Highlights
- Great dessert
- Sports
- Great wine list
oChef » Ofena – San Francisco
Ofena - San Francisco
Photo from Ofena
Ofena at a glance
San Francisco Balboa Terrace
- 🍝 Italian Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $51–$60
mentioned by 50 of the guests
#562 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#39 Italian Restaurant out of 122 in San Francisco
Excellent
8.1 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
347
Reviews
81.8%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Great service
- Nice ambiance
- Fair value
Frequently criticized
- Food inconsistency
- Small portions
- Hidden fees
The restaurant Ofena, an Italian Restaurant in San Francisco’s Balboa Terrace, invites you to a delightful culinary journey. You’ll discover a cozy and trendy atmosphere perfect for enjoying authentic flavors.
With a great wine list and exceptional desserts, it’s an ideal spot for a memorable meal. Whether you’re looking for a casual dinner or a special occasion, Ofena promises a welcoming experience.
Overview: Introducting Ofena
Ofena offers a dining experience where the attentive service and inviting ambience often stand out. Many appreciate the thoughtful touches and comfortable setting, making it a pleasant spot for a meal.
The staff’s helpfulness, especially with dietary needs, is frequently noted. However, some guests have found the portion sizes to be a point of contention, occasionally paired with concerns about certain food items like the gnocchi not meeting expectations.
While there are positive remarks about family meals and shareable plates, the overall value can be inconsistent for some.
Excellent
8.1
out of 10
347
Reviews
81.8%
Satisfaction
45
negative
18
neutral
284
positive
Ofena holds a respectable overall score of 8.1, indicating a good dining experience, and boasts a strong Customer Satisfaction of 81.8%. This suggests that the majority of patrons leave content with their visit.
These figures are drawn from a considerable 347 customer observations, with 284 positive remarks outweighing 45 negative ones. The restaurant’s strengths lie particularly in its Service (9.3) and Ambience (8.4), both rated highly by diners.
The Food (7.9) also garners a good score, though it appears to be the primary area where opinions diverge. Value (5) is noted as average, suggesting that while some find good deals, others feel the pricing doesn’t always align with the offering.
What people like
- Attentive, kind service
- Cozy, bright ambiance
- Good value options
What people don't like
- Inconsistent food quality
- Small portion sizes
- Unexpected surcharges
Ofena presents itself as a solid choice, particularly if you prioritize excellent service and a pleasant atmosphere. With a Recommendation Score of 8.2, it’s certainly worth considering for an enjoyable outing where the staff and setting shine.
However, be mindful that while many dishes are well-received, some food items and portion sizes have drawn criticism. If you’re seeking consistent culinary perfection or strict budget dining, you might find aspects of Ofena a mixed bag, but for a generally good experience, it holds its own.
Similar Restaurants in San Francisco
- Italian Restaurant
9
out of 10
out of 10
761
94.6%
- $$
- Mission District
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Italian Restaurant
9
out of 10
out of 10
420
92.9%
- $$
- Russian Hill
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Italian Restaurant
8.9
out of 10
out of 10
440
93.4%
- $$
- Russian Hill
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Italian Restaurant
8.9
out of 10
out of 10
378
92.9%
- $$
- Telegraph Hill
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Italian Restaurant
8.8
out of 10
out of 10
421
91.9%
- $$
- Nob Hill
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
- Italian Restaurant
8.8
out of 10
out of 10
733
92%
- $$
- Cole Valley
- Food
- Service
- Ambience
Verdict: Our expert take on Ofena
Food (7.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 98% of the guests
When it comes to the food, diners are generally quite pleased, with a solid score of 7.9, indicating a good culinary experience. Customer satisfaction also stands strong at 79.6%, showing that most guests leave happy. With 164 positive remarks out of 206 total, many rave about the high-quality ingredients, generous portions, and authentic Italian food, consistently calling it delicious food.
However, its not without a few bumps in the road. Among the 29 negative comments, some found certain dishes like the gnocchi to be overcooked or bland, and the eggplant Parmesan occasionally rubbery. A few also noted portion size concerns and dishes that were too salty, ' suggesting some inconsistency in execution.
Food
206
Reviews
79%
Satisfaction
29
negative
13
neutral
164
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- High-quality ingredients
- Authentic Italian food
- Generous portions
What people don't like
- Inconsistent gnocchi
- Rubbery eggplant
- Small portion sizes
Often praised
- foodThe service, the food, the cocktails and atmosphere were amazing! Everything was delicious! I also loved that I didn't leave there feeling salted.
