Best Italian Restaurants in Financial District / Embarcadero

Price: Moderate (250)Price: Expensive (201)Price: Very Expensive (66)

113 restaurants available nearby

1. Perbacco

4.7

Exceptional(6967)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 52 times today

Sleek and modern with one foot firmly in the Old World is the feeling at Perbacco. The restaurant boasts a brick wall original to the historic 1913 Hind building, with other touches such as a bar top and floor tiles made from white Carrara marble. With 16 seats at the bar and 7 more intimate tables, Perbacco creates an atmosphere for a glass of wine or a light bite. Perbacco also features 2 dining rooms, one on the main floor and a smaller one on the Mezzanine, which has the added allure of serving as "theater", with windows to watch all the action in the kitchen below. Chef Staffan Terje strives to cook the finest food reflecting the Italian regions of Piemonte and Liguria. Handcrafted, house-made salumi, prosciutto and other charcuterie are not to be missed. Seasonal pastas, a tradition in Piemonte, range from the traditional ravioli to the more exotic agnolotti. Main courses feature dishes such as stuffed quail breast, a selection of seafood dishes, and vegetarian options.

A photo of Orafo at Four Seasons Embarcadero restaurant

2. Orafo at Four Seasons Embarcadero

4.7

Exceptional(42)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 2 times today

Meaning “goldsmith” in Italian, Orafo brings a tradition of craftsmanship to every dish and cocktail while paying tribute to San Francisco’s Gold Rush past. From fresh-made pastas, to locally sourced seafood and dishes made for sharing, the menu features Italian classics expressed through California’s bounty of local farmers and purveyors. Orafo is located on the Lobby Level at Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco at Embarcadero.

3. Cafe Tiramisu

4.9

Exceptional(1543)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 5 times today

Cafe Tiramisu in San Francisco's vibrant Financial District/Embarcadero area stands out as a beacon of authentic Italian cuisine. Patrons rave about the "delicious linguine and clams" and the homemade pastas, which, according to one diner, "may be the best Italian food we have had in SF." The restaurant prides itself on using carefully selected ingredients that shine in dishes like the mouthwatering Branzino and the signature Tiramisu, described as the "best we’ve ever had." The ambiance, coupled with the "outstanding" service, creates an experience that's not only delightful but genuinely Italian. As one satisfied customer put it, "The food amazing, the service fantastic! I cannot wait to come back." Cafe Tiramisu is indeed a must-visit for anyone seeking the true flavors of Italy right in the heart of San Francisco.

4. Credo

4.4

Awesome(1900)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 11 times today

Credo is the Latin word for "I believe." We believe that good food and good company go hand in hand. We believe in the time-honored tradition of the dinner table debate and the swirling mix of ideas that makes this country great. We believe simple things can be brilliant, like authentic, responsibly sourced ingredients, attention to detail and gracious hospitality. Credo opened on Martin Luther King Jr. day in 2010. Our chef, Larry Finn, creates a menu that reflects his deep appreciation of Italian culinary traditions combined with Northern California sensibilities. Distilling robust and complex flavors from simple ingredients, local produce, sustainable seafood and meats, and imported Italian specialty items.

5. Palio

4.8

Exceptional(1487)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 5 times today

Nestled in the bustling Financial District of San Francisco, Palio stands out as a beacon of authentic Pizzeria cuisine. Winner of the "2018 Best Overall Restaurant" by SF Bay Guardian readers, Palio garners praise for its wood-fired pizzas that are "perfect, never scorched." Diners rave about the "homemade pasta dishes and individually sized pizzas," highlighting the Mortadella with ricotta and mushroom pizzas as must-tries. A reviewer passionately noted, "Best pizza in town!" reinforcing the restaurant's reputation for quality and authenticity. With its commitment to using organic and sustainable ingredients, Palio not only promises an exceptional dining experience but also a delightful journey through the flavors of Italy, right in the heart of San Francisco.

6. Caffe Macaroni

4.9

Exceptional(712)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • North Beach

Booked 3 times today

Nestled in the heart of North Beach, San Francisco, Caffe Macaroni stands out as a beacon of authentic Sicilian cuisine. Owners Mario and Stephanie bring the warmth of Sicily to every dish, making patrons feel like family. This charming nook offers a daily-changing menu to ensure freshness, with dishes like the tender baby octopus spaghetti and mouthwatering pappardelle with wild boar, earning rave reviews for their perfect execution. Guests consistently praise the "amazing authentic food" and the personal touch Mario and Stephanie provide, making every dining experience special. As one diner puts it, it's like "being in Italy" with the added delight of a cozy San Francisco vibe.

A photo of Original Joe's - San Francisco restaurant

7. Original Joe's - San Francisco

4.7

Exceptional(4111)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • North Beach

Booked 112 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 Che Fico San Francisco restaurant

8. Che Fico San Francisco

4.7

Exceptional(1820)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • North Panhandle / USF

Booked 65 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 Scoma's Fisherman's Wharf restaurant

9. Scoma's Fisherman's Wharf

4.7

Exceptional(5519)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • North Beach

Booked 77 times today

Scoma’s Fisherman’s Wharf in North Beach, San Francisco, is a gem for those seeking top-notch Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service. Known for its stellar seafood, Scoma’s also excels in creating an inviting bar atmosphere where every cocktail is crafted with precision. Patrons rave about the "amazing drinks" and the "brilliant evening with friends," highlighting the lounge’s vibrant yet cozy vibe. The service is consistently lauded, with visitors impressed by the attentive and friendly staff, making it not just a meal but an experience. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Scoma’s offers the quintessential San Francisco dining and lounging experience, making it a must-visit for anyone looking for quality and comfort in a glass.

10. Alora

4.6

Exceptional(143)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 27 times today

Alora, located in the bustling Financial District/Embarcadero of San Francisco, offers a sublime Turkish dining experience that blends the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with California's freshness. Diners rave about the authenticity and quality of the cuisine, with one patron exclaiming, "The best hummus I’ve ever had… and I’ve had a lot of hummus." The restaurant's signature dishes like Adana kebab and Muhammara, served with freshly baked einkorn pita, receive consistent praise for their exquisite taste and presentation. The waterfront setting enhances the dining experience, making Alora a must-visit for anyone seeking exceptional Turkish cuisine in a beautiful location.

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Discover best Italian restaurants in Financial District / Embarcadero

Discover the essence of Italian cuisine right in the heart of San Francisco's Financial District/Embarcadero area. This thriving culinary hotspot is home to a selection of Italian restaurants that pride themselves on authenticity, exceptional quality, and a true Italian dining experience. Each establishment offers a unique interpretation of classic Italian dishes, from perfectly crafted pastas and pizzas to traditional desserts like tiramisu, all curated to satisfy the discerning palate. The dining scene in this locale is vibrant and diverse, catering not only to traditional tastes but also to those seeking innovative Italian fare with a Northern California twist. With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and impeccable service, these restaurants ensure a memorable gastronomic journey. Whether you're in search of a casual dining spot or a sophisticated ambiance, the Financial District/Embarcadero area promises an Italian culinary adventure that resonates with both authenticity and creativity. Delight in the rich flavors and refined atmospheres as you explore the best Italian dining that San Francisco has to offer.

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