San Francisco's Best Falafel [Updated 2025]

Over the years, I’ve tasted and reviewed twelve different falafel spots across the city, each with its own unique flair and flavor profile.

From traditional recipes to innovative twists, I have immersed myself in the rich tapestry of this beloved Middle Eastern dish.

Join me on this delicious journey as I share my top picks, highlighting what makes each falafel truly exceptional.

Whether you’re a lifelong aficionado or just discovering this culinary treasure, I promise you will find something to satisfy your cravings in the vibrant streets of San Francisco.

TRULY Mediterranean

Highlights
Authentic Middle Eastern flavors
Tasty lamb shawarma
Excellent customer service
Complimentary falafel appetizer
Memorable dining experience

TRULY Mediterranean is a delightful gem nestled in the vibrant streets of San Francisco, where the enticing aroma of authentic Middle Eastern cuisine beckons you inside. As soon as I stepped in, I was greeted with excellent customer service that instantly made me feel like part of the family. The ambiance is warm and inviting, perfect for enjoying a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable.

Starting my culinary adventure here, I was treated to a complimentary falafel appetizer that left me craving more. These golden-brown balls of joy burst with flavor, offering that crunchy exterior and soft, seasoned interior we all desire. The real showstopper, however, was their tasty lamb shawarma, paired perfectly with the falafel for a true taste of the Mediterranean.

Every bite not only satisfied my hunger but also transported me to a lively market in Jerusalem. This was an afternoon well spent, indulging in mouthwatering dishes that reflect both passion and authenticity. If you're on a quest for the best falafel in San Francisco, I highly recommend you take a flavorful detour to TRULY Mediterranean—you're in for a delectable treat!

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Mezze and Mooore

Highlights
Cozy interior with friendly service
Best baba ghanoush in the country
Fun Mediterranean breads to try
Delicious chicken shawarma plate

Mezze and Mooore Review

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, Mezze and Mooore is like a warm invitation to indulge in delightful Mediterranean fare. From the moment I stepped inside, the cozy interior wrapped around me like a favorite blanket, while the friendly service instantly made me feel at home.

Now let’s get to the star of the show: the falafel. Each morsel was a perfect balance of crispy, golden-brown exterior and fluffy, herb-infused goodness inside. It’s no surprise this little gem also boasts the best baba ghanoush in the country. I found myself happily dunking pita into this velvety delight, savoring each smoky bite.

But let’s not overlook the playful variety of Mediterranean breads offered, which perfectly complemented the falafel. It transformed my meal into an adventurous tasting experience.

To cap it off, I couldn’t resist sampling the chicken shawarma plate. Each bite was a revelation, showcasing their ability to craft bold flavors beyond just falafel. Overall, Mezze and Mooore is a masterpiece of Mediterranean cuisine, making me eager to return and explore even more of their menu. If you’re a falafel aficionado, this spot is a must-visit!

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Habibi Falafel

Highlights
Fresh and flavorful falafel
Exceptional customer service
Affordable menu options
Unique build-your-own style
Ideal for catering events

Review of Habibi Falafel

When it comes to falafel in San Francisco, Habibi Falafel is an absolute gem! From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by the exceptional customer service that sets this place apart. The staff is not just friendly but genuinely passionate about their food, which shows in every bite.

Let’s talk about the falafel itself: freshly made and bursting with flavor! Each ball is perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining delightfully moist within. They offer a fun build-your-own style so you can customize your meal to your heart's content! I piled on all the toppings—crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, and a drizzle of their creamy tahini sauce, which melded beautifully with the herby falafel.

The menu boasts affordable options, making it an ideal stop whether you’re after a quick lunch or catering for a larger event. It’s nearly impossible to walk out without a smile—or at least a satisfied stomach!

In a city where falafels can be hit or miss, Habibi Falafel truly hits the mark. If you’re hunting for delicious, fresh fare, this spot should definitely be on your radar!

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Oren's Hummus

Highlights
Exceptional in every way
Delicious authentic Israeli meal
Outstanding service experience
Best hummus and pita
Amazing coffee selection

Review of Oren's Hummus in San Francisco

Stepping into Oren's Hummus is like being enveloped in a comforting embrace of warm spices and bright, inviting decor. From the moment I arrived, it was clear that this place prides itself on delivering an exceptional dining experience. I was eager to dive into their falafel, which, I must say, did not disappoint.

Their falafel comes with the added delight of delicious authentic Israeli flavors that dance on the palate. Crunchy on the outside yet perfectly tender inside, these golden bites balance beautifully with their signature hummus, which is possibly the best I've tasted in the Bay Area. The accompanying pita was soft and fresh, perfect for scooping up more of that heavenly dip.

But what truly sets Oren's apart is their outstanding service. The staff is attentive yet unobtrusive, making you feel like you're among friends rather than customers. And I couldn’t resist trying their amazing coffee selection – a delightful finish to an already fantastic meal.

Oren's Hummus is more than just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of flavor and warmth that should not be missed if you’re on the hunt for the best falafel in San Francisco!

