Around Town:

When Indian restaurant Udupi Palace (1007 Valencia at 21st St.) opened a few weeks ago in the Mission space formerly occupied by upscale Chinese spot Firecracker, many foodies wondered: How did San Francisco's only two South Indian joints end up a block away from each other? Just down the street at 995 Valencia sits local favorite Dosa, but Udupi Palace owner Uday Shetty isn't worried about the competition. "They have a little different menu than us, they have meat items," he says. "We are totally vegetarian. The dosas are a favorite, though, especially our Paper Masala Dosa [$6.95]. It's a three-foot-long rice crepe filled with spicy potatoes and onions. For customers new to us, I would suggest trying the Udupi Special Spring Dosa [$6.95]. It's spicy with fresh-cut vegetables. It's got everything." Udupi Palace is open Tuesdays through Sundays for lunch and dinner. 970-8008.

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