Parallel

What is Parallel? Founded by the Ozery brothers along the industrial strip of Geary Avenue, Parallel operates as both a working sesame mill and a vibrant Middle Eastern dining room. The soaring two-level space features raw concrete, an open-concept mezzanine, and a centerpiece basalt stone mill pressing raw Ethiopian sesame seeds right before your eyes. Seating extends from communal wooden tables and counter perches indoors to a covered, heated patio facing the street.

Parallel Menu & What to Order House-milled tahini anchors the entire menu, elevating everything from dips to dressings and desserts. Order the Sabich Hummus topped with fried eggplant, slow-cooked egg, and spicy schug, or the signature Parallel Salad tossed with kale, roasted sweet potato, lentils, and vibrant beet tahini. Follow with spiced lamb arais or chicken shawarma spooned over warm hummus, scooping up every bite with their pillowy fresh-baked pitas.

Know Before You Go Weekend brunch draws serious neighborhood crowds with long walk-in waits, so book ahead online or visit for an easier weeknight dinner. Street parking on Geary Avenue fills up quickly near the surrounding microbreweries and bakeries; taking the Dufferin bus to Dupont is your easiest transit play. Before leaving, hit the retail counter by the door to grab jars of fresh tahini and blocks of artisanal halva.