Z Zoul Cafe in San Francisco is the SoMa Sudanese halal counter, with a foul medames stew, ful ta'amia (Sudanese falafel) and a tea service that runs all day.
Tip: The breakfast foul plate is the right first order; the staff will explain the spice blend if you ask.
Old Jerusalem in San Francisco is the Mission halal Palestinian counter, with a strong chicken shawarma, a mezze platter and a knafeh that draws cross-town.
Tip: The knafeh sells out by 21:00 on Friday; arrive earlier or call ahead to hold a portion.
Wise Sons in San Francisco is the Mission Jewish deli (kosher-style, not certified), with house-cured pastrami, a real challah board and a Saturday brunch.
Tip: The pastrami on rye with mustard is the canonical order; the bagel pop-up runs Sundays only.
Shizen Vegan Sushi Bar in San Francisco is the Mission's plant-based omakase, with a vegan unagi roll, tomato 'tuna' sashimi and a 16-seat counter facing.
Tip: Walk in at 17:30 on a weekday; the counter takes early seatings without a reservation.
Golden Era in San Francisco is the Civic Center Vietnamese vegan room since 1992, with strong vermicelli bowls and one of the city's oldest plant-based rooms.
Tip: The lunch combo of vermicelli and spring rolls is fifteen dollars and the cheapest sit-down vegan in the area.