Situated amongst the clusters of chic boutiques that dot this busy stretch of Fillmore Street in Pacific Heights, one could easily make the mistake of walking past this charming Italian restaurant with its unassuming black exterior and matching black awning. The name SPQR, which is an acronym for Senatus Populesque Romanus, and translates to “The People and Senate of Rome”, should explain its menu of rustic Italian dishes and great selection of Italian wines.

|Chef Matthew Accarrino| and his team have been hard at work, creating a diverse menu of dishes that change seasonally to showcase the best local ingredients. Much time and care goes into every dish, preparing everything including their pastas from scratch. Pretty impressive feat considering the staff can serve so many people every evening and still produce amazing food from its compact open kitchen. It’s often you’ll find owner |Shelley Lindgren| working the front of house as the wine director, and she is a great resource for wine paring recommendations. With friendly and professional service, coupled with delicious and sophisticated Italian fare, it’s no surprise this place is packed every night. Advanced reservations can be booked via their web site and are highly recommended, unless you are fine with the possibility of eating at the bar/chef’s counter. |SPQR|

Hours of Operation:
Mon-Sat: 5:30pm – 10:30pm
Sun: 5:30pm – 10pm
Sat & Sun Brunch: 11am – 2:30pm

It’s not often I recall actually dreaming about something I ate, but Pizzeria Delfina’s Margherita Pizza did exactly that. Sometimes it’s the simplest of ingredients that can make a lasting impression; mine came from the perfect combination of tomato sauce, fior di latte mozzarella, fresh basil and a thin Neapolitan pizza crust.

Inspired by eateries in Napoli, Pizzeria Delfina’s open kitchen and dining room is well lit, simple, functional, and modern. From the over-sized chalkboard menu by the door, to the large mural of the Bay Bridge by local Mission artist |Andre Karpov|, dining here feels inviting and cozy, just like a neighborhood pizzeria should be. Highlights of the meal also included the freshly stretched mozzarella, served with arugula, olive oil and some garlic toast, pairing nicely with the Peroni on draft. |Pizzeria Delfina|

Open 7 days a week:
Mon, Wed, Thurs: 11:30am-10pm
Tues: 5pm-10pm
Fri-Sat: 11:30am-11pm
Sun: 11:30am-10pm