oChef » The Italian Homemade – San Francisco

The Italian Homemade - San Francisco

Italian Restaurant The Italian Homemade in San Francisco
Photo from The Italian Homemade
How do the guests rate it?
The Italian Homemade at a glance
San Francisco Civic Center
$$
Price per Person $21–$30
mentioned by 88 of the guests
#1484 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#101 Italian Restaurant out of 122 in San Francisco
Good
7.2 out of 10
7.7
Food
6.8
Service
6.7
Ambience
5
Value
399

Reviews

72.9%

Satisfaction

Often praised
  • Fresh Pasta
  • Authentic Flavors
Frequently criticized
  • Service Inconsistency
  • Value Concerns

The restaurant The Italian Homemade is a charming Italian eatery nestled in San Francisco’s vibrant Civic Center neighborhood. You’ll discover a cozy, casual, and trendy spot perfect for enjoying authentic Italian flavors.

Whether you’re seeking a quick bite or a leisurely meal, this place offers a welcoming atmosphere for all.

Overview: Introducting The Italian Homemade

The Italian Homemade generally impresses with its authentic food and a welcoming ambiance. Many appreciate the fresh, homemade taste that captures the essence of Italian cooking, often paired with a pleasant atmosphere and friendly staff.

However, experiences with service can be inconsistent, with some reporting issues like slow delivery or billing errors. While prices are often considered fair, some find certain items expensive, and the physical setting occasionally receives criticism.

Good
7.2 out of 10
399

Reviews

72.9%

Satisfaction

84

negative

24

neutral

291

positive

The Italian Homemade achieves a solid overall Restaurant Score of 7.2, reflecting a generally positive dining experience. This is supported by a good Customer Satisfaction of 72.9%, indicating that most patrons leave content.

These insights are drawn from a substantial 399 customer comments, with 291 positive remarks outweighing 84 negative ones. Diving deeper, the Food (7.7) stands out as a clear strength, frequently praised for its quality and taste.

Service (6.8) and Ambience (6.7) also perform reasonably well, contributing positively to the experience. However, Value (5) appears to be a more mixed bag, suggesting that while the food is enjoyed, some customers question the pricing.

What people like
  • Delicious, fresh pasta
  • Authentic Italian flavors
  • Cozy, inviting atmosphere
What people don't like
  • Inconsistent service quality
  • Questionable value for money
  • Occasional ambience issues

With a solid Recommendation Score of 7.5, The Italian Homemade is generally a worthwhile stop for those seeking genuine Italian flavors. If you prioritize well-prepared pasta and a pleasant setting, you’ll likely find it a satisfying choice.

However, be prepared for potentially variable service and consider if the pricing aligns with your expectations. It’s a place that shines for its culinary heart, but a few operational aspects could temper the overall experience.

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Verdict: Our expert take on The Italian Homemade

Food (7.7 out of 10)

mentioned by 97% of the guests

When it comes to the food here, youre generally in for a treat! With a solid score of 7.7 and customer satisfaction at a good 79.1%, many guests rave about the delicious, freshly made pasta and authentic Italian experience. Based on 197 positive remarks out of 249 total, you can expect generous portions and a variety of delicious sauces, making for a truly satisfying meal.

However, its not always perfect, as 37 negative comments indicate some occasional missteps. A few diners have noted issues like dishes being too salty, food arriving cold, or items like lasagna being burned. There were also some mentions of poor flatbread quality, so it seems consistency can sometimes be a minor issue.

7.7 Food

249

Reviews

79%

Satisfaction

37

negative

15

neutral

197

positive

Rating distribution
What people like
  • Fresh handmade pasta
  • Authentic Italian flavor
  • Generous portions
What people don't like
  • Salty dishes
  • Cold food served
  • Poor flatbread quality

Often praised

  • food
  • pasta
  • Food
  • lasagna
  • food quality
  • fresh pasta
  • gnocchi with pesto
  • Italian food
  • affogato
  • bolognese

Frequently criticized

  • Caprese Salad
  • Flatbread
  • Food
  • Lasagna
  • Meat Lassana
  • Napoli sauce
  • Pappardelle + Pasticciata
  • Recommendation for vegetarians
  • Special Piadina
  • Tagliatelle Bolognese pasta

If you're craving authentic, generously portioned Italian pasta, this place is a solid bet. While most experiences are fantastic, be aware that some dishes occasionally miss the mark on seasoning or temperature. Stick to their pasta specialties for a truly delightful meal.

Service (6.8 out of 10)

mentioned by 53% of the guests

When it comes to service, many guests have had a pleasant experience, with 42 positive remarks out of 64 total mentions highlighting the friendly staff and quick service. Patrons often praise the welcoming team, helpful recommendations, and efficient table service. While the overall score sits at a solid 6.8, indicating an average performance, theres a clear appreciation for the dedicated employees.

