In the 70's, when I was in the service, stationed in Sacramento, I often drove down to San Francisco for the weekend, staying for about $10 per night in the Montgomery Street Barracks which are set alongside the parade grounds, which have since been converted to The Lodge at the Presidio. I spent many of those days in North Beach, regularly visiting City Lights, where the staff taught me how to choose from amidst the mass of books they offered. RIP founder Lawrence Ferlinghetti, who managed to squeeze charm and pleasantness into the few minutes we spoke, the one time we met. I'd pick one or two books, then head over to Caffe Trieste, where, in my late teens, I tasted my first espresso and first heard operatic music performed live. I'd spend hours, reading and watching people. Later, when I'd get hungry, I'd walk down to Mario's Cigar Shop for a sandwich, or to Stella Pastry for a sfogliatella or (well, plus) a slice of sacripantina cake. Other times, I'd wander the city, learning about architecture and Chinese food and latter-day hippie culture, but when I was on Columbus Avenue, I stayed put. It was home base, and, for me, a comfort zone. read more

Met here for a networking dinner. Staff was welcoming and polite. Food was delicious and satisfying. Yummy Gorgonzola and pear salad. Handmade raviolis with amazing bolognese sauce. The waiter said the chef is known for his sauce! The entire entree was superb read more

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After we attended the burlesque parody show in nearby Chinatown, we realized we had a lot of time before our dinner reservation in North Beach (SF's Little Italy). It's just a few steps away, so we decided to walk. North Beach is vibrant with lots of restaurants, bars, cafes, shops, churches and the famous Washington Square Park that I sometimes like to bring my little dog to. It's also steps away from Telegraph Hill with Coit Tower at the very top. read more

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North beach is awesome ..Grant St at union and near coit tower ..I always enjoy it ..u would too read more

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Amazing great food! Great service! I literally can't say anything more... you gotta get here and eat. We are from the East Coast and will be back during our trip just for the margaritas and tacos for sure. read more

My favorite neighborhood in San Francisco. Always a great experience here. The the people are friendly, the location is great, and there are so many bars and stores and coffee shops around. Friendly happy people are here. Locals and tourists alike enjoying life. So many neighborhoods all across the United States are bedroom communities where there streets are lifeless. Almost oppressive - people get home from work, park their cars in their driveway and run into their houses like something was out to get them. This part of town would be the opposite - and I think its becoming more rare to find something like this these days. The location is great. Little Italy is in the middle and Fisherman's Wharf is nearby along with China Town. Tons of bars, coffee shops, restaurants and girlie bars add flavor and entertainment all throughout the day and night. Some shops are open very late too - I think partly because its a safe area and the police station is right there. read more

North Beach - Random building in north beach - Local Flavor Near Me - San Francisco, California

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North Beach might be my favorite area to hang out in when I'm in the City!! Now, you have all the popular places here, Coit Tower, Lombard Street, the TransAmerica Building, Washington Square Park. And it's sandwiched between Fisherman's Wharf and SF Chinatown. North Beach is also known as Little Italy, mostly because of all the Italian restaurants here. And to fully enjoy yourself here, you have to be on foot walking around. Everything is relatively closer that way to me. The view down Columbus Ave of the TransAmerica Building never gets old. Joe DiMaggio Playground has basketball courts and tennis courts with lights so you can play at night. Washington Square Park is the perfect place for people watching, and it's right across the street from Saints Peter and Paul's Church. It is more touristy now than it used to be, but this is still a great district to me!! read more

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This is my favourite neighbourhood in San Francisco. The vibe clicks and you are in the middle of everything. You got Chinatown at walking distance, Little Italy surrounding you, Russian Hill, downtown, the Embarcadero, Coit Tower, and a whole bunch of local shops to relax or hang out with friends. One can see families, couples, people with dogs, and people alone, around the area, especially around Washing Park and the DiMaggio playgrounds. Nothing beats a nice random day at North beach, getting some Chinese food, and grabbing a coffee at an Italian cafe. For dessert go for some gelato or boba. While leaving food on the side, go to a bookshop, the Beat museum, and the Farmer's Market on Saturdays. Plenty of bars and nice restaurants for a nice late evening. The Closest MUNI station is the new Chinatown one. BART would be Embarcadero and even Montgomery station. Powell/Mason Cable Car. MUNI buses 8, 8Bx, 30, 91, 39, 45 go through the zone. read more

North Beach - Local Flavor Near Me - San Francisco, California

Neat neighborhood with lots of fun options of Italian food and stores. It's great for a walk even if you don't stop by the shops as there's plenty to see and many great aromas in the air. read more

