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Best Italian Restaurants in Cole Valley

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98 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Bambino's Ristorante restaurant
1. Bambino's Ristorante
4.7
Exceptional(560)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Cole Valley
Booked 4 times today
Bambino's Ristorante in the charming Cole Valley of San Francisco is a gem for Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts. Esteemed for its authenticity and delightful ambiance, Bambino’s offers a culinary journey through the Mediterranean with dishes that are both classic and innovative. Patrons rave about the "meticulous preparation" of its Italian dishes, highlighting the "best crust" pizzas and delectable tiramisu as must-tries. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident, with reviews praising its "amazing quality food" and the personal touch of the owner, Costa, who enhances the dining experience by interacting with guests. Whether it’s a casual dinner, a special brunch, or a family celebration, Bambino's consistently delivers an exceptional Mediterranean feast, making it a top recommendation for anyone in San Francisco.
A photo of Che Fico San Francisco restaurant
2. Che Fico San Francisco
4.7
Exceptional(1849)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • North Panhandle / USF
Booked 78 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
4.8
Exceptional(947)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Mission
Booked 45 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 Original Joe's - San Francisco restaurant
4. Original Joe's - San Francisco
4.7
Exceptional(4162)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • North Beach
Booked 127 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 Fiorella Sunset restaurant
5. Fiorella Sunset
4.6
Exceptional(820)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Sunset District
Booked 37 times today
Fiorella Sunset in San Francisco's vibrant Sunset District is not just celebrated for its delightful Italian fare but also for its exceptional cocktail bar. Patrons rave about the "amazing cocktails," prepared with meticulous care that complements the Italian cuisine perfectly. The cocktail menu, crafted by talented bartenders like Shannon, offers both innovative mixes and classic drinks, such as the ever-popular Negroni, which receives consistent praise for its authenticity. Guests appreciate the rooftop bar setting, which provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying these skillfully mixed beverages. According to a satisfied customer, the drinks were "even more awesome" than the food, underscoring the bar's ability to stand out in a city known for great eateries and vibrant nightlife. Whether for a lively gathering or a cozy date night, Fiorella Sunset's cocktail bar is a highlight that promises a memorable experience.
A photo of Bistro Central Parc restaurant
6. Bistro Central Parc
4.8
Exceptional(917)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • North Panhandle / USF
Booked 15 times today
Bistro Central Parc in the North Panhandle of San Francisco is a treasure trove of authentic American cuisine, delighting locals and visitors alike. With its cozy ambiance and attentive staff, the restaurant consistently serves up a culinary experience that resonates deeply with diners. Patrons rave about their experiences, with one noting, "I've gone two times now... The first time, I ordered the pasta, and I thought it was the best pasta dish I've ever had" – a testament to the quality and authenticity of their dishes. Known for its excellent service and fantastic early bird specials, Bistro Central Parc is described as a "quintessential neighborhood restaurant" where every meal is both a comfort and a discovery. This gem not only offers great value but also a heartfelt connection to the essence of American dining.
A photo of Sociale - San Francisco restaurant
7. Sociale - San Francisco
4.8
Exceptional(2407)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Presidio Heights
Booked 15 times today
At Sociale in the charming Presidio Heights of San Francisco, the essence of Californian cuisine is celebrated with a delightful Italian twist. Praised as a "hidden gem" and a "neighborhood jewel," Sociale consistently impresses with its fusion of local freshness and Italian flair, creating a truly unique dining experience. Guests rave about the "perfectly cooked" Seared Scallops and the "delicious and flavorful" pastas, each dish complementing the "impressive" wine list that features both Italian and Californian selections. The enchanting heated patio adds to the allure, making every meal feel like a "secret" discovered. With its "exceptional" service and "quaint" atmosphere, Sociale stands out as a favorite spot in San Francisco for both locals and visitors seeking authentic and innovative Californian cuisine.
A photo of Original Joe's Westlake restaurant
8. Original Joe's Westlake
4.8
Exceptional(4821)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Daly City
Booked 120 times today
Original Joe's Westlake in Daly City is a beacon of Italian-American culinary excellence, seamlessly blending traditional charm with contemporary flair. Following an extensive renovation, this legendary spot continues to craft "unpretentious, old-school Italian-American fare" that dazzles diners. Guests rave about the "delicious veal cutlets" and "house-made ravioli," each dish bursting with authentic flavors. The attentive and kind service complements the exceptional meals, creating unforgettable dining experiences. Whether it's a family celebration or a cozy dinner, Original Joe's Westlake stands out as a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Italian cuisine with a touch of local heritage.
A photo of Little Original Joe's -- Marina restaurant
9. Little Original Joe's -- Marina
4.8
Exceptional(47)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio
Booked 38 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 La Connessa restaurant
10. La Connessa
4.8
Exceptional(287)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Mission Bay / South Beach
Booked 40 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.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • chinkisistavip
    San Francisco Bay Area •176 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We celebrated my mother’s birthday and we received the best service from the dining room team. I have to say today’s service surpassed the food even. Needless to say the food is dependably tasty. We had the shrimp cocktail - very fresh; the veal scallopini sec portion is generous, so is the side dish broccolini, the other entree is a favorite - shrimp scampi with linguine. When the dessert was brought, one server (who’s an opera singer, I believe) sang Happy Birthday in a most beautiful voice. So surprising, so special. It was an overall one of the best birthday meals my mother ever had.
    More info
    Original Joe's WestlakePrice: Moderate• Italian• Daly City
    •
    4.8
  • StevenBvip
    Portland / Oregon •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The house made ravioli was the best ever. The veal was good as well.
    More info
    Original Joe's - San FranciscoPrice: Moderate• Italian• North Beach
    •
    4.7
  • John
    San Francisco Bay Area •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We really enjoyed the anniversary menu at Delfina. Every bite was exceptional! The service was stellar and we were treated like family. Thank you for an incredible evening!
    More info
    Delfina RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Italian• Mission
    •
    4.8
  • Douglasvip
    San Francisco Bay Area •206 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    While the noise level is very high, the food and service is excellent!! The beet salad was possibly the best either of us have ever eaten, the agnolotti is exceptional, and the chocolate desert was rich without over doing it! What a fantastic evening we were able to share at a truly exceptional restaurant in SF. Thanks for making it special.
    More info
    Che Fico San FranciscoPrice: Expensive• Italian• North Panhandle / USF
    •
    4.7
  • JC
    Cleveland / Akron / Canton •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 2 Nov 2024
    Authentic Italian restaurant in the heart of Cole Valley. Hard to find this level of quality and service at reasonable prices these days.
    More info
    Bambino's RistorantePrice: Moderate• Italian• Cole Valley
    •
    4.7

Discover best Italian restaurants in Cole Valley

Explore the vibrant Italian dining scene in Cole Valley, San Francisco, a neighborhood renowned for its exceptional culinary offerings. Italian restaurants here cater to a variety of tastes, offering everything from traditional dishes passed down through generations to innovative Italian fusion cuisine. Each establishment in the area prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients, ensuring every meal is as authentic and flavorful as possible. The ambiance of these restaurants ranges from cozy, family-friendly settings to more sophisticated, romantic environments, perfect for any occasion. Diners can expect not only excellent food but also attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere. This locale is a true haven for Italian cuisine enthusiasts, providing a delightful dining experience that consistently satisfies both locals and visitors alike. Whether you're craving a classic pasta dish or something more modern, Cole Valley's Italian restaurants promise a memorable culinary journey.

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