However, not everyone leaves happy, as evidenced by 20 negative comments. Some customers have encountered rude staff, experienced frustratingly long waiting times, or found the counter ordering system inconvenient. This contributes to a mixed customer satisfaction of 65.6%, suggesting that consistency in service can be a challenge and theres room for improvement.

6.8 Service

64

Reviews

65%

Satisfaction

20

negative

2

neutral

42

positive

Rating distribution
What people like
  • Friendly staff
  • Quick service
  • Helpful recommendations
What people don't like
  • Rude staff
  • Long waiting times
  • Counter ordering

Often praised

  • staff
  • service
  • Service
  • Wait time
  • chef
  • cross contamination
  • delivery
  • employee
  • heart
  • hostess

Frequently criticized

  • service
  • Service
  • cashiers and staff
  • customer service
  • delivery service
  • food on time
  • friends food
  • ordering at counter
  • rude
  • staff

Overall, service here can be a bit of a mixed bag. If you catch them on a good day, youll likely enjoy friendly and quick attention, but be prepared for potential inconsistencies like longer waits or less-than-stellar interactions. Its worth a try if youre flexible, but dont expect perfection every time.

Ambience (6.7 out of 10)

mentioned by 45% of the guests

The atmosphere here generally hits the mark, with many guests praising the charming atmosphere and vintage vibes that create an authentic Italian experience, especially with the open kitchen. With a solid score of 6.7 and a customer satisfaction of 69.5%, its clear that many find the setting quite enjoyable, based on 41 positive remarks out of 59 total. However, not everyone was charmed.

Some found the space to be a cold, unheated room, with distracting issues like a jack hammer-like sound or concerns about hygiene. A few even felt the overall atmosphere was not welcoming. These points, noted in 13 observations, suggest theres room for improvement to ensure a consistently comfortable experience for all.

6.7 Ambience

59

Reviews

69%

Satisfaction

13

negative

5

neutral

41

positive

Rating distribution
What people like
  • Authentic Italian vibe
  • Charming, cozy atmosphere
  • Open kitchen design
What people don't like
  • Uncomfortably cold room
  • Distracting loud noises
  • Hygiene concerns

Often praised

  • atmosphere
  • Atmosphere
  • interior
  • Italian air
  • Italian experience
  • Italian posters
  • ambiance
  • ambience
  • casual setting
  • charming atmosphere

Frequently criticized

  • atmosphere
  • Atmosphere
  • ambience problems
  • cold, unheated room
  • cum all in the sink
  • front door
  • hygiene
  • jack hammer-like sound
  • music
  • parking

If youre seeking a charming Italian atmosphere with vintage touches, youll likely enjoy the vibe here. However, be aware that some guests have experienced comfort issues like temperature or noise. It's a mixed bag, so go in with an open mind.

Value (5 out of 10)

mentioned by 26% of the guests

When it comes to value, it seems like a bit of a mixed bag, with a score of 5 putting it squarely in the average range. Many diners appreciate finding a good deal, especially with mentions of student discount, value for money, and fairly priced food. Out of 27 total comments, 11 positive remarks highlight that some find the prices surprisingly good for the quality, making it feel like a worthwhile experience.

However, the picture isnt entirely rosy, as customer satisfaction sits at a mixed 40.7%. There are 14 negative comments raising concerns about things being expensive, up-charges, and even deceptive menus. Issues like an SF Surcharge Employee benefits' and not accepting cash also left some feeling frustrated, suggesting that the final cost can sometimes be a bit of a surprise.

5 Value

27

Reviews

40%

Satisfaction

14

negative

2

neutral

11

positive

Rating distribution
What people like
  • Good value for money
  • Fairly priced food
  • Student discounts available
What people don't like
  • Can be expensive
  • Unexpected up-charges
  • No cash payments

Often praised

  • price
  • prices
  • value for money
  • fairly priced
  • good price
  • student discount

Frequently criticized

  • price
  • $40 for lettuce
  • 27 dollars
  • SF Surcharge Employee benefits
  • card payments
  • cost
  • deceptive menus
  • don't take cash
  • drinks
  • expensive

If you're looking for a good deal, especially with a student discount, you might find some pleasant surprises here. However, be mindful of potential up-charges or unexpected costs, as the value can be inconsistent for some diners.

How are the prices at The Italian Homemade?

You’re looking at roughly 23 per person – reported by 88 diners. That puts it in the $21–$30 category. For an Italian Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.

While the average is 23, it’s interesting to see that most guests actually spend a bit less, with the biggest group clustering around the $11–$20 range, though a good number also hit the $21–$30 mark. This suggests a nice mix, offering options for different budgets.

Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 88 reviews.

Compare the value for money of this restaurant against similar ones in San Francisco.

