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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to San Francisco

Italian food

You are looking for authentic Italian cooking that respects tradition without needing a reason to celebrate.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Golden Boy Pizza image 1
Golden Boy Pizza image 2
Golden Boy Pizza image 3
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Pizza restaurant

Walk-up spot serves pillowy focaccia crust pizzas with pesto veggie toppings and clam garlic flavors. No seating means quick takeout only. Casual vibe with worn decals matches fast, flavorful Italian bites.

Focaccia crust serves as the base for piping hot slices topped with pesto veggie and cheese options. Clam and garlic with pesto sauce and olives add hearty, flavorful choices.

People are saying

"This pizza is awesome and tastes great."

"The Italian food here is so affordable, you can feed two people for under $20."

"Parking was a breeze here."

Good to know

1

Golden Boy Pizza is takeout only with no dine-in option.

2

They do not accept Apple Pay; bring a card or cash.

3

A basic cheese slice costs $3.50, a good deal for a quick bite.

02
Sforno Pizzeria Napoletana image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian spot with wood-fired pizza oven offers a cozy vibe and bright decor. Known for Mortadella pizza with fresh toppings and Buffalo mozzarella delights. Perfect for lovers of authentic Neapolitan flavors and intimate dining.

Mortadella pizza stands out with Fior di Latte Mozzarella, Arugula, and Shaved Parmesan. Buffalo mozzarella pizza also features prominently on the menu.

People are saying

"The desserts here are amazing, especially the chocolate hazelnut cake."

"I thought their mortadella pizza was the best I ever had."

"You have to try their mortadella pizza; it's amazing Italian food."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited with only three 2-person tables available.

2

Pizzas cost around $18-25 each, serving one person.

3

The ingredients used are of high quality, including quality flour in the dough.

03
Big Finish Wine Tavern image 1

Restaurant offers Michelin-level food with a cozy, Star Trek theme setting. Italian dishes shine with pork chop and seasonal risotto standing out. Guests enjoy wine and cider on tap in a warm, inviting space with Tiffany lamps and exposed brick.

Pork chop and risotto stand out as some of the best versions around. Pasta is a solid choice that never disappoints. Seasonal risotto dishes bring fresh and delicious flavors.

People are saying

"I thought the wine selection was incredible and well-paired."

"It's a cozy space with a warm, friendly atmosphere."

"The Italian food here is amazing, especially the risotto."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $7 wines and bar snacks for a quick bite.

2

A mandatory 20% service fee is added to all checks.

3

The wine list features 46 options, organized by intensity.

04
Brucato l Restaurant and Distillery image 1

Space blends retro modern design with cozy skylit rooms for a stylish yet relaxed vibe. Homemade warm bread with cacio e pepe butter shines alongside roasted red pepper ravioli in a unique sauce. Exceptional cocktails complement thoughtful Italian dishes in a minimal environment.

Homemade warm bread with cacio e pepe butter stands out. Pasta dishes include roasted red pepper ravioli served in a corn soup-style sauce with two oils that enhance the flavors.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are great and there are exciting options on the drinks menu."

"The Italian food here is amazing, especially the gnocchi."

"You have to try the lamb meatballs; they're not gamey at all."

Good to know

1

Private dining rooms are available for special occasions like birthdays.

2

Tours of the distillery include tastings and are informative.

3

Expect a unique dining experience with a focus on craft spirits.

05
16th Street Diner image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Cozy diner offers a warm, welcoming vibe with halal breakfast and standout chicken and waffles. Italian dishes shine with rich sauces and a large, tender chicken parmigiana. Music plays softly, adding to the relaxed mood.

Pasta dishes come with rich, flavorful sauces and are cooked perfectly. The chicken parmigiana features a large tender cutlet and homemade sauce, served with enough pasta for leftovers.

People are saying

"The diner food here is comforting and delicious, not greasy."

"The breakfast service here is amazing and the staff is super friendly."

"I thought the chicken parmigiana was better than fancy restaurants."