- cocktailsThe service, the food, the cocktails and atmosphere were amazing!
- focacciaFluffy and light focaccia with garlic, olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping
- drinksFood and drinks are delicious and filling.
- Boquerones ToastI’m still dreaming about the strawberry Italian sodas. We started with the Fried Mozzarella Carozza, Fungi Misti Arancini, Boquerones Toast, and Garnet & Gold Beets. For entrees, my daughter enjoyed the kids pepperoni pizza, and I had a modified Saffron Risotto, substituting all shrimp for shrimp and squid.
- Italian sodaTheir staff is super attentive, and the menu offered so many delicious options it was tough to choose. As sober individuals, we truly appreciated the great n/a options, like the fantastic Italian soda I had. Overall, it was a 10/10 experience, and we're excited to make it our 'spot'.
- aranciniarancini were crispy and cheesy
- delicious foodDelicious food professionally served
- duck gnocchiduck gnocchi and everything was delicious
- menuthe menu was great - so many delicious options
Frequently criticized
- gnocchiHowever, the food left a lot to be desired. My aperol spritz tasted watered down, and everyone who ordered the gnocchi said it was overcooked. I got the eggplant Parmesan, which came with no pasta and was rubbery.
- pastanever leave pasta or dessert on the table, but I did for both courses
- Affogatothe ice cream was a frozen ball and the espresso had no crema
- Duck gnocchiDuck gnocchi... but it just really tasted bland and one-note
- TiramisuI Tiramisu too sweet and overpowered any other flavor
- aperol spritzHowever, the food left a lot to be desired. My aperol spritz tasted watered down, and everyone who ordered the gnocchi said it was overcooked. I got the eggplant Parmesan, which came with no pasta and was rubbery.
- carbonarathe carbonara (very salty)
- chickenThe chicken had all the skin and fat
- chilled artichokesthe chilled artichokes-disappointing. More appropriate as part of a antipasti dish but not stand alone.
- dessertnever leave pasta or dessert on the table, but I did for both courses
If you're looking for a generally delicious and authentic Italian meal with generous portions, this spot is definitely worth a try. Just be mindful that a few specific dishes might be inconsistent, so perhaps stick to the highly praised items for the best experience.
Service (9.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 80% of the guests
Wow, the service here is truly something special! With an excellent score of 9.3 and a fantastic customer satisfaction rate of 93.9%, its clear guests are consistently impressed. Based on 62 positive comments, terms like staff, friendly service, attentive, and knowledgeable servers pop up repeatedly, highlighting a truly memorable experience.
However, its worth noting there was one comment about a server interaction that felt smug and weird. While this is a rare occurrence among 66 total comments, it's something to be aware of, suggesting an occasional hiccup in an otherwise stellar performance.
Service
66
Reviews
93%
Satisfaction
1
negative
3
neutral
62
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Knowledgeable servers
- Impeccable service
What people don't like
- Smug server interaction
Often praised
- serviceLoved the martini with a focaccia garnish — such a fun touch. Service was thoughtful but relaxed, which made the night even better. Can’t wait to come back for more food and cocktails.
- staffThe staff was friendly & helpful
- ServiceService was highly attentive
- friendly serviceThe cocktails are similarly creative, and although we usually drink wine rather than cocktails, we were delighted to try the ones on the menu here. The service was friendly and the atmosphere is light and airy.
- serverThe service was absolutely top notch. Everyone was welcoming and attentive, and our server was awesome. She gave us great recommendations from the menu and was the perfect blend of chatty and attentive, and hands-off to allow us to enjoy our time together.
- KINDEST serviceKINDEST service from the staff
- almond allergyI have an almond allergy and the servers were extremely knowledgeable
- attentiveWe would have been rushed. Very attentive! Can't wait to go back and try dinner.
- attentivenesshis hospitality and attentiveness while I was seated was phenomenal
- bartenderBrandon was the star bartender for the night
Frequently criticized
- server interactionThe whole interaction felt a little smug and weird.
If youre looking for a place where youll feel genuinely cared for, this restaurant's service is a definite highlight. You can expect friendly, knowledgeable staff who go the extra mile, making it well worth a visit for a truly pleasant dining experience.
Ambience (8.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 69% of the guests
The vibe here is definitely a hit! With a strong score of 8.4 and an excellent customer satisfaction of 92.5%, guests frequently praise the warm, friendly neighborhood vibe and fun atmosphere. Many of the 49 positive comments highlight the beautiful decor, upscale feel, and the light and airy atmosphere, making it a great spot for any occasion.
