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Cesario’s
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Cesario’s
7.8
Family-owned classic (established 1999) near Union Square serving a hearty meat lasagna and a lighter polenta lasagna. Old-school service and comforting sauces make it a dependable pre- or post-shopping option.
Must-Try Dishes:
Meat Lasagna (ricotta, mozzarella, provolone, spinach), Polenta Lasagna (spinach & ricotta), Chicken Parmigiana
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Two distinct lasagnas, including a lighter polenta-based version.
Who should go: Classic red-sauce fans
When to visit: Early evening for walk-in tables
What to order: Meat lasagna, polenta lasagna, tiramisu
Insider tip: Parking is easier at the Sutter-Stockton Garage a few blocks away.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Closest option is the Sutter-Stockton Garage, about a 5-minute walk; limited street parking is tough after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and nice tops are fine, but many diners lean semi-dressy given the Union Square location.
Noise level: Moderate; you can hold a conversation, though peak dinner hours get lively.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; reservations recommended.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, with faster seating available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – the polenta lasagna is a lighter vegetarian option and there are pasta dishes without meat.
Vegan options: Limited – most dishes use cheese or cream, but staff can suggest modifications.
Gluten-free options: Some dishes like polenta-based lasagna and risottos are gluten-free friendly; confirm with staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want a classic, cozy Italian spot with old-school service. It’s more relaxed and comforting than flashy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible, especially on weekdays or early evenings, but weekends are safer with a booking.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, families are welcome; the menu has approachable pasta and pizza dishes, but the atmosphere skews adult after 7pm.
Best For
Better for: Dependable classic Italian near Union Square with hearty lasagnas and family-style hospitality.
Skip if: You’re seeking cutting-edge Italian or a trendy, scene-heavy vibe—other Hayes Valley or SoMa spots may fit better.
Cesario’s
8.0
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:
Linguine Vongole, Veal Piccata, Meat Lasagna
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Time-tested recipes and gracious hospitality in a classic dining room.
Who should go: Traditionalists who want comforting Italian
When to visit: 7–8pm for peak room energy
What to order: Linguine vongole; veal piccata; lasagna
Insider tip: Ask about nightly off-menu pastas from the kitchen.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated lot; nearby Union Square garages available ($8–15), street parking tight after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual—collared shirts and dresses fit the setting, though neat jeans are fine.
Noise level: Moderate—buzz of conversation but easy to talk across the table.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer during peak convention weekends.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; tables open quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several pastas and starters are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited—can modify some pastas or salads but not a focus.
Gluten-free options: Accommodations available on request, though no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the intimate, old-school setting is relaxed and romantic without being flashy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weekdays, but weekends almost always require a reservation to avoid long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—geared more toward adults, though older children can be accommodated; no kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Warm hospitality and classic Northern Italian comfort dishes in a cozy dining room.
Skip if: You’re looking for modern small plates, vegan-forward menus, or buzzy nightlife energy.
Cesario’s
8.0
Old-school Northern Italian stalwart near Union Square serving classics since 1991. Expect warm, theater-district hospitality and hearty plates like veal scaloppine and house lasagna.
Must-Try Dishes:
Veal scaloppine piccata, House lasagna, Spaghetti carbonara
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Long-running theater-district classic with generous, traditional plates.
Who should go: Fans of classic red-sauce Italian
When to visit: Pre-show dinner for smooth seating
What to order: Veal piccata; lasagna; carbonara
Insider tip: Ask about half portions if you’re catching a show.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is scarce near Union Square, but several paid garages are within a block—expect $10–$15 for dinner hours.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine, but most diners lean slightly dressy given the theater district crowd.
Noise level: Moderate—conversations are comfortable, though it can get livelier before and after shows.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially pre-show hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, quick seating available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—pasta primavera, eggplant parmigiana, and salads are reliable options.
Vegan options: Limited—can customize a few pastas and salads, but not a dedicated menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free pasta available on request, though no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its warm, old-school charm makes it cozy and conversational, though it’s more comfort than upscale romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes at lunch or late evening, but dinner before shows strongly benefits from a reservation.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—family-friendly atmosphere, high chairs available, and menu items like spaghetti and lasagna appeal to kids.
Best For
Better for: Hearty, traditional Italian classics in generous portions at a friendlier price than many Union Square spots.
Skip if: You’re seeking cutting-edge Italian or a sleek fine-dining experience—this is about tradition and comfort.