Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in San Francisco | Upscale Italian Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in San Francisco | Upscale Italian Food

• Beretta — Italian · rated 5/5: Beretta pulses with a chic, urban energy where the air is fragrant with toasted house focaccia and the savory depth of slow-simmered meatballs. The experience centers on a vibrant mosaic of shared plates, ranging from the golden crunch of crab arancini to the delicate notes of octopus carpaccio and velvety swirls of ricotta fresca. It is a spirited destination where the clatter of small plates and the warmth of communal dining transform every meal into a lively, Mediterranean-inspired feast.
• Arizmendi Bakery — Italian · rated 5/5: The intoxicating aroma of toasted grain and melting cheese spills onto the sidewalk, beckoning neighbors into a vibrant, worker-owned space where the rhythm of the day is set by the heat of the ovens. Golden-crusted sourdough pizzas topped with seasonal harvests emerge alongside buttery, fruit-studded scones and rustic loaves, offering a soulful celebration of artisanal craft and community spirit.
• Pizza Hacker — Italian · rated 5/5: A high-energy haven for dough enthusiasts, this spot serves up "hacked" Neapolitan-style pizzas characterized by their tangy, leopard-spotted sourdough crusts and bold, farm-fresh toppings. The industrial-cool space vibrates with a rebellious spirit, where the smoky aroma of blistered pies and the hum of a lively crowd create a quintessential neighborhood gathering place built on culinary ingenuity. Each slice offers a perfect harmony of charred crunch and chewy center, celebrating a DIY ethos that elevates the humble pizza into a craft art form.
• The Italian Homemade Company — Italian · rated 5/5: This bustling, flour-dusted sanctuary brings the soul of a traditional Bolognese kitchen to life, where the rhythmic craft of hand-rolling pasta serves as the backdrop to a truly authentic meal. Silken strands of tagliatelle and pillowy gnocchi are paired with rich, slow-simmered sauces or tucked into warm, flaky piadinas, creating a sensory experience that feels like a heartfelt invitation to a family Sunday dinner.
• GIO Gelati — Italian · rated 5/5: Step into a sun-drenched sanctuary of sweetness where the vibrant colors of artisanal gelato beckon from behind polished glass, promising a cool escape into the heart of Italian tradition. Each velvety scoop captures the pure essence of seasonal fruits and toasted nuts, melting slowly on the tongue to reveal a rich, dense texture crafted with meticulous old-world precision. Whether enjoyed in a crisp, hand-rolled waffle cone or a simple cup, every bite offers a playful yet sophisticated journey through flavors that are as fresh as they are timeless.
• Cafe Lambretta (Cento Coffee) — Italian · rated 5/5: Stepping into Cafe Lambretta feels like entering a high-octane sanctuary where the rhythmic hum of the espresso machine harmonizes with a sleek, vintage-inspired aesthetic. The air is thick with the soulful, complex aromas of artisanal roasts, from the deep and mellow notes of the Slow Jam blend to the vibrant, spirited energy of the African Presence. It is a space where craftsmanship meets urban pulse, offering a perfectly pulled shot that fuels the morning rush or invites a lingering moment of caffeinated bliss.
• Angelina's Cafe — Italian · rated 5/5: Angelina's Cafe is a sun-drenched neighborhood retreat where the rich, nutty aroma of freshly pulled espresso and golden drip coffee invites guests to slow down and savor the morning. The kitchen transforms simple staples into vibrant sensory experiences, from toasted bagels layered with silky lox and garden-fresh tomatoes to bowls of crunchy house-made granola and perfectly pressed, savory BLATs. It is a welcoming community hub where the warmth of a buttered slice of toast and the rhythmic hum of the cafe create a soulful backdrop for both quiet reflections and lively midday gatherings.
• Original Joe's — Italian · rated 5/5: Step into a timeless sanctuary of mid-century glamour, where plush leather booths and the rhythmic clinking of cocktail shakers set the stage for a quintessential urban dining experience. The air is thick with the savory perfume of flame-grilled steaks and slow-simmered marinara as chefs in the open kitchen masterfully toss classic pastas and sear thick, juicy burgers. Whether you’re sipping a velvety martini at the brass-railed bar or diving into a platter of fresh seafood, every moment feels like a celebrated tradition steeped in warmth and effortless sophistication.
• Festa Wine & Cocktail Lounge — Italian · rated 5/5: Festa Wine & Cocktail Lounge invites guests into a chic, dimly lit sanctuary where the clinking of crystal and a vibrant energy set the stage for an evening of refined indulgence. The bar artfully blends East and West through sophisticated libations, ranging from the delicate floral sweetness of a Lychee Martini to the crisp, effervescent snap of a Toki Highball. Every pour, from the velvety Strawberry Saketini to the refreshing Yuzu Shochu, celebrates the artistry of the cocktail within a modern, polished social haven.