Good to know

1

They serve only halal meat.

2

The diner has an excellent central location.

3

The kitchen is small, so expect longer wait times during busy hours.

06
Bella Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy cafe offers fresh prosciutto and Pinsa Romana sandwiches in a quiet alley with indoor and courtyard seating. Warm atmosphere blends authentic Italian music and comfy decor, creating a relaxed European vibe perfect for calm conversation.

Fresh sliced prosciutto and Italian deli meats come with panini options. The fluffy focaccia and Pinsa Romana sandwiches fill without feeling heavy.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has amazing food with fresh ingredients."

"The cafe staff here are really friendly and attentive."

"I discovered this charming cafe's authentic Italian food."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable for the quality and portion sizes you receive.

2

Bella Cafe is perfect for a lunch or coffee break.

3

The dessert case is a showstopper with pastries that look European.

07
Corona Heights Market and Deli image 1

Bright deli offers homemade Mediterranean dishes like hummus and tabouleh alongside fresh Italian lasagna and meatballs. Large, affordable sandwiches, including pastrami, satisfy hearty appetites. Family-run vibe and UPS pickup add convenience and warmth.

Lasagna stands out with consistent praise alongside pasta and meatballs made fresh daily. Sandwiches, especially the pastrami, and spaghetti also feature prominently at the deli counter.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwich was huge and delicious."

"It's a great local family-owned spot with the friendliest staff."

"I loved their homemade pasta and meatballs."

Good to know

1

The market offers a wide selection of groceries and deli items.

2

Sandwiches are priced affordably and can feed two people.

3

They have a great assortment of gluten-free snacks and sandwiches.

08
Barberio Osteria image 1

Elevated Italian dining shines with fresh pasta and a wood-burning grill that adds lively energy. Cozy seating with cushions creates an intimate vibe despite rising noise. Enjoy phenomenal truffle agnolotti paired with a great Italian wine selection.

Fresh, perfectly cooked pasta stands out with authentic Italian flavors. The agnolotti features fresh pasta and a phenomenal truffle filling, paired with a great selection of Italian wine.

People are saying

"The house-made pasta here is fantastic and perfectly cooked."

"I had the best fish Iโ€™ve ever had; it melted in my mouth."

"I was impressed by the amazing wine list."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

The menu changes regularly to highlight seasonal ingredients.

3

Barberio Osteria serves only wine, beer, and spritz; no cocktails available.

09
FRATELLI PIZZA image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza spot shines with combo and pesto chicken pizzas that pack flavor. Huge TVs and video games create a lively atmosphere. Friendly vibe and affordable prices make it a great place to sit and enjoy quick service.

Combo and pesto chicken pizzas stand out with strong flavors. The pesto and tomato pizza tastes good but lacks a bit of punch.

People are saying

"I found this to be the best pizza I'd ever had."

"I loved their pizza; it had a perfect balance of ingredients."

"The Italian food's pizza is perfectly flavorful and crispy."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait for a large pizza during peak hours.

2

Single slices are quicker to get than whole pizzas.

3

The restaurant has plenty of seating available for diners.

10
Pasta Supply Co image 1
Italian restaurant

Industrial space with high ceilings and a long wooden shelf sets a casual vibe. Fresh pasta, especially ravioli, shines alongside appetizers like crushed tomatoes with mozzarella. Warm atmosphere suits casual dining or picking up homemade Italian sauces and pasta.

Fresh pasta stands out with unique and flavorful varieties, especially ravioli. Appetizers like crushed tomatoes with mozzarella and grilled zucchini complement the garlic bread with Parmesan cheese well.

People are saying

"I loved the unique and flavorful pasta they served."

"You have to try the amazing garlic bread with Parmesan."

"The Italian food here is delicious; I loved the pasta."

Good to know

1

Lunch service ends at 4 pm, and dinner service starts again at 5 pm.

2

Parking in the area is notoriously awful.

3

They offer both dine-in and grocery shopping options for fresh pastas and sauces.

