Why did we dine here? – Octavia is the latest restaurant from Melissa Perello, chef-owner of 1 Michelin Starred and well loved Frances. A small 54 seat neighborhood restaurant that is already drawing crowds from throughout the City. We are in this area a lot, so we were waiting for it to finally open. This is our third visit to Octavia in Winter 2023 during the Pandemic, the first was in April 2015. Octavia has 2 nice heated parklets outside. Chefs tasting menu available if entire table participates. Insider Tip – Reservations or come early and nab a table. Cuisine – New American Location – Pacific Heights Opened – 2015 Service – Octavia impressed us with very professional service. This is a small restaurant, yet they employe staff that constantly scan each table. Verdict – Octavia impressed us with really good service.  The food did not live up to the high prices though. Definitely not as good as the past visits, especially with prices jacked up. Is this restaurant worth a 5 minute drive? Maybe. 30 minute? Maybe. 1 Hour? Maybe. Octavia Signature Dishes – Deviled Egg, squid ink pasta, quail. Octavia’s Menu of 14 to 16 dishes rotates through different […]

This post originally from Octavia, San Francisco

SPQR is an Italian osteria, located in Pacific Heights, that serves wine and more casual food than their popular sister restaurant A16 in the Marina district. According to Wikipedia, “SPQR is an initialism from a Latin phrase, Senatus Populusque Romanus (“The Senate and the People of Rome” or “The Senate and Roman People”), referring to the government of the ancient Roman Republic”. Executive Chef, Matthew Accarrino, prepares “sophisticated, yet soulful, Italian cuisine using the best local ingredients, traditional and modern cooking techniques delivered in a relaxed and fun atmosphere.” Our last visit for take-out === During the Covid 19 Shelter in place in March 2019, we tried their take-out. We were trying to support local restaurants, so they can survive. SPQR satisfied our need for some quality Italian food. The menu is limited but included some larger family meals. Alyssa’s Pizza was also featured. Prices are high. (Welcome to SF) Ordered directly from restaurant to avoid extra fees. Safety Pluses – Social distancing. Took Credit card over phone Minuses – Need to go inside, no pen quarantine Food Picks: Fennel Rubbed chicken ($29 for half) was excellent. Zuni Quality Strozzapreti Pasta ($28) with bolognese ragu was also excellent. Bucatini pasta […]

This post originally from SPQR Restaurant Review, San Francisco

Delicious Italian around the Bay. Pizzeria Delfina is the lower cost more casual eatery next to top rated Delfina. They do not take reservations and focus on ‘Neapolitan inspired’, thin crust pizzas and Antipasti. Delfina does not serve pizza. They use local, seasonal ingredients and have a lots of wines by the glass.  There are 2 location in San Francisco – Mission and Pacific Heights. In 2026 we dined at the California St SF location. Decor, Vibe – Contemporary design with more seats than the Mission street location. Heated sidewalk tables outside. Stylish couples and friends mostly in their 20’s and 30’s were eating here. If they are busy and have a wait, make sure check to see if the counter is available. The seats near the kitchen are the best in the house!  We see what everyone orders and figured what we will order next time. (Mary’s Chicken and the Grilled Local Albacore special) Pizzeria Delfina Menu The menu changes from time to time but includes a good selection of salads, pizzas, and a couple pasta dishes. They have a changing Antipasti, Veggy, Pizza, Pasta, and Piatti dish. Pizzeria Delfina Picks: Angelo & Franco Burrata ($16) with arugula, crostini, […]

This post originally from Pizzeria Delfina, San Francisco – Burlingame