• DamnFine Pizza — Italian · rated 4/5: The crackle of a wood-fired oven anchors this vibrant neighborhood haunt, where the scent of bubbling dough and charred vegetables fills a space alive with effortless, modern energy. Silky ribbons of pappardelle and toothsome radiatori share the table with golden chicken cutlets and bright, citrus-flecked salads, offering a soulful balance of rustic comfort and seasonal sophistication. It is a place designed for lingering over shared plates of wood-fired carrots and warm olives, capturing the essence of a truly elevated, convivial dining experience.
• Fiorella Clement — Italian · rated 4/5: Bathed in a warm, neighborhood glow, this spirited eatery invites guests to linger over wood-fired creations in a space that feels both effortlessly chic and deeply welcoming. The kitchen’s artistry shines in the Lafayette pizza, where a perfectly blistered crust meets a symphony of artisanal toppings to create a dining experience that celebrates the vibrant soul of the community.
• Joyride Pizza — Italian · rated 4/5: This vibrant eatery transforms the pizza experience into a high-energy celebration, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of golden, caramelized cheese crusts and zesty sauces. Each thick-cut square serves as a canvas for bold, imaginative toppings, from the fiery-sweet harmony of pineapple and spice to the lush, garden-bright layers of the Green Goddess. Every bite offers a satisfying crunch and a playful explosion of flavor, inviting guests to indulge in a spirited culinary adventure that reimagines the classic slice.
• Il Parco — Italian · rated 4/5: Il Parco serves as a bright, botanical-inspired sanctuary where the morning air carries the irresistible aroma of spiced carrot and citrus-infused breads fresh from the oven. Vibrant acai bowls and creamy avocado toasts offer a kaleidoscope of color and texture, creating a wholesome dining experience that feels like a refreshing breath of fresh air.
• Bottle Club Pub — American · rated 4/5: Stepping into Bottle Club Pub feels like entering a refined neighborhood sanctuary where the amber glow of decanted whiskey cocktails meets the comforting sizzle of a perfectly seared smashburger. The kitchen elevates soulful comfort with a menu that ranges from golden, crispy fish and chips to fragrant baked pasta, all perfectly paired with a curated selection of draft beers and sophisticated low-to-no-proof spirits. The experience culminates in the nostalgic warmth of a bourbon apple crisp a la mode, creating an inviting atmosphere where every meal feels like a celebrated occasion.
• Molinari Delicatessen — Italian · rated 4/5: Stepping into this legendary institution feels like a journey back in time, where the air is thick with the savory, spiced perfume of artisanal meats curing in the rafters. Rows of hand-tied salamis, marbled coppa, and fennel-scented finocchiona hang like edible art, waiting to be sliced thin and wrapped in butcher paper for an authentic Italian feast. It is a bustling temple of tradition where the legacy of old-world craftsmanship lives on in every peppery bite of dry-aged soppressata and buttery, slow-cured salame.
• Isa — Italian · rated 4/5: Stepping into Isa feels like entering a sun-drenched, rustic sanctuary where the crackle of a wood-burning oven and the scent of smoldering herbs set a soulful, intimate tone. The kitchen transforms the season’s bounty into fire-kissed masterpieces, inviting guests to linger over vibrant plates that celebrate the raw beauty of coastal-inspired flavors and artisanal craft.
• Morella — Italian · rated 4/5: Morella invites diners into a world of rustic refinement, where the smoky allure of Argentinian asado meets the vibrant, sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean. The air hums with energy as guests share golden, hand-crimped empanadas and tender charred octopus, punctuated by the decadent richness of roasted marrowbone and paper-thin Jamón Ibérico. Every plate is a celebration of bold textures and unexpected pairings, crafting a sophisticated yet spirited atmosphere perfect for lingering over long, flavorful evenings.
• Noeteca — Italian · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through the expansive windows of this soulful Noe Valley corner, where the casual charm of a neighborhood cafe meets the sophisticated pulse of a global wine bar. Guests unwind amidst walls lined with curated vintages, savoring the warmth of fresh Brazilian cheese bread and vibrant Mediterranean-inspired small plates that turn a simple glass of wine into a leisurely journey across continents.
• La Ciccia — Italian · rated 4/5: This intimate sanctuary captures the rugged, sun-drenched spirit of Sardinia, where the air hums with the briny aroma of the Mediterranean and the warmth of genuine hospitality. Silken strands of spaghetti come alive under a golden dusting of savory cured fish roe, while tender baby octopus stews and rich sea urchin fusilli showcase a kitchen dedicated to the bold, soulful flavors of the sea. Every dish, from the delicate crunch of shaved bottarga to the comforting depth of house-made gnochetti in pork sugo, invites guests to linger over a meal that feels like a heartfelt journey to a distant coastal village.
