Best Italian Restaurants in Russian Hill (94109)
8 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
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.
#4
Serafina
8.5
Cozy hillside Italian with city views and a focused menu from Executive Chef Umberto Cannarsa. The signature Lasagna Serafina leans rich and homey, complemented by gnocchi, seafood pastas, and a compact but quality wine list.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lasagna Serafina, Gnocchi di Patate con Spuntature, Spaghetti alle Vongole
What makes it special: House-special lasagna and handmade pastas with scenic Nob/Russian Hill perch.
#5
Sorella
8.4
A polished Polk Street room for modern Italian plates, house pastas, and a strong cocktail and wine program. It draws a stylish crowd and works for celebratory nights without going full white-tablecloth.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cacio e pepe, Seasonal crudo, Tagliatelle with ragù bianco
What makes it special: Modern Italian flavors with cocktail bar energy on Polk.
8.4
Roman-style pinsa with a light, airy crust baked crisp and topped with high-quality ingredients. Locals come for balanced flavors and a dough that stays digestible even with hearty toppings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita Pinsa, Diavola Pinsa, Prosciutto e Funghi Pinsa
What makes it special: True Roman pinsa technique with long-fermented, airy dough.
#7
Collina
8.0
Chef-led neighborhood trattoria focused on handmade pastas and seasonal antipasti. It’s intimate, unfussy, and dialed on flavor rather than flash.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tagliatelle al ragù, Meatballs with polenta, Seasonal crostini
What makes it special: Small, chef-driven room turning out focused handmade pasta.
Worthy Picks
7.8
Old-school Italian inside the Andrews Hotel serving classics with gracious service. It’s a comfortable choice for pre-theater dinners and family visits near Union Square.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken piccata, Veal scaloppine, Tiramisu
What makes it special: Classic recipes and friendly service in a tucked-away dining room.