Blue Plate

This Mission staple feels like eating at your friend's house, if your friend happened to be an excellent cook who used to skate. Run by actual skaters, Blue Plate serves the kind of comfort food that makes you understand why people never leave the neighborhood.

Why I Love It

The owners put their skating background into everything they do here - unpretentious, genuine, focused on craft. You'll see locals at every table, which tells you everything. The space feels lived-in without being tired. This is comfort food that doesn't try to reinvent itself, just executes perfectly.

What to Order

• The meatloaf - exactly what you want it to be, no cute twists • Mac and cheese that actually tastes like someone's grandmother made it • Whatever daily special they're running - the kitchen knows what they're doing

Good To Know

• Reservations recommended through OpenTable, especially for dinner • Cash and card accepted • Gets busy with neighborhood regulars during weekend brunch • The kind of place where you'll want to become a regular yourself