San Francisco is only a cable car trip from Italy, yet its Italian food scene is so real that you’ll think you’ve wandered into a hidden Tuscan lane. From Nonna-approved trattorias to pizzerias as scorching as the North Beach sun, this city will satisfy your Italian needs.
But where do you begin with so many options? Do not worry, fellow pasta lover! I am here to be your personal Dante, taking you through San Francisco’s Italian food scene’s gastronomic inferno. We will find hidden gems, revisit old favorites, and maybe even quarrel about who makes the finest tiramisu (I challenge you to fight me).
So, grab a fork, loosen your belt, and prepare for a delectable voyage. This blog is your guide to the top Italian restaurants in San Francisco, along with local advice, historical details, and descriptions that will make your taste buds sing opera.
Are you ready to start on this epicurean journey? Let us get ready to feast!
A16
2355 Chestnut St, San Francisco, CA 94123
Forget your passport, friends. At A16, a hop, skip, and jump from San Francisco’s iconic Chestnut Street, you will be whisked away to the sun-drenched shores of Southern Italy. This is not your average pizza joint, though. A16 is an experience, a love letter to the vibrant flavors and rustic charm of Campania, Puglia, and beyond.
Star Ratings:
- Michelin: Bib Gourmand (Highly Recommended)
- Bon Appétit: Best New Restaurants in America
- Eater SF: Best Pizza in San Francisco
Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 5:00pm – 9pm
- Friday, Saturday: 12 Noon – 9:30 pm
- Sunday: 12 Noon – 9:00pm
Specialties:
- Open kitchen where you can watch the skilled pizzaiolos toss dough and chefs create culinary magic.
- Warm and inviting atmosphere with exposed brick walls, communal tables, and a touch of Italian “sprezzatura” – that effortless cool.
- Lively bar scene perfect for pre-dinner drinks or a post-meal digestif.
Prices:
- $$ (Moderate)
- Pizzas: $24 – $36
- Pastas: $22 – $32
- Secondi: $38 – $52
Parking:
- Valet parking available for dinner only.
- Street parking limited, but public transportation easily accessible with nearby BART and Muni stations.
Flour + Water
2401 Harrison St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Flour + Water is a beloved San Francisco institution, bringing a taste of rustic Italian charm to the heart of the Mission District. It is more than just a pizza joint; it is an experience, a celebration of seasonal ingredients and handcrafted pasta that’s both simple and sublime.
Star Ratings:
- Michelin: Bib Gourmand (Highly Recommended)
- Bon Appétit: Top 50 Restaurants in America
- Thrillist: Best Pasta in San Francisco
Hours:
- Seven days a week: 5:00pm – 9:30pm
Specialties:
- Open kitchen where you can watch the magic happen: pizzaiolos tossing dough and chefs crafting pasta with passion.
- Lively and intimate atmosphere with communal tables and a rustic-chic vibe.
- Pasta making classes offered for those who want to learn the art.
Prices:
- $$ (Moderate)
- Pizzas: $22 – $32
- Pastas: $20 – $30
- Secondi: $35 – $45
Parking:
- Street parking available, but limited.
- Public transportation easily accessible with nearby BART and Muni stations.
Perbacco
230 California St, San Francisco, CA 94111
Perbacco is a culinary destination for those seeking an elevated Italian dining experience. Expect exquisite dishes, impeccable service, and a sophisticated ambiance that will leave a lasting impression.
Star Ratings:
- Michelin: Plate (Highly Recommended)
- OpenTable: 4.5 stars (842 reviews)
- Tripadvisor: #62 of 2,849 restaurants in San Francisco
Hours:
- Monday – Friday: Lunch 11:30am – 2:30pm, Dinner 4:30pm – 10:30pm
- Saturday: Dinner 5:00pm – 11:00pm
- Sunday: Closed
Specialties:
- Fine dining experience with impeccable service and sophisticated ambiance.
- Open kitchen showcasing the culinary artistry.
- Romantic and intimate setting ideal for special occasions.
