0 Followers
Alimento
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Alimento
8.1
Compact Italian market-café with a deep specialty sandwich list that reads like a roll call of North Beach favorites. Expect Italian cold cuts, mozzarella, and pesto-leaning builds assembled quickly for takeout.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Goodfella, The Speciale, The Calabrese
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Long menu of Italian-style builds with speedy counter execution.
Who should go: Fans of Italian meats and classic deli flavors
When to visit: Mid-afternoon lull for fastest pickup
What to order: Goodfella; Speciale; North Beach Sandwich
Insider tip: Add sun-dried tomatoes or olive tapenade for extra pop.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking only; can be tight on Columbus Ave mid-day.
Dress code: Casual—locals drop in wearing jeans and jackets.
Noise level: Low to moderate—mostly takeout traffic, easy to chat if dining in.
Weekend wait: Minimal; sandwiches are made to order within 10–15 minutes.
Weekday lunch: Usually 5–10 minutes unless there’s a tour group rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple mozzarella and roasted veggie options.
Vegan options: Limited—custom builds possible but most include cheese or meat.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free bread, but salads available upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it’s a compact deli-style setup best for a quick bite or casual lunch rather than lingering conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, it’s counter-service with a few stools—no reservations accepted or needed.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick meals—friendly staff and simple sandwiches, but limited seating and no kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Classic Italian deli flavors and generous sandwiches assembled fast without pretension.
Skip if: You’re seeking a sit-down meal with full service or gluten-free bread options.
Alimento
8.1
Italian deli-market with a prominent gelato program—two display cases and 20+ flavors most nights. Stretchy, ultra-creamy scoops and classic Italian picks make it an easy dessert stop after a Columbus Ave meal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pistachio Gelato, Thai Tea Gelato, Affogato
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Broad, classic-leaning gelato selection inside a handy deli-market.
Who should go: Post-dinner dessert hunters on Columbus
When to visit: 9–11pm for full case and shorter waits
What to order: Pistachio; Thai tea gelato; affogato over vanilla
Insider tip: Ask for a half-and-half scoop to sample two flavors in one cup.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Columbus Avenue and side streets like Vallejo or Green is the best bet, though it fills up fast after 7pm. No dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—most guests come post-dinner or while strolling North Beach.
Noise level: Low to moderate—mostly counter chatter and background music, easy for conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–15 minutes for peak dessert rush around 9–10pm.
Weekday lunch: No wait—service is quick and steady.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—most gelato flavors are vegetarian, with some milk-based exceptions for mix-ins.
Vegan options: Limited—2–3 fruit sorbets and occasional dairy-free specials.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many options, though cones contain gluten; cups are safest.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—grabbing gelato after dinner here is an easy, low-pressure move. The bright cases and relaxed crowd make it ideal for a casual dessert stroll.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations needed—it’s a counter-service setup with limited indoor seating and a few sidewalk tables.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely—families frequent it for the gelato variety and fast service. Kids love the visual display of flavors.
Best For
Better for: Classic Italian gelato textures and flavor purity—ideal for traditionalists or those wanting a post-dinner treat without a sit-down commitment.
Skip if: You’re looking for trendy soft-serve or novelty toppings—this spot keeps things old-school Italian.