Mission Cheese
Sitting pretty at the prime intersection of 18th and Valencia, this beautiful space (see our tour of it here!), is all about the stinky stuff, and serves up "cheese flights" that are meant to be paired with a roster of delectable wines. If you're in the mood for something more meal-worthy, there's also a quartet of hot-pressed sandwiches involving a bunch of fancy-sounding quesos (San Joaquin Gold, Marieke Gouda, Grand Cru gruyere, Vella and Cabot cheddars, etc.) that are combined with creative ingredients like fig preserves, arugula spread, apple 'n ale chutney, and slices of prosciutto and salami.
Mission Cheese, 736 Valencia Street (between 18th and 19th streets); 415-553-8667.

Photo: Courtesy of Rich Kaszeta