falafel face off

Falafels are a tricky thing if you’re used to east coast falafels. I was born and raised on the west coast, but having lived on the east coast, I realize the many faults, and redeeming qualities, of west coast falafels. The difference between the two is that east coast falafels usually (if not always) come in pita bread and cost $2-$5 (usually 3.50).West coast ones come in lavash wrap and cost $6-9 (usually 7.95) What makes up for the price difference is that west coast falafels are twice the size and usually come with Tahini sauce and hummus. (on the east coast, it’s usually just hummus unless you ask) The best ones in SF are Truly Mediterranean (looks shady but is one of the best) Hayes & Kebab and any one of Ali Baba’s Cave (Haight and the Mission) and that one place on Polk near California that looks like a strangely empty market & shitty pizza place, that actually serves the most delicious lamb schwarmas I’ve ever had. The little old Greek lady who makes them can’t speak English fer shit so it don’t bother asking for anything special but whatever she makes will be delicious anyways. I want to take her home & call her “Nana.”

And should you unfortunately find yourself on upper Haight, go to Blue Front Café and get the Feta wrap. It’s a delicious mixture of dolmas and feta in toasted lavish bread. Get it to go, pick up a Sapporo and go have a picnic in Golden Gate Park.