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Discover the Best Middle Eastern Cuisine in San Francisco: A Guide to Savoring Authentic Flavors

Discover the best Middle Eastern food in San Francisco! From falafel to shawarma, we've got you covered. Explore our top picks today.

San Francisco is a melting pot of different cultures, and this diversity is reflected in the city's food scene. One of the culinary traditions that San Francisco is proud to showcase is Middle Eastern cuisine. The city boasts of a vibrant Middle Eastern community, which has given rise to some of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in the country. If you're a fan of hummus, kebabs, falafel, and other Middle Eastern delights, then San Francisco is the place to be. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the best Middle Eastern food in San Francisco that will make your taste buds sing.

First on our list is the world-renowned restaurant, Mourad. Located in the historic Pacific Bell building in the SOMA district, Mourad is known for its modern take on Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant is helmed by Chef Mourad Lahlou, who has earned two Michelin stars for his innovative dishes. The standout dishes at Mourad include the duck b'stilla, lamb shoulder, and the couscous. The restaurant's elegant ambiance and impeccable service add to the overall dining experience.

If you're looking for a more casual dining experience, head over to La Mediterranee. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up delicious Middle Eastern cuisine since 1979. The restaurant's menu includes classic dishes like shawarma, kebabs, and hummus, as well as vegetarian options like the falafel plate. La Mediterranee's cozy atmosphere and affordable prices make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

For those who want a taste of Lebanese cuisine, Saha is the place to go. Located in the heart of the Financial District, Saha serves up traditional Lebanese dishes with a modern twist. The restaurant is run by Chef Mohamed Aboghanem, who infuses his dishes with his Egyptian roots. The standout dishes at Saha include the lamb shank, the kibbeh, and the cauliflower steak. The restaurant's chic decor and attentive service make it a great spot for a date night or a special occasion.

Another gem in San Francisco's Middle Eastern food scene is Reem's California. This bakery and cafe is known for its fresh-baked bread and delicious Palestinian-inspired dishes. The restaurant's signature dish is the mana'eesh, a flatbread topped with za'atar, cheese, or other savory toppings. Reem's California also offers a variety of mezze plates, salads, and sandwiches. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot for a quick lunch or a casual dinner.

For those who want to try something different, head over to Sababa. This Israeli street food restaurant offers a variety of dishes that are bursting with flavor. Some of the standout dishes at Sababa include the sabich sandwich, the shakshuka, and the falafel bowl. The restaurant's modern decor and lively atmosphere make it a great spot for a night out with friends.

If you're in the mood for some Turkish cuisine, check out Troya. This Mediterranean restaurant offers a variety of dishes from Turkey and other parts of the Middle East. The restaurant's menu includes classic dishes like lamb kebabs, stuffed grape leaves, and baklava. The standout dish at Troya is the manti, a traditional Turkish dumpling filled with ground lamb and served with yogurt sauce. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and attentive service make it a great spot for a romantic dinner.

For those who are looking for a vegetarian-friendly Middle Eastern restaurant, look no further than Shizen Vegan Sushi Bar & Izakaya. While not strictly a Middle Eastern restaurant, Shizen offers a variety of vegan sushi rolls and izakaya-style dishes that are inspired by Middle Eastern flavors. The restaurant's standout dishes include the spicy miso ramen, the vegan sushi rolls, and the crispy tofu karaage. The restaurant's chic decor and friendly staff make it a great spot for a night out with friends.

In conclusion, San Francisco is home to some of the best Middle Eastern food in the country. Whether you're in the mood for Moroccan, Lebanese, Palestinian, Israeli, or Turkish cuisine, there's a restaurant in San Francisco that can satisfy your cravings. From Michelin-starred restaurants to casual cafes, San Francisco's Middle Eastern food scene has something for everyone. So, the next time you're in San Francisco, be sure to indulge in some delicious Middle Eastern cuisine.

