Life is tough enough without being from New Jersey. Just ask Tony Soprano how he feels about his home state being referred to as the armpit of America.

On a mission to redeem the Garden State, Jersey transplant Christian Noto and Sarah Ellison Pinkin decided to revitalize Sixth Street in SoMa while they were at it.

Working with Urban Solutions, a nonprofit dedicated to building better neighborhoods, they found a place to grow Jersey Tomatoes, their catering company. Slow cooking, seasonal ingredients purchased directly from small farms, and a hands-on approach make for tasty dinner parties, company lunches, and family reunions.

If you’re in the hood, stop by Split Pea Seduction, their take-out joint in front. Wash down an egg and crescenza crostata with a hot cuppa Mr. Espresso for breakfast, grab a sweet gem and grilled skirt steak Caesar for lunch, or a black bottom cupcake for a snack.

The menu changes daily, and everything is house-made, from the preserves to the charcuterie.

Which is a beautiful thing. No matter where you’re from.

Jersey Tomatoes (415-606-6689 or jtomatoes.com). Split Pea Seduction, 138 Sixth Street, at Minna Street (415-551-2223 or splitpeaseduction.com).