Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in South San Francisco

8 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Pausa Bar & Cookery restaurant

1. Pausa Bar & Cookery

4.7

Exceptional(1844)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • San Mateo

Booked 58 times today

Pausa Bar & Cookery in San Mateo offers a captivating escape into the world of contemporary Italian cuisine. Celebrated for its "modern and innovative approaches," Pausa delights diners with house-made pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and expertly cured meats that elevate traditional Italian flavors. Guests rave about the "phenomenal experience" that reminds them of dining in Italy, praising the "delicious combinations of ingredients" and "incredible attention to detail." The ambiance is described as "modern and trendy," perfect for both lively gatherings and intimate dinners. With "top-notch" service consistently mentioned, Pausa stands out as a must-visit for an authentic and inventive Italian dining experience.

A photo of Beretta Divisadero restaurant

2. Beretta Divisadero

4.4

Awesome(34)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • North Panhandle / USF

Booked 44 times today

Beretta Divisadero in San Francisco's vibrant North Panhandle neighborhood is a gem for those seeking exceptional Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service. Known for its "super fun vibe" and "excellent cocktails," this hotspot stands out with its innovative mixology and premium bottle service that perfectly complements their thin-crust pizzas and Italian comfort food. Patrons rave about the Diablo cocktail and the happy hour specials, noting that Beretta is "definitely will return when I'm back in SF." The lively atmosphere coupled with a "huge shelf of liquor" ensures a memorable experience, making Beretta Divisadero the go-to destination for those who appreciate quality drinks and a great ambience in the heart of San Francisco.

A photo of Caffe Fiore - San Francisco restaurant

3. Caffe Fiore - San Francisco

4.9

Exceptional(391)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Mission District

Booked 4 times today

Caffe Fiore in San Francisco's vibrant Mission District is a standout destination for Wine Bar enthusiasts. Praised for its "authentic and quality" Italian offerings, this cozy spot offers a meticulously curated wine selection that complements its delicious cuisine. Guests frequently celebrate the "great wine" and how it pairs seamlessly with dishes like the "TORTELLONI ALLO ZAFFERANO" and homemade ravioli. The ambiance, described as "classy and casual," creates the perfect setting for enjoying a glass of Fiano or a robust red. With glowing reviews highlighting the "lovely ambience" and "excellent service," Caffe Fiore ensures each visit is both delightful and memorable, making it a must-visit for wine lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

4. Back to Back

4.8

Exceptional(59)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • Nob Hill

Booked 18 times today

Back to Back in Nob Hill, San Francisco, offers an exceptional Pizzeria experience where Italian flair meets Californian vibrancy. Guests rave about the wood-fired pizzas, describing them as “absolute must-try’s” with a crust that is "perfectly fired.” The flavor of each pie, from the "hot honey pizza" to the "Salsiccia pizza," is consistently praised for being "distinct and well balanced." Diners are not only enchanted by the food but also the ambiance, highlighted by a collection of vinyl records that add a unique, creative touch to the dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to using locally sourced ingredients ensures that each pizza not only tastes authentic but also celebrates California’s rich produce. This culinary gem is a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier Pizzeria in San Francisco.

A photo of Vespucci Ristorante Italiano restaurant

5. Vespucci Ristorante Italiano

4.8

Exceptional(855)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary italian • San Mateo

Booked 3 times today

Vespucci Ristorante Italiano, located in the heart of San Mateo, is a celebration of authentic Italian cuisine, where "every dish exudes the true essence of Italian flavors." Praised for its commitment to tradition and quality, the restaurant features a menu crafted by Italian-born chefs that evoke the culinary spirit of Italy. Diners rave about the "Gnocchi with Gorgonzola," described as "homemade pillows of perfection," and the atmosphere that "perfectly complements the culinary experience." The warm hospitality and personalized service make every visit memorable. As one reviewer notes, "Definitely my only go-to place when I'm craving Italian food!" Vespucci Ristorante Italiano is truly a gem that offers an exceptional Italian dining experience, making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors alike.

