Seemor

MariposasB+Worth Trying

Name: Mariposas
Address: 825 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103, San Francisco, United States
Rating: 4.5

825 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103 · Peruvian restaurant · 4.5/5 Google (183 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Vibrant Peruvian spot near Moscone with standout ceviche and pollo a la brasa, lively vibe, and occasional service inconsistency; prices are fair for SoMa if you order smartly.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Mariposas delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality anchored by standout ceviche, empanadas, and pollo a la brasa, but inconsistent execution—occasional oversalting, soggy fries, and uneven seasoning—prevents a higher grade. The convenient SoMa location and lively butterfly-themed setting create appealing atmosphere, though service can be slow at peak times, limiting the overall experience to reliable but not exceptional territory.

Restaurant Summary

Right off Mission by the Metreon, Mariposas feels lively and whimsical with greenery and glowing butterflies. Service is warm when it clicks, though a few guests noted slow greetings. One diner summed it up: "Fresh, vibrant plates and a fun room" that turns the night into a mini escape with Latin-leaning energy and cocktails to match. The cooking leans classic Peruvian with bright, seafood-forward starters and wok-kissed staples. Ceviches pop, empanadas are flaky, arroz chaufa comforts, and the rotisserie chicken wins frequent fans. A few reports mention overly salty lomo sauce or soggy fries, but most describe bold, satisfying flavors over a casual, upbeat dinner. Families will do well here: fries, rice, rotisserie chicken, and a burger make it kid-friendly without fuss. Portions are generally solid, though the steak is a splurge. Expect a spirited room at peak hours; earlier seatings or mid-afternoons are easiest with children.

At a Glance

Standout ceviche, empanadas, and pollo a la brasa
Fun, lively vibe near Moscone and Metreon
Service can be slow or uneven at peak times
A few dishes skew salty or arrive with soggy fries
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food

What Sets It Apart

central_soma_location_near_moscone
playful_butterfly_decor
strong_pollo_a_la_brasa_program

What People Love

Zingy, fresh ceviche with choclo texture
Flaky, well-seasoned empanadas
Juicy rotisserie chicken with house sauces
Playful decor that feels like a mini getaway

Points of Concern

Greeting and order-taking can lag when busy; plan for extra time
Lomo saltado sauce can run salty and soften fries
Some perceive decor as kitschy rather than polished
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food; limited appeal for very conservative palates

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost$48-70 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Share a ceviche and empanadas to start, split a quarter chicken with two sides, and finish with tres leches for a balanced, value-forward order.

Perfect For

Pre-conference dinner near Moscone
Casual date with lively atmosphere
Group catch-ups with shareable plates
Seafood fans craving bright ceviche

Location Insights

Area: Busy SoMa corridor near Metreon and Moscone; business, convention, and shopping foot traffic with tourist spillover.

Safety: Well-trafficked during events; standard urban precautions at night; bright interiors provide a safe feel inside.

Nearby: Steps from Metreon, Moscone Center, hotels, and parking garage; convenient for conferences and pre-show meals.

Mid-MarketMid-Market is a vibrant area with a mix of tech startups, entertainment venues, and diverse dining options ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. The social atmosphere is energetic and urban, attracting a crowd interested in nightlife, innovation, and cultural events.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday09:00–21:00 Tuesday09:00–21:00 Wednesday09:00–21:00 Thursday11:00–21:00 Friday11:00–22:00 Saturday11:00–22:00 Sunday11:00–21:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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