My beautiful Mama has Celiac and this is the first restaurant we've been to in 29 years where she got to have free rein of the menu and order whatever caught her eye! We don't have options like these in Florida, this was a truly special meal for us- all of the food was incredibly seasoned and she says the fried chicken and waffle was unrecognizably GF. The beautiful Bayro took amazing care of us thank you again for everything! Local family owned, Mexican owned, women led. Give them some support and love whether you're visiting or in the area!! read more

VIBE: Bright, vibrant & funky! WHY: Gluten free, Dates & Location I come here often with work colleagues because it's close to my office. For gluten-free folks, this place is a dream! So many options. Their food is delicious & fresh, although a big pricey. However the restaurant is in a high-rent district by the Embarcadero and is beautiful. The large windows and bright murals really make this place special. At night the vibe is totally different and feels really intimate. It's a great place to bring out of towners, or a date. Great cocktails & desserts too! read more

I was surprised to find this beautifully decorated restaurant right off of Levi's Plaza, given it's kind of in an otherwise desolate area between Fisherman's Wharf and North Beach, just blocks away from Pier 27. The service was great. The variety of lunch options was good too. I went with the Quinoa Salad, my friend went with the Chicken and Churro Waffles. We were both pleased with our choices. There are several rooms here including a private room for events. My favorite area is the large, brightly lit section (see pic). It's almost like an atrium given the tall windows, except there is an actual solid roof overhead. The bathroom was very clean and had multiple stalls, so there was no wait. (Note that they don't split checks, even if it's just for a party of two.) read more

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When a friend mentioned wanting to go to a gluten free restaurant for brunch, I had no idea where to go, but Xica popped up as an option. I had never been to a gluten free restaurant before so I was pleasantly surprised to find the food delicious. I enjoyed my enchiladas and my friend's huevos rancheros looked good too. We also had guacamole and banana chips, I wasn't sure how I'd feel but I enjoyed them. The vibe of the restaurant was nice and well decorated, and in a nice area. Service was quick and good too. read more

Honestly very surprised at the taste and quality of food considering it's completely gluten free. I think the plantain chips are even better than regular tortilla chips with guacamole. My friend had the churro waffles with chicken which she really liked, and I could smell that it tasted great. I liked how the enchiladas came with both red and green sauce but it was too watery for my liking, more of a consistency for salsa. The pink enchiladas were cool and didn't taste much different from regular corn tortillas. Carnitas didn't taste like anything special. Wish they had better spicy salsa. I normally hate sour cream but it was great from here! read more

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Always Xica! They were able to accommodate my large party for my son's 21st bday and made it a special evening for him. Thank you Ignacio! We walked in and it was just beautiful- the atmosphere just made you happy. The food! I dream abiut the duck quesadilla every day, also the refried beans. Some had the fish tacos and mentioned how good they were. The pollo frito had some in a choke hold as well. I had family in from out of town and this is what they remember the most. read more

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This was my first time visiting XICA, and we had a reservation and were seated right away. The service was great, although the food did take a little while to arrive. That said, everything was fabulous! You honestly couldn't tell that the food was gluten-free. The dessert was amazing!!! the caramel/cajeta was absolutely delicious! read more

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This spot was phenomenal from start to finish. The interior was absolutely gorgeous, featuring hand-painted murals, huge windows that filled the space with natural light, and stunning high ceilings that created an elegant yet welcoming atmosphere. I tried the Arrachera Fries (steak fries), and although it's listed as an appetizer, the portion was more than enough to enjoy as an entrée. I ordered the steak rare, and it was cooked perfectly, topped with a mountain of finely grated Manchego cheese that added the perfect finishing touch. As someone who isn't gluten-free or celiac, I was genuinely impressed by the quality and flavor--it was an experience I'd happily recommend and return for. read more

XICA - Mexican Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Was looking for a spot for a team dinner that would accommodate gluten free. The entire menu is GF! I had a delicious duck quesadilla, and my coworkers had some beautiful enchiladas and short rib tacos. The corn tortillas were really great! The cocktails were nice as well. We didn't have to wait and the dining room was spacious and well decorated. I'd bring a large party back for sure. read more

Came with a group and enjoyed the food, especially the guacamole with plantain chips, salsa duo, elotitos, arrachera fries, and duck quesadilla. The restaurant is beautiful, spacious, and bright. Unfortunately service was slow and a little reluctant? Our server seemed to think we had ordered too many shareable items and repeatedly discouraged us from ordering individual entrees, to the point that we had to ask several times to place additional orders. I had to leave about an hour into lunch and never ended up getting my mexi bowl but I think someone else in my group enjoyed it! read more

