Delfina - San Francisco

In a weekend of epic dining across Napa and San Francisco to celebrate our wedding, Delfina truly stole the show. Owner Annie Stoll graciously walked my wife and me through designing a menu over a couple of days, accommodating our family's food preferences and restrictions. She then connected us with Wine Director Kelsey Tulloch, who delivered outstanding course pairings. The personal attention continued when we arrived, with the entire front-of-house staff being incredibly attentive, friendly, and exceptionally competent at balancing availability with unobtrusiveness. The food? Flawless. We would rave about one course, only for the next to be even better: focaccia with whipped ricotta and sundried tomatoes, chicory salad with pancetta and walnuts, spaghetti pomodoro, grilled chicken, short ribs, and cocoa nib pavlova. Annie, Kelsey, and everyone else who made our night so wonderful: THANK YOU. We have already made reservations for our next visit and eagerly anticipate seeing you every time we're back in the Bay.

My experience at this restaurant was an unexpected surprise amidst the culinary chaos of our times! I wandered in with modest expectations and departed in something resembling a rapture. The Tomatoes and Smoked Ricotta Pizza was, dare I confess, a revelation. It has been many years since a new pizza stirred my jaded soul to such affection; indeed, I feared myself incapable of love again until that first bite. It was light as a summer whisper and balanced as a well-rehearsed lie. Each ingredient performed its role with Shakespearean precision: the tomato, a tragic hero bursting with passion; the ricotta, a noble companion doomed to melt away too soon; and arugula, holding it all together like a valiant Knight. And then, the dessert! The Buttermilk Panna Cotta arrived like a gentle epilogue after the storm. The passion fruit lent it a whisper of mischief, striking the precise note between sweet affection and savoury betrayal. One might say it tasted like love, delightful yet often confusing. I shall return one day, fork in hand, ready to rekindle our brief but passionate affair, provided, of course, San Francisco hasn’t sunk beneath its own rent prices by then.

My experience at Delfina last night was exceptional; I believe it was the best meal I've ever had there, which is saying a lot! From the very beginning, this place has consistently excelled in all aspects: food, ambiance, cocktails, and staff. Even after all these years, they maintain their high standards without ever becoming pretentious or stuffy. The restaurant exudes a sexy and sophisticated feel. I highly recommend you GO NOW!

My experience at this throwback Italian eatery was like stepping into a beloved neighborhood dining destination. It's unpretentious and welcoming, with a bustling atmosphere that immediately makes you feel comfortable. The aroma in the air was warm and nostalgic, setting the stage for a truly enjoyable meal. I was particularly impressed with the burratta, which was incredible, complemented by tomatoes in season. The ragu was hearty and wholesome, and the cherry pie pizza was a delightful surprise, managing to be both light and filling simultaneously. The petroleum sole was expertly prepared with nuance and spice. Our service was excellent; the staff suggested a bottle of white and red wine for the table, which, though unfamiliar to me, were both well-received. This is a place that serves good food without any fakery, making it a worthwhile return on your hard-earned money.

My experience at Delfina was a mixed bag. The restaurant boasts a charming, intimate atmosphere, which was quite pleasant. However, the overall value was disappointing, as I found it to be very overpriced. We tried the Wood-Grilled Octopus ($25), Delfino Anchovies & Butter ($12), and Root-Down Duck Breast ($42). While the presentation was beautiful, the portions were disappointingly small for the premium prices. The Delfino Anchovies were a highlight – unique and reasonably priced. Unfortunately, the duck breast was underwhelming, with only four thin slices for $42, and the flavor did not justify the cost, making it extremely overpriced. Service at the bar was also inattentive. On a positive note, the cocktails, The Silvanito & Occhi d'Angelo, were well-crafted. Considering San Francisco's 7% mandate and the high prices that don't align with portion sizes or taste, I am unlikely to return.