The Best Italian Restaurants in San Francisco

There are hundreds of reasons to visit San Francisco and none more than the amazing culinary offerings which abound throughout the city. San Francisco's North Beach neighborhood, which borders Nob Hill to the northeast, is steeped in Italian heritage drawing both locals and visitors to its red checked tablecloth restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. What is the best Italian restaurant in San Francisco? That's an unfair question, so here is a list of some of our favorite San Francisco Italian restaurants.

Acquerello

1722 Sacramento St.
Acquerello is a high-end Italian restaurant in a really cool converted chapel featuring vaulted wood-beam ceilings.

AltoVino

1358 Mason St.
A great spot to dine on seasonal Italian bites while watching the cable cars go by.

Cotogna

490 Pacific Ave.
This popular San Francisco Italian eatery features wood-fired pizzas, house-made pasta, and spit-roasted fish and meats.

Nob Hill Cafe

1152 Taylor St.
This Nob Hill institution specializes in Tuscan pasta and fabulous pizzas.

Original Joe's

601 Union St.
The OJ's is one of the OG Italian restaurants in San Francisco. A throwback Italian steakhouse that hits the mark every time.

Serafina

1701 Jones St.
This cozy Italian eatery boasts an impressive wine list paired with a delicious Italian menu and offers a great atmosphere with alfresco seating.

Seven Hills

1896 Hyde St.
Seven Hills features farm-to-table Italian fare in a lively space.

Sorella

1760 Polk St.
This casual Italian restaurant serves traditional Italian fare with contemporary flair in a great atmosphere.

The Italian Homemade Company

716 Columbus Ave.
There are several area locations, but North Beach is our favorite. Part restaurant, part deli, and market serving Italian favorites.

Tony's Pizza Napoletana

1570 Stockton St.
Proprietor Tony Gemignani is a 13-time World Pizza Champion and serves some of the best pies in California.

Most of these San Francisco Italian restaurants are within a short walk, cable car ride, or ride-share from Stanford Court. Buon Appetito!