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Big Baba Eats

198 Broad St, San Francisco, CA 94112
$$
Middle Eastern, Mediterranean

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Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)

Big Baba Eats 7.8
Oceanview
Neighborhood counter-service spot blending Mediterranean staples with deli-style comfort. Shawarma plates and falafel wraps lead the menu, with generous portions and quick turnaround suiting weeknights and takeout.
Must-Try Dishes: Chicken Shawarma Plate, Falafel Wrap, Beef Kofta Plate
Scores:
Value: 8.8 Service: 7.6 Consistency: 7.8 Food Quality: 7.9 Atmosphere: 6.6 Cultural Relevance: 6.9
What makes it special: Generous, fast Mediterranean plates and wraps at budget-friendly prices.
Who should go: Takeout regulars and weeknight diners
When to visit: Early evening for fastest ticket times
What to order: Chicken shawarma, falafel wrap, beef kofta plate
Insider tip: Ask for sauce on the side to keep takeout crisp.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Ocean Avenue is usually available nearby, but spots can fill quickly during dinner rush; no dedicated lot.
Dress code: Completely casual—hoodies and jeans are the norm; ideal for a quick grab-and-go meal.
Noise level: Low to moderate—mostly takeout traffic, so it’s easy to hold a conversation at the small dine-in tables.
Weekend wait: 5–10 minutes for pickup; dine-in seats turn over quickly.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically; food ready in under 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—falafel, hummus plates, and multiple salads available.
Vegan options: Yes—several items can be made vegan with sauce adjustments.
Gluten-free options: Limited—rice plates and salads work, but wraps contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it’s more counter-service casual than sit-down romantic. Better suited for quick, no-frills bites or a low-key lunch meet.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t needed. There are a few small tables, but most orders are takeout so seating usually opens up fast.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—family-friendly with simple plates, mild flavors, and space for strollers; no kids’ menu but easy to share plates.
Best For
Better for: Better than nearby shawarma spots for portion size and speed—excellent for quick, filling meals under $15.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for sit-down ambiance, alcohol service, or upscale Mediterranean dining.
Big Baba Eats 8.1
Oceanview
Neighborhood counter-service spot blending Middle Eastern staples with deli comforts. Shawarma plates and falafel wraps lead the menu, with hearty portions and fast tickets fitting weeknights and takeout.
Must-Try Dishes: Chicken Shawarma Plate, Falafel Wrap, Beef Kofta Plate
Scores:
Value: 8.5 Service: 7.9 Consistency: 8 Food Quality: 8.3 Atmosphere: 6.8 Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Fast, generous Middle Eastern plates and wraps at fair prices.
Who should go: Weeknight takeout regulars and value seekers
When to visit: Early evening for the quickest turnaround
What to order: Chicken shawarma plate; falafel wrap; beef kofta plate
Insider tip: Ask for sauce on the side to keep fried items crisp in transit.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking is available along Ocean Avenue and nearby side streets, but it fills quickly during dinner hours. No dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Casual — come as you are; jeans, hoodies, and sneakers are all common.
Noise level: Low to moderate — background chatter from takeout orders, but easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 5–10 minutes at most; mostly takeout traffic.
Weekday lunch: No wait; counter service is fast and efficient.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple options including falafel, hummus plates, and salads.
Vegan options: Yes — several items can be made vegan by omitting sauces with dairy.
Gluten-free options: Partially — plates are naturally gluten-free, but wraps and pita contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a formal first date — it’s more of a quick, casual meal spot than a sit-down experience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter service with limited indoor seating; tables are first-come, first-served and usually available.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — friendly staff, quick service, and shareable plates make it easy for families with young kids.
Best For
Better for: Faster and more budget-friendly than nearby sit-down Mediterranean restaurants — ideal for takeout or casual group meals.
Skip if: You’re looking for a romantic or atmospheric dine-in experience; it’s more functional than scenic.