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Amarena
Master Critic Reviews (4 Lists)
Amarena
8.6
Long-running Russian Hill trattoria from chef-owner Paolo Galli (opened 2002) known for housemade pastas and a warmly old-school dining room. Lasagna di Carne is baked to order, alongside seasonal Northern Italian plates and a thoughtful Italian-leaning wine list.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lasagna di Carne, Pappardelle al Cinghiale, Tagliolini ai Funghi e Tartufo
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Handmade, Roman-leaning pastas and classic lasagna by a veteran chef-owner.
Who should go: Pasta traditionalists and date-night diners
When to visit: Weeknights 6–7 pm for smoother seating
What to order: Lasagna di Carne; pappardelle al cinghiale; burrata
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu specials—they often run seasonal pasta riffs.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—manageable on weekdays before 6 pm but tight on weekends; no valet service.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine if paired with a collared shirt or nice top.
Noise level: Moderate—lively Italian background chatter but still easy to converse at a two-top.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; bar seats may open up sooner.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—dinner-only service; call ahead for private events.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several pasta and antipasti options such as burrata, gnocchi, and salads.
Vegan options: Limited—few fully vegan dishes, though some items can be customized upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free pasta available upon request; prepared carefully but not in a separate kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the dim lighting, intimate tables, and classic Italian warmth make it one of Russian Hill’s most romantic under-the-radar spots.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights before 7 pm, but reservations are strongly advised on weekends as the dining room is small.
Is it kid-friendly? Best for adults or older teens; space is tight and the vibe leans toward date-night rather than family dining.
Best For
Better for: Handmade pasta authenticity and cozy charm—ideal when you want a genuine, chef-driven trattoria experience rather than a scene.
Skip if: You’re seeking modern decor, large groups, or extensive vegan options—this is an old-school, intimate Italian spot.
Amarena
7.9
Classic Russian Hill trattoria serving Roman-leaning comfort dishes in a warmly lit room. Locals come for straightforward pastas, saltimbocca, and a relaxed, conversational pace ideal for low-key dates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Saltimbocca alla Romana, Tagliolini ai funghi, Tiramisu
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Old-school trattoria comfort in a calm, candle-lit setting.
Who should go: Classic Italian traditionalists
When to visit: Weeknights for easier reservations
What to order: Saltimbocca, tagliolini ai funghi, tiramisu
Insider tip: Ask for a window table to soften noise from the dining room.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Russian Hill; allow extra time. Meters run until 10pm, no valet available.
Dress code: Smart casual; most guests lean slightly dressy for date nights.
Noise level: Moderate – conversation-friendly but the room can buzz when full.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, walk-ins seated promptly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several pastas and antipasti can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited – 1–2 options if you request modifications.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free pasta available on request; cross-contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The warmly lit room and slower pace create a comfortable backdrop for conversation without the pressure of a formal fine-dining experience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? On weeknights, yes—walk-ins are often accommodated. On weekends, a reservation is strongly recommended to avoid a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially. It’s oriented toward adult diners and date nights. Older children may be fine, but there are no kids’ menus or special amenities.
Best For
Better for: Classic Roman-style comfort dishes in a calm, candle-lit trattoria atmosphere.
Skip if: You want trendy dishes, large groups, or a more modern, high-energy Italian experience.
Amarena
8.2
Long-running neighborhood trattoria known for classic pastas, grilled mains, and warm hospitality. The cozy corner space welcomes multi-generational tables and handles special requests kindly.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pappardelle Bolognese, Osso Buco (seasonal), Tiramisu
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Classic trattoria cooking with genuinely welcoming service.
Who should go: Families craving traditional pasta
When to visit: Early weeknights for easier reservations
What to order: Pappardelle Bolognese, grilled fish, tiramisu
Insider tip: Counter-service delivery partners help on rainy school nights.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Russian Hill can be tight, especially after 6pm; meter spots nearby, but no valet service.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—jeans and sweaters are fine, but many diners lean slightly dressy for dinner.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is possible at most tables, though weekend evenings can get lively.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; booking recommended.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several pastas, risottos, and antipasti are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited—about 2–3 dishes can be adapted on request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free pasta is available upon request, though not all sauces are suitable.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you’re aiming for a cozy, unpretentious vibe—less about flash, more about warmth and comfort.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights if you arrive early, but weekends fill quickly—call ahead to avoid a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—staff are accommodating with high chairs, half portions, and patience for family groups. Best for ages 4+.
Best For
Better for: Welcoming service and traditional pasta dishes delivered consistently—ideal for families and regulars.
Skip if: You want sleek modern décor, cutting-edge Italian cooking, or a quiet fine-dining atmosphere.
Amarena
8.1
Cozy Larkin & Green corner serving Northern-leaning Italian staples since the early 2000s. Street-side seating pairs well with hearty pastas and a welcoming, date-night vibe.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pappardelle al cinghiale (wild boar ragù), Linguine alle vongole, Butternut squash ravioli
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Romantic corner trattoria with steady classics and patio seating.
Who should go: Couples craving cozy pasta night
When to visit: Weeknights after the early rush
What to order: Pappardelle cinghiale, linguine vongole, squash ravioli
Insider tip: Request a sidewalk table facing the light-wrapped tree.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Russian Hill can be challenging after 6pm; no valet service is offered. Best to allow extra time or use nearby garages on Polk or California Streets.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but many diners lean slightly dressy given the date-night vibe.
Noise level: Moderate — background chatter but still easy to hold a conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; sidewalk tables go first.
Weekday lunch: No wait; typically easy walk-in.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple pasta and starter options are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited — 1–2 customizable dishes, though not a dedicated menu.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free pasta available on request; cross-contact possible, so ask staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — cozy corner setting, intimate lighting, and reliable pastas create an easygoing yet romantic vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s possible on weeknights, but weekend evenings usually require a booking. Walk-ins may face a 30–45 minute wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — it’s more suited for adults and couples. High chairs and kid-specific options are not standard.
Best For
Better for: Romantic Northern Italian comfort food in a warm, neighborhood setting with outdoor seating.
Skip if: You want vegan-focused dining, very large groups, or guaranteed parking convenience.