t the only Latin cuisine on menus around here. Pica Pica Arepa serves up some pretty tasty, melt-in-your-mouth Venezuelan food, too. If you’ve never had an arepa, you’re in for a real treat. Similar to a Mexican gordita, this daily Venezuelan staple is made from ground kernels or maize flour formed into patties that are grilled, fried, or baked, and can be used to make sandwiches. Start off with their pulled pork pernil arepa, served with tomato, avocado, pica’pun, and aioli. For a little crunch, throw in an order of their spicy pickled crispy chicken arepas, too. While Pica Pica definitely caters to meat eaters of the world, there are plenty of veggie dishes worth the splurge. Plus the dishes are 100% gluten-free.

Curry Up Now

Looking to spice up your night? Curry Up Now specializes in vegetarian and vegan Indian dishes while also paying homage to the neighborhood’s cultural history. For example, their tikka masala burrito bridges the gap between a traditional Mexican dish and a modern interpretation of Indian street food. Similarly, The Naughty Naan resembles a pizza, with toppings like cheese, caramelized onions, shaved jalapeño, and side salad. Those who aren’t vegetarians can always customize orders to include meats.

Truly Mediterranean

Want a taste of the Mediterranean minus the airfare? Order from Truly Mediterranean for delicious and authentic Middle Eastern fare. Around since 1992, the restaurant has been considered one of the best restaurants of its kind in the Bay Area, even winning a few awards along the way. For chilly nights in, warm up with their vegan red lentil soup or feast on lamb, or chicken kebabs. The lamb shawarma in particular gets plenty of raves, while vegetarians and meat eaters alike will love the falafel and homemade hummus.

Nizario’s Pizza

When it comes to pizza joints in the Mission, Nizario’s Pizza is one of the best. Since opening in 1983, Nizario’s has been serving up flour-dough pizzas topped with fresh vegetables and the finest meats. One of their most decadent pies is the 16″ California Special, a delicious combination of spinach, pesto, feta cheese, and chicken. For a non-meat option, order their vegetarian special or chow down on their cheese garlic bread. Customize additional toppings, like Canadian bacon and teen bell peppers.