I lived in North Beach, the “Little Italy” of San Francisco, for over 5 years. In that time, I learned where to go depending on what I was craving. Here’s a guide on how to navigate the many historical Italian restaurants in North Beach!
Map
Sections
7
The Perfect Pizza
The Most Superior Subs
Primo Pasta
Delicious Desserts for After Dinner
The Best Breakfasts
Coffee Break!
The Perfect Pizza
From the original Flour + Water pasta shop comes their newest venture: the pizzeria! Sit by the bar and watch the chefs pull the perfect pie out of the pizza oven every time.
Flour + Water Pizzeria
The makers of Tony’s understand life on the go. They’ve created a grab and go pizzeria to get coal fired slices to go!
Tony’s Coal Fired Pizza & Slice House
If you want to skip the lines, this is one of my go-to pizzerias! Ask for the spicy chili oil on the side if you like a little extra kick.
Il Casaro Pizzeria
You haven’t seen pizza like this. Baked on fluffy focaccia and open late, this pizzeria knows how to satisfy. The clam and garlic pizza has appeared in my dreams more than once.
Golden Boy Pizza
There’s a reason you’ve probably heard of this place. Tony is the best in the business!
Tony's Pizza Napoletana
The Most Superior Subs
The best Italian sub in all of North Beach! Stick around for some amazing gelato too!
Alimento
This tiny shop packs a punch with delicious sandwiches and an owner who loves what he does.
Le Sandwich
Slightly off the main path is this cute and quick sandwich shop!
Freddie's Sandwiches
Primo Pasta
Hands down the best gnocchi I’ve ever had. Beautiful pillows that melt in your mouth!
Firenze By Night
America’s oldest Italian restaurant is just off the beaten path in North Beach! Enjoy their house made pasta on a quiet weeknight or tap along with the jazz band on Sundays.
Fior d'Italia
A more casual option for yummy pasta!
Piccolo Forno
Delicious Desserts for After Dinner
For over 100 years, this shop has sold some of my favorite sweet treats. You can’t go wrong with a slice of princess cake, or grab a box of assorted cookies to share with friends!
Victoria Pastry Company
If you can’t choose between gelato or pastries, why not go for both? This place has some of my favorite cannoli too!
Mara's Italian Pastries
If you’re looking for a sweet treat nightcap, look no further than Original Joe’s! They have the creamiest espresso martinis.
Original Joe's
The Best Breakfasts
For over 100 years, this shop has been selling the most delicious focaccia. Take some across the street to enjoy in the park!
Liguria Bakery - 1700 Stockton St, San Francisco, California
Nothing says “San Francisco” more than Dungeness Crab Eggs Benedict!
Mama's On Washington Square
If you have the time, this small bakery’s seasonal menus are totally worth the wait! Every bite feels like heaven.
Butter & Crumble
Coffee Break!
The best iced dirty chai in town!
Compton’s Coffee House
Enjoy their small store full of work from local artists while you wait for your coffee!
Beacon Coffee & Pantry
Hole In The Wall (HITW) is small but mighty with their made-to-order drip coffee!
HITW Coffee
Enjoy a cup of coffee from the west coast’s first espresso house!
Caffe Trieste
Not Italian But I Refuse To Leave Off The List
This unassuming taqueria makes some of the best street tacos! And don’t forget the breakfast burrito!
Cilantro SF Taqueria
The best diner food! Make sure to get the cheese stuffed burger.
Mo's Grill
Delicious upscale bar food! I love the wings, sandwiches, and salads here. Bonus points for a patio!
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