Originally stopped in to look at a menu and also to ask where the nearest restroom was. I used to work in Michelin restaurants so right away I felt the annoyance of the host. I went back to check in with my boyfriend before deciding to grab a drink after the host sent me on a wild goose chase for the bathroom. Needless to say we were warmly greeted this time by one of the female servers. We told her we'd like to sit at the bar and order some drinks and an app. THERE ISNT A BAR! The outside sign on the restaurant says BAR but there isnt actually one to sit at. We didnt really care and took the seat the server offered us. When I went to the bathroom my boyfriend was subjected to an uncomfortable and verbally demeaning conversation from the manager with all the clips in her hair to our server. She scolded her for seating us at a table meant for a large party ( maam this is levi's plaza during fifa- no large party is coming to dine here). Regardless, it was completely inappropriate of her to speak to our server like that AND especially inappropriate in front of guests. The plantain chips were bland and lacked proper salt. The guac was pretty good. My boyfriend ordered a draft beer and was brought a can that was poured incorrectly with the most head I've ever seen. I ordered a diet coke and it was fine. I would have mentioned something to the server or manager but i just wanted to pay my tab, use the restroom and get the hell out of there. To the lady with all the clips in her hair, glasses and large earrings- please treat your teammates with respect. read more

We had attentive service. The food was outstanding. I appreciate the gluten free atmosphere while still eating meat and dairy. My husband and teenage son don't eat exclusively GF, and they both enjoyed the meal. The Cadillac margarita was the best I have had. read more

This place is consistently great. The bad bunny martini (with carrot juice) was phenomenal. The habanero chicken sandwich was sublime. Great cocktail program, great kitchen, excellent service this is how you do it. read more

A from scratch gluten free Mexican eatery for my celiac friend to try things she can't normally eat! We had later food plans so we only ordered some nibbles: - the pork empanadas appetizer: 3 small empanadas whose hearty dough and pork insides were brightened by the flavorful avocado Serrano sauce - churro waffles with caramel: 6 waffle triangles coated in cinnamon sugar with a side of sauce. Honestly I'd just order the sauce if I could it was addicting Logistics: - indoor and outdoor seating - limited street parking nearby - completely GF but beware of shellfish allergies read more

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How have I never heard of this place? The food was so good here. Everything was fresh. The salad was served with colorful mangoes and some of the sweetest and most fragrant grapefruit I've ever tasted. It was delightful. The tacos were served on green handmade tortillas that were nice and thick and nutty and corny. The chicken was very tender and perfectly sauced. No notes. It doesn't hurt that the service and ambiance were spectacular. Very modern but still felt Mexican with colorful murals. Loved the bistro lights in the outdoor patio area. The tiles on the floor were very memorable and altogether super charming. read more

XICA - Chicken tacos - Mexican Near Me - San Francisco, California

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We have eaten here more than a few times and the experience has always been great. My husband has Celiac disease and this is one of only a few restaurants that we have found that is 100% gluten free. The restaurant itself is beautiful and in a nice location off the Embarcadero in Levi's Plaza. When the weather is nice we love eating on their great outdoor patio. Everyone we encounter is always friendly and helpful, the service is also great. The best part is the food. We have never been disappointed! I try to order something different each time and it has all been fresh and delicious. I recommend this place to everyone, even if you do not need a gluten free diet! read more

Cute little place near the ferry to alcatraz so we stopped by after our tour. Interior was warm and cozy feel. Margarita's were very good! Food was okay, a little expensive for what you get. Service was a bit of a miss. We asked for more chips as we still had a lot of salsa left from the app and it took 3 people and about 15 min to get this tiny bowl of chips. Not sure why they were so hesitant to give us more... i've never had that at a mexican/hispanic restaurant. read more

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I ate lunch alone while traveling. Cute and welcoming place. Chicken tacos are amazing and gluten-free. Not far from the Ward and piers, and has a quiet courtyard. read more