Considering it’s an Italian spot in San Francisco, we think the pricing feels quite fair. It offers good value for a mid-range experience, especially with options for those looking to spend a little less.

Customer Reviews: what people think about The Italian Homemade

Price per Person
  • $41–$50
Visit Type
  • Food Exploration
Group Size
  • Solo
Service Type
  • Dine-in
Wait Time
  • Immediate (0–5 min.)
Rol
Review date: 10/26/2025
2
Disappointing Lasagna and Tiramisu
My experience at this restaurant was disappointing. I had high hopes, having walked by many times and looking forward to trying it. I'm glad I visited alone before bringing friends. I ordered the Lasagna, which arrived fridge cold, not just room temperature. It was a veggie lasagna, so perhaps not a popular choice. I also tried the Tiramisu, and unfortunately, it was also a letdown; I've had much better. I hope other dishes might be better, but based on my experience, I wouldn't recommend it for vegetarians.
  • veggie lasagna5
  • Lasagna1
  • Tiramisu3
  • Recommendation for vegetarians1
Visit Type
  • Regular Visit
Service Type
  • Takeout
Jodie F.
Review date: 09/23/2025
9
Delicious Bolognese To-Go Weekly!
My experience at this restaurant has been consistently positive, primarily due to their delicious bolognese. I get a tub of it to go every week because it's so addictive. They also offer gluten-free pasta, which is a great option.
  • bolognese10
  • gluten free pasta8
Price per Person
  • $21–$30
Visit Type
  • Food Exploration
Group Size
  • Solo
Service Type
  • Dine-in
Wait Time
  • Immediate (0–5 min.)
A S.
Review date: 09/23/2025
9
Modern Italian with Great Food and Service
My experience at this restaurant was very positive. It's a modern place with an industrial look and nice Italian posters. The food is great, the staff is nice, and the prices are all right. I had no wait time and the atmosphere and service were rated a 5 out of 5, with food also receiving a 5 out of 5.
  • modern place8
  • industrial look8
  • Italian posters7
Visit Type
  • Food Exploration
Service Type
  • Dine-in
jade
Review date: 09/10/2025
2
Disappointing Rigatoni and Sauce
My experience at the restaurant was disappointing. I may have ordered incorrectly, as I received rigatoni with meatballs and marinara sauce instead of Bolognese. Unfortunately, I found the meat to be not very flavorful at all, and the pasta sauce was equally lacking. The pasta texture and taste were no better than boxed pasta. This dish cost 27 dollars.
  • rigatoni with meatballs2
  • pasta sauce2
  • pasta texture2
Price per Person
  • $11–$20
Visit Type
  • Food Exploration
Group Type
  • Couple
Group Size
  • Couple
Service Type
  • Dine-in
Noise Level
  • Quiet
Juan C.
Review date: 08/19/2025
8
Homemade Flavor Surprise
My experience at the restaurant was a pleasant surprise. The first taste had a distinct homemade flavor. I'm looking forward to trying the lasagna on my next visit.
  • homemade flavor8

What The Italian Homemade offers

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible seating

Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments

Children

  • Good for kids
  • High chairs

Popular for

  • Dinner
  • Lunch
  • Solo dining

Amenities

  • Restroom

Offerings

  • Alcohol
  • Wine
  • Coffee
  • Beer
  • Vegetarian options
  • Quick bite

Dining options

  • Breakfast
  • Dessert
  • Dinner
  • Seating
  • Lunch

Service Options

  • Outdoor seating
  • Dine-in
  • Takeout
  • Delivery

Pets

  • Dogs allowed outside

Parking

  • Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
  • Free street parking
  • Paid street parking

Atmosphere

  • Cozy
  • Casual
  • Trendy

FAQs

What kind of atmosphere and dining options can you find at The Italian Homemade Company?
You can enjoy a cozy, casual, and trendy atmosphere at The Italian Homemade. Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, or just a quick bite or dessert, there’s seating available. You can also choose from dine-in, takeout, or delivery, with outdoor seating as an option.
Absolutely! The Italian Homemade is good for kids, offering high chairs for your little ones. For accessibility, the restaurant features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating, ensuring a comfortable visit for everyone. Dogs are also allowed in the outdoor seating area.
The Italian Homemade holds a Restaurant Score of 7.2 and a Customer Satisfaction of 72.9%. Its Food (7.7) is a highlight, while Service (6.8) and Ambience (6.7) are decent, but Value (5) is more divisive.
Customers often praise the authentic, homemade Italian food, especially the fresh pasta and dishes like bolognese, which are described as simple, elegant, and tasty.
Some customers have reported inconsistent service, including issues with wait times or billing. Additionally, the value for money can be a point of contention, with some finding certain items expensive.
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Location
1 Franklin St, 94102 San Francisco
Opening hours
Monday – Sunday
11:00 AM – 9:00 PM