However, a few of the 4 comments did point out some minor snags. Some guests found the small tables a bit cramped, noting there wasn't enough space for personal belongings or all the plates. There was also a suggestion that the lighting could be improved, but these seem to be isolated concerns.
Ambience
53
Reviews
92%
Satisfaction
4
negative
0
neutral
49
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Warm neighborhood vibe
- Beautiful decor
- Lively, cozy atmosphere
What people don't like
- Limited table space
- Lighting could improve
Often praised
- atmosphereTo start off on a positive note, the restaurant had a good, bright atmosphere and the staff was very friendly and clean! However, the food left a lot to be desired.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere and service was great though
- parkingIt was also fairly easy to find parking
- restaurantthe best restaurant in the West Portal/Ingleside/Saint Francis area
- decorBeautiful decor with an upscale feel to it
- neighborhoodAn excellent addition to the neighborhood
- spaceSpace was super cozy and comfortable
- M line right nextthere is a stop on the M line right next to the restaurant
- ambiancethe food, service & ambiance was outstanding
- ambiencenice ambience
Frequently criticized
- lightingthe lighting could be improved
- small tablesince we got seated at a small table, there wasn’t any space
- space to put all the platesbarely enough space to put all the plates
- space to put our stuffthere wasn’t any space to put our stuff
If you prioritize a fantastic atmosphere and a warm neighborhood vibe, this restaurant is definitely worth trying. While a few minor comments mentioned cramped tables or lighting, the overwhelmingly positive feedback points to a beautiful and comfortable setting. You'll likely find the ambiance a major highlight.
Value (5 out of 10)
mentioned by 25% of the guests
When it comes to value, this spot presents a bit of a mixed bag, with a score of 5 and customer satisfaction at 40.9%. Many diners appreciate the good value and fair pricing, especially noting the shareable plates and generous family meals that make dining out more affordable. Some even highlight appealing deals on wine bottles, adding to the overall positive experience.
However, based on 22 opinions (with 9 positive and 11 negative), others found the experience less appealing. They cited high prices for what they considered just ok food, and expressed frustration over unexpected junk fees like the SF Surcharge. The drink prices and small portions also left some feeling unsatisfied.
Value
22
Reviews
40%
Satisfaction
11
negative
2
neutral
9
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Good value options
- Fair pricing
- Family meal deals
What people don't like
- High prices
- Unexpected surcharges
- Small portions
Often praised
- pricesCan't complain about the prices
- dealreally a good deal
- deals on wine bottlesthey have deals on wine bottles
- family mealsPerhaps those who gave it fewer stars were there on a bad night, but I've been more than a handful of times, and it never disappoints. It has a simple menu with occasional specials, and how can you go wrong with the generously portioned $35 family meals offered three times a week? I also can't complain about the prices either – the plates are shareable.
- good valueI'm really enjoying this new addition to the lunch time options in the Lakeside Village/Ocean Avenue corridor. The sandwiches and soup were delicious and offered good value. My husband said it "Reminds me of North End in Boston".
- priceTHE PRICE IS FAIR FOR WHAT IS PUT IN FRONT OF YOU!
- pricingpricing that's already fair
- shareable platesplates are shareable
Frequently criticized
- pricesI got the eggplant Parmesan, which came with no pasta and was rubbery. The prices weren’t totally exorbitant, but were very high for the small portions and low quality you ended up receiving. It all left me unsatisfied and I wouldn’t return.
- SF Surchargesad and disappointed to see the 5% "SF Surcharge"
- drink pricesdrink prices - way too high
- expensive for ok foodso expensive for ok food
- final billfinal bill higher than we'd like to see
- foodWe spent about 70 per person for this food. Not worth it unfortunately.
- junk feesEveryone... EVERYONE hates junk fees.
- portionI got the eggplant Parmesan, which came with no pasta and was rubbery. The prices weren’t totally exorbitant, but were very high for the small portions and low quality you ended up receiving. It all left me unsatisfied and I wouldn’t return.
- pricethe price, portions, and some textures were disappointing
If you're looking for a place with potential good value through family meals and wine deals, it might be worth a try. However, be prepared for potentially high prices on individual items and unexpected surcharges that could impact your final bill.
How are the prices at Ofena?