Prices:
- $$$ (Moderate to Expensive)
- Antipasti: $18 – $38
- Main Courses: $38 – $68
- Desserts: $14 – $18
Parking:
- Valet parking offered at night only.
- Public transportation easily accessible with nearby BART and Muni stations.
Trattoria Contadina
1800 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94133
Escape the city’s bustle and step into Trattoria Contadina, where the warmth of Tuscan hospitality envelops you like a hug. Forget your Chianti-bottle expectations – this is not your typical Italian trattoria. Here, the focus is on rustic charm, seasonal ingredients, and dishes that sing of Tuscan farmhouses and sun-drenched fields.
Star Ratings:
- Michelin: Bib Gourmand (Highly Recommended)
- San Francisco Magazine: Best New Restaurants
- Eater SF: Best Pasta in San Francisco
Hours:
- Wednesday – Sunday: 5pm – 9:00pm
- Monday, Tuesday – closed.
Specialties:
- Open kitchen with a wood-fired grill, where you can see the chefs work their magic.
- Rustic, farmhouse-inspired atmosphere with exposed brick walls, communal tables, and warm lighting.
- Lively bar scene perfect for pre-dinner aperitivo or a post-meal digestivo.
Prices:
- $$ (Moderate)
- Antipasti: $16 – $28
- Primi: $22 – $34
- Secondi: $36 – $48
Parking:
- Street parking limited, but public transportation easily accessible with nearby BART and Muni stations.
Capo’s
641 Vallejo St., San Francisco, CA 94133
Forget your thin-crust preconceptions, Capo’s is not your average pizza joint. This San Francisco gem is a love letter to Chicago’s iconic deep-dish, bringing its buttery, flaky crust, and generous toppings to the Bay Area with a flourish. But Capo’s is not a one-trick pony. They also offer the best of both worlds with their cracker-thin pizzas, Detroit-style pies, and an array of pastas and Italian classics.
Star Ratings:
- Thrillist: Best Deep Dish Pizza in San Francisco
- SF Weekly: Best Pizza in San Francisco
- Yelp: 4.5 stars (520 reviews)
Hours:
- Wednesday – Sunday: 4:30 PM – 11:00 PM (Friday & Saturday open until midnight)
- Closed Monday & Tuesday
Specialties:
- Deep-dish expertise: Capo’s knows their deep-dish! They offer custom build-your-own options and signature combinations like “The Capo” with sausage, pepperoni, and giardiniera.
- Open kitchen: Watch the pizzaiolos work their dough-tossing magic and witness your deep-dish masterpiece come to life.
- Lively atmosphere: Bustling and energetic, Capo’s is perfect for a casual dinner with friends or a fun family outing.
- Dog-friendly patio: Bring your furry friend to enjoy the San Francisco sunshine and a slice (or two).
Prices:
- $$ (Moderate)
- Deep-Dish: $28 – $52
- Crackers: $18 – $30
- Detroit-Style: $26 – $40
- Pastas: $16 – $24
- Antipasti: $12 – $20
Parking:
- Street parking available, but limited.
- Public transportation easily accessible with nearby BART and Muni stations.
Original Joe’s
601 Union St, San Francisco, CA 94133
Original Joe’s is a San Francisco institution, a beloved neighborhood spot that has been serving up classic Italian-American fare since 1937. Nestled in the heart of North Beach, the city’s Italian district, Original Joe’s exudes an old-school charm that transports you back to a bygone era of red-checkered tablecloths, lively chatter, and hearty meals.
Star Ratings:
- TripAdvisor: #74 of 5,165 restaurants in San Francisco
- Yelp: 4 stars (1,154 reviews)
- Zagat: San Francisco Must-Try Restaurant
Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday, Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Specialties:
- Unpretentious and welcoming atmosphere: Original Joe’s feels like you’re dining at home, with its warm lighting, friendly staff, and lively chatter.
- Rich history and San Francisco charm: The restaurant’s walls are adorned with memorabilia and photos, whispering tales of its storied past.