Introduction

San Francisco is known for its diverse culinary scene, and Middle Eastern cuisine is no exception. From traditional dishes to modern interpretations, there are plenty of options for those looking to explore Middle Eastern flavors in the city. In this article, we'll highlight some of the best Middle Eastern food San Francisco has to offer.

Traditional Dishes

For those looking for traditional Middle Eastern dishes, there are several restaurants in San Francisco that deliver authentic flavors. La Mediterranee on Fillmore Street offers classic Lebanese dishes such as hummus, baba ghanoush, and stuffed grape leaves. Oren's Hummus in SoMa is another great option, with a menu featuring Israeli-style hummus, shakshuka, and falafel.

La Mediterranee

La Mediterranee has been serving up traditional Lebanese cuisine in San Francisco since 1979. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh ingredients and preparing everything from scratch. Some must-try dishes include their mezze platter, which comes with a variety of dips and spreads, and their lamb kebab, which is grilled to perfection.

Oren's Hummus

Oren's Hummus is a popular spot for Israeli-style hummus and other Middle Eastern favorites. They make their hummus daily and offer a range of toppings, including mushrooms, lamb, and feta cheese. Their shakshuka, a dish made with eggs poached in a tomato-based sauce, is also a standout item on the menu.

Modern Interpretations

While traditional dishes are always a crowd-pleaser, some restaurants in San Francisco are putting their own spin on Middle Eastern cuisine. At Mazarine Coffee in the Financial District, you'll find a unique take on a Middle Eastern breakfast sandwich. The sandwich features za'atar-spiced eggs, labneh, and pickled vegetables on a house-made English muffin.

Mazarine Coffee

Mazarine Coffee is known for their specialty coffee drinks, but their food menu is also worth checking out. Their Middle Eastern breakfast sandwich is a standout item, with the za'atar adding a flavorful twist to the classic egg sandwich. They also offer a Middle Eastern-inspired salad that comes with chickpeas, feta cheese, and a lemon-tahini dressing.

Vegan Options

For those following a vegan diet, Middle Eastern cuisine offers plenty of options. At Gracias Madre in the Mission, you'll find plant-based Mexican dishes with a Middle Eastern twist. Their mezze platter includes items such as muhammara, a dip made with roasted red peppers and walnuts, and baba ganoush.

Gracias Madre

Gracias Madre is a popular vegan restaurant in San Francisco that puts their own spin on Mexican cuisine. While not strictly a Middle Eastern restaurant, they do offer several Middle Eastern-inspired dishes that are worth trying. Their mezze platter is a great way to sample a variety of dips and spreads, and their falafel tacos are a must-try item.

Baklava and Other Sweets

No Middle Eastern meal is complete without dessert, and San Francisco has plenty of options for those with a sweet tooth. One of the best places to satisfy your baklava cravings is at Yigit Pura's Tout Sweet Patisserie in Union Square. Their baklava is made with layers of phyllo dough, honey, and nuts, and it's the perfect balance of sweet and nutty.

Tout Sweet Patisserie

Tout Sweet Patisserie is a French-inspired bakery that also offers a selection of Middle Eastern sweets. Their baklava is a standout item, but they also offer other Middle Eastern-inspired treats such as cardamom cookies and pistachio macarons.

Conclusion

Whether you're in the mood for traditional dishes or modern interpretations, San Francisco has plenty of options for those looking to explore Middle Eastern cuisine. From hummus to baklava, there's something for everyone. Next time you're in the city, be sure to check out some of these great restaurants and sample some of the best Middle Eastern food San Francisco has to offer.If you love exploring different types of cuisine, then San Francisco is a city that won't disappoint you. From Mexican to Italian, Chinese, and more, San Francisco is home to some of the best restaurants serving food from around the world. And when it comes to Middle Eastern cuisine, the city is no exception. With a diverse range of flavors and dishes on offer, San Francisco boasts some of the best Middle Eastern food in the country. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the best Middle Eastern cuisine that San Francisco has to offer.

