Cinco de Mayo? Hamburguesa!
The best thing about the humble burger? Its simplicity and basic components leave a lot of room for interpretation. In Mexico, the burger gets imported as a variation of a torta, while other parts of Latin America add their own local culinary twists. Her
Papito: Of all the hamburguesas here, this one is the closest to a torta: an all-beef chorizo patty on a long roll, dressed with avocado, caramelized onions, chipotle aioli and cheese ($13). It’s a burger that’s satisfyingly riffs off the Mexican sandwich. 317 Connecticut St., S.F.; (415) 695-0147. www.papitosf.com
Mosto: Based on the burger stands that dot Mexico City’s streets at night to help steady Tequila-fueled revelers, this hamburguesa comes with griddled Oaxaca cheese and poblano chile strips, all brightened up with pickled onion and a chile lime aioli ($8). It is the perfect wingman for a few flights of mezcal. 741 Valencia St., S.F.; (415) 626-1344. www.mostosf.com Gilberth’s Rotisserie & Grill: Mexican influences weave together a hamburguesa built around a juicy lamb and chorizo patty ($14). Save the chipotle aioli that comes on the side for the fries, but pile the crisp beet-stained pickles onto the burger if you can get your mouth open wide enough. 2427 Third St., S.F.; (415) 9137163. www.gilberths.com
Don Pistos: Like some kind of burger diva, this hamburguesa arrives minimally dressed and the center of attention. It’s a gutsy move that showcases the perfectly seared and juicy bacon and onion marinated beef patty. A dollop of guacamole and a swipe of mayo on the bun is all it needs ($11). 510 Union St., S.F.; (415) 3950939. www.donpistos.com
Lolinda: This Argentine-style hamurguesa ($14) is a hot juicy mess that’s worth trying to jockey a seat at the bar for (the only place it’s served). Skip the hectic first floor and head to the more intimate mezzanine where, under the cover of darkness, you can ditch the flatware and just use your hands. 2518 Mission St., S.F.; (415) 5506970. http://lolindasf.com