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Via Aurelia
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Via Aurelia
8.6
Modern Tuscan restaurant from the Che Fico team with a sizable waterfront-adjacent patio. Handmade pastas and wood-fired proteins pair with a deep Italian wine list and polished service ideal for al fresco dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tagliatelle al ragù d’anatra, Bistecca alla Fiorentina (shareable), Mushroom sformato
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Tuscan cooking and serious wines on a waterfront-adjacent patio.
Who should go: Italian lovers seeking polished outdoor dinners
When to visit: Golden hour for patio views and calmer service
What to order: Duck ragù tagliatelle; bistecca; mushroom sformato
Insider tip: Ask for patio edge seating facing Bayfront Park for the best light.
Via Aurelia
8.9
Tuscan-focused fine dining from the Che Fico team with a sweeping wine list and waterfront patio at Mission Rock. Expect precise handmade pastas, tableside touches, and a room built for lingering, from date-night tastings to à la carte classics.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bistecca alla Fiorentina, Tagliatelle with duck ragu, Mushroom sformato
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Elegant Tuscan cuisine by David Nayfeld & team with bay views.
Who should go: Couples seeking polished, wine-led Italian
When to visit: Weeknights after 7 for calmer dining room
What to order: Bistecca; duck ragù tagliatelle; sformato
Insider tip: Ask about the tasting menu and reserve patio seats for sunset.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet service available at Mission Rock for $15; nearby street parking is limited after 6pm but garage parking is available at Pier 48.
Dress code: Smart elegant—think date-night chic; jackets welcome but not required.
Noise level: Moderate to low—ideal for conversation, though bar seating can get livelier after 8pm.
Weekend wait: Reservations strongly recommended; expect 45–60 minute wait for walk-ins at peak times.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; limited menu available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several antipasti, pastas, and sides are designed for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited – staff can modify select dishes; no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free pasta available upon request; careful cross-contact protocols.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The intimate lighting, bayfront views, and professional pacing make it one of the city’s best first-date choices for making an elegant impression.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Occasionally—bar and lounge seating are held for walk-ins, but weekends are nearly always booked solid, so reserve ahead for dining room access.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly; geared toward adults with limited high-chair availability and no children’s menu. Suitable for teens with refined palates.
Best For
Better for: Romantic dinners and refined Italian executed with modern polish—finer atmosphere and service than nearby Mission Rock casual options.
Skip if: You’re after a lively group meal or casual pizza night—opt for Flour + Water or A16 instead.
Via Aurelia
8.8
Tuscan-focused fine dining from the Che Fico team on the Mission Rock waterfront. Expect handmade pastas, wood-fired meats, and a deep cellar in a polished room with bay views.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bistecca alla Fiorentina, Sformato with seasonal vegetables, Aged tuna belly antipasto
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Ambitious Tuscan menu with waterfront setting and serious wine program.
Who should go: Fine-dining fans and celebratory date nights
When to visit: Sunset seatings for views without game-day rush
What to order: Bistecca; handmade pasta; seasonal antipasti
Insider tip: On Giants home games, arrive early—patio tables go first.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available at nearby garage ($15); limited metered street parking after 6pm, especially on game nights.
Dress code: Smart casual to upscale; jackets optional but common, avoid overly casual attire.
Noise level: Moderate—ambient music and conversation buzz, but comfortable for table talk.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer during baseball games or sunset hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; reservations recommended only for large parties.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—strong options including handmade pastas and vegetable antipasti.
Vegan options: Limited—ask for custom preparations, as menu leans heavily on dairy and meats.
Gluten-free options: Yes—some dishes can be modified; separate prep handled carefully upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Absolutely—romantic lighting, waterfront views, and polished service create an elevated yet relaxed first-date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible at the bar or patio for early diners, but prime dinner hours and weekends book out—reserve ahead when possible.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—best for adults or older teens; no kids’ menu and a quieter, formal vibe during dinner service.
Best For
Better for: Refined Tuscan cooking with standout pasta texture and wine pairings, plus unobstructed bayfront ambiance rare in SF fine dining.
Skip if: You’re looking for casual trattoria prices or large group seating flexibility—this is a splurge-worthy, intimate spot.