Seemor
Tony Baloney's MarketC+Mixed Bag
1098 Howard St, San Francisco, CA 94103
· Convenience store, Beer store, Breakfast restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (283 reviews)
Now primarily a corner market with liquor; the once-loved deli appears closed since 2023–2024, so come for convenience items, not made-to-order sandwiches.
Why it gets a C+ for overall quality
Tony Baloney's Market earns a grade C+ as a neighborhood convenience stop with genuine warmth but limited food appeal in its current form. Food consistency challenges stem from the deli closure—earlier reviews celebrated made-to-order sandwiches, but recent visitors find a market layout instead, creating expectation misalignment. Friendly, welcoming owner presence and strong local loyalty provide character, but the shift from food destination to grab-and-go retail prevents a higher grade.
Restaurant Summary
The vibe is no-frills and local, a compact SoMa corner market where regulars pop in for essentials and a quick hello. Earlier reviews glow about the back-room deli and warm exchanges with the owners: "A spontaneous stop became a highlight thanks to a kind couple and tasty sandwiches." In recent years, multiple customers report the deli is now closed, so expect retail shelves and a liquor selection rather than made-to-order food. Cooking here leans classic deli comfort when it operated: Italian combos, pesto chicken, tuna and egg salad on your choice of bread. The culinary approach is straightforward and nostalgia-driven (innovation level 3.6): hearty, familiar flavors without modernist twists. Today, come for grab-and-go convenience; if you are chasing legendary sandwiches, note the operational shift and manage expectations. For families, the current format is a market, not a sit-down spot. In the deli era, kids could find simple sandwiches like tuna or egg salad; now it is more about snacks and drinks. If you need a quick fix nearby, this works; if you want a hot kid-friendly meal, plan another stop.
At a Glance
- Friendly owner presence and welcoming neighborhood feel
- Budget-friendly historically for sandwiches and now for market items
- Deli appears closed since 2023–2024; no made-to-order sandwiches
- Occasional smoky interior and cramped space
- Online details may be outdated (phone, deli status)
What Sets It Apart
- friendly_owner_presence
- neighborhood_convenience
- historical_deli_reputation
What People Love
- Neighborly service from the owner couple
- Historically delicious Italian and pesto chicken sandwiches
- Speedy in-and-out convenience
- Reliable selection of drinks and essentials
Points of Concern
- Deli reportedly discontinued; several 2023–2025 reviews confirm no sandwiches
- Information mismatch frustrates visitors expecting a deli
- Small, sometimes smoky interior affects comfort
- Limited seating; former tables removed post-pandemic
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$18-25 historically when deli operated; current offering unknown per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Based on current reviews, focus on packaged snacks and beverages; verify any hot food availability on arrival.
Perfect For
- Quick convenience stop in SoMa
- Picking up beer, wine, and snacks
- Locals who value friendly owner-run shops
- Budget-minded grab-and-go needs
Location Insights
Area: Urban SoMa block with mixed warehouses, startups, and nightlife; utilitarian daytime foot traffic.
Safety: Mixed perceptions; some reviews note rough feel and smoke inside at times; typical downtown vigilance advised.
Nearby: Near offices, residential lofts, and nightlife; convenient for quick purchases and grab-and-go.
Mid-MarketMid-Market is a bustling part of SoMa characterized by a mix of office buildings, entertainment venues, and a growing number of restaurants and bars. The dining scene is diverse, catering to both casual and upscale tastes, with a focus on contemporary and innovative cuisine. The area is lively, with a mix of daytime business crowds and nighttime social activity.
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Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday07:00–02:00
Tuesday07:00–02:00
Wednesday07:00–02:00
Thursday07:00–02:00
Friday07:00–02:00
Saturday07:00–02:00
Sunday07:00–00:00
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