Best Italian Restaurants in Tenderloin
3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Zingari Ristorante
Elegant Italian dining with live-music energy steps from Union Square.
Notable Picks
8.5
Classic downtown ristorante with white-tablecloth service, a steakhouse tilt, and pasta made in-house. A go-to for celebratory dinners near Union Square, often with live jazz in the lounge.
Must-Try Dishes:
Osso buco, Tagliatelle bolognese, Bistecca alla Fiorentina
What Makes it Special: Elegant Italian dining with live-music energy steps from Union Square.
#2
Tratto
8.1
Vibes:
Trendy Table Hotspots
Business Lunch Power Players
Girls Night Out Approved
Happy Hour Hotspots
Modern Italian in The Marker Hotel (since 2016) with a seasonal menu that often features a roasted-eggplant and ricotta lasagna alongside housemade pastas and cocktails. Stylish space suits pre-theater dinners and linger-worthy nights.
Must-Try Dishes:
Roasted Eggplant Lasagna (ricotta, tomato, almond pesto), Pappardelle al Ragù, Fritto Misto
What Makes it Special: Polished setting for a seasonal, roasted-eggplant lasagna and cocktails.
Worthy Picks
#3
Napoli Pizza
7.7
Vibes:
Late Night Legends
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Late-night slice shop and pasta counter known for friendly prices and long hours. The baked lasagna is simple and satisfying, ideal for a quick, no-frills carb fix.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked Lasagna, Spaghetti with Meatballs, Napoli Special Pizza
What Makes it Special: Budget-friendly pasta plates and slices served until the wee hours.