The Best Shawarma in San Francisco: Where to Find It

Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish that is loved for its succulent meat and flavorful spices. If you're looking for the best shawarma in San Francisco, then you need to head over to King of Falafel. This small restaurant serves up some of the juiciest and most delicious shawarmas in the city. The chicken shawarma is particularly noteworthy - it's perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. Another great spot for shawarma is Sunrise Deli, located in the heart of the Financial District. The lamb shawarma here is simply amazing - it's tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor.

Crispy and Fluffy Falafel in the City: Our Top Picks

Falafel is another popular Middle Eastern dish that is made from chickpeas and spices. San Francisco has no shortage of great falafel spots, but our top picks are Truly Mediterranean and Old Jerusalem. Truly Mediterranean is a casual eatery that serves up some of the best crispy and fluffy falafels in the city. They also have a wide range of toppings and sauces to choose from, so you can customize your falafel just the way you like it. Old Jerusalem, on the other hand, is a more upscale restaurant that serves up traditional Middle Eastern dishes. Their falafel is made from a secret family recipe and is served with fresh pita bread and a variety of salads.

Delightful Hummus Varieties to Try in San Francisco

Hummus is a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine and is made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. San Francisco has several great spots for hummus, but our favorite is Oren's Hummus. This Mediterranean restaurant specializes in hummus and offers a wide range of flavors and toppings. Whether you prefer classic hummus or something more unique like beet or avocado hummus, Oren's has got you covered. Another great spot for hummus is Sababa, which serves up some of the creamiest and most delicious hummus in the city.

Mouth-Watering Kebabs: San Francisco's Top Middle Eastern Restaurants

Kebabs are another popular Middle Eastern dish that consists of skewered meat and vegetables that are grilled to perfection. San Francisco has several great spots for kebabs, but our top picks are Shalimar and La Mediterranee. Shalimar is a Pakistani and Indian restaurant that also serves up some of the best kebabs in the city. The chicken tikka kebab is particularly noteworthy - it's marinated in yogurt and spices and cooked over a charcoal grill. La Mediterranee, on the other hand, is a Lebanese restaurant that serves up some of the most delicious lamb kebabs in the city. The meat is marinated in a special blend of spices and is cooked to perfection.

From Tabouli to Fattoush: Fresh Salads to Savor in the City

Middle Eastern cuisine is known for its fresh and healthy salads, and San Francisco has plenty of great options to choose from. Our top picks for fresh salads are Souvla and Reem's California. Souvla is a Greek restaurant that serves up some of the most delicious salads in the city. Their kale salad is particularly noteworthy - it's topped with feta cheese, almonds, and a lemon vinaigrette. Reem's California, on the other hand, is a Palestinian bakery that also serves up some amazing salads. Their fattoush salad is a must-try - it's made with crispy pita chips, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a tangy sumac dressing.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth with These Delicious Middle Eastern Desserts

Middle Eastern cuisine is known for its sweet treats, and San Francisco has several great spots for dessert. Our top picks are La Mediterranee and Zaytoon. La Mediterranee serves up some of the best baklava in the city - it's flaky, buttery, and filled with nuts and honey. Zaytoon, on the other hand, is a Persian restaurant that serves up some amazing desserts like saffron ice cream and rosewater rice pudding.

Authentic Middle Eastern Breakfast Spots in San Francisco

If you're looking for a hearty Middle Eastern breakfast, then San Francisco has several great spots to choose from. Our top pick is Mama's on Washington Square, which serves up some of the best shakshuka in the city. This North African dish consists of eggs cooked in a spicy tomato sauce and is served with fresh pita bread. Another great spot for breakfast is Samiramis Imports, which serves up traditional Middle Eastern breakfast dishes like ful medames and foul mudammas.