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Oasis Grill

Highlights
Quick service
Amazing taste
Generous portions
Compassionate owner
Consistent quality

Oasis Grill delighted me from the moment I stepped through the door. First off, the quick service set the tone for my visit; I barely had time to digest the menu before my taste buds were tickled with the aroma wafting from the kitchen. When my order arrived, I was astounded by the generous portions. This place doesn’t believe in skimping; you better come hungry!

But let’s get to the heart of the matter: the falafel. Oh, the falafel! Each ball was a perfect golden brown exterior that crackled delightfully with every bite, revealing a moist and flavorful interior. The spices were thoughtfully balanced, making every mouthful a party of flavors. It’s clear that the owner, a kind-hearted soul, pours a lot of love into this place — a refreshing touch that truly enhances the experience.

I was also impressed with the consistent quality across my visits. Oasis Grill has set a standard that’s hard to beat. In a city bursting with culinary options, I’d confidently recommend this gem to anyone on the hunt for delicious, authentic falafel. If you’re in San Francisco, do yourself a favor and make a stop here!

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Faíruz Eatery

At Faíruz Eatery, I was greeted by the warm aroma of spices that immediately transported me to the bustling streets of the Middle East. Their falafel, a work of art, is crispy on the outside yet fluffy within, perfectly seasoned with hints of cumin and parsley. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor, especially when paired with their zesty tahini sauce. The vibrant ambiance complements the delicious offerings, making it a perfect spot for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner. In the hunt for the best falafel, Faíruz is undeniably a must-try!

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Abu Salim Middle Eastern Grill

Abu Salim Middle Eastern Grill is a delightful gem tucked away in the vibrant streets of San Francisco. I was immediately drawn to the warm, inviting atmosphere, which perfectly complements its legendary falafels. These crispy chickpea balls are expertly seasoned and fried to a golden perfection, delivering a satisfyingly crunchy bite followed by a burst of flavor. The accompanying tahini sauce is smooth and rich, elevating each bite even further. Friendly staff and generous portions make this spot a must-visit for any falafel lover. If you're in the area, don't miss out on this delicious experience!

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Hummus Bodega

As I stepped into Hummus Bodega, the aroma of spices danced around me, promising a delightful culinary adventure. Their falafel? Simply extraordinary! Each bite burst with a harmony of flavors, perfectly seasoned and crispy on the outside while tender within. The accompanying tahini sauce was a velvety, tangy counterpart that elevated the entire experience. Tucked away in this charming eatery, the vibe was as inviting as the food—ideal for falafel aficionados and newbies alike. If you find yourself wandering the streets of San Francisco, don’t miss out on Hummus Bodega’s falafel; it’s a flavor-packed gem!

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Freekeh

At Freekeh, the falafel is nothing short of a culinary masterpiece! With a perfectly crisp exterior that gives way to a fluffy, herbaceous interior, each bite bursts with flavor. The blend of spices is exquisite, offering a delightful zing that dances on your palate. Their vibrant toppings and tahini drizzle elevate the experience to new heights.

The cozy atmosphere adds a touch of warmth, making it a great spot to indulge. Whether you're a falafel aficionado or a curious newcomer, Freekeh will undoubtedly steal your heart—and your taste buds! It’s a must-try for anyone exploring the San Francisco food scene.

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Yemeni kabab & Mediterranean

At Yemeni Kabab & Mediterranean, I discovered a delightful gem nestled in the bustling streets of San Francisco. Their falafel is a marvel of flavor, crispy on the outside yet remarkably fluffy within. The blend of spices sings harmoniously, and every bite transports you to a Mediterranean dream. I especially appreciated the fresh herbs that elevated the dish, making it a standout. Paired with their tangy tahini sauce, it was an unforgettable experience. If you're on the hunt for your next falafel fix, this spot should definitely be on your list—it’s a taste sensation not to be missed!

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Falafel City

Falafel City captivated my taste buds with its crispy, golden-brown falafel that delivers a delightful crunch. Nestled in a cozy corner, the ambiance is casual yet inviting, perfect for a quick bite. Their tahini sauce deserves a special mention; it adds a creamy richness that complements the flavorful patties beautifully. I savored every bite, with the fresh veggies adding a nice crunch. While the portions are generous, it’s the warm service that truly makes this spot shine. If you’re on a quest for mouthwatering falafel in the city, look no further. Falafel City is an absolute gem!

Old Jerusalem Restaurant

At Old Jerusalem Restaurant, I discovered a delightful haven for falafel lovers. The golden-brown balls packed a punch of flavor, with a crispy exterior that gave way to a herbaceous, fluffy interior. Each bite was an explosion of spices, complemented by a refreshing tahini sauce that tied everything together beautifully. The vibrant atmosphere added to the experience, with friendly staff who were eager to share their favorites. For anyone searching for the ultimate falafel, look no further—Old Jerusalem serves a dish that’s not just a meal, but a culinary celebration you won't want to miss!