SFReview
Included In
This Arab bakery is one of our favorite places to swing by for a midday lunch, or to bring a group of friends, including those who are visiting the city for the first time. That’s because this Mission spot serves incredible pastries, chicken wraps, flatbreads, and hummus, all of which are perfect to share over cardamom cold brew or glasses of wine.
photo credit: Carly Hackbarth
photo credit: Carly Hackbarth
There really is no wrong way to order here (unless you come for brunch and don’t get the perfect shakshuka). The mezze section of the menu is a great place to start, especially if you’re doing everything family style. Go for the creamy hummus topped with whole chickpeas, sumac, and a pool of olive oil. You’ll also want to try any dish that’s made in the oven—this is a bakery, after all—whether it’s a freshly-baked mana’eesh smeared with caramelized onion purée, or a falafel sandwich on ring-shaped sesame bread. When you’re all done, take a second to block out a chunk of time on your calendar next week, so you can come back for another extra long lunch.
Food Rundown
photo credit: Carly Hackbarth
Pali Cali Mana'eesh
If, theoretically, we only had 24 hours left in the city, our itinerary would involve getting the Pali Cali for lunch—it’s the ideal not-too-heavy (but still filling) midday meal. The flatbread is piled with chicken, arugula, and bright pickled onions, and gets depth from sweet caramelized onion purée.
photo credit: Carly Hackbarth
Shakshuka
The bubbly dish is so beautiful it could stop traffic. Add well-spiced crumbled sujuk on top and know that you’re starting your day off in the best possible way.
photo credit: Carly Hackbarth
Qudsiyyah
This bowl of hummus is only available on weekends, which means you now have an easy excuse to make Saturday brunch plans here. It’s decked out with radishes, fava bean stew, and, the dish's crown jewel, the creamy whole roasted garlic cloves.
photo credit: Carly Hackbarth
Muhammara
A chunkier version than others you’ll find around town, and one that’s worth your time.