27 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Italian in Russian Hill
Best Date Night Italian in Russian Hill
Master Critic Review
Acquerello
9.2
Since 1989, this Nob Hill landmark delivers refined, contemporary Italian through polished tasting menus and an award-winning cellar. Service is choreographed yet warm, making it a destination for milestone dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal tasting menu progression, Aged Parmigiano risotto, Petit fours & mignardises
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 9.4
Consistency: 9.3
Food Quality: 9.5
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 9.4
What makes it special: Two-star technique and cellar depth in an intimate, serene room.
Who should go: Special-occasion diners and oenophiles
When to visit: Weeknights for calmer pacing and sommelier time
What to order: Seasonal tasting; supplemental risotto; wine pairings
Insider tip: Request the cheese cart guidance for rare, off-menu selections.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet service available for a fee; limited metered street parking nearby, especially tight after 6pm in Nob Hill.
Dress code: Elegant attire recommended—jackets for men and cocktail attire for women; business casual may pass but lean dressy.
Noise level: Low—conversations remain private, with a serene, library-like ambiance.
Weekend wait: Reservations are essential—tables book weeks in advance; walk-ins almost never accommodated.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service offered; dinner-only format.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—seasonal vegetarian tasting menu available by request.
Vegan options: Limited—chef can adapt some dishes, but not a full vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free adaptations possible with advance notice.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Best for serious or milestone occasions rather than casual first dates—elegant, quiet, and high-stakes atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely—reservations are required and book out far in advance; last-minute seats are rare.
Is it kid-friendly? Not recommended for young children—no kids’ menu, formal pacing, and quiet dining room. Suitable only for older teens accustomed to fine dining.
Best For
Better for: Acquerello excels at refined, multi-course Italian tasting menus paired with one of the city’s deepest wine cellars, ideal for anniversaries and milestone celebrations.
Skip if: Skip if you prefer casual Italian, flexible à la carte dining, or a lively, noisy scene—this is polished and formal dining.
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday5:30pm - 9:30pm
Wednesday5:30pm - 9:30pm
Thursday5:30pm - 9:30pm
Friday5:30pm - 9:45pm
Saturday5:30pm - 9:45pm
SundayClosed