On random weekdays when your fridge is so empty it could grow tumbleweeds, get to Axum Cafe. We love this Lower Haight spot for more reasons than we can count, but we’ll start with the fact that this sun-yellow space always has tables available. Another? Their portions are massive, with flying saucer-sized platters that are generously loaded with heaps of spicy kitfo, hamli, and saucy alicha you’ll want to somehow clone so you have a never-ending supply. The ability to walk in wearing a mildly wrinkled t-shirt or the same sweatpants you’ve been wasting away in all day is just another plus to this casual spot. 

photo credit: Julia Chen