San Francisco is a food lover’s paradise, and when it comes to authentic Italian cuisine, the city doesn’t disappoint.
From cozy family-run trattorias to upscale modern eateries, the best Italian restaurants in San Francisco serve up everything from handmade pasta to wood-fired pizzas that’ll make you feel like you’re dining in Naples.
Ready to dive into a carb-loaded adventure? Whether you’re craving creamy risotto, flaky focaccia, or a plate of perfectly al dente spaghetti, this list has got you covered.
We’ve rounded up the top Italian spots in SF—hidden gems, iconic staples, and everything in between. Trust us, your taste buds are in for a treat.
1. Flour + Water – Where Pasta Dreams Come True
If you’re hunting for the best Italian food in San Francisco, Flour + Water should be at the top of your list.
Nestled in the Mission District, this spot is famous for its house-made pasta that’s so fresh, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for boxed noodles. Their menu changes daily, but if you spot the tajarin with butter and sage, order it immediately.
The vibe? Rustic-chic with an open kitchen that lets you watch the magic happen.
Vegetarians, don’t worry—they’ve got killer options like roasted squash ravioli that even meat lovers fight over. And if you’re dining with a group, the family-style tasting menu is a must.
Pro tip: Reservations fill up fast, so book ahead unless you wanna risk serious FOMO.
2. Cotogna – Rustic Italian with a Michelin Twist
Cotogna brings quintessential Italian flavors to Jackson Square, blending simplicity with elegance. The brainchild of chef Michael Tusk, this place nails wood-fired pizzas and slow-roasted meats without pretension.
Their agnolotti dal plin (tiny stuffed pasta) is legendary, and the roasted chicken? Juicy, crispy, and downright addictive.
The space feels like a cozy countryside villa, complete with a fireplace and an open hearth. Whether you’re here for a date night or a solo carb fest, Cotogna delivers.
And yeah, their seasonal vegetable dishes are so good, they might just convert the staunchest carnivores.
3. SPQR – A Modern Take on Italian Classics
For those who love innovative Italian cuisine, SPQR in Pacific Heights is a game-changer. Chef Matthew Accarrino plays with bold flavors, offering dishes like squid ink chitarra and duck egg raviolo that push boundaries while staying true to Italian roots.
The intimate setting makes it perfect for a special occasion, but honestly, their happy hour deals are reason enough to swing by.
Don’t skip the lambrusco-braised short ribs—they’re fall-off-the-bone tender. And if you’re vegan? The charred brassicas with almond pesto will blow your mind.
4. Trattoria Contadina – A Taste of Old-School SF
Family-owned since 1984, Trattoria Contadina is where you go for hearty, no-frills Italian food in North Beach.
This place oozes charm, from the checkered tablecloths to the Nonna-approved recipes. Their lasagna Bolognese is a crowd favorite—layers of pasta, meat, and cheese baked to perfection.
The eggplant parmigiana is another star, crispy on the outside, melt-in-your-mouth tender inside.
And the best part? Generous portions that won’t break the bank. If you want authentic Italian in San Francisco with a side of nostalgia, this is it.
5. A16 – Southern Italian Vibes in Marina
Named after a highway in Campania, A16 celebrates Southern Italian cuisine with wood-fired pizzas and bold flavors. Their Margherita pizza is textbook perfection—charred crust, tangy tomato sauce, and creamy mozzarella.
But the real showstopper? The braised octopus with chickpeas—tender, smoky, and packed with umami.
They also have an impressive selection of vegetable-forward antipasti, like roasted cauliflower with capers and raisins. Whether you’re a pizza purist or an adventurous eater, A16 nails it every time.
6. Delfina – The Neighborhood Italian Staple
Delfina in the Mission District is a San Francisco Italian restaurant that’s stood the test of time. Their spaghetti pomodoro is simple yet mind-blowing—just tomatoes, basil, and perfectly cooked pasta.
The grilled calamari is another must-try, tender with a hint of smokiness.