11
Apres Vous image 1
Takeout Restaurant

Offers a quiet atmosphere perfect for casual meals. Features authentic Italian flavors like lasagna and stuffed mushrooms. Prices are reasonable with high-quality sandwiches and hot dishes.

Lasagna stands out with both meat and vegetarian options. Imported pasta and stuffed mushrooms add authentic Italian flavors.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the lasagna, was delicious."

"The pulled pork sandwich at this Lunch Spot is so tasty."

"The desserts here were a party hit and absolutely scrumptious."

Good to know

1

Lunch for two is under $20 with a satisfying variety of options.

2

The prices are reasonable, making it a great value.

3

There is a wide variety of entrees, sandwiches, and desserts available.

12
Via Aurelia image 1
Restaurant

Space blends Florence-inspired decor with modern San Francisco style, creating a warm, stylish vibe. Pasta shines with perfectly cooked tortellini topped by a parmesan crisp. Mixologists craft specialty cocktails that pair well with dishes, enhancing the refined dining experience.

Pasta comes cooked to perfection with the tortellini topped by a parmesan crisp standing out. The meal finishes with a simple, sweet Affogato that complements the Italian dishes well.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, was cooked to perfection."

"The wine here is delicious and memorable."

"The service here is warm, attentive, and impeccable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are limited to 5:15 pm or 9 pm, so book early.

2

Valet parking costs $40, and there are no nearby parking options.

3

Starters are priced over $25, and steaks start at $175.

13
The Hungry Spot image 1
Sandwich shop

Small sandwich shop offers huge portions of Italian classics like lasagna and fettuccini Alfredo. Cozy interior with funny signs creates a relaxed vibe. Limited seating suits quick lunches or casual work with friendly atmosphere.

Huge portions like the lazy pizza and gnocchi stand out. Meatballs and cheesy pesto garlic bread taste like homemade, while lasagna, wings, and fettuccini Alfredo with chicken fill you up.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwich was the best I had in the neighborhood."

"The Italian food portions here are huge, you'll have leftovers!"

"These garlic Parmesan chicken wings are perfectly crispy and tender."

Good to know

1

Prices range from $14 for soup to over $20 for pasta dishes.

2

The portions are large enough for big eaters to consume easily.

3

They accommodate customers with allergies, including seafood and peanuts.

14
Mango Medley (Judah) image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Small, cozy spot with only four tables offers a quiet, friendly vibe. Asian fusion menu shines with large portions and high-quality ingredients. Italian dishes like oxtail spaghetti blend flavors uniquely, while late hours until midnight add to its charm.

Menu includes baked rice and spaghetti with a Hong Kong twist. Dishes like oxtail spaghetti and chicken Tom kha soup mix Italian with other flavors.

People are saying

"The desserts here taste so fresh and homemade, like mom's cooking."

"It's a warm, cozy spot with a great atmosphere."

"I thought all the Italian food dishes I tried were delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu is available late on Thursdays.

2

The restaurant is open until midnight every day.

3

Expect a wait time during busy hours, especially on weekends.

15
Curry Hyuga - San Francisco image 1

Cozy seating and upbeat anime music create a lively vibe. Enjoy authentic Japanese curry with generous portions and fair prices. Italian dishes shine with shiso mentaiko cream pasta and miso soup on the side, blending comfort and unique flavors.

Spaghetti dishes come with miso soup on the side. Fish pasta features a shiso mentaiko cream that stands out. Creamy mentaiko pasta also appears often and is well-liked.

People are saying

"The katsu curry here is crispy and delicious."

"They offered six levels of chili, from mild to habanero."

"You have to try their creamy mentaiko pasta; it's amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges a 4% SF Healthy Mandate fee on all orders.

2

Different spice level seasonings are available at the tables to customize spice levels.

3

The portion size and pricing are reasonable for San Francisco.

16
Lucca Delicatessen image 1

Small space packed with imported Italian goods and fresh meats creates a lively, old-school deli vibe. Classic sandwiches like Muffaletta and Caprese with pesto offer rich, authentic flavors. Limited seating means quick, tasty takeout is the way to go.