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Great part of San Francisco with lots of good restaurants, cafes and shops. They have a lot of Italian culture too like churches and community centers. I would definitely recommend this neighborhood for anyone visiting San Francisco especially for the restaurants. read more

North Beach - Local Flavor Near Me - San Francisco, California

North Beach is just one of the best places to walk around and enjoy. Coffee, food, cuisine (different then food HA!), ambiance, the park, the church, the small businesses in the side streets ........ etc. Nice thing about North Beach (NB) is the location: Chinatown, Lombard Street, and Fisherman's Wharf surround NB with Little Italy smack dap in the middle of NB. Walking is the best way to see SF in this area. OR Use the bus line to get here from the Financial District or from Powell St. If there is one hidden-gem for SF is North Beach. Once you visit, you will know why. This place gets a 5-Star because it truly is As Good As It Gets! read more

North Beach - Somewhere in San Francisco, do you know where this is?!!!! - Local Flavor Near Me - San Francisco, California

"Little Italy" is the name many call the district of North Beach. Like some have mentioned at one time this was actually a beach before the development of San Francisco in the 1800's. The Barbary Coast! Essentially it came down to property value, and land is worth more money than ocean, honey, so humankind of the 19th century rearranged the coast to create what we know today. And we wonder why seals crawl all over the piers! Despite human intervention the district of North Beach is one of my favorites in the city. Main intersections are Union & Columbus, the southwest corner of Washington Square, Grant Avenue & Vallejo Street. I love the rich history, the cluster of victorian buildings, the Italian Restaurants, pizzerias, gelato shops, bakeries, euro-inspired coffee cafes, and even the sexiness of the Italian Athletic Club that has been there a century before the legendary Italian Stallion (visions of a young Stallone). The history is rich with Italian tradition hence the popular "Little Italy". I mean you'll see more green, red, white colors here than you'll find in Naples. Back in the day, the DiMaggio brothers would practice playing wiffle ball in the streets, led by baseball legend, Joe DiMaggio. Dominic was the goofy brother, but still good enough to make it to the big leagues. There's even a Christopher Columbus statue in the area, the famous Italian explorer who was actually of Spanish blood, alas my love, Antonio Banderas wouldn't mind. I adore Little Italy where I can wear my Italian flag proudly while riding my classic Lambretta, Armani snuggly on, bouffant flapping in the wind. I love the Stinking Rose, Roma Coffee, and a Clean Well Lighted Books on the corner are some of my favorites. Ahhh that's amore! "don't want a boy I've got a man of steel Don't come any closer I don't wanna feel, OOH! Your breathing, your touching But nothing's for free I never want this to happen to me Don't try to change me you're wasting your time Now I've got something much better in mind Robert De Niro's waiting Talking Italian Robert De Niro's waiting Talking Italian Robert De Niro's waiting Talking Italian (Talking Italian) Robert De Niro's waiting..." read more

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North Beach is a world famous area for some of the best Italian food/culture in San Francisco. "Little Italy" has grown to not just a local community, but a thriving touristy area that is walkable. SOOOOO many restaurants to choose from. Don't be shy to try something new. You won't regret it. It's right next door to chinatown. The North Beach library is located just across the street from the world from Cobb's comedy club where the truly loved Robin Williams started his career. Take the Mason cable car from downtown right into north beach area. Beautiful area that is flat and safe. One of the safer areas of the downtown(ish) neighborhoods. Enjoy some pasta or a slice of pizza!!! read more

Like a moth to a...burning shot of whiskey, I am drawn to North Beach every time I am in town. Dining, drinks, coffee, people watching, whatever...this is my favorite place to wind up (or wind down) an evening. You owe it to yourself to spend some time hanging out here...it worked for Kerouac. read more

North Beach - Local Flavor Near Me - San Francisco, California

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One of San Francisco's best neighborhoods. But do not under any circumstances Dr. If you've got a car park at one of the main parking garages in Union Square or on Market Street, walk, or take over. This neighborhood is quintessential San Francisco on steroids, but it doesn't feel touristy. Restaurants and people are authentic. Food is amazing. Prices can be reasonable if you know where to look. There's chocolate, there's Italian food, there's ice cream, there's drinking, there's people watching, there's even a nativity scene on Christmas. read more

Ahh North Beach or Little Italy depending on who you are talking with. It's between China Town and Fisherman's Wharf. It's a nice neighborhood to explore. It doesn't feel as touristy as the grand Street in China Town or Fisherman's Wharf. I usually get a pastry at one of the bakaries and there are also great shops, bars and restaurants. Don't miss the big white church. It's hosted famous weddings. It's just a great area to take a break from the tourist rush. read more

