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Best Italian Restaurants in The Castro

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101 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Cafe Mystique restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(35)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • The Castro
Booked 7 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.
A photo of Che Fico San Francisco restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1879)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • North Panhandle / USF
Booked 49 times today
Che Fico in San Francisco's vibrant North Panhandle neighborhood is a gem of Italian cuisine, seamlessly blending California's bountiful produce with the rich traditions of Northern Italy. Chefs David Nayfeld and Matt Brewer craft a menu that sings with authenticity and innovation, from handmade pastas to exquisite pizzas, all rooted in Italian culinary traditions yet influenced by local Californian flavors. Critics rave about the “delicious food” and “exceptional service,” highlighting dishes like the “tagliatelle to die for” and the unique Jewish-Roman offerings. The ambiance is “lively” and “welcoming,” perfect for a celebratory meal or a cozy dinner. As one diner put it, Che Fico provides “the best Italian dining experience in San Francisco,” making it a must-visit for anyone craving top-notch Italian fare with a creative twist.
A photo of Delfina Restaurant restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(972)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Mission District
Booked 55 times today
Delfina Restaurant, nestled in San Francisco's vibrant Mission District, is a beacon of Italian culinary excellence, as evidenced by its James Beard Award. This neighborhood trattoria has been enchanting diners with its "consistently exceptional" Italian fare and "superb" ambience. Guests rave about the authentic dishes, from the "best steak in San Francisco" to the "smashingly good" braised veal cheek pasta and "succulent" whole fish. Delfina's dedication to quality shines through in their menu, described by a patron as having "casual elegance." The glowing testimonials underscore the restaurant's appeal, with one diner proclaiming, "Best service we’ve had in years. Food was incredible." This praise solidifies Delfina's status as not just a meal destination but a culinary experience rooted in Italian tradition and innovation.
A photo of La Connessa restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(313)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Mission Bay / South Beach
Booked 33 times today
## La Connessa: A Modern Italian Gem in San Francisco Step into La Connessa and be transported to a world of culinary delight. This modern Italian trattoria, nestled in the heart of Potrero Hill, offers a vibrant atmosphere and a menu that celebrates the best of Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist. The space is a feast for the eyes, boasting a stunning slate blue and metallic gold palette, an expansive illuminated bar, and exceptional art deco design. High ceilings and a beautiful, elevated vibe create a perfect setting for both special occasions and casual meals. The menu, crafted with the finest hand-selected ingredients, features a range of classic dishes reimagined with modern influences. From expertly blistered wood-fired pizzas to hearty secondi selections, including hand-made pastas, bistecca, and local seafood, La Connessa promises an unforgettable dining experience. Start your journey with delectable antipasti like roasted jimmy nardello peppers and roasted artichokes. Then, indulge in the signature Spaghettino al Limone, a symphony of flavors with fresh lemon, garlic, and parmesan. For a truly special occasion, savor the succulent bistecca, grilled to perfection and served with seasonal vegetables. No Italian meal is complete without a touch
A photo of Original Joe's - San Francisco restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(4201)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • North Beach
Booked 74 times today
Original Joe's in San Francisco's vibrant North Beach is a true emblem of authentic Italian-American cuisine, offering a dining experience that's both classic and exceptional. Established over 80 years ago, it stands as the oldest of the Joe's restaurants nationwide, pioneering the renowned "Joe's Concept." With its iconic red leather booths and a menu celebrated for its Italian American flair, Original Joe's is a bastion of comfort food crafted with a Northern Californian twist. Glowing reviews often highlight dishes like the "best lasagna I have ever tasted" and praise its "incredible customer service." Whether it's the meatballs or the linguini and clams, each dish is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality and tradition, making it a must-visit for those seeking a genuine slice of San Francisco's culinary heritage.
A photo of The Tailor's Son restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(217)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Pacific Heights
Booked 46 times today
The Tailor's Son in Pacific Heights, San Francisco, is not just a haven for fans of Northern Italian cuisine but also a standout destination for cocktail enthusiasts. Guests rave about the "world class cocktails" and the "creative & unique" mixes that complement the restaurant's savory dishes. Reviewers highlight the "Nice Negronis" alongside an array of other expertly curated beverages, making it clear that the bar at The Tailor's Son is a craft in its own right. With a vibrant atmosphere and consistent praise for its innovative drinks, it’s no wonder that patrons describe their experiences as "wonderful," emphasizing the bar's integral role in their delightful dining adventures. Whether you're a local or a visitor, The Tailor's Son offers a cocktail experience that is both authentic and memorable.
A photo of Beretta Divisadero restaurant
4.4
Awesome(33)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • North Panhandle / USF
Booked 40 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 Uva Enoteca restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(883)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Haight
Booked 6 times today
