dessert
10 Exceptional Italian Restaurants in San Francisco
Last updated on February 9th, 2024 at 08:59 pm
Calling all pizza, pasta, and wine lovers – this one’s for you!
Believe it or not – San Francisco is home to a vast amount of deliciously authentic Italian restaurants that leave locals and tourists coming back for more. I’ve rounded up a list of the 10 Most Exceptional Italian Restaurants in San Francisco that will have you saying Andiamo to your favorite foodie in crime.
The best part? Remembering that calories don’t count when you’re on vacation.
Norcina- “Aperol flights & Aesthetics”
Norcina is easily the newest and most aesthetically pleasing restaurant on this list. Having only opened in late 2021, the menu focuses mostly on fresh pizza and pasta in the lively Marina District. The food is incredible and the decor is equally as stunning. Everything is eye-catching from the tiled pizza oven, to the neon sign exclaiming mangia tutti, to the hand painted bathroom art displaying yellow lemons from Italy. Your senses will not be disappointed after a visit to Norcina.
Website: https://www.norcina.com/
Address: 3251 Pierce St, San Francisco, CA 94123
What to order: Aperol Spritz flight, Black Pepper Bucatini, and The Porky Peppersoni w/ Calabrian Chili
Che Fico Alimentari – “For when you can’t get into the proper Che Fico upstairs”
A more casual but equally as delicious sister restaurant to its upstairs neighbor, Che Fico Alimentari is well known for being an Italian grocer, restaurant, and wine bar all in one. The menu contains seasonal dishes, the food is always fresh, and they serve some of the best Tiramisu I’ve ever had in my entire life.
Website: https://www.cheficoalimentari.com/
Address: 834 Divisadero St, San Francisco, CA 94117
What to order: A bottle of Nebbiolo Langhe, Pappardelle Al Ragu, and Tiramisu
Original Joe’s – “A classic North Beach establishment serving the best-tasting espresso martinis“
One of the oldest restaurants on this list, Original Joe’s is a San Francisco staple for Italian cuisine. Having been around since 1937, you can sense the history as soon as you walk in. Greeted by red tufted booths and checkered floors, Original Joe’s is a great meeting place for a large and diverse crowd. Make sure to save room for dessert because you’re not allowed to leave without trying their infamous Nutella filled Bombolini (warm Italian doughnuts) that come served with a choice of ice cream or Affogato.
Of course, I chose the ice cream.
Website: https://originaljoes.com/
Address: 601 Union St, San Francisco, CA 94133
What to order: An Espresso Martini, Spicy Rigatoni, and the Bombolini with Affogato or Gelato
The Tailor’s Son- “Simple and traditional authentic cuisine from Northern Italy“
(Main cover photo is from The Tailor’s Son)
Any restaurant that takes a gamble by having an official opening during covid deserves a visit in my book. In my opinion, The Tailor’s Son has done an impeccable job with a menu that consists of homemade pasta, classic Italian cocktails, and a Milanese risotto that’s cooked to perfection. Additionally, the location could not be better with a central spot right in the middle of Fillmore street. Make sure to reserve in advance as this is still one of the hottest restaurants in town!
Website: https://www.thetailorssonsf.com/
Address: 2049 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115
What to order: A Paganini Spritz, Agnolotti Del Plin, and the Funghi Risotto
Baia – “Plant-based Italian never tasted so good”
I’ll be honest, when I first heard about Baia, I was skeptical to try a 100% plant-based Italian restaurant. However, that skepticism immediately faded as soon as I stepped into the place and saw the dazzling chandelier hanging in the middle of the bar, surrounded by copious amounts of people happily eating. Not only did the decor completely blow me away, but their Spicy Rigatoni was jam-packed with so much flavor, I wouldn’t have believed that what I was eating was completely plant-based if I hadn’t chosen the restaurant myself. Vegan or not vegan – do yourself a favor and book a reservation for this delicious restaurant in Hayes Valley.
Website: https://www.baiasf.com/
Address: 300 Grove St, San Francisco, CA 94102
What to order: The Hayes Valley Negroni, Garlic Knots to start, and the Spicy Rigatoni or Mafaldine Pasta
Amarena – “A romantic Russian Hill favorite”
A quiet and intimate restaurant tucked away on the corner of Green and Larkin, Amarena is the perfect place for date night in the cozy Russian Hill neighborhood. They are family owned and mainly specialize in Northern Italian cuisine. You’re guaranteed to have a wonderful night out with fantastic service from Amarena.
Website: https://www.amarenarestaurant.com/
Address: 2162 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA 94109
What to order: Burrata to start, and the Paccheri dell”Alpino pasta
Seven Hills – “100% worth the climb of Russian Hill”
Located right around the corner from Amarena, Seven Hills is known for Italian fine dining. With adorable lighting and a newly built outdoor parklet, Seven Hills is a lively and elegant restaurant perfect for special occasions. In my opinion, they would be a strong front-runner for a Michelin star.