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"LITTLE ITALY" MY FAVORITE DISTRICT OF SAN FRANCISCO I was born in San Francisco but I moved to the East Bay when I was two years old. I'm not an expert in San Francisco far from it. Ever since I graduated from college I have been working in the Financial District of San Francisco. I've never worked full time outside of San Francisco. Throughout the years I visited certain parts of San Francisco. There are several districts in San Francisco that have their own unique flavor. Chinatown is the largest Chinese community of China. The Mission District has Latin influence through its eateries and street food stands. The Financial District, where I work, is the business hub in the city. Of all the districts my favorite is North Beach. There's something about North Beach that attracts locals and tourists alike. As you walk in Columbus Avenue and head toward Broadway you see the Beats influence through City Lights Bookstore. Feel naughty? On Broadway you can feel the seedy environment through the strip club and adult entertainment. Want to feel holy? There are two churches are in North Beach. The first is the Saint Francis of Assisi National Shrine. That church isn't a practicing church however the patron saint for of San Francisco is Saint Francis. The second church in North Beach is the Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church that situates on Washington Park and conducts services in several languages. Want a quick bite to eat? Then go to Golden Boy Pizza where locals flock to eat a Sicilian-style pizza with its foccacia bread crust. Ever inspire to be a writer? Have a sip of espresso at Caffè Trieste where Francis Ford Coppola wrote the script for "The Godfather". People mostly go to North Beach to eat at the Italian restaurants hence why North Beach is referred as "Little Italy". These restaurants don't feature just Italian food. What makes these restaurant charming is that each restaurant specializes in their own regional cuisine whether they are Roman, Tuscan, Neapolitan, or Sicilian. (On my profile I created a list titled North Beach Eating - Italian Regional Cuisine Restaurants). The blending of different regional cultures from the same country is another example why San Francisco is considered a melting pot. When I see Italian restaurants struggling on shows such as Kitchen Nightmares or Restaurant Impossible I feel like either the owner or manager of those restaurants should come to North Beach to see how Italian restaurants thrive. It is stated that San Francisco is the most European city in this country. I've been to Europe and when you eat at one of those Italian restaurants along Columbus Avenue it is reminiscent of eating at cafés in Europe. The food scene at North Beach while maintaining its identity is also evolving. One example is fine dining as Michelin Star restaurants such as Gary Danko, Quince, and Coi are located in North Beach. In fact Coi is located close to a strip club. Where else can you find a fine dining restaurant next adult entertainment? That's why you have to love North Beach. I heard that North Beach in the 1970s was rough and tough. If you ever saw "Dirty Harry" starring Clint Eastwood you get a feel what North Beach was like back then. Throughout the hardened years North Beach has maintained its charm. When Tony Bennett sings his signature song "I Left My Heart In San Francisco" I feel part of the character of San Francisco is North Beach. There are a lot of tourist sites to see in San Francisco such as Chinatown, Fisherman's Wharf, and Alcatraz. If you're tired visiting tourist sites unwind by eating Italian regional cuisine and sipping espresso at North Beach. read more

