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Bosco
Master Critic Review
Bosco
8.7
New wood-fired Italian from The Absinthe Group (opened Sept 2025) with chefs Ryan McIlwraith and Kaili Hill. Handmade pastas, hearth-kissed mains, and a polished room deliver a modern, upscale SoMa date night.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lemon Spaghetti with Sungold Tomato, Chicken Tortellini in Parmesan Cream, Wood-Fired Pork Ribs (agrodolce)
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: A wood-fired kitchen and handmade pasta program by a veteran SF team.
Who should go: Upscale pasta and wine seekers
When to visit: Prime time 7–8pm; book ahead
What to order: Lemon spaghetti; Chicken tortellini; Pork ribs
Insider tip: Book kitchen-counter seats to watch the hearth and pasta station.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Showplace Square can be scarce at night; valet service is typically available on weekends for around $15.
Dress code: Smart casual with a lean toward dressy—button-downs, dresses, and polished shoes fit the vibe.
Noise level: Moderate buzz; lively but you can still hold a date-night conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; nearly always requires booking ahead for prime times.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—Bosco is dinner-only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several handmade pastas and vegetable antipasti are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 adaptable options; request modifications for pasta without dairy.
Gluten-free options: Yes—select pasta dishes can be made with gluten-free substitutions, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The stylish room, polished service, and shareable pastas create a romantic yet modern setting ideal for an impressive first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely during peak hours; bar seats or counter seating may be available for walk-ins if you arrive early.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—Bosco is designed for adults and couples. Children are welcome but there are no kids’ menus or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: A luxe, contemporary Italian date night with wood-fired mains and an elevated pasta program, more polished than casual SoMa trattorias.
Skip if: If you want a budget-friendly Italian meal or a casual, family-style setting—opt for neighborhood trattorias instead.