Sweet Jo's - Flavorful Comfort Food in Laurel Heights
June 22, 2010 Tucked inside the bustling Jewish Community Center in Laurel Heights, Sweet Jo's cafe is a neighborhood gem. Chef Joanna Karlinsky (of Meetinghouse fame) has done an excellent job in creating flavor-packed comfort food. For the busy moms out there, this is a very kid-friendly place.
First off, I'm amazed at the signature Sweet Jo's Vegan Chili. Don't let the word 'vegan' fool you. Made with quinoa, bulgur and tofu, it's so darn flavorful that I didn't even miss the meat. It also has a nice kick to it. I don't eat a lot of chili as it's too heavy for me, but this one is so healthy that I don't mind eating it on a regular basis.
I heard the pizzas were quite tasty and now I know why. Joanna uses a sourdough crust to bring more oomph to these New York-style pies. We tried the 'Make Your Own' vegetarian pesto pizza and the house flatbread with caramelized onions, rosemary, camabozola cheese and roasted garlic puree. As a testament to their bold flavors, I saw plenty of folks around us inhaling these pizzas.
For ice cream lovers, don't miss the house-made Lucky Dawg Ice Cream. We liked the Lemon Curd, Ethiopian Yirgacheffe Coffee, Caramel and Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie flavors. They might also sell takeaway pints in the near future so call them to find out. Straus Creamery organic frozen yogurt is also available as a healthier alternative.
I've saved the best for last. For those who miss Joanna's famous buttery Meetinghouse biscuits, you can get them at the cafe or order them online at meetinghousebiscuitssf.com. They're available in a box of 24 handmade biscuits for $35.
Photo Credit: John Benson
Reader Comments (2)
Ooooooh, everything looks sooo yummy! I must get over there and try everything!
Tami: They really are delightful. Do try them out ;)
The biscuits are the stuff of dreams, aren't they? I, too, was shocked at how much I loved the chili. I wish I lived closer, as I'd eat there all the time.
Tami: They're also made with tons of butter - time for me to hit the gym! Just kidding.