Shelves hold imported cheeses, pastas, and raviolis alongside premade salads. Sandwiches feature classic Italian meats like prosciutto, Genoa salami, and mortadella with fresh mozzarella and ripe tomatoes. The Muffaletta and Caprese with pesto stand out for their rich, authentic flavors.

People are saying

"These sandwiches are delicious and huge, with fresh ingredients."

"It's an authentic Italian deli with incredible flavor and a lively vibe."

"The Italian sandwiches here are the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The line can take about 45 minutes on weekends.

2

It's best to order ahead to avoid long wait times.

3

Parking can be difficult in the area.

17
Bar Jabroni image 1
Restaurant

Intimate yet loud atmosphere fills with music, making voices rise. Italian dishes shine with focaccia bread and bold pastas like corn custard fettuccine. Warm lighting and excellent wine create a cozy, stylish vibe.

Focaccia bread with ricotta stands out and disappears quickly. Pastas like the corn custard fettuccine with chili crisp deliver bold flavors. Dishes include beef tartare, chicken, black cod, and desserts such as cheesecake and cobbler.

People are saying

"I loved the thoughtful and curated wine selection here."

"The Italian food here is delicious; every dish we ate was unreal."

"It's a cozy spot with soft lighting that makes the space feel inviting."

Good to know

1

Thereโ€™s only one restroom, which can lead to a wait when the restaurant is packed.

2

Bar Jabroni is a no-reservations spot, making it great for last-minute decisions.

3

Expect to spend about $70 per person, including wine.

18
Union Square Pizza & Kitchen image 1

Small space with retro style and cozy vibe offers a peaceful break from downtown noise. Pizzas with pesto base and classic Margherita shine alongside rich fettuccine Alfredo. Soft Italian music enhances the relaxed mood.

Pizzas feature a pesto base and a classic Margherita style with tangy tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil. Pasta options include fettuccine Alfredo and chicken Alfredo, both rich and well-prepared.

People are saying

"This pizza is fire, seriously incredible."

"The pizza here has a perfect crust and flavorful toppings."

"It's got such a cozy, welcoming vibe."

Good to know

1

The pizza costs around $30 for a medium size with a drink.

2

A small cheese slice of pizza costs $9.

3

Expect a few minutes wait for ready slices to heat up.

19
Guerraโ€™s Italian Market image 1

Butcher shop offers high-quality meat and house-made sauces with an old San Francisco vibe. Specialty Italian items like cheeses and wines complement the menu. Sandwiches and prepared foods deliver exceptional flavor and quality.

All pastas, risottos, and sauces come house-made. The selection includes well marbled meats, frozen bolognese sauce, and a variety of Italian goods like cheeses, wine, and crab cakes.

People are saying

"I found the Italian sandwiches here to be delicious and amazing."

"The fish here is so fresh, it's beautiful."

"The Italian food here has such fresh meats and cheeses."

Good to know

1

Guerraโ€™s Italian Market offers a wide selection of high-quality meats and specialty Italian grocery items.

2

Their sandwiches are affordable compared to other options in San Francisco.

3

Expect to find house-made frozen lasagnas and crab cakes among their specialties.

20
Galinette image 1
French restaurant

Light, airy space with an open kitchen and large communal table invites social dining. Creamy pasta dishes offer a smooth texture and pair well with Bordeaux wine. Bright lighting and colorful decor create a relaxed, authentic vibe like a French bistro.

Spaghetti shows up with mixed reviews, sometimes great and other times just okay. Creamy pasta dishes come with a smooth texture and pair well with a glass of Bordeaux.

People are saying

"The French onion soup here is rich and savory."

"The dinner spots here serve delicious, traditional comfort food."

"The mussels in white wine sauce were awesome."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend brunch.

2

Expect wait times of 30-60 minutes during peak hours.

3

The restaurant offers a special brunch menu on Saturdays and Sundays.

