Best Date Night Italian Restaurants in Russian Hill (94109)
5 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Essential Picks
#1
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
What makes it special: Two-star technique and cellar depth in an intimate, serene room.
Notable Picks
#2
Seven Hills
8.6
A Russian Hill staple for handmade pastas and market-driven plates in a cozy room. Locals book ahead for rich ragus, warm hospitality, and a neighborhood date-night feel.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pappardelle al ragù, Raviolo al uovo, Burrata with seasonal produce
What makes it special: Hand-rolled pastas and tight nightly specials from a seasoned team.
#3
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
What makes it special: Handmade, Roman-leaning pastas and classic lasagna by a veteran chef-owner.
#4
Frascati
8.5
Russian Hill bistro blending Mediterranean-leaning Italian plates with polished neighborhood hospitality. Handmade pastas and a thoughtful wine list make it a reliable date-night choice.
Must-Try Dishes:
Handmade pappardelle, Seared scallops, Burrata with seasonal accompaniments
What makes it special: Mediterranean-accented Italian cooking with intimate, cable-car-adjacent charm.
8.3
Wood-fired pies with blistered crusts alongside Italian antipasti and wine in a lively room. The team keeps toppings focused and seasonal, with precise bakes that balance chew and char.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita, Diavola, Funghi with fontina & herbs
What makes it special: Wood-fired crusts with clean toppings and steady execution.