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North Beach is a neighborhood in San Francisco I've grown familiar with because one of my good friends used to live nearby, specifically, in Telegraph Hill (he's since moved to Russian Hill, so still in the same vicinity). In recent years, every time I visited the Bay Area, I'd always make it out to North Beach and we'd walk around, whether to a park, pier, bookstore, pub, cafe, or gelato shop, and hang out. This, like many other parts of San Francisco, is a cool area. The neighborhood is popular with both tourists and locals. The touristy areas are to the north towards Fisherman's Wharf and the piers, along the Embarcadero (with cruises to Alcatraz), in the center where Coit Tower is located, and along the western and southern edges where the neighborhood borders Russian Hill (Lombard Street), Chinatown, and the Financial District (downtown). Even though the neighborhood doesn't touch any water, North Beach got its name because it used to be an actual beach. It's since been filled with landfill. Because of all the hills, there are great vistas of the city in all directions. The best places for views and photos are at and around Coit Tower and facing southward down one of the main drags, Columbus Ave, into the Financial District. The higher elevation you are, the better, of course. Filbert St, near Coit Tower, is one of the steepest streets in the city measuring in at 17.5 degrees (31.5% grade). For those not used to the steepness of the streets, they can be terrifying to drive and park on. The southeastern part of North Beach around Telegraph Hill sits above the Financial District. Columbus Ave feeds directly into the Transamerica Pyramid, San Francisco's iconic and tallest skyscraper. Speaking of Columbus, there are a lot of things to see and do at Columbus and Broadway. North Beach is known as San Francisco's Little Italy and there are numerous Italian restaurants and pizza joints in the vicinity. Not only that, but the area is known for its nightlife, littered in numerous bars and nightclubs, many with live entertainment. Most notably, at least as has been pointed out to me multiple times by different people, The Condor, which is supposedly the world's first topless and bottomless strip club. Oh yeah. Off the top of my head, a few good memories of places I've enjoyed and recommend in North Beach include: * Walking around Washington Square Park (http://www.yelp.com/biz/washington-square-park-san-francisco) * Grabbing pizza at North Beach Pizza (http://www.yelp.com/biz/north-beach-pizza-san-francisco-6) * Indulging at Gelato Classico Italian (http://www.yelp.com/biz/gelato-classico-italian-san-francisco) * Eating garlicky food at The Stinking Rose (http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-stinking-rose-a-garlic-restaurant-san-francisco) * Checking out the historic City Lights Bookstore (http://www.yelp.com/biz/city-lights-bookstore-san-francisco) And while this place is technically not within North Beach boundaries, I highly recommend checking out Union Street Produce Company (http://www.yelp.com/biz/union-street-produce-company-san-francisco) for fresh produce, juices, and basic grocery store needs. The store is located just one block west of North Beach on Union St at Mason St. Finally, see if you can spot the wild parrots on the Filbert Steps (http://www.yelp.com/biz/filbert-steps-san-francisco) and check out The Saloon (http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-saloon-san-francisco), San Francisco's oldest bar with live music and well-priced drinks. Have a good time. read more

North Beach is adjacent to Chinatown, Fisherman's Wharf, Telegraph Hill, and Russian Hill, all of which have been on my walking (and eating) routes as I've explored this City by the Bay for years. And when the old Embarcadero Freeway was up (before the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake), the on ramp was just down Broadway and I loved the quiet here as I headed off to work. I also enjoyed the variety of activities available within a few short blocks and the neighbourhood's Peter and Paul anchor with their living room park in front. And then there's the opera singing at Cafe Trieste.... The neighborhood is San Francisco's Little Italy and still has the associated restaurants, pastry, and culture, especially along Columbus and Grant Avenues and Washington Square. The beatnik culture (with an assist from City Lights Books) started here and the red light and other nightlife areas are close at hand. So is the young professional and Chinatown expansion that has compacted the Italian flavour. The area largely known today as North Beach was an actual beach, filled in with landfill around the late 19th century. Warehouses, fishing wharves, and docks were then built on the newly formed shoreline. Due to the proximity of the docks, the half of the neighborhood south of Broadway was home of the infamous Barbary Coast. Following its reconstruction after the 1906 Earthquake, the proximity of the nearby docks and fishing wharves attracted a large amount of Italian immigrants that would create the Italian character of the neighborhood that exists to this day. And due its past legacy as the Barbary Coast, Broadway east of Columbus, grew to be the home of the city's red light district and striptease clubs. read more

I love this Little Italian town in SF! The vibe here is so cozy and yet, rowdy when it comes to Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights! There are so many great Italian restaurants, pubs, bars and boutiques! Cafes here are great too! Getting brunch is a definite must here! There is the Washington Square Park, where it is a super nice park to lounge at! This district also has the dreamy Coit Tower - that makes one of the many iconic monuments for SF! read more

North Beach, oh how I have a love-hate relationship with you. I live off Grant on a side street and although my roommate and I are slightly hidden away from the madness, everyone and their mother can hear the drunken escapades just blocks away. It's rather interesting to try to explain to your parents what area of town you live in. It's not like I can hide the fact that strip clubs are literally in my backyard... the neon signs and half naked girls on posters give it away. But the area does have its perks...I do enjoy being able to walk to work each day and have so many options of cafes to purchase my morning coffee. Everyone knows the parking sucks but the views from our apartment are breathtaking (see pics) and I'm pleased with the solid selection of restaurant, bars and a decent park nearby. read more