• Vinorosso Enoteca — Italian · rated 4/5: Bathed in the warm glow of amber lights, this intimate wine sanctuary invites guests to lose track of time amidst floor-to-ceiling shelves of rare vintages and artisanal bottles. The gentle clink of crystal and the rich aroma of uncorked reds set the stage for a journey through curated pours, perfectly paired with rustic small plates that celebrate the soulful, sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean.
• Lucca Delicatessen — Italian · rated 4/5: Stepping into this bustling neighborhood landmark feels like entering a timeless Italian larder, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of sliced salumi and sharp provolone. Towering sandwiches like the legendary Italian Combo and the zesty Calabrian are built with artisanal precision on crusty bread, offering a masterclass in balanced textures and bold, old-world flavors that turn a simple lunch into a gourmet event.
• Parklab Gardens — American · rated 4/5: Sun-drenched and spirited, this open-air oasis invites guests to linger amidst lush greenery and the playful crackle of fire pits. The air carries the smoky scent of wood-fired pizzas and the savory sizzle of Korean-Mexican fusion, while vibrant carafes of sangria and mimosas fuel a lively, communal atmosphere. As evening falls, the experience culminates in the nostalgic joy of unlimited s'mores toasted over open flames, making every visit feel like a celebratory backyard gathering.
• Precita Park Cafe — American · rated 4/5: Bathed in natural light and overlooking the verdant expanse of the park, this airy neighborhood sanctuary invites guests to linger over artisanal coffee and vibrant, farm-to-table fare. The sun-drenched space hums with the easy energy of the community, where the aroma of wood-fired pizzas and freshly baked pastries drifts through floor-to-ceiling windows. It is a quintessential corner retreat where the relaxed pace of park-side living meets a refined, modern culinary spirit.
• Little Original Joe's — Italian · rated 4/5: This vibrant neighborhood gem pulses with energy, blending nostalgic Italian-American charm with a bright, modern sensibility where the aroma of golden rotisserie chicken and bubbling thin-crust pizzas fills the air. Guests gather around sleek marble counters and cozy booths to savor soulful plates of saucy pasta and crispy parm sandwiches, creating a lively atmosphere that feels like a perpetual Sunday dinner with friends.
• Mario's Bohemian Cigar Store Cafe — Italian · rated 4/5: Perched on a vibrant North Beach corner overlooking Washington Square Park, this historic gem welcomes guests with the nostalgic warmth of polished wood and the irresistible aroma of toasted focaccia. The air hums with the rhythmic hiss of the espresso machine as patrons tuck into golden, oven-baked sandwiches, savoring a quintessential slice of bohemian San Francisco life.
• Tony's Pizza Napoletana — Italian · rated 4/5: Step into a bustling North Beach institution where the rhythmic slap of dough and the roar of wood-fired ovens create a vibrant symphony of artisanal craft. The air is perfumed with the intoxicating scent of charred, leopard-spotted crusts and tangy San Marzano tomatoes as master chefs pull perfectly blistered pies from glowing embers. It is a flour-dusted sanctuary for pizza purists, offering a sensory journey that captures the soulful, sun-drenched essence of Naples in every chewy, molten bite.
• Bottega — Italian · rated 4/5: Bottega invites guests into a sun-drenched sanctuary where the rustic charm of an Italian workshop meets modern culinary elegance. Hand-rolled pastas and vibrant, seasonal plates celebrate the purity of artisanal ingredients, served amidst an atmosphere of lively conversation and the warm, inviting glow of an open kitchen.
• Ristorante Fior d'Italia — Italian · rated 4/5: Step into a timeless sanctuary of Italian elegance where the air is thick with the savory perfume of garlic-infused clams and the crisp sizzle of pancetta-wrapped prawns. The table becomes a vibrant canvas of artisanal cold cuts and creamy burrata paired with sun-ripened tomatoes, inviting guests to linger over chilled oysters and delicate escargot prepared in the storied Lombardy tradition. Every shared plate of golden calamari or roasted peppers bathed in bagna cauda feels like a celebratory journey through the heart of Italy’s rich culinary heritage.
• Venice Pizza — Italian · rated 4/5: This lively neighborhood destination brings together the best of Italian comfort and American grill classics, where the sizzle of avocado-topped burgers meets the aromatic steam of bubbling lasagna. Guests can settle into a warm, inviting atmosphere to enjoy everything from creamy shrimp alfredo and crisp Verdi pizzas to hearty steak fries, creating a soulful dining experience that feels both familiar and indulgent.
• Cioppino's — Italian · rated 4/5: The air at Cioppino’s is thick with the irresistible aroma of toasted garlic and salt-kissed seafood, drawing guests into a vibrant space where the bounty of the ocean takes center stage. Golden mounds of crispy calamari and zesty fish tacos share the table with buttery Dungeness crab cakes, each plate celebrating bold, coastal flavors that feel both indulgent and refreshingly casual. It is a lively destination where the crunch of popcorn shrimp and the warmth of freshly baked garlic bread create a quintessential seaside feast meant for sharing.