Che Fico’s dining room. Photo By Eric Wolfinger
Over the years, chefs Thomas McNaughton and Ryan Pollnow have created more than 90 unique pasta shapes, from morel tortellini to squid ink corzetti. If you’re looking for a memorable culinary experience, you’ll find it here every time. Flour + Water never disappoints. 2401 Harrison St., 415.826.7000
While Original Joe’s holds a special place in our hearts, its new spinoff, Little Original Joe’s in the Marina, is a vibrant hot spot serving some of the city’s best Italian cuisine. Everything, from the pepperoni pizza to the prosciutto spicy vodka chicken parmesan, is terrific. 2301 Chestnut St., 415.712.1895
Delicious pasta awaits at Seven Hills. Photo By Isabel Baer
This neighborhood eatery debuted in 2023 in the Inner Richmond and quickly became one of our new favorites. It offers tasty Italian delicacies, such as spicy meatballs, mafaldine “butter and cheese” topped with Perigord black truffle butter and much more. Take a pasta-making class for the ultimate immersive experience. 236 Clement St., 415.347.3792
Flour + Water’s little sister restaurant, Penny Roma, serves traditional Italian fare in a happening and scene-y atmosphere. Order the dinner party menu for the table and be swept up in a scrumptious culinary journey that includes hamachi, prosciutto and melon, cacio e pepe and more. 3000 20th St., 415.826.7004
Penny Roma’s courtyard and dining room. Photo By Krescent Carasso
Seven Hills is the traditional Italian trattoria from which every neighborhood would benefit. The team welcomes guests with a smile. The food—duck liver pâté with Mission fig jam, orecchiette with basil pesto and tagliatelle with pork sausage sugo—is simple, comforting, and supremely satisfying. 1896 Hyde St., 415.775.1550
Looking for the perfect Italian dinner date night? You’ll find it at SPQR. Sit at the intimate chef’s counter and watch the team work their magic with various housemade pastas. Get the tasting menu, and you’ll be in for a treat, as it features inventive, seasonal dishes. 1911 Fillmore St., 415.771.7779
Dining and Cooking