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Someone once told me that the most important thing in a neighborhood is community. This neighborhood is all about that. This is San Francisco's Little Italy. You'll hear folks speaking Italian when you're walking around; totally normal. The cafes know your order, sometimes even before you do. Twice in the last week alone, someone quietly warned me to zip up my handbag. I run around w it unzipped all the time. They were both older ladies, & maybe they were just being maternal. But how sweet is that? And, if your demeanor is looking off in any way, it's not surprising for the barista/manager/owner to come over to you & ask, by name, if you're ok. Long opposed to big businesses, NB petitioned against Starbucks opening on Columbus Avenue years ago. No matter where you stand in this hood, you're right by a cafe, a bakery, a restaurant, or a bar. Probably all 4. This is where to find the best cappuccino, the best cannoli, the best red sauce joint, & the best veal saltimbocca in SF. Followed by pizza, carbonara, & gelato. Add a picnic in Washington Square Park w a sandwich from Molinari's or Alimento, & a drive up to Coit Tower to take in the view on a clear day or night, & you've done quintessential NB. That is, after you've had a nightcap at Tosca. Or Vesuvio's. Or Specs. If you want to go all old school, it'll be all 3. Why do you think all the beatniks made this their home back in the day? 5 stars. read more

Definitely my favorite neighborhood in San Francisco. There's nothing like being in North Beach in the morning, when the neighborhood is waking up, and the tiny groceries are getting their delivieries, and early birds are sipping their coffee, reading their papers while sitting at bistro tables. The place is clean, fun and full of life. It's so quaint, it's like... it's like that place you've always wanted to live. It's cozy, walkable and beautiful. There's Catholic churches everywhere, bustling cafes and little boutiques. There are spacious parks to sit and eat lunch and a spectacular view. It seems like the only area in the City that I'd want to raise a kid (if I had to.) Definitely walk Columbus end to end - you'll love what you find. read more

The best of living in Europe, a west coast metropolitan neighborhood and an oceanside town...that's North Beach. An eclectic blend of old and new...old world close-knit community and new cool stores (like Cornology!). Nestled between iconic neighborhoods of Chinatown, Telegraph Hill, Russian Hill, Nob Hill, and the famous SF Wharf...North Beach is a conduit between cultures where you can take the dim sum you got in Chinatown across the street and sit at a parklet on Columbus St and have Italian Illy lattes (the best of Italy and China all in one place!). Where every Italian restaurant has fresh pasta and you can have regional types of pizza all within walking distance. This is the place where the "regulars" say hi and we have an annual parade where the neighbors party next to you and also jump on the floats to dance. THAT IS North Beach. read more

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Yes, we are far and few between. I was born and raised in this place we call North Beach. I went to Jean Parker, the prison in the Marina, and Hatchet High. Then to Harvard on the Hill. If you know these places, then you know North Beach and San Francisco. When I was about 7 we used to ride plastic mats down Vallejo Street. When I was about 10 we moved up and rode Big Wheels down the hill. I was here celebrating on Columbus Avenue when the 49ers won their first Super Bowl in 1981 and again when the Giants won their first World Series in 2010. My uncle used to own a butcher shop that was next to the left side of Walgreens. I used to go down there and ask for a hot dog. Yeah I ate it uncooked. I remember when there was a Woolworth's across the street from Walgreens. Got busted when I was 7 stealing a hot wheel. That sucked. Before Molinari Delicatessen, there was Panelli Brothers. Panelli Brothers was located where the Adidas shoe store is on Stockton. I used to get a salami sandwich on white with mustard and mayo. Oh yum. Yeah...needless to say, good times...North Beach is my home and it will always be no matter where I go. As the saying goes, "I left my heart in San Francisco..." read more

came here with my family and just walked around. While walking around the neighborhood, it just felt so nice. The environment and energy was so calm and serene. I love San Francisco! read more

North Beach - PANETONE!!! - Local Flavor Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Who rated this less than 5 Stars? This is the Old School SF Neighborhood that is Beautiful. Come if you haven't been. I would contend that this is one of the coolest neighborhoods in America. It's Little Italy, California-Style. North Beach is not north of a beach. It used to be. Now, it's a fun neighborhood to hang out, eat and drink. And, many other things. Adam S.'s Top 10 North Beach List: 10. Bacon Wrapped Tater Tots. The Boardroom made it happen and it will soon be upgrading to even nicer digs. A great bar and grill. 9. Vallejo Street Steps. You can walk up the side of Russian Hill and get some great views. Stop by Ina Coolbrith Park (named after the first documented Caucasian female to come to pre-SF SF). Great views, especially on a clear day. 8. Proximity to Chinatown. You can cover a lot of culture quick. Apropos since Morco Polo brought pasta back from the Orient. 7. Take the Cannoli. I like the Dark Chocolate Orange Cannoli at Alimento. Many people like Mara or Victoria. There's plenty of good Cannoli. 6. Coit Tower. Looks like a Fire Hose. Named after Little Lillie Coit, who has a big fan of the firefighters that saved SF after the 1906 Earthquake. 5. The Saloon. A great venue for Live Music that was saved because it used to be a brothel in 1906 that a lot of firefighters frequented. Thus, one of the oldest bars in SF. 4. People Watching. Just Watch. You'll See. 3. Golden Boy Pizza. OMG. There is nothing like this place. Look for the finger pointing down at the trays of Pizza in the Window. Smell the Smell. Partake. 2. Caffe Trieste. Or, some of the other Old School stuff. I like Caffe Trieste. I'm a big Cafe au Lait guy. 1. Washington Square Park. Some Day, this will go down as the last great town square in America. I feel like I am in the world of the Greek and Roman Gods. read more

