Nestled in a vibrant street corner of the Mission District, San Francisco, there’s a small taqueria that doesn’t look like much at first glance. It’s a modest establishment that’s been run by the same family for over two decades, and their dedication to authenticity and quality has not wavered since they opened their doors. The name of this culinary gem? La Estrella.

La Estrella’s secret to creating the perfect al pastor begins with their meticulous selection of spices and chilies used in marinating their pork. They import specific varieties of dried chilies directly from Mexico, which are then rehydrated and blended to form the base of their marinade. Fragrant with a mix of achiote, cumin, clove, and cinnamon—the pork is left to bask in this mixture for hours until it’s infused with flavor down to every fiber.

But what truly distinguishes La Estrella is its vertical rotisserie, or ‘trompo,’ where layers of marinated pork are stacked to form a spinning top of sizzling meat. As it rotates next to an open flame, the edges become crisp while retaining a juicy tenderness within. Every taco gets freshly shaved slices right off the spit and onto a handmade corn tortilla—soft yet sturdy enough to support the heaped al pastor within.

As if the perfectly cooked pork wasn’t enough, La Estrella tops their tacos with finely chopped onions, vibrant cilantro, and a slice of pineapple that offers a sweet contrast to the savory flavors—a traditional yet critical addition that many fail to execute correctly.

Combine all these elements with the skillful hands of La Estrella’s taqueros, who have been honing their craft for years, you’re not just biting into an al pastor taco—you’re experiencing a piece of culinary artistry that carries history and tradition in every bite.

It’s no wonder that on any given day, locals and adventurous foodies alike line up for these mouthwatering treats. Some people talk about having spiritual experiences upon trying foods that transcend mere sustenance—La Estrella’s tacos de al pastor may just elicit such a reaction.

We all have our personal favorites when it comes to local food spots—but for those who crave authentic Mexican cuisine that commands respect through simplicity and flavor, venturing out to try these al pastor tacos is an absolute must. It seems clear that when it comes to finding the crème-de-la-crème of al pastor in the Bay Area, La Estrella shines brightest in my book.