XICA - Chicken tacos - Mexican Near Me - San Francisco, California

Great modern-Mexican restaurant at quite a unique location (on Levi's Plaza). Although the location feels a bit remote, you're immediately welcomed in a cosy setting & friendly staff when walking in. The margaritas were outstanding. Definitely go for a mezcal, or surprise yourself with their tamarind version. Many things on the menu we tried were delicious: the seafood aguachile fresh, the ribeye aguachile royal (you'll get your protein in), the braised beef tacos rich, and the avocado plentiful. Some other things that weren't our personal liking: the guacamole comes with plantains vs tortilla chips (so it lacks proper salt), the enchiladas divorciadas were light on the fillings (making the tortilla too much/thick), and the mango/grapefruit salad didn't have ripe mango. They had a new seasonal menu, making it harder for the staff to recommend us items. Unfortunately for us, some items also weren't available anymore (we wanted the duck quesadilla). The restaurant itself is quite large and has several seating options (large bench, high tops, regular tables, outdoor seating and even a small private dining area). read more

The food was actually really good, and we enjoyed everything we ordered. Unfortunately, the service was horrible and really took away from the experience. It took over 45 minutes for our food to come out, and during that time, no one really checked on us, asked if we needed more drinks, wanted to order anything else, or even gave us an update on our food. At one point, the staff also had a team meeting while customers were waiting, which seemed to delay the service even more. It was honestly frustrating because we were basically left sitting there waiting with very little attention. The food itself was great, so it's disappointing that the service brought the whole experience down. I would come back for the food, but the customer service definitely needs major improvement. read more

What a beautiful restaurant! The website picture of the dining room does not do it justice. Outdoors is also charming. Service is good (we had a new server who made some rookie mistakes - but it was forgivable given their lack of experience). The food: really good! Fresh ingredients, beautiful presentation and delicious flavors. This might be one of my new favorite restaurants. Oh - and everything is gluten free. I am not gluten free but my dining companion is and so that was an unexpected bonus for us. read more

I pass this place everyday on my way to work so glad I finally got to try it! I really liked the vibe of this place, lively and modern. I got the fish of the day dish and the fish itself was delicious, the rest of the meal was average. We also got their plantain chips + guacamole as an appetizer and it didn't really stand out, the plantain chips felt a bit stale. The service was okay at best, we saw our server maybe 3 or 4 times and it took 45min after ordering to get our meal. Giving this a four because the fish was truly delicious. read more

Xica's interior is colorful and bright. Its large windows create a beautiful daytime/lunch atmosphere. Their vibrancy also extends to their customer service - friendly, helpful, and attentive. Their menu is gluten-free Mexican dishes with California/Bay Area influence. Overall, I thought their food was average. The enchiladas and plantains were a bit on the bland side - could definitely use more flavor. The elote wings were my favorite. It was crispy and flavorful - very impressive how they captured the elote flavor in chicken wings. read more

XICA - Enchiladas - Mexican Near Me - San Francisco, California

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I just discovered this place, and I love it. Beautiful spot for an outdoor brunch, even though the interior of the restaurant is also excellent. Brya (sp?), our server, was efficient and charming, but the food really made this place stand out. We had the enchiladas and the duck quesadilla, which may sound boring on paper, but their execution was impeccable. Even the tortillas were interesting, with a rich magenta hue from being made with dragon fruit (which has no taste, but just made it look cool). I will definitely be back. read more

very great ambiance inside, beautiful decor and lighting!!! the food was outstanding and very delicious!! read more

XICA - wagyu burger - Mexican Near Me - San Francisco, California

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I thought this place was pretty good, but I wasn't overly impressed, so I think it's maybe a little overhyped. Food was good. Service is pretty good atmosphere was all right. We sat outside and it was pretty chilly and they didn't have the heaters running. read more

Amazing modern Mexican food in a charming Levi Plaza setting (formerly Il Fornaio). We loved everything we ordered for lunch, but particularly the choices from the Botanas (snacks) section: plantain chips with a citrus-y guacamole, aguachile with assorted seafood, and corn "ribs" with a delicious spicy aioli smear. We also liked the pollo asada tacos, the warm brownie and ice cream dessert, and the rosemary lemonade. You can eat indoors or out, but we retreated to the airy indoor patio because there were no umbrellas to shield us from the hot sun. I also loved the beautiful wall fresco. Highly recommend. read more

XICA - This is the lovely wall art at Xica. - Mexican Near Me - San Francisco, California

Hidden gem serving up some Yucatán delights. The decor was tasteful, and they have outdoor seating with the lovely sounds of the fountain. My friend and I had the pork bowl and the fish tacos (rock cod). Fresh I'm looking forward to ordering the enchiladas divorciadas next time! read more