North Beach - Washington Square Park at Dawn - Local Flavor Near Me - San Francisco, California

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I wish I had lived in North Beach while I was taking Italian for two years in college. Sadly, I live in Houston, where NO ONE speaks the language. I had to settle for the occasional Italian magazine I would stumble upon, or sometimes things like the Italian version of Wikipedia, but I digress. Suffice to say, part of San Francisco that I love so much is that even coming from a diverse city such as Houston, it is so wonderful to hear so many languages spoken on the street, but I especially love hearing the Italian language in North Beach. On my last trip to San Fran, we stayed in North Beach -- went to a couple neighborhood bars, walked to City Lights Books, walked to the Wharf and to Chinatown, and even the Financial District. What a great location! Other things I love about North Beach: -the Italian food -the Italian pastries -the little neighborhood coffee shops -the small-town feel -Katsu! (see my review if interested) The Verdict: Wish I could be taking a walk in North Beach right now. read more

North Beach - Local Flavor Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Our group had an amazing experience with dinner at North Beach. Parking was a nightmare but after circling for 10min, I accepted defeat and went with their $10 valet. For our large group of 18, they turned their downstairs kitchen into and dining room under their salted/peppered prosciutto which hangs from the ceiling. It was an interesting and kitchy addition to our overall dining experience. Good thing none of our guests were vegan! The meal options were preset and we could choose from a few different menus with varying price points. We went with menu#3 including chicken parm, eggplant parm, and halibut all paired with white and red wines. Starters included bread, focaccia, oil and vinegar, and a melon prosciutto plate, with tiramisu for dessert. It was a fabulous dinner, with amazing customer service, attentive wait staff, and charming environment! read more

North Beach - Salted prosciutto in the "wine cellar" - Local Flavor Near Me - San Francisco, California

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For my 300th Review... it has to be the best neighborhood in San Francisco to LIVE and DRINK in... North Beach! The 5 Reasons Why: 1. Great BARS with friendly bartenders (Columbus Cafe with 2-1 beer happy hour special; Gino and Carlo with Blue Moon on-tap; Vesuvio opening at 6am!) 2. Conveniently located and can be accessed by walking, cab, and buses (9X, 30, 45) from downtown. 3. Awesome VIEWS (Coit Tower, the bay, crooked Lombard Street) 4. Wide variety of FOOD to choose from other than Italian (Thai, Sushi, Asian-Fusion, seafood) 5. Nice CROWD (a good mixed of tourist, locals and people who drink). I've only lived here for over a year and I don't see myself moving out anytime soon -- I just can't imagine living anywhere else... not yet. Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow... North Beach is the BEST :-)! read more

I absolutely love this neighborhood. Little Italy, Chinatown, Russian Hill are all nearby. Washington Park is here. The Chinatown Y & the library. I can go on and on.... read more

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I give it a ((("S" x 3!!!))) So...... Scrumpti-ta-ly......Scan-ti-ta-ly.....Scrump-ti-OOOO-cious! Everything was ((("S" x 3!!!))) From the individualized caprese salad with a side of prosciutto laying over sweet cantaloupe... I had the Fish Portofino, stuffed with mussel and shrimp. Scrumpti-ta-ly......Scan-ti-ta-ly.....Scrump-ti-OOOO-cious! read more

Had the pleasure to be seated at a square table for 8! It was a great setting because we all could talk with everyone without having to yell across the room. The service was great and the food was delicious. Started off with pasta della casa, salad, & minestrone soup...tasty! Then we all enjoyed our main courses: mini lobster tails, chicken, pasta and Petrale sole. All were prepared very good and all were very delicious. The only thing that I didn't care for is the vegetable and potatoes that came with the entrees. They were a bit bland. read more

