Best Italian Restaurants in The Castro

Price: Moderate (218)Price: Expensive (182)Price: Very Expensive (60)

97 restaurants available nearby

1. Cafe Mystique

4.7

Exceptional(30)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Castro

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

2. Che Fico San Francisco

4.7

Exceptional(1824)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • North Panhandle / USF

Booked 75 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

3. Delfina Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(913)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Mission

Booked 63 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.

4. La Connessa

4.8

Exceptional(269)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Mission Bay / South Beach

Booked 37 times today

A modern take on the classic trattoria. The menu celebrates traditional Italian cuisine with an array of classic dishes with contemporary influences. Antipasti and pastas dishes feature the finest hand-selected ingredients, the Marra Forni wood-fired pizzas with expertly blistered crusts are perfect for sharing, and the hearty secondi offerings include hand-made pastas, bistecca and local seafood. The beverage program highlights wines from California and Italy, with a focus on small, family-owned producers. A full bar boasts a wide array of cocktails and spirits, including a large collection of vintage Italian apertivi and digestivi.

A photo of Original Joe's - San Francisco restaurant

5. Original Joe's - San Francisco

4.7

Exceptional(4119)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • North Beach

Booked 87 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.

6. The Tailor's Son

4.7

Exceptional(185)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Pacific Heights

Booked 55 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 Fiorella Noe Valley restaurant

7. Fiorella Noe Valley

4.5

Awesome(56)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Noe Valley

Booked 35 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 Little Original Joe's -- Marina restaurant

8. Little Original Joe's -- Marina

4.8

Exceptional(28)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio

Booked 31 times today

Welcome to Little Original Joe's -- an Italian-American neighborhood eatery featuring pizza, pasta, and parmigiana in San Francisco's Marina neighborhood! Limited reservations are available for up to 6 guests -- we look forward to seeing you soon!

A photo of Beretta Divisadero restaurant

9. Beretta Divisadero

4.5

Awesome(16)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • North Panhandle / USF

Booked 39 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.

10. Barberio Osteria

4.8

Exceptional(17)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Mission

Booked 5 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Valencia corridor, we are more than just a restaurant. We are a labor of love by a tight-knit family team – meet our trio of visionaries: Nick Kelly, the Executive Chef, whose culinary expertise brings the flavors of Italy to life with every dish; Saul Magana, the General Manager, orchestrating seamless dining experiences with a personal touch; and Calli Martinez, the Wine Director, curating an exquisite selection to complement every bite.At Barberio Osteria, our ethos is simple yet profound: to create an ambiance where every visit feels like a celebration. Whether it's a joyous milestone or a casual Monday evening craving, our doors are open wide, inviting you to savor the essence of Italian hospitality. Picture yourself unwinding with a perfectly al dente pasta and a glass of fine wine, enveloped in an atmosphere that effortlessly balances elegance with familiarity.

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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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