Website: https://www.sevenhillssf.com/
Address: 1896 Hyde St, San Francisco, CA 94109
What to order: House Made Focaccia, Wagyu Carpaccio, and Shrimp Squid Ink Pasta
Sorella – “The sassy sweet sister restaurant to Michelin-starred Aquarello”
New to Polk Street, but no stranger to restaurant openings – Sorella, the sister restaurant of Michelin-starred Acquarello, has undoubtedly made this list for its elevated take on Italian dining. Here you can find seating in both the bar and dining room with different menus being served in each. Along with elevated dishes, Sorella has a fantastic selection of Italian wines and cocktails featuring traditional Amaretto and Amari, curated with the help of Mahattan Zodiac.
Website: https://sorellasf.com/
Address: 1760 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109
What to order: Not your Nonna’s Spritz, Grilled Octopus, and the Dry Aged Beef Timballo
Delarosa – “The essential Friday night dinner spot in the young and vibrant Marina District”
Popular among San Francisco locals, Delarosa is a trendy Italian spot with great ambiance and even better food. With both indoor and outdoor seating, Delarosa is a great choice for dinner with friends or date night with your significant other. They have a wide selection of Italian wines and pizzas to choose from.
Website: https://www.delarosasf.com/
Address: 2175 Chestnut Street
San Francisco, CA 94123
What to order: Burrata to start, and the Hot Salami & Coppa pizza
Fiorella – “The restaurant with notable Bay Area rappers on the wall”
If you’ve heard about Fiorella prior to this, it might be because you stumbled upon Instagram photos of their infamous wallpaper featuring Bay Area legends such as E-40, Mac Dre, and Too short. Along with the unique decor and upbeat atmosphere, Fiorella also serves extraordinary “pies” aka pizza. Originally born in the Richmond district, Fiorella has since expanded to two other neighborhoods across San Francisco. If you want a great Instagram photo, fun night out, and delicious Italian food – make a reservation for Fiorella today via Opentable!
Website: http://www.fiorella-sf.com/
Address: Locations in Richmond District (original), Russian Hill, and Sunset District
What to order: Arancini, Funghi Pie, and Salsiccia Pie
Have you tried any of these restaurants on the list? Let me know in the comments below!
Looking for other travel inspiration or recommendations? Check out my other travel guides here!
Last updated on February 9th, 2024 at 08:59 pm
Calling all pizza, pasta, and wine lovers – this one’s for you!
Believe it or not – San Francisco is home to a vast amount of deliciously authentic Italian restaurants that leave locals and tourists coming back for more. I’ve rounded up a list of the 10 Most Exceptional Italian Restaurants in San Francisco that will have you saying Andiamo to your favorite foodie in crime.
The best part? Remembering that calories don’t count when you’re on vacation.
Norcina- “Aperol flights & Aesthetics”
Norcina is easily the newest and most aesthetically pleasing restaurant on this list. Having only opened in late 2021, the menu focuses mostly on fresh pizza and pasta in the lively Marina District. The food is incredible and the decor is equally as stunning. Everything is eye-catching from the tiled pizza oven, to the neon sign exclaiming mangia tutti, to the hand painted bathroom art displaying yellow lemons from Italy. Your senses will not be disappointed after a visit to Norcina.
Website: https://www.norcina.com/
Address: 3251 Pierce St, San Francisco, CA 94123
What to order: Aperol Spritz flight, Black Pepper Bucatini, and The Porky Peppersoni w/ Calabrian Chili
Che Fico Alimentari – “For when you can’t get into the proper Che Fico upstairs”
A more casual but equally as delicious sister restaurant to its upstairs neighbor, Che Fico Alimentari is well known for being an Italian grocer, restaurant, and wine bar all in one. The menu contains seasonal dishes, the food is always fresh, and they serve some of the best Tiramisu I’ve ever had in my entire life.
Website: https://www.cheficoalimentari.com/
Address: 834 Divisadero St, San Francisco, CA 94117
What to order: A bottle of Nebbiolo Langhe, Pappardelle Al Ragu, and Tiramisu
Original Joe’s – “A classic North Beach establishment serving the best-tasting espresso martinis“
One of the oldest restaurants on this list, Original Joe’s is a San Francisco staple for Italian cuisine. Having been around since 1937, you can sense the history as soon as you walk in. Greeted by red tufted booths and checkered floors, Original Joe’s is a great meeting place for a large and diverse crowd. Make sure to save room for dessert because you’re not allowed to leave without trying their infamous Nutella filled Bombolini (warm Italian doughnuts) that come served with a choice of ice cream or Affogato.
Of course, I chose the ice cream.
Website: https://originaljoes.com/
Address: 601 Union St, San Francisco, CA 94133
What to order: An Espresso Martini, Spicy Rigatoni, and the Bombolini with Affogato or Gelato
The Tailor’s Son- “Simple and traditional authentic cuisine from Northern Italy“
(Main cover photo is from The Tailor’s Son)
Any restaurant that takes a gamble by having an official opening during covid deserves a visit in my book. In my opinion, The Tailor’s Son has done an impeccable job with a menu that consists of homemade pasta, classic Italian cocktails, and a Milanese risotto that’s cooked to perfection. Additionally, the location could not be better with a central spot right in the middle of Fillmore street. Make sure to reserve in advance as this is still one of the hottest restaurants in town!