Uva Enoteca in San Francisco's vibrant Haight neighborhood offers a delightful taste of Puglia, Italy. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of dishes like the "stellar" Orecchiette Cime di Rapa and the light, digestible Apulian pizzas, crafted from durum wheat sourced directly from Altamura. The new ownership has infused the menu with passion and tradition, with many diners noting the "wonderful refresh" and the "fantastic" burrata and prosciutto. An all-Italian wine list complements the culinary experience, featuring selections from small Italian producers. As one reviewer puts it, this place is a "neighborhood gem" for anyone seeking genuine Italian cuisine, making Uva Enoteca a must-visit destination.
A photo of Fiorella Noe Valley restaurant
4.5
Awesome(78)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Noe Valley
Booked 22 times today
Fiorella Noe Valley, nestled in the charming neighborhood of Noe Valley, San Francisco, is celebrated for its exceptional wood-fired pizzas that capture the authentic essence of Pizzeria cuisine. Patrons rave about the “out of this world” Neapolitan Pie and commend the restaurant for its “clean and new” pizza oven that ensures perfectly cooked pizzas without any burns. The ambiance is complemented by a unique selection of spritz cocktails, making Fiorella a standout in the area. Reviewers consistently highlight the quality and freshness of the food, with one noting, “If you're craving that real Italian flavor, seriously look no further!” Fiorella Noe Valley is a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier Pizzeria experience in San Francisco.
A photo of Itria restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(117)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Mission District
Booked 13 times today
Itria, nestled in San Francisco's vibrant Mission District, is a culinary gem that showcases the best of Californian cuisine with a modern twist. Known for its innovative dishes, Itria has earned glowing accolades from diners who rave about the quality and creativity of its offerings. One patron exclaimed, "The food here is outstanding. I've never had better crudo, and the pasta was amazing," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to freshness and excellence. The ambiance and service match the high standards of the menu, making Itria a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic and exquisite Californian dining experience. Whether it's the "crispy garlic salad" or the "spaghetti with anchovy sauce," each dish is a testament to the skilled culinary artistry at play, making every visit memorable.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • ShaunVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Born and raised in the Bay Area but have been living in SF proper for 14 years now. Kinda ashamed to say I finally checked out this SF institute today but better late than never as the food and service were absolutely incredible! I consider myself a cioppino connoisseur so had to try theirs and cross it off my list. I must say, the cioppino at Original Joe’s definitely did not disappoint and immediately shot to my top 5 list for sure. Throw in the impeccable service we received from our server David and his fellow team members and I can see why it’s become such a San Francisco landmark! Kudos to Original Joe’s in North Beach!
    More info
    Original Joe's - San FranciscoPrice: Moderate• Italian• North Beach
    4.7
  • MelanieVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Regardless of whether you eat with your eyes or with your stomach, you won’t be disappointed. My husband and I had dinner here last night and we couldn’t be more thrilled. The restaurant itself is absolutely gorgeous and the food is outstanding in every way. The menu is interesting and innovative. We enjoyed appetizers of Carne Crudo and Insalata Tritata which were absolutely delicious. Our entrees of rockfish and lasagne verde were perfect. We sat at the bar which was lively and festive considering it’s the holiday season. The staff is super friendly and the vibe is lively and fun. A definite must try if you haven’t already!
    More info
    Che Fico San FranciscoPrice: Expensive• Italian• North Panhandle / USF
    4.7
  • Jeremy
    Sacramento / Sacramento Valley •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We were running late due to traffic for my wife's birthday dinner before heading to the theater. We also had an additional member in our party. The service was outstanding and understanding our limitations. We had to rush through but the food was spectacular, very tasty and a lot or depth of flavor. A lot of contemporary and delicious innovations on traditional Italian. Will definitely be back again and could not recommend more highly.
    More info
    Delfina RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Italian• Mission District
    4.8
  • Raul
    Hawaii •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We went to La Conessa for our anniversary and they treated us great! Would highly recommend. From food to overall vibe and price, La Conessa is a must. We will be going back soon! Thank you to the team for the special night
    More info
    La ConnessaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Mission Bay / South Beach
    4.7
  • LeonVIP
    Philadelphia County •28 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 15, 2024
    Excellent food, and no 5% San Francisco employee mandate surcharge. Management of this Restaurant should be commended for not having that . We will be back. Everything from the food to the dining experience was top-notch 
    More info
    Cafe MystiquePrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• The Castro
    4.6

Discover best Italian restaurants in The Castro

Discover the essence of Italian cuisine in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Castro district. This area, known for its dynamic dining scene, offers a variety of Italian restaurants that cater to both traditional and contemporary tastes. Each establishment in The Castro specializes in delivering authentic Italian dishes, from classic pastas to innovative Italian fusions, all crafted with high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. Patrons can expect a warm, inviting atmosphere coupled with exemplary service, making each dining experience truly memorable. As you explore the culinary delights of The Castro, you'll find that these restaurants consistently emphasize the importance of a great dining experience, reflecting the lively spirit and diversity of San Francisco. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor looking to savor genuine Italian flavors, the Italian eateries in The Castro are sure to enrich your gastronomic journey.

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