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Sunrise Deli
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Sunrise Deli
7.6
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Hidden Gems Heaven
Long-running counter-service spot known for falafel, shawarma, and fresh-baked breads at friendly prices. Ideal for quick sandwiches and combo plates before or after a Golden Gate Park visit.
Must-Try Dishes:
Falafel Sandwich, Chicken Shawarma Plate, Sesame Bread
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Sunset District staple since 1984 for classic Middle Eastern fare.
Who should go: Falafel and shawarma loyalists on a budget
When to visit: Mid-afternoon to avoid lunch rush
What to order: Falafel sandwich, chicken shawarma plate, hummus
Insider tip: Grab warm sesame bread at the register—batches sell out.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking on Irving or 24th Avenue; usually manageable outside of peak lunch hours but can fill quickly on weekends.
Dress code: Completely casual—hoodies, park wear, and workout clothes are all fine.
Noise level: Low to moderate; mostly takeout traffic and quick turnover, so conversations are easy at the small dine-in tables.
Weekend wait: Typically no wait—steady but quick-moving takeout line until 8pm.
Weekday lunch: Busy from 12–1pm, expect a 5–10 minute line.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—many classics like falafel, hummus, and grape leaves are fully vegetarian.
Vegan options: Yes—falafel, lentil soup, and several sides qualify as vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free options: Limited—most plates can be ordered without pita, but bread items are not gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it’s more of a counter-service setup with limited seating, better for a quick casual bite than a social occasion.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t taken. You’ll almost always find a seat or can take food to-go within minutes.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple plates, mild flavors, and quick service make it easy for families, though space for strollers is tight.
Best For
Better for: Quick falafel or shawarma on a budget with consistent flavor and no fuss.
Skip if: You’re looking for a sit-down Mediterranean experience with ambiance or table service—try LaLe instead.
Sunrise Deli
7.6
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Hidden Gems Heaven
Since 1984, this counter-service Middle Eastern deli has turned out falafel, shawarma, and fresh-baked breads at friendly prices. Best for quick sandwiches, combo plates, and takeout before a park stroll.
Must-Try Dishes:
Super falafel sandwich, Chicken shawarma plate, Vegetarian combo plate
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Long-running falafel and shawarma counter with in-house baking.
Who should go: Budget-minded pita and wrap fans
When to visit: Mid-afternoon to skip lunch rush
What to order: Falafel sandwich, shawarma plate, vegetarian combo
Insider tip: Grab a bag of fresh sesame bread at the register.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on Irving and 24th Ave; generally easy before noon, tighter midday and weekends.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are; typical park-goers and locals in hoodies and jeans.
Noise level: Low to moderate—mostly takeout traffic, but easy to hold a short conversation if dining in.
Weekend wait: Minimal wait; counter orders move quickly even during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes during the lunch rush, often no wait mid-afternoon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—half the menu is vegetarian, including falafel, hummus, and baba ghanoush plates.
Vegan options: Yes—several options like falafel wrap and veggie combo are fully vegan.
Gluten-free options: Limited—salad plates and rice-based sides work, but most breads contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—more of a casual lunch counter than a sit-down experience, though great for a quick bite before a park stroll.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's walk-in only with a few counter seats and limited indoor tables; most guests take food to go.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy Mediterranean food; no dedicated kids’ menu, but plenty of shareable, mild items.
Best For
Better for: Faster service, fresher bread, and lower prices than nearby Mediterranean cafés.
Skip if: You’re looking for a sit-down dinner or alcohol service—this is a quick-service deli.