Any insider tips for a Mano?

Join the waitlist before arriving; patio tables turn fastest.

What should I order at a Mano?

Short rib pappardelle, cacio e pepe, seasonal burrata

When should I visit a Mano?

Early evening to avoid the longest waits

Any insider tips for Doppio Zero?

Patio seating available - request when less busy

What should I order at Doppio Zero?

Mortadella pizza, lobster ravioli, any wood-fired pie

When should I visit Doppio Zero?

Early dinner to avoid symphony crowds

Who should go to Doppio Zero?

Pre-theater diners and Italian food enthusiasts

Any insider tips for Tratto?

Check the mid-week aperitivo hour for drink-and-snack deals.

What should I order at Tratto?

Eggplant lasagna, pappardelle, a spritz

When should I visit Tratto?

Pre-show 5–6:30pm or late evening

Who should go to Tratto?

Pre-theater and cocktail-first diners

Any insider tips for Cesario’s?

Parking is easier at the Sutter-Stockton Garage a few blocks away.

What should I order at Cesario’s?

Meat lasagna, polenta lasagna, tiramisu

When should I visit Cesario’s?

Early evening for walk-in tables

Any insider tips for Il Borgo?

Call ahead—it's small and fills quickly on weekends.

What should I order at Il Borgo?

Lasagnetta del Borgo; gnocchi gorgonzola; marsala

When should I visit Il Borgo?

After 7:30pm for the calmest dining room

Who should go to Il Borgo?

Couples seeking a low-key classic

Best Date Night Italian Restaurants in Tenderloin (94102)

5 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated

Notable Picks

#1 a Mano

8.5

$$$ Hayes Valley

Vibes: Outdoor Dining Oasis Trendy Table Hotspots Girls Night Out Approved Date Night Magic

Crowd-favorite Hayes Valley spot for handmade pastas, crisp pizzas, and spritzes in a lively, good-looking room. Lines move fast and the energy stays buzzy without shouting over your date.

Must-Try Dishes: Pappardelle with short rib sugo, Cacio e pepe, Burrata with seasonal accoutrements

What makes it special: Fresh, handmade pastas with a high-energy patio scene.

View Full Review →

#2 Doppio Zero

8.2

$$$ Hayes Valley

Vibes: Date Night Magic Business Lunch Power Players Instagram Worthy Wonders Group Dining Gatherings

Southern Italian spot known for VPN-style Neapolitan pies and house pastas. Warm service, a solid wine list, and sidewalk seating make it an easy Hayes Valley date choice.

Must-Try Dishes: Margherita Pizza, Mortadella & Pistachio Pizza, Doppio Zero House Special

What makes it special: Authentic Neapolitan pizza certified by Vera Pizza Napoletana association

View Full Review →

#3 Tratto

8.1

$$$ Union Square / Theater District

Vibes: Trendy Table Hotspots Business Lunch Power Players Girls Night Out Approved Happy Hour Hotspots

Modern Union Square trattoria pairing house pastas and shareable snacks with a strong cocktail program. Soft lighting and leather banquettes make it easy to linger pre- or post-theater.

Must-Try Dishes: Roasted Eggplant Lasagna (ricotta, tomato, almond pesto), Pappardelle al Ragù, Fritto Misto

What makes it special: Polished setting for a seasonal, roasted-eggplant lasagna and cocktails.

View Full Review →

#4 Cesario’s

8.0

$$$$ Lower Nob Hill / Union Square

Vibes: Comfort Food Classics Hidden Gems Heaven Family Friendly Favorites

Old-school Northern Italian near Union Square serving classics since the early ’90s. White-tablecloth warmth, a deep pasta section, and affable service make it a relaxed, unpretentious date.

Must-Try Dishes: Meat Lasagna (ricotta, mozzarella, provolone, spinach), Polenta Lasagna (spinach & ricotta), Chicken Parmigiana

What makes it special: Two distinct lasagnas, including a lighter polenta-based version.

View Full Review →

Worthy Picks

#5 Il Borgo

7.7

$$ Hayes Valley / Civic Center edge

Vibes: Date Night Magic Hidden Gems Heaven Solo Dining Sanctuaries

Cozy neighborhood trattoria where the chef turns out handmade pastas and simple secondi. Low lighting and quiet tables suit intimate conversation away from the Hayes bustle.

Must-Try Dishes: Lasagnetta del Borgo, Gnocchi Gorgonzola, Chicken Marsala

What makes it special: Handmade, Milan-leaning pasta in a petite, quietly romantic room.

View Full Review →