Blame it on the Lunchables we used to beg our moms for at the grocery store, but every once in a while we throw our kale salad to the wayside and crave a meat-and-cheese-only meal. For those carbs-be-damned days, we head to these local hot spots. 

(Photo courtesy of Spruce)

Spruce

Nestled in the quiet Presidio Heights neighborhood, Spruce's cheese and charcuterie selection is unparalleled. Chefs John Madriaga and Robert Vallejos take inspiration from traditional, rustic French and Italian fare mixed with a decidedly California aesthetic. Plus, all the means are cured in-house. Come for the duck prosciutto and stay for the corned beef tongue. Your stomach and taste buds will be happy you did. // 3640 Sacramento (Presidio Heights), sprucesf.com

(Photo courtesy of Fat Angel)

Fat Angel

Cozy up to the bar at this unassuming neighborhood spot and order one of their to-die-for cheese and charcuterie plates and a glass of premier wine (preferably on tap) to wash it all down. For $28, you can snack on a variety of cheeses such as Caña de Oveja (soft sheep), Vella Dry Jack (hard cow), and Tres Leches (soft cow/sheep/goat), or, if you’re looking for something a little heartier, the charcuterie selection boasts a range of meats from traditional salami to country pâté. // 1740 O'Farrell (Western Addition), fatangelsf.com

(Photo courtesy of Mission Cheese)

Mission Cheese

With a name like Mission Cheese, you better be able to deliver. Mission Cheese celebrates American-made cheeses and their producers, and prides itself on a wide selection of regional cheese flights that change daily. If you’re a cheese savant, opt for the Monger’s Choice flight served with a Craftsmen & Wolves baguette and dried fruit. For a board of the meat variety, Mission Cheese offers housemade charcuterie including silky smooth duck liver mousse with red wine gelee or three styles of salumi topped off with their house pickles. // 736 Valencia (Mission), missioncheese.net

(Photo courtesy of Amelie)

Amelie

This modern wine lounge offers French flair without any pretentious attitude. Whether you’re looking for a romantic rendezvous, a place to unwind for happy hour, or a lively hangout, Amelie offers a modern and delicious getaway for any day of the week. For $15, you can choose three cheeses from their extensive and dynamic list. Popular choices include Camembert, Manchego, and trio of goat cheeses. Double up the goods with a selection of artisanal cold cuts for $16; options includes Italian prosciutto, Toscana salami, Sopressata Rosette, and Lyon coppa. // 1754 Polk (Nob Hill), ameliewinebar.com

(Photo courtesy of Colin Price)

Trou Normand

Trou Normand focuses on whole-animal butchery and house-made charcuterie, so it’s no surprise that on any given day, the SoMa eatery serves over 40 types of salumi and charcuterie with seasonal sides, pasta, and chophouse style cuts of meat for dinner. While you’re there, indulge in Executive Chef Salvatore Cracco's more unique charcuterie offerings, such as the rabbit pâté with sweetbreads, prosciutto, and thyme or squid ink salami with garlic, lemon and marjoram. If you’re not feeling adventurous, try the combination board of charcuterie with a selection of cheeses from Brunet, an Italian goat cheese to Tomme Brulee, a raw Sheep’s milk from France.  // 140 New Montgomery (SoMa), trounormandsf.com