KQED's Forum Why the Mission-Style Burrito Defines the Bay Area
May 30, 2025
Join Cesar Hernandez, an associate restaurant critic at The San Francisco Chronicle, Dominica Rice-Cisneros, chef and owner of Bombera in Oakland, and Victor Escovedo of Papalote Mexican Grill as they dive into the world of the Mission-style burrito. They explore its mysterious origins, cultural significance, and how it's evolved over time. Personal anecdotes highlight cherished memories tied to burritos, while they discuss innovative trends from local eateries and the art of making homemade flour tortillas. Listeners share their favorite spots, making it a tasty community celebration!
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Core Traits of Mission Burritos
- Mission-style burritos are known for their imposing size and abundance of ingredients including rice, beans, meat, guacamole, sour cream, and cheese.
- They represent the working-class barrios' ethos and taste and originated, according to urban legend, for firemen in the 1960s.
Grandmother's Breakfast Burrito Love
- Dominica Rice-Cisneros recalls her grandmother from Chihuahua making flour tortillas and breakfast burritos that felt like love and comfort.
- She attributes her affinity for flour tortillas as a birthright from her northern desert Mexican heritage.
A Native's Burrito Experience
- Ricardo Lopez grew up eating burritos multiple times a week and didn’t know they were specifically called Mission burritos until seeing it on TV.
- His usual order is carne asada without guacamole, preferring fresh avocado instead.