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Acquerello
Master Critic Review
Acquerello
9.0
Two-Michelin-star Italian institution led by chef-owner Suzette Gresham, serving refined seasonal tasting menus in a hushed Nob Hill dining room. Precision cooking, deep cellar, and polished service make it a special-occasion anchor for serious Italian dining.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal risotto, Tajarin with truffles (seasonal), Parmesan budino
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 9.3
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 9.5
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 9.4
What makes it special: Two-star Michelin tasting menus with old-school hospitality.
Who should go: Anniversary and milestone dinner seekers
When to visit: Mid-week evenings for calmer dining room
What to order: Tasting menu, wine pairings, seasonal risotto
Insider tip: Ask the sommelier for half-bottle cellar picks to explore more labels.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet service is available for around $20; street parking in Nob Hill is scarce and competitive after 6pm.
Dress code: Formal to smart elegant; jackets recommended for men, cocktail attire or equivalent for women.
Noise level: Low – conversation is easily held in a hushed dining room environment.
Weekend wait: Reservation required weeks in advance; walk-ins are not accommodated.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable – the restaurant is only open for dinner.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – a full vegetarian tasting menu is available upon request.
Vegan options: Limited – not a dedicated menu, but advance notice allows the kitchen to create options.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free adaptations available with prior notification.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for milestone anniversaries or serious relationships; the formality and price point can feel overly intense for a casual first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No – reservations are essential; tables are booked weeks in advance and there is no walk-in seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children; no kids’ menu, long tasting menus, and a hushed atmosphere better suited to adults.
Best For
Better for: Acquerello excels at refined, Michelin-level Italian tasting menus with deep wine pairings and polished, formal service.
Skip if: Skip if you want casual Italian dining, a la carte flexibility, or a lively social atmosphere.