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Penny Roma
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Penny Roma
8.6
Housemade pastas and wood-fired mains anchor a warmly lit dining room that opens to an indoor–outdoor courtyard. The Flour + Water team keeps service polished and the wine list smart without feeling fussy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe, Agnolotti del Plin, Crispy Potatoes with Fontina Fonduta
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Courtyard patio and a pasta program led by the Flour + Water team.
Who should go: Pasta lovers and natural-wine fans
When to visit: Evenings 5:30–7:30 for prime courtyard tables
What to order: Cacio e pepe; agnolotti del plin; crispy potatoes
Insider tip: Ask for courtyard seating when you check in—turns move steadily.
Penny Roma
8.4
A convivial, pasta-forward spot from the Flour + Water team with an easygoing dining room and an indoor–outdoor flow. The menu leans comfort-with-technique: expertly sauced pastas, bright antipasti, and a friendly wine list.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tonnarelli cacio e pepe, Ragù alla bolognese, Crispy potatoes with herbs
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Comfort-first pasta cookery with polished execution.
Who should go: Friends sharing pasta and wine
When to visit: Weeknights 5:30–7:00pm for easier walk-ins
What to order: Cacio e pepe; bolognese; seasonal crudo
Insider tip: Add your name at opening; grab a drink next door while you wait.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in the Mission is limited—allow extra time; no valet service provided.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and casual dresses are common, but many lean slightly dressy for evening.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—easy for small groups to converse, though can get energetic on weekends.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation; bar seats turn over faster.
Weekday lunch: Not open for lunch—dinner only service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple antipasti and pastas are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 dishes can be modified; check with staff for substitutions.
Gluten-free options: Some gluten-free options available; pasta alternatives are limited but possible on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its warm ambiance, polished service, and shareable pastas make it an inviting date-night spot.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but expect a wait on weekends; adding your name at opening and grabbing a nearby drink is the best strategy.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially; best for adults or older teens. No kids’ menu and the vibe is more geared toward adults sharing wine and pasta.
Best For
Better for: Lively, convivial group dinners and date nights where approachable pasta meets polished cooking.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet fine-dining experience or a fully gluten-free/vegan menu.
Penny Roma
9.1
Penny Roma offers traditional Italian dining with pasta, fish, and wood-fired dishes, a Californian vibe, and an inviting atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
Agnolotti dal Plin, Lasagna Bolognese, Chicken al Mattone
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Traditional Italian dishes with a Californian twist in a warm, inviting setting.
Who should go: Couples seeking authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
When to visit: Evenings for a romantic dinner experience.
What to order: Agnolotti dal Plin, Lasagna Bolognese, Chicken al Mattone.
Insider tip: Arrive early or make a reservation, as this spot is popular among locals.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available, but can be limited. Valet service available for $15. Street parking becomes difficult after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual – jeans are fine but lean toward dressy, especially in the evenings.
Noise level: Moderate – can easily hear your date, but it may get louder during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, as weekdays are less busy.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – there are multiple vegetarian-friendly options, including some pasta dishes and a dedicated menu section.
Vegan options: Limited – about 2-3 vegan options, but they are available upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free pasta options and separate prep area for celiac safety.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Absolutely. Penny Roma offers a cozy, romantic atmosphere with exquisite Italian cuisine, making it an ideal spot for a first date. The intimate ambiance encourages conversation, and the food is impressive without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s recommended to make a reservation, especially on weekends. If you’re going without one, try to arrive early to avoid long waits, particularly around dinner time.
Is it kid-friendly? While Penny Roma is primarily aimed at adults seeking a romantic meal, it’s kid-friendly. However, it’s better suited for older children or those who enjoy a quieter dining experience. High chairs are available.
Best For
Better for: Penny Roma excels with its romantic atmosphere and outdoor dining, which makes it a better option than many other Italian spots in the area for a cozy, date-night vibe.
Skip if: If you’re looking for a quick meal or a more casual dining experience, Penny Roma might not be the best choice. Try a more laid-back spot like Luna's Coffee House for a quicker bite.