6. The Fly Trap

4.7

Exceptional(1430)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • SOMA

Booked 21 times today

At The Fly Trap in SOMA, San Francisco, guests are treated to an exemplary Californian cuisine experience, making it the ideal spot for both locals and visitors. The restaurant's proximity to the Moscone Center and its vibrant atmosphere are complemented by a menu that highlights the freshness and innovation synonymous with Californian culinary artistry. Reviews rave about the quality of dishes like the "crisp apple cider and super tasty burger with fresh fries" and the "decadent mushroom soup," underscoring the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. With its eclectic decor and warm hospitality, The Fly Trap stands out as a jewel in Californian cuisine, offering a "fantastic experience" that guests eagerly recommend.

A photo of Luisa's On Guerrero restaurant

7. Luisa's On Guerrero

4.8

Exceptional(41)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • Mission District

Booked 6 times today

At Luisa's On Guerrero, located in the vibrant Mission District of San Francisco, the essence of Contemporary Italian cuisine comes alive with each dish served. Renowned for its authenticity and rich culinary heritage, Luisa's has become a beacon of Italian gastronomy since 1959. Patrons rave about the "best marinara sauce I’ve ever had" and the "perfectly executed lasagna," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to traditional flavors infused with modern flair. The ambiance, described as "cozy and inviting," complements the exquisite food and stellar wine selection, making Luisa's a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic Italian dining experience. Celebrated for its homemade pastas and exceptional service, Luisa's stands out as a "gem" where the "food is delicious, so flavorful!" and the experience is consistently "5-star."

8. Cafe Mystique

4.6

Exceptional(36)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary italian • The Castro

Booked 4 times today

Cafe Mystique in the vibrant Castro neighborhood of San Francisco is a haven of Contemporary American cuisine, praised for its exquisite and hearty dishes. Known for using fair-trade products sourced from local markets, the restaurant ensures each dish is bursting with authentic flavors. Patrons rave about the "delicious and fresh gourmet food," with standout dishes like the spicy chicken pasta and the perfectly seasoned steak. The consistent high praise extends to the atmosphere and service, described as "immaculate" and "always welcoming." It's no wonder locals deem Cafe Mystique a favorite, with a reviewer exclaiming it's the "best food I have had so far in the Castro." This gem of a restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-notch dining experience in San Francisco.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

A
Ardath
Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill •18 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Food is inventive and delicious . It has a bistro vibe and is very cosy. Service was attentive but since the space is small it felt a bit rushed. The shared plates are generous. Don’t miss the oven fired bread with tapenade and the arancini.
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Back to BackPrice: Expensive• Pizzeria• Nob Hill
•
4.8
H
HenryVIP
Edinburgh/Midlothian •63 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Caffe Fiore is just a nice small restaurant that has always served us a nice dinner. It has a good variety of food options without going overboard on the selections. It seems they have developed the right balance of enough options for the guests while at the same time assuring that what they do cook is done well.
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Caffe Fiore - San FranciscoPrice: Moderate• Italian• Mission District
•
4.9
L
lisa
San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Wonderful! Service was exceptional! Definitely will return and recommend
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BocconcinoPrice: Moderate• Italian• North Beach
•
4.8
K
KristinaVIP
San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Amazing from start to finish. Burrata and crudo were are favorite apps. Pizzas are all incredible. Reminds me of traveling through Italy. Finally a great spot without having to drive to the city!
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Pausa Bar & CookeryPrice: Expensive• Italian• San Mateo
•
4.7
L
Leslie
San Francisco Bay Area •8 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Vespucci is a San Mateo gem. With so many Asian restaurants in town, it’s nice to have such a fabulous alternative. The food is excellent, the wine list is well-curated, the service is very good, the prices are reasonable and the proprietors are very charming. You can’t miss when you dine here!
More info
Vespucci Ristorante ItalianoPrice: Expensive• Italian• San Mateo
•
4.8

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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in South San Francisco

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8 restaurants available nearby

1. Pausa Bar & Cookery

2. Beretta Divisadero

3. Caffe Fiore - San Francisco

4. Back to Back

5. Vespucci Ristorante Italiano

6. The Fly Trap

7. Luisa's On Guerrero

8. Cafe Mystique

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