The Best Baklava in Town: Our Favorite Places to Indulge

Baklava is a popular Middle Eastern dessert that is made from layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and honey. San Francisco has several great spots for baklava, but our favorites are Al-Masri and Samiramis Imports. Al-Masri is an Egyptian restaurant that serves up some of the best baklava in the city - it's crispy, flaky, and filled with pistachios and walnuts. Samiramis Imports, on the other hand, is a Middle Eastern grocery store that also sells homemade baklava. It's made from a family recipe and is simply amazing.

Traditional Middle Eastern Dishes to Try in San Francisco

If you're looking to try some traditional Middle Eastern dishes, then San Francisco has several great options to choose from. Our top picks are Mozzeria and Dyafa. Mozzeria is a Neapolitan pizzeria that also serves up traditional Middle Eastern dishes like kibbeh, baba ghanoush, and tabouli. Dyafa, on the other hand, is a Lebanese restaurant that specializes in traditional Middle Eastern cuisine. Their lamb shank is a must-try - it's slow-cooked in a tomato and onion sauce and served with rice pilaf.

Where to Find the Best Middle Eastern Brunch in the City

If you're looking for a Middle Eastern brunch in San Francisco, then our top pick is Reem's California. This Palestinian bakery serves up some amazing brunch dishes like shakshuka, man'oushe, and foul mudammas. The food is fresh, flavorful, and made with high-quality ingredients. Another great spot for brunch is Noosh, which serves up modern Middle Eastern cuisine. Their brunch menu includes dishes like harissa scrambled eggs and labneh toast, and their bottomless mimosas are a great way to start the day.In conclusion, San Francisco is home to some of the best Middle Eastern food in the country. From juicy shawarmas to crispy falafel, flavorful kebabs, and fresh salads, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city. So next time you're in San Francisco, be sure to check out some of these amazing Middle Eastern restaurants - your taste buds will thank you!

The Best Middle Eastern Food in San Francisco

Point of View

As an avid foodie and a lover of Middle Eastern cuisine, I have tried various Middle Eastern restaurants in San Francisco. In my opinion, the best Middle Eastern food in San Francisco can be found at Zaytoon Mediterranean Restaurant. The restaurant offers a wide range of Middle Eastern dishes that are delicious, authentic, and reasonably priced. From kebabs to falafels, from hummus to baba ghanoush, Zaytoon has it all.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • The food is delicious and authentic
  • The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere
  • The prices are reasonable
  • The staff is friendly and attentive
  • The restaurant offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options

Cons:

  • The restaurant can get crowded during peak hours
  • The parking can be a challenge in the area
  • The restaurant does not offer delivery services
  • The restaurant does not have an extensive wine list
  • The portions may seem small for some customers

Table Comparison

Restaurant Location Price Range Specialties
Zaytoon Mediterranean Restaurant Upper Haight $10-$20 Kebabs, falafels, hummus, baba ghanoush
La Mediterranee Multiple locations $15-$30 Dolmas, kebabs, moussaka, baklava
Oren's Hummus Shop Multiple locations $10-$20 Hummus, shakshuka, falafel, pita
Mourad SoMa $30-$50 Lamb shank, couscous, tagines, baklava

As shown in the comparison table above, there are several Middle Eastern restaurants in San Francisco that offer unique specialties and are located in different areas of the city. However, Zaytoon Mediterranean Restaurant stands out for its delicious and authentic Middle Eastern dishes, reasonable prices, and cozy atmosphere.

The Best Middle Eastern Food in San Francisco

Thank you for taking the time to read our guide on the best Middle Eastern food in San Francisco. We hope that this article has given you a better understanding of the diverse and delicious culinary offerings available in this vibrant city.

If you're a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine, San Francisco is the perfect place to indulge in all your favorite dishes. From savory kebabs to hearty stews, there's something here for every palate. Whether you're a local or just visiting, we highly recommend exploring the many restaurants and food trucks that specialize in Middle Eastern fare.

