There’s a New Pupuseria Bound for the Castro 

The Castro is about to gain a pupuseria. Mission mainstay Los Amigos Salvadoran and Mexican Restaurant is getting ready to open a second outpost at 2295 Market St., a triangular space on the corner of Noe and 16th streets.

Though owner Miguel Ramirez couldn’t confirm an opening date, the California Department of Beverage Control granted him a beer and wine license on Monday. He said he’s waiting on a health inspection and hoping to open as soon as the end of the year.

Ramirez told The Standard that this second location will have a slightly different menu, focusing on El Salvador’s traditional griddle cakes while adding a few American dishes, like hamburgers and sandwiches. He said he plans to serve pancakes, eggs Benedict and chilaquiles for brunch. 

Hoodline first spotted the new pupuseria in September, when contractors were in the process of remodeling the space. 

The restaurant has been vacant since Latin American restaurant Castro Republic shuttered during shelter-in-place and never reopened, capping a period during which the concept changed over a few times in rapid succession. Before that, the 24-hour Bagdad Cafe occupied the space for many years.

In addition to the first Los Amigos location, which has been open since June 2020, until recently Ramirez also owned and operated Taqueria Los Amigos at 5300 Mission St. He’s currently transferring the taqueria to another proprietor. 

A 32-year-old restaurateur who already has two businesses under his belt, Ramirez said he’s happy to be opening another Salvadoran place in a neighborhood with great nightlife. “As a member of the community, I’m so excited to open a Latin restaurant over there,” he said. “My place will have music and drag shows.

“I’m so grateful for the Latin community, too,” Ramirez added. 

Los Amigos

📍2295 Market St.
🔗 losamigos-sf.com