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A restaurant has to be extraordinary to get 5 stars when it is as expensive (wow expensive) as North Beach. North Beach absolutely qualifies as extraordinary. The food is spectacular, hands down the best I have had at any Italian restaurant, even in NYC. But the best part of North Beach is the service. Our waiter was the epitome of everything I hope for. His recommendations were professional and not pushy; his attention was steady without being imposing; he was always a step ahead of what was needed at the table. There is a reason this place has been in business so long, and the reason is excellence in everything they do. read more

The quintessential San Francisco neighborhood. It's jam-packed on weekends, which makes it very annoying. Tourists and locals and tourist-locals and local tourists and Aaron Peskin-types populate the place. As with nearby Chinatown, many of the people who live here never leave here. I always find this funny. I love North Beach almost as much as I love City Lights. Scratch that. I love City Lights truly. I love North Beach because of City Lights. Or at least that's about 47 percent of the reason I love North Beach. I always get suckered into coming here on a weekend with out-of-towners, and that bothers me, and then I don't come here for months because of this, and that's a shame. I should come on a Tuesday night. I will, in fact, once the spring semester ends. People need to love this city. Enough people love this neighborhood, but I encourage all of them to love this city. That's North Beach's problem, really: Its residents love their neighborhood more than they love their city. I can understand this. I think at one point I loved my neighborhood more than I loved San Francisco. But then I realized my neighborhood was a lie, or that I had been on the wrong side of a poorly argued argument. Don't get me wrong; I love my neighborhood. But some of its residents? Hm. People named Alberto want to live in North Beach. In another time, as a different person, I would want to live in North Beach. If you gave me a cheapish rent-controlled apartment with a tomato-sauce can turned into a WiFi antenna--no joke, a North Beach resident I knew did this, and it worked!--I might just take it. Because there's a cafe culture, if not a coffeehouse culture. It's everything the Mission and 9th & Irving and Clement Street want to be but aren't. It's important in life to be good at being yourself, not at trying to be or lamenting not being other people. So, North Beach, keep getting on with your bad self. But remember that there are people who live all over this city who love you. We really do. We can abide awkward sibling-birthday-party arguments and good pizza chains that serve mediocre pizza when you export them to other neighborhoods and even Mona Lisa, but we can't put up with self-importance. You're important, but you're not that important. Hopefully, the Big One will liquefy the Marina and Fisherman's Wharf (with no casualties), and then you'll once again have an honest-to-goodness beach. But until then, I'll keep loving you even though you don't know I exist. read more

Oh North Beach, how I adore you, you provide me with so many places to eat, drink and have fun at. The possibilities are kinda endless here. That is why North Beach will be my "150th" review and "3rd" milestone review that involves The City of San Francisco or a landmark in or around the city. Plus I'm here every other Sunday if not every Sunday. So that should be a testament of how much I like this place. North Beach is where it's at, and let me brag a little about why.... 2 - 28 - 2016 Getting ready for my usual SF nightlife activities. I had to stop and think to myself...."why haven't I did a review of a place that I like to visit so much? Well now is better than never right? So as my slogan says "I took one bart train, and later stopped at a bar and had my two shots" Sorces say, that after you walk past the Transamerica Building you officially step into "Little Italy" or "The Church of Scientology" and for the record....they are annoying people trying to get you to take a survey or sorts..moving along. Before you cross the street after the Transamerica building, you would see the first street post at the end of Montgomery where the lamppost is adorned with the signiture "Italian Flag" also letting you know that you have made it to the right place. Also where Montgomery turn into my favorite street (aside from Broadway) Columbus Street! North Beach is home to the North Beach towers which sit on Kerney St and aside from the "Little Italy" aspect that North Beach is known for, lets not forget that Asian influence and Irish influence here as well, with that being said Chinatown SF and Irish Section (I don't know if that is the proper term) is here as well, and trust me....I've made my mark at those spots respectivly. North Beach is the part of SF that I feel has a lot to offer anyone that happens to come and visit, you have those down home places, and those posh places if that happens to be your thang! (yes I said thang instead of saying thing) "Everyday is a Weekend Here" my bartender @ Grant and Green (off Grant and Green Streets) told me. Here you would find aside from the bars and lounges and fantastic little eateries, nice little art studios and trendy clothing shops, coffee and boba joints and old churches and sightseeing galore here oh and if you're really wanting to get a nice view of SF....the Coit Tower is located in North Beach as well. Let me break it down to you a little by what you would find on some of the streets here.. Kerney St - Here you would find some of those seedy massage parlors and little oriental shops and such that didn't make it in Chinatown, also at the end of the street you would find Larry Flints Hustler Club right before you hit the redlight district which is called.... Broadway Street - Well I have to say, I have two dukedoms here at two places....The Condor and Penthouse SF, and yes they are Gentelmens Clubs. Hey don't judge me, they are fun places! Deja Vu Centerfolds, Garden of Eden and the Hungry Eye are also on this street, yea you have all the fake ballers and wanna be pimps that walk up and down this street, but if you wanna dance and not get a lapdance per say :D You have Hue Nightclub (formerly Atmostphere Ultra Lounge) and Monroe Lounge that would provide you with a night of calorie burning and drunken fun also instagram memes. Let's not forget Noc Noc on Broadway and Bamboo Hut is located here if you want to drink something intresting but if not you also have.. Grant St - Now this is where I think you would find the Bar, Saloon, Pub, or Lounge of your dreams and me of course! this is my go too street when i'm here. When you see the "Gold or sometimes Silver Chains and Yankees Hat" you would know that you've spotted me and in that case....don't be afraid to say hello and have a shot with me! anywho, Grant and Green, Tope, Maggie McGarry's, The Saloon Blues Bar, Tupelo and other drinking establishments adorn this street, and you can't sometimes leave this street without being sober, i'm guilty most of the time i'm here, but if you wanna eat then you must visit the main street.. Columbus Street - Here you would find that this street is like the official connection to all the hotspots here in North Beach, The Stinking Rose, Busters Cheesesteak, Taqueria Zorro, Yan's Chinese Kitchen, and Pizzelle di North Beach and let's not forget Molinari Delicatessen all sit on this street, it's like....impossible to walk on this street and not get hungry and that is only half of what's here, I still haven't named everything else but you have to see for yourself. In closing, if you come here make sure you have some money to spend (or throw if you hang on broadway) you will need it for the Food, the Drinks, and the Uber or Lyft ride home or BART fair, because here you will indeed eat, drink and have a good time! As always Yelp your own experiences and opinions and Check In! I already have dukedom battles going on here! :D read more