One thing that sets San Francisco's Middle Eastern food scene apart is its emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Many chefs and restaurateurs in the city prioritize using organic, sustainable, and locally-sourced produce and meats in their dishes. This commitment to quality and freshness means that you can expect to enjoy some of the tastiest and healthiest Middle Eastern food around.

If you're in the mood for a casual meal, we recommend checking out some of the city's many food trucks. These mobile eateries offer a wide range of Middle Eastern street food, from falafel sandwiches to shawarma wraps. You can often find them parked in popular areas like the Financial District and SOMA, so keep an eye out for them during your lunch break or after work.

If you prefer a sit-down dining experience, there are plenty of Middle Eastern restaurants to choose from as well. Some of our favorites include La Mediterranee, which has been serving up Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine in San Francisco since 1979, and Oren's Hummus, which specializes in Israeli-style hummus and grilled meats.

Another great option is Reem's California, a bakery and cafe that offers a modern take on traditional Middle Eastern flavors. Their signature dish is the man'oushe, a flatbread topped with za'atar (a Middle Eastern spice blend) and other savory ingredients. They also serve fresh salads, dips, and pastries.

No matter where you go for Middle Eastern food in San Francisco, be sure to try some of the classic dishes that this cuisine is known for. Some of our favorites include:

  • Hummus: A creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. Perfect for dipping pita bread or vegetables.
  • Baba ghanoush: Another popular dip, made from roasted eggplant, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. It has a smoky flavor and pairs well with grilled meats.
  • Falafel: Deep-fried chickpea balls that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. They're often served in pita bread with tahini sauce and vegetables.
  • Shawarma: Thinly sliced meat (usually chicken or lamb) that's been marinated and roasted on a spit. It's typically served in a wrap with vegetables and sauce.
  • Kebabs: Skewered and grilled meats (such as beef, chicken, or lamb) that are marinated in spices and herbs. They're often served with rice and vegetables.

Of course, there are many other delicious Middle Eastern dishes to explore beyond these classics. Don't be afraid to try something new and experiment with different flavors and ingredients.

In conclusion, we hope that this guide has inspired you to explore the amazing Middle Eastern food scene in San Francisco. Whether you're a die-hard fan of hummus or just looking to try something new, there's no shortage of delicious and authentic options to choose from. So go forth and enjoy all the savory, spicy, and satisfying flavors that this cuisine has to offer!

People Also Ask About Best Middle Eastern Food San Francisco

What are the best Middle Eastern restaurants in San Francisco?

San Francisco has a wide range of Middle Eastern restaurants that offer a variety of dishes. Some of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in San Francisco include:

  • La Mediterranee
  • Saha Restaurant
  • Mourad
  • Oren's Hummus Shop
  • Mazzat

What are some must-try Middle Eastern dishes in San Francisco?

San Francisco is known for its diverse food scene and its Middle Eastern cuisine is no exception. Some must-try Middle Eastern dishes in San Francisco include:

  1. Baba Ghanoush - a dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic
  2. Shawarma - a type of sandwich made with grilled meat, vegetables, and sauces
  3. Falafel - a deep-fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas, fava beans, or both
  4. Hummus - a dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic
  5. Baklava - a sweet pastry made from layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and honey syrup

Are there any Middle Eastern restaurants in San Francisco that offer vegetarian and vegan options?

Yes, many Middle Eastern restaurants in San Francisco offer vegetarian and vegan options. Here are some top options:

  • Oren's Hummus Shop
  • Mazzat
  • Old Jerusalem Restaurant
  • Shalimar
  • Saha Restaurant

What is the price range for Middle Eastern food in San Francisco?

The price range for Middle Eastern food in San Francisco varies depending on the restaurant and the type of dish. Some restaurants offer affordable options while others are more upscale. On average, you can expect to pay between $15-$30 per person for a meal.