el Mil Amores

el Mil Amores

2780 21st St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

+1 415-866-4121

Restaurant, Breakfast restaurant, Mexican restaurant
(462)
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About This Place

Located in the vibrant neighborhood of San Francisco’s Mission District, el Mil Amores offers a masterful celebration of authentic Mexican breakfast flavors that will captivate your palate from the very first bite. This charming, unpretentious spot at 2780 21st St is a true gem for lovers of Mexican cuisine, especially those seeking a memorable brunch experience infused with heart and tradition.

From the moment you step in, el Mil Amores invites you to indulge in a comforting yet dynamic dining atmosphere marked by the enticing aromas of freshly brewed Cafe De Olla and freshly squeezed juices. The menu is a vibrant mosaic of Mexican breakfast classics and inventive dishes that strike the perfect balance between rustic flavors and inspired culinary twists.

Must-try delights include the legendary Chilaquiles, available in both the traditional verde and the richly layered Mole Colorado with Roasted Chicken variations, which customers praise for their bold, nuanced sauces that effortlessly meld smoky, spicy, and earthy tones. Another standout, the CDMX Plate, captures the essence of Mexico City’s vibrant breakfast culture — featuring a harmonious blend of savory and sweet elements like concha French toast alongside robust, spicy chilaquiles.

For those craving a decadent yet balanced breakfast, the Enchiladas Suizas draw rave reviews for their deeply satisfying combination of creamy sauce and tender meat, while the Chipotle Eggs Benedict offers a bold, smoky twist on a classic favorite. Guests looking for something hearty will find the Birria and Chucky's Breakfast Burrito to be soul-warming, generously portioned choices that resonate with authentic Mexican comfort food.

Drinks here are thoughtfully curated to complement the fresh flavors on your plate. Whether it’s a steaming cup of aromatic coffee, the subtly spiced Cafe De Olla, or the refreshing tang of Agua Fresca Del Dia, each sip invites a moment of relaxation amid the bustling surroundings. Don’t miss the Agua De Tamarindo, a perfect balance of tart and sweet, or the fresh-squeezed orange juice that bursts with sunshine in every glass.

While the restaurant's growing popularity does lead to lively weekend waits, this is a testament to the genuine quality and heart behind every dish. Diners appreciate the attentive service once seated, even if the anticipation before entry tests the patience of eager food lovers. The ambiance itself is casual, warm, and inviting — an ideal setting for leisurely brunches with friends or spirited mornings to savor bold and vibrant flavors.

One can't help but feel connected to the deep cultural roots presented through the culinary craftsmanship at el Mil Amores. Time and again, patrons like American Angler have hailed the enchiladas as "amazingly delicious," likening the harmonious layering of flavors to divine inspiration. Others relish the smoky pork ribs and the unique CDMX bowl, savoring a complex tapestry of tastes that perfectly balance spice, sweetness, and umami richness.

Whether you’re a local or just venturing into the Mission, el Mil Amores is a destination that rewards dedication — be it the brief wait outside or the journey from other neighborhoods. What awaits beyond the door is a soulful breakfast experience that feels thoughtfully prepared and lovingly served, making it wholly worth the trek.

Contact: +1 415-866-4121 | Visit at 2780 21st St, San Francisco, CA 94110

From the business
Identifies as Latino-owned Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Outdoor seating Kerbside pickup Takeaway Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service Serves local specialty
Popular for
Breakfast Lunch Dinner Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Coffee Comfort food Quick bite Small plates
Dining options
Breakfast Brunch Lunch Dinner Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Gender-neutral toilets Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly LGBTQ+ friendly Tourists Transgender safe space
Planning
Usually a wait Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs
Parking
Free of charge street parking Parking

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    08:00 AM - 03:00 PM
  • Tuesday
    08:00 AM - 03:00 PM
  • Wednesday
    08:00 AM - 03:00 PM
  • Thursday
    08:00 AM - 03:00 PM
  • Friday
    08:00 AM - 03:00 PM
  • Saturday
    08:00 AM - 03:00 PM
  • Sunday
    08:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • American Angler
    2 week ago

    In my quest for the best enchiladas in SF I found myself at the el Mil Amores Mexican Restaurant. el Mil Amores is an unassuming little place tucked into an area I rarely visit, but great things can come in small packages. So, let me just say this...The Enchilada was Amazingly Delicious, the flavors melded together as if God himself was in the kitchen! 5 stars and worthy of a two hour drive! As a matter of fact...they were so good, and after I had eaten, I got an order to go for the next day!

  • Zachary Thomas
    2 week ago

    The food lives up to the hype - the chilaquiles in my CDMX plate was nice and spicy. The main downside is the trek from Valencia/Mission and the long wait to get a seat, and then for the food. My fiance liked her chilaquiles plate but the sauce got a little overwhelming at that portion size.

  • Crystal X
    4 week ago

    Came here with a friend for brunch and was pleasantly surprised! We shared the CDMX plate and pork ribs. Both were delicious, but the pork ribs were my favorite. They were really tender and had a slight kick. I liked the smoky, earthy flavor. The CDMX plate is also a good choice if you want both savory and sweet. It comes with the concha French toast so you get a bit of everything.

  • Anirudh Sudarshan
    1 month ago

    One of the best plates of food I've had in a while. We tried the cdmx bowl and the chilaquiles. We also ordered the tres leches pancakes. The savory dishes were 10/10. The pancakes were good but we felt they were short on the tres leches syrup The only complaint I have is 3 tables were empty for a while but it took the staff a long time to seat us.

  • Marta Calvet
    2 month ago

    I went there for brunch and I totally recommend it. Be mindful you will have to queue outside, but if that doesn’t stop you, you will enjoy one of the best brunches I’ve had in town. We ordered the cdmx and the special of the day. They were both really good and filling. If they have agua fresca de mango, order it. It is delicious!!

  • Elizabeth McIlroy
    3 month ago

    Friendly, quick service with great food! Typical of San Francisco breakfast prices, but with proper portions to match. There are creative dishes offered that all build on traditional Mexican cuisine. Must visit brunch spot!

  • My Tenderloin Kitchen
    4 month ago

    We went for breakfast at El Mil Amores and it was such a wonderful experience. The atmosphere was bright and welcoming, and the staff made us feel right at home. My favorite part of the meal was the café de olla. It was sweet, spiced, and comforting, exactly how it should be. I also loved the CDMX Plate, their breakfast sampler that included house chilaquiles, my choice of meat, scrambled eggs, home potatoes, and the most delicious concha French toast. Every bite tasted fresh and full of flavor, and the portions were generous without feeling heavy. It is the kind of place where you want to linger over your coffee and look forward to coming back to try more of the menu.

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