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ZipPicks Awards
Best Cheap Eats Pizza in North Beach
Best Family Friendly Pizza in North Beach
Best Pizza in North Beach
Master Critic Review
Piccolo Forno
7.7
Casual trattoria serving thin-crust Italian pizzas alongside pastas and salads. Friendly service and fair checks make it a solid, lower-key alternative on Columbus.
Must-Try Dishes:
Prosciutto e Arugula, Funghi, Margherita
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Straightforward Italian pies at approachable prices on Columbus.
Who should go: Casual date nights and small groups
When to visit: Early dinner before the evening stroll crowds
What to order: Prosciutto-arugula; funghi; classic margherita
Insider tip: Ask for a window table to watch the Columbus Ave foot traffic.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited on Columbus Ave, especially after 6pm. Best bet is the North Beach Parking Garage on Vallejo and Stockton, about a 3-minute walk.
Dress code: Casual attire is fine—jeans and T-shirts are common, but a neat casual look fits the trattoria setting.
Noise level: Moderate – lively during dinner but still possible to hold a conversation comfortably.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins welcome.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several pizzas and pastas are vegetarian-friendly, including margherita and funghi pies.
Vegan options: Limited – can make some pizzas vegan by omitting cheese, but no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free dough, though salads and select antipasti can work for gluten-sensitive diners.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – it’s relaxed and unpretentious, ideal for an easygoing first date with good food and casual energy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes. Walk-ins are common, especially before 6:30pm or during weekday lunches.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – families frequent the spot. There’s seating for small groups, and kids tend to enjoy the simple margherita and pasta options.
Best For
Better for: More affordable and less crowded than nearby sit-down Italian spots like Calzone’s or Tony’s; friendlier service with a true trattoria feel.
Skip if: You’re seeking wood-fired Neapolitan pies or a more romantic atmosphere—Il Casaro or Tony’s Slice House fit those better.
Hours
Monday11:45am - 10pm
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday11:45am - 10pm
Thursday11:45am - 10pm
Friday11:45am - 10pm
Saturday11:45am - 10pm
Sunday11:45am - 10pm