You’re looking at roughly 58 $ per person – reported by 50 diners. That puts it in the $51–$60 category. For an Italian Restaurant in San Francisco, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Interestingly, while the average is 58 $, the actual spending is quite varied. Many guests spend less, with the most common price points falling in the $41–$50 and $31–$40 ranges. However, a good number also opt for more premium experiences, reaching $81–$90 or even higher, showing a nice mix of options.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 50 reviews.
See how this restaurant’s value for money stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
For an Italian Restaurant in San Francisco, we think 58 $ per person feels fair, especially given the range of experiences available. Its a good spot if youre looking for quality without necessarily breaking the bank, but also offers options for a more indulgent meal.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Ofena
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Ofena: A True Italian Culinary Gem
My experience at Ofena in San Francisco was that of a genuine culinary treasure. The atmosphere was cozy and chic, and the service was warm and attentive, offering true Italian hospitality. The food was exquisite, with every plate beautifully presented.
The Chitarra Alle Vongole (clam pasta with lemon and chili butter) was a showstopper, perfectly al dente and packed with flavor. We also loved the vibrant Beet & Citrus Salad with candied pecans and whipped ricotta, and the savory, cheesy Boquerones Toast. Every dish demonstrated high-quality ingredients and expert execution.
If you're looking for a top-tier Italian experience in SF, Ofena is a must-visit.
- atmosphere10
- service10
- food10
Price per Person
- $31–$40
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Safe and Delicious Dairy-Free Dining
My experience at this restaurant was delightful. As someone with a dairy allergy, I was concerned about dining out, but they ensured I felt safe and was well fed. The food was incredibly delicious, and the service was great.
I felt completely at ease knowing my dietary needs were handled so well.
- dairy allergy10
- food10
- service9
Price per Person
- $91–$100
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
9
Warm, Welcoming, and Delicious Neighborhood Gem
Ofena is exactly the kind of neighborhood spot you want — warm, welcoming, and delicious. We were treated so well (thank you!) and loved the focaccia, especially the mortadella. The gnocchi with duck prosciutto was rich and perfect, and the pork chop was cooked just right.
The creamy polenta is a must — silky and comforting. Peas salad kept things bright, and the arancini were crispy and cheesy. Loved the martini with a focaccia garnish — such a fun touch.
Service was thoughtful but relaxed, which made the night even better. Can’t wait to come back for more food and cocktails.
- focaccia9
- gnocchi with duck prosciutto9
- pork chop8
Price per Person
- $81–$90
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
10
New Favorite Neighborhood Gem!
My new favorite neighborhood restaurant! Everything was fabulous. The food was delicious, they offered great wines by the glass, and the service was impeccable.
All of this was delivered in a warm, friendly neighborhood vibe.
- food10
- wines by the glass9
- service10
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Large Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
9
Great Food, Service, and Atmosphere
My experience at this restaurant was very positive. The food was good, and the service was great, especially Francesca. The prices were not bad, and the atmosphere was good.
They also have a full bar with great bartenders.
- food8
- service10
- prices7
What Ofena offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safespace
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Kids' menu
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Offerings
- Vegan options
- Hard liquor
- Happy hour drinks
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Happy hour food
- Cocktails
- Vegetarian options
- Private dining room
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Catering
- Brunch
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Delivery
Parking
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of dining experience and services does Ofena offer?
At Ofena, you can enjoy a casual yet trendy dining experience with options for lunch, dinner, brunch, and dessert. They offer table service, and you can also choose takeout or delivery. Reservations are accepted and recommended for dinner, ensuring you get a seat in their cozy setting.
Does Ofena accommodate special dietary needs and what amenities are available?
Yes, Ofena offers a variety of options including vegan and vegetarian dishes, alongside small plates. You’ll find a full bar onsite with hard liquor, wine, beer, and cocktails, plus happy hour specials. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and features a gender-neutral restroom.
How is Ofena generally rated by customers?
Ofena receives a good overall score of 8.1, with customer satisfaction at 81.8%. Service (9.3) and Ambience (8.4) are highly praised, while Food (7.9) is good but has some mixed opinions, and Value (5) is considered average.
What do customers appreciate most about Ofena?
Customers frequently highlight the attentive and kind service, noting staff knowledge and helpfulness. The restaurant’s cozy and bright ambiance, along with options like family meals and shareable plates, are also often mentioned positively.
Are there any common concerns or downsides at Ofena?
Some customers have noted inconsistencies in food quality, with specific dishes like gnocchi or eggplant Parmesan sometimes falling short. Concerns about small portion sizes and additional charges like ‘SF Surcharge’ or high drink prices have also been raised.