Website: https://www.thetailorssonsf.com/
Address: 2049 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115
What to order: A Paganini Spritz, Agnolotti Del Plin, and the Funghi Risotto
Baia – “Plant-based Italian never tasted so good”
I’ll be honest, when I first heard about Baia, I was skeptical to try a 100% plant-based Italian restaurant. However, that skepticism immediately faded as soon as I stepped into the place and saw the dazzling chandelier hanging in the middle of the bar, surrounded by copious amounts of people happily eating. Not only did the decor completely blow me away, but their Spicy Rigatoni was jam-packed with so much flavor, I wouldn’t have believed that what I was eating was completely plant-based if I hadn’t chosen the restaurant myself. Vegan or not vegan – do yourself a favor and book a reservation for this delicious restaurant in Hayes Valley.
Website: https://www.baiasf.com/
Address: 300 Grove St, San Francisco, CA 94102
What to order: The Hayes Valley Negroni, Garlic Knots to start, and the Spicy Rigatoni or Mafaldine Pasta
Amarena – “A romantic Russian Hill favorite”
A quiet and intimate restaurant tucked away on the corner of Green and Larkin, Amarena is the perfect place for date night in the cozy Russian Hill neighborhood. They are family owned and mainly specialize in Northern Italian cuisine. You’re guaranteed to have a wonderful night out with fantastic service from Amarena.
Website: https://www.amarenarestaurant.com/
Address: 2162 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA 94109
What to order: Burrata to start, and the Paccheri dell”Alpino pasta
Seven Hills – “100% worth the climb of Russian Hill”
Located right around the corner from Amarena, Seven Hills is known for Italian fine dining. With adorable lighting and a newly built outdoor parklet, Seven Hills is a lively and elegant restaurant perfect for special occasions. In my opinion, they would be a strong front-runner for a Michelin star.
Website: https://www.sevenhillssf.com/
Address: 1896 Hyde St, San Francisco, CA 94109
What to order: House Made Focaccia, Wagyu Carpaccio, and Shrimp Squid Ink Pasta
Sorella – “The sassy sweet sister restaurant to Michelin-starred Aquarello”
New to Polk Street, but no stranger to restaurant openings – Sorella, the sister restaurant of Michelin-starred Acquarello, has undoubtedly made this list for its elevated take on Italian dining. Here you can find seating in both the bar and dining room with different menus being served in each. Along with elevated dishes, Sorella has a fantastic selection of Italian wines and cocktails featuring traditional Amaretto and Amari, curated with the help of Mahattan Zodiac.
Website: https://sorellasf.com/
Address: 1760 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109
What to order: Not your Nonna’s Spritz, Grilled Octopus, and the Dry Aged Beef Timballo
Delarosa – “The essential Friday night dinner spot in the young and vibrant Marina District”
Popular among San Francisco locals, Delarosa is a trendy Italian spot with great ambiance and even better food. With both indoor and outdoor seating, Delarosa is a great choice for dinner with friends or date night with your significant other. They have a wide selection of Italian wines and pizzas to choose from.
Website: https://www.delarosasf.com/
Address: 2175 Chestnut Street
San Francisco, CA 94123
What to order: Burrata to start, and the Hot Salami & Coppa pizza
Fiorella – “The restaurant with notable Bay Area rappers on the wall”
If you’ve heard about Fiorella prior to this, it might be because you stumbled upon Instagram photos of their infamous wallpaper featuring Bay Area legends such as E-40, Mac Dre, and Too short. Along with the unique decor and upbeat atmosphere, Fiorella also serves extraordinary “pies” aka pizza. Originally born in the Richmond district, Fiorella has since expanded to two other neighborhoods across San Francisco. If you want a great Instagram photo, fun night out, and delicious Italian food – make a reservation for Fiorella today via Opentable!
Website: http://www.fiorella-sf.com/
Address: Locations in Richmond District (original), Russian Hill, and Sunset District
What to order: Arancini, Funghi Pie, and Salsiccia Pie
Have you tried any of these restaurants on the list? Let me know in the comments below!
Looking for other travel inspiration or recommendations? Check out my other travel guides here!
I just came from living in a small city called Lucca in Tuscany. While I was there I traveled to over 50 cities in Italy and absolutely love their cuisine. I will for sure be trying out some of these places on your list and get back to you about my top choices!
Oh wow omg! It’s going to be very hard to compete with the food in Tuscany but some of these places definitely do Italy some justice. Especially with Northern Italian cuisine in particular – I think The Tailor’s Son serves really authentic Milanese risotto and Amarena was the closest to traditional Italian food in my opinion.
Oh wow omg! It’s going to be very hard to compete with the food in Tuscany but some of these places definitely do Italy some justice. Especially with Northern Italian cuisine in particular – I think The Tailor’s Son serves really authentic Milanese risotto and Amarena was the closest to traditional Italian food in my opinion.