The vibe is casual but chic, making it great for both date nights and family dinners. And if you’re vegan, their roasted mushroom dish is a flavor bomb. Delfina proves that sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most memorable.
7. Seven Hills – Handmade Pasta Heaven
Tucked away in Nob Hill, Seven Hills is a tiny gem serving Roman-inspired Italian dishes. Their cacio e pepe is creamy, peppery, and downright addictive. The ricotta gnocchi? Light as a cloud and smothered in a rich ragu.
The intimate space means reservations are key, but it’s worth the effort. If you’re looking for authentic Italian pasta in SF, Seven Hills should be on your radar.
8. Perbacco – Upscale Italian in FiDi
Perbacco in the Financial District is where you go for elegant Italian dining. Their tajarin with white truffles (when in season) is worth every penny. The beef cheek ravioli is another standout—rich, savory, and unforgettable.
The sleek, modern setting makes it ideal for business dinners or romantic evenings. And their seasonal vegetable dishes are anything but an afterthought.
9. La Ciccia – Sardinian Specialties in Noe Valley
For something different, La Ciccia focuses on Sardinian cuisine. Their fregola with clams is a seafood lover’s dream, and the suckling pig? Crispy, tender, and packed with flavor.
The cozy, rustic vibe makes it feel like a hidden European escape. If you’re tired of the same old Italian spots, this is your go-to.
10. Barbacco – Fresh, Fast, and Flavorful
Barbacco offers modern Italian eats with a California twist. Their burrata with stone fruit is a refreshing starter, and the pappardelle with wild boar ragu is hearty and satisfying.
Great for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner, Barbacco proves that fast food doesn’t have to mean low quality.
11. Ideale – A Slice of Rome in North Beach
Ideale brings Roman flavors to SF with dishes like tonnarelli cacio e pepe and saltimbocca alla Romana. The cozy, candlelit setting makes it perfect for date night.
If you’re craving classic Roman dishes, Ideale delivers.
12. Fiorella – Sunset’s Italian Darling
Fiorella is all about wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta. Their rigatoni alla vodka is creamy and indulgent, while the Margherita pizza is a crispy, cheesy masterpiece.
With a relaxed vibe and killer food, Fiorella is a Sunset District must-visit.
13. L’Ardente – A New Contender
Newer to the scene, L’Ardente impresses with innovative Italian dishes like squid ink bucatini and lambrusco-braised beef.
If you love modern Italian with a twist, this spot is worth checking out.
14. The Italian Homemade Company – Casual & Delicious
For quick, affordable Italian, this spot serves up fresh pasta and sandwiches. Their tagliatelle al ragù is a comfort food dream.
Perfect for a no-fuss, delicious meal.
15. Baia – Plant-Based Italian Excellence
Baia is SF’s premier vegan Italian restaurant, proving plant-based food can be indulgent. Their “clam” linguine (made with mushrooms) is shockingly good.
Even meat lovers will leave impressed.
16. Tony’s Pizza Napoletana – A Slice of Naples
When it comes to the best pizza in San Francisco, Tony’s Pizza Napoletana is a must-visit. This North Beach gem is run by Tony Gemignani, a world champion pizzaiolo, and boy, does it show.
Their Neapolitan-style pies are baked in a 900-degree oven, giving them that perfect charred crust and gooey center.
From the classic Margherita to the spicy Diavola, every pizza here is a flavor bomb. Not a meat eater? No problem—their vegetarian and vegan options are just as mouthwatering. Pro tip: Get there early because this place gets packed!
Final Thoughts – Mangia Bene in SF!
San Francisco’s Italian food scene is as diverse as the city itself. Whether you’re after homemade pasta, wood-fired pizza, or vegan Italian delights, there’s something for everyone.
So what are you waiting for? Pick a spot, make a reservation, and get ready for a flavor-packed journey through Italy—right here in SF. Which restaurant will you try first? Let us know in the comments!