21
Holbrook House image 1
Restaurant

Former bank turned upscale bar offers a central bar with lively energy perfect for after-work drinks. Italian menu shines with seafood pasta and creative dishes like crab linguine. Interactive martini and champagne carts add fun to casual lunches.

Seafood pasta and vodka pasta stand out with rich flavors. The menu also features steak frites, deviled eggs with caviar, and crab linguine, offering a mix of classic and creative Italian dishes.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are amazing and complex."

"You have to try the champagne cart, it's so fun!"

"The Italian food here is elevated by the genuinely welcoming service."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is popular, but expect large crowds and potential wait times.

2

Reservations are recommended for larger parties, especially during peak hours.

3

The venue is part of a Privately Owned Public Open Space, offering free wifi.

22
Piccino Presidio image 1
Italian restaurant

Wood walls and natural light create a warm atmosphere with intimate booths for privacy. Pastas like lasagna arrive perfectly paced, paired with fluffy focaccia and corn pizza. Conversations echo loudly, adding to the lively dining experience.

Pastas come out perfectly paced and include lasagna noted for its quality. The menu features fluffy focaccia, corn pizza, and a well-made margarita alongside excellent pasta and pizza options.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's food is delicious, fresh, and perfectly cooked."

"The outdoor seating can get quite chilly, even with heaters."

"The pasta and pizza here are excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and validated for a discount.

2

The lunch menu is more limited than the dinner menu.

3

Expect a $20 surcharge on every order.

23
The Post Room image 1
Restaurant

Cozy spot inside a vintage hotel with 1920s architecture and a mezzanine lounge. Enjoy homemade pasta and rich mushroom risotto with truffle and Parmesan. Live piano and singer create an elegant vibe while sipping exceptional cocktails.

Homemade pasta and mushroom risotto stand out with rich flavors. The risotto blends truffle and Parmesan well, while crab ravioli offers a unique al dente texture.

People are saying

"The drinks at this bar were the best I ever had."

"You can catch live music, from jazz to contemporary tunes, on Saturday nights."

"The mushroom risotto is an absolute flavor bomb."

Good to know

1

Live music performances occur every Saturday night, featuring local musicians.

2

Fridays and Saturdays feature live piano performances.

3

Expect an extra $8.50 service charge added to your bill.

24
Flour + Water Pizza Shop image 1
Pizza restaurant

Open kitchen shows pizza preparation in a lively, casual spot with gluten-free options. Burrata pizza offers a creamy texture, while Conrad pizza blends mushrooms, kale, and taleggio cheese for rich flavor. Outdoor patio provides a clean, doubled table area.

Burrata pizza stands out with its creamy texture. The Conrad pizza combines mushrooms, kale, and taleggio cheese for a rich flavor. Cacio e pepe dip adds a sharp, peppery touch.

People are saying

"The pizza here has a light, structured crust with thoughtful toppings."

"The takeout pizza here is fantastic, especially the gluten-free crust."

"The Italian food here, especially the Margherita pizza, is the best I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The restaurant uses a self-service, seat-yourself, QR code ordering system.

2

A $23 pie easily feeds two people.

3

The restaurant offers gluten-free options in a casual setting.

25
Steps of Rome Trattoria image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant shines with authentic Neapolitan pizza and homemade pasta flown from Italy. Rustic interior and lively patio create a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for romantic or casual meals. Rich lasagna and tender gnocchi add to the flavorful menu.

Homemade pasta and mozzarella flown in from Italy highlight the menu. The lasagna features a rich bechamel sauce with a hint of nutmeg, while the gnocchi offers a tender texture and flavorful zing. Marinara sauce with zucchini stays perfectly savory without sweetness.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pasta and pizza, was delicious."

"I had the best pizza I've ever tasted, just like in Italy."

"The outdoor seating here lets you enjoy the most flavorful, authentic Italian dishes."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available, but specific times are not mentioned.

2

A 20% gratuity is automatically added for groups of six or more.

3

Prices on the menu do not include tax, so expect additional charges.

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