- Weekend brunch: Indulge in delicious dishes like crab omelets, ricotta pancakes, and meatloaf Benedict.
Prices:
- $$ (Moderate)
- Appetizers: $14 – $24
- Pastas: $22 – $36
- Main Courses: $32 – $52
Parking:
- Limited street parking available.
- Public transportation easily accessible with nearby Muni and BART stations.
Seven Hills
1896 Hyde St, San Francisco, CA 94109
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco’s charming Russian Hill neighborhood, Seven Hills is a purveyor of fine Italian dining, offering a sophisticated menu that showcases the elegance of Italian flavors. Step inside, and the sleek, modern ambiance sets the tone for a culinary journey through the heart of Italy.
Star Ratings:
- Michelin: Plate (Highly Recommended)
- San Francisco Chronicle: Top 100 Restaurants
- Eater SF: Best Italian Restaurants in San Francisco
Hours:
- Sunday – Saturday: 5-9pm
Specialties:
- Open kitchen with a wood-fired grill, where you can witness the culinary artistry unfold.
- Warm and inviting atmosphere with exposed brick walls, communal tables, and a touch of Italian “sprezzatura” – that effortless cool.
- Lively bar scene perfect for pre-dinner drinks or a post-meal digestif.
Prices:
- $$$ (Moderate to Expensive)
- Appetizers: $18 – $38
- Pastas: $26 – $42
- Main Courses: $38 – $68
Parking:
- Valet parking available for dinner only.
- Public transportation easily accessible with nearby BART and Muni stations.
Cotogna
490 Pacific Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133
In the heart of San Francisco’s vibrant Mission District, Cotogna transports you to the sun-drenched countryside of Tuscany, where rustic charm meets culinary finesse. This Michelin-recognized gem is a love letter to regional Italian cuisine, showcasing the bounty of seasonal ingredients and the time-honored traditions of Tuscan cooking.
Star Ratings:
- Michelin: Bib Gourmand (Highly Recommended)
- San Francisco Chronicle: Top 100 Restaurants
- Eater SF: Best Italian Restaurants in San Francisco
Hours:
- Tuesday – Friday: Lunch 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM, Dinner 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: Dinner 5:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Sunday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Specialties:
- Open kitchen with a wood-fired grill, where you can see the chefs work their magic.
- Rustic, farmhouse-inspired atmosphere with exposed brick walls, communal tables, and warm lighting.
- Lively bar scene perfect for pre-dinner aperitivo or a post-meal digestivo.
Prices:
- $$ (Moderate)
- Antipasti: $16 – $28
- Primi: $22 – $34
- Secondi: $36 – $48
- Pizzas: $24 – $32
Parking:
- Street parking limited, but public transportation easily accessible with nearby BART and Muni stations.
Conclusion
Exploring San Francisco’s rich Italian culinary scene is a voyage full of wonderful surprises and unique flavors. The city provides a broad and fulfilling assortment of eating experiences, from artisan pasta perfection at Flour + Water to the rich culinary legacy of Southern Italy at A16. San Francisco’s Italian restaurants promise a gastronomic excursion that will leave your taste buds singing, whether you relish the blistered pizzas, marvel in the simplicity of perfectly al dente noodles, or indulge in regional specialties. So, take a culinary tour of these places and let the flavors of Italy captivate your tongue in the heart of San Francisco. Good luck on your journey in San Francisco!
Viswanath Alikonda (Viswa) is a techie, passionate traveler, writer, and adventurer who believes that life is best experienced through the exploration of new places and cultures. With a deep love for adventure and a curiosity that knows no bounds, Viswa has embarked on journeys to various corners of the globe, from the New York to Bay Area.
His travel experiences have not only broadened his horizons but have also given him the opportunity to share stories, insights, and travel tips with a global audience. Viswa’s travel blogs aim to inspire fellow wanderers, offering a glimpse into the beauty of our world and providing practical advice for planning unforgettable adventures.