I went in recently, and gave this place a second chance after my first experience Was flat. All the food items are very expensive. $25 for two fish tacos the size of my thumb. The same for the chicken tacos ..$25. The wine they poured was not good so I sent it back. Tasted like the bottle was open for a few days. They also offer half size and full-size wine," by the glass, but the serving they gave me for the full-size looked like a half size.. Service was not good. I had to ask for napkins and cutlery 2x. Will not be back/ read more

Food was good , service is prompt and ambience is apt and enough outdoor seating. Loved the chicken read more

I'm never around this area so it was surprise to see such a cute space to accommodate a large group for dinner. I loved how the indoor spaces still blended well and felt really open with all the decor. Staff here was super nice and the portions were HUGE. We came with a large group and had plenty of leftovers both for the savory and the sweet dishes. The meal started off strong with their tasty guac, elotitos, and taquitos. They have solid guac with some spice. My favorite was definitely the elotitos but loved the nice crunch and flavorful filling of the taquitos. For the entrees we got a mix of the enchiladas, mole, and rolled tacos. Portions here were great to share and the table enjoyed all of the items we got. If you have a sweet tooth definitely grab some of their waffle churros also! read more

What a great restaurant. Beautiful outdoor setting with fountains and trees. The food was exceptional. Location is a little remote but worth it read more

As someone who has Celiac, it was refreshing to be able to order anything on the menu! The service was great and the food was amazing! read more

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For my gluten-free friends, Xica is a great choice w/ a ton of options! The ambiance was great -- bold colors and playful styling. I decided to be adventurous and got the veggie tacos. I thoroughly enjoyed how delicate but well-balanced the flavors are. I do wish the portions were slightly bigger, as I left still feeling a lil' hungry, but all in all a good upper scale Mexican spot! read more

XICA - Veggie Tacos - Mexican Near Me - San Francisco, California

If you're stuck having to carefully eat uncontaminated gluten-free food as a result of something like celiac disease, this place is a good option. If you've never had good Mexican food and don't know what it should cost, this place is also a... place you could go, I guess? The restaurant is airy and pretty, in a quiet plaza, and gets great light. Service is efficient and friendly. That's all the good stuff I can think of. My issue is with the food and drink, and the price, which are pretty outrageous for what you get. I paid $70 for a plate of flautas, a plate of enchiladas, and a lemonade. That's absolute daylight robbery, and for small servings! Even worse, the food simply isn't any good. If I was getting this level of quality and flavor in the Midwest or Germany or the UK, I'd be like "okay, neither the restaurant nor the clientele know any better, so this is about what we can expect". But this is San Francisco, where we know and love good Mexican food, and Xica's bland slop cannot be excused. There's no reason that gluten-free should mean tiny servings, price gouging, or flavorless food. If you're indifferent to all of those things, then this place is perfectly fine, but I won't be back. read more

Everything we had was tasty! Great to have another spot to take folks who require a GF diet. I had the egg and sausage scramble but they were out of sausage (strange!). They offered to sub in chicken for the sausage but that didn't sound good, so I declined. The fried chicken and churro waffle was crispy and my family devoured it. The duck confit quesadilla looked beautiful and came with mole. read more

Absolutely amazing food in a beautiful restaurant! Kind service as well. My sister has celiac and is overjoyed to be able to eat an such an amazing place. She loves the chicken and waffles, chicken sandwich, and many of their appetizers. We also love the Mexi bowl and cocktails are superb. read more

The Mexi-bowl is outstanding! Elotitos are good too. However, they don't offer the Mexi-Bowl on the dinner menu which was hugely disappointing. I suggest only going for lunch til they rectify this! read more

I've been here multiple times already and the food is always exceptional! The staff is very kind and accommodating for larger groups during lunch hours. Inside, you're surrounded by beautiful plants with the sunlight brightening up the atmosphere from the windows. I had the mexi-bowl with grilled chicken, which is so satisfying and a great portion size that doesn't feel too heavy. You can tell that all the ingredients are fresh. I recommend trying out their house hot sauce which is creamy and delicious, providing just the right spice level that isn't too overpowering in the meal. I can't wait for my next visit! read more

XICA - Mexi-bowl with grilled chicken - Mexican Near Me - San Francisco, California

Great spot for dinner with friends. Gluten free menu offers a ton of great options, trust me you won't miss the gluten. The ambiance is playful and energetic and our service was excellent. Will come back here as the location is easy to access and has safe walkability. read more