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I love this neighborhood. It's a nice "get-away" from the main hustle and bustle that is S.F. This is another neighborhood that I wished was in Los Angeles. The numerous cafes, stores, parks, and the entire ambiance reminds me of something I would find in Central Park. I really enjoyed the walk around here after eating breakfast. You can see the Bay/Alcatraz and take in your surroundings and just let your mind wander. There was a festival of sorts (or just a bunch of people) at the park and it looked like they were flying kites. It looked like a picture out of a movie or a t.v. show. This is a perfect spot to take a date and just walk around and spend some quality time, let time slowly pass you. read more

I lived in North Beach for a few months. I really loved it. Minus the car being towed and living with all boys who partied on weekdays until wee hours in the morning. We had an awesome roof with an amazing view of the city. We even had a huge party once. Parking was almost impossible but somehow I made it work. I remember having to get up early to move my car from Coit Tower.. let me tell you those hills are the best work out! Buns of steel baby! You really can't bash on the tourist either. Come on people this is SF.. we're all transplants here. My girlfriends and I have lived here for a while and we are stilling planning to have a day to ride around on the double deck-er bus and shwill some drank. Shh don't tell. Overall North Beach is one of my favorite spots in the city to eat, drink, shop or even just walk around. Just a note: If you don't like tourist don't live in the f-ing city! read more

4 stars verging on 5 during the day. A nice little neighborhood with character and fascinating history that's been preserved fairly well, heaps of great restaurants, amazing views if you venture up the steep hills, and you can wander over to Chinatown and the wharfs right next door too. You pay a bit of a premium for the food here, but really not much more than anywhere else in expensive-ass SF. 1 star verging on 0 at night / on weekends. Place turns into Loser Nexus mostly centered on Broadway and Columbus where all the titty clubs and dive bars are, though it spills out to some degree everywhere that isn't a real steep walk up a hill. Drunk bums, drunk frat boys, drunk stupid club girls, East Bay gangbangers, low-level pimps, just basically every shithead within a 20 mile radius gravitates here for their stupid peasant debauchery and penny-ante street criminality. And most of the good food places close up shop shortly after this shitfest begins in earnest, most of the food available late night / early morning is garbage. Seriously might be the most Jekyll and Hyde neighborhood in the world from night to day read more

The stars doesn't mean the place/area is bad. It was some kind of block party sometime ago and I did find it quite nice/fun. This neighborhood has a ton of restaurants and a few bars I noticed. When I went it was quite fun,but again check out the restaurant's in the area. My 3 stars doesn't mean it is bad,but I would suggest this place to some people. read more