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SAJJ Mediterranean (SoMa)
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
SAJJ Mediterranean (SoMa)
7.7
Build-your-own bowls, salads, and pita wraps with falafel or shawarma served at a quick counter and small outdoor area off 2nd Street. A reliable SoMa option for fresh, customizable Mediterranean on the go.
Must-Try Dishes:
Falafel Bowl with Hummus & Pickles, Chicken Shawarma Pita, Freekeh Salad with Tahini
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: Fast, customizable bowls and pitas with fresh veggies and sauces.
Who should go: Lunch crowds needing speed and options
When to visit: 11:30am–1pm before peak lines form
What to order: Falafel bowl, chicken shawarma pita, freekeh salad
Insider tip: Grab an outside table along 2nd Street—quieter than inside at lunch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in SoMa is limited and metered; paid garages are within a few blocks on 2nd and Harrison.
Dress code: Casual; office wear and everyday attire are both common.
Noise level: Moderate during lunch rush, otherwise low—easy for conversation outside.
Weekend wait: Minimal wait; evenings are generally quieter with plenty of seating.
Weekday lunch: 5–15 minutes during peak hours around noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – falafel, salads, and customizable veggie bowls are available.
Vegan options: Yes – multiple options with falafel, grains, and plant-based toppings.
Gluten-free options: Yes – bowls and salads can be built without pita or wraps.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it’s counter-service and casual, better for a quick meet-up than a date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—no reservations are taken; seating is first come, first served with quick turnover.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids; menu flexibility works well, but space is limited and not designed for strollers or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and more customizable healthy bowls than full-service Mediterranean restaurants in SoMa.
Skip if: You want a sit-down, polished dining experience with table service or alcohol options.
SAJJ Mediterranean (SoMa)
7.7
Counter-service spot known for customizable bowls, wraps, and salads built around shawarma, falafel, and vibrant salads. Efficient lines and consistent portions make it a reliable South Beach lunch staple near the ballpark.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken shawarma wrap, Falafel bowl with toppings, Complimentary lentil soup
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Build-your-own Middle Eastern bowls and wraps with fast throughput.
Who should go: Office lunchers and ballpark pre-game diners
When to visit: Weekdays 11–12 or after 1:30
What to order: Shawarma wrap, falafel bowl, lentil soup
Insider tip: Skip the line by ordering ahead on the app.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited metered street parking; nearby garages around Oracle Park fill quickly during events.
Dress code: Casual—office attire or jeans are common, no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate during peak lunch hours; quieter in mid-afternoon.
Weekend wait: Typically no wait—dinner service is lighter here.
Weekday lunch: 5–15 minutes at peak; usually immediate seating if you order ahead online.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—falafel, veggie mezze, and build-your-own options.
Vegan options: Yes—plant-based proteins, grains, and toppings are available.
Gluten-free options: Yes—bowls and salads avoid gluten; pita and wraps are the main items to skip.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it’s counter-service and geared toward speed. Better for casual meals than romantic occasions.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—no reservations needed. Seating is first-come, first-served and turns over quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who like wraps and bowls; no dedicated kids’ menu, but customizable plates work well for simple eaters.
Best For
Better for: Quick, customizable Middle Eastern meals with healthy lean proteins and fresh salads.
Skip if: You’re looking for a full-service dinner, cocktails, or a polished dining experience—opt for sit-down spots like Taksim instead.