Highlights
- Great dessert
- Great coffee
- Fireplace
- Great wine list
oChef » FINO – San Francisco
FINO - San Francisco
Photo from FINO
FINO at a glance
San Francisco Lower Nob Hill
- 🍝 Italian Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $51–$60
mentioned by 149 of the guests
#192 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#12 Italian Restaurant out of 122 in San Francisco
Excellent
8.6 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
699
Reviews
87%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Italian cuisine
- Attentive service
- Cozy atmosphere
Frequently criticized
- Hidden fees
- Tight seating
- Restroom issues
The restaurant FINO, an exquisite Italian Restaurant nestled in San Francisco’s vibrant Lower Nob Hill, invites you to a truly memorable dining experience. As you step inside, you’ll immediately notice the warm, inviting glow of a charming fireplace, setting a perfectly cozy and romantic atmosphere.
This upscale spot is ideal for an intimate dinner, offering a taste of authentic Italian cuisine in a trendy setting that you’ll surely appreciate.
Overview: Introducting FINO
FINO presents a compelling dining option, particularly for those who prioritize a well-executed meal and attentive service. Many guests highlight the quality of the food and the genuinely friendly staff, contributing to a memorable experience.
The ambiance also receives praise for its charming and intimate feel. However, potential diners should be aware of certain aspects.
While many find the overall experience to be good value, some have noted concerns regarding unexpected surcharges. Additionally, a few comments suggest the seating can feel a bit cramped, and there have been isolated remarks about restroom conditions.
Excellent
8.6
out of 10
699
Reviews
87%
Satisfaction
67
negative
24
neutral
608
positive
FINO earns a solid overall score of 8.6, reflecting a generally positive reception, with customer satisfaction standing at a strong 87%. This indicates that the vast majority of diners leave pleased with their experience.
These insights are drawn from a substantial volume of feedback, with 608 positive observations against 67 negative ones. The restaurant truly shines in its culinary offerings, with Food scoring an impressive (8.8), making it a clear highlight.
The inviting Ambience (8.6) and dedicated Service (8.4) also contribute significantly to its appeal. While Value (6.3) is considered average, it doesn’t detract substantially from the overall positive sentiment.
What people like
- Exceptional Italian cuisine
- Attentive, friendly service
- Charming, cozy atmosphere
What people don't like
- Unexpected surcharges
- Potentially cramped seating
- Restroom cleanliness issues
For those seeking a restaurant where excellent Italian cuisine and attentive service are paramount, FINO is certainly worth considering. Its high scores across food, ambience, and service suggest a consistently enjoyable experience, making it a reliable choice for a pleasant meal out.
However, if budget transparency and spacious seating are top priorities, you might want to factor in the noted surcharges and potentially cozy dining arrangements. Despite these minor points, the strong 8.7 recommendation score indicates that most diners find the overall experience to be very rewarding.
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Verdict: Our expert take on FINO
Food (8.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 98% of the guests
When it comes to the food, you're largely in for an excellent experience, with a stellar score of 8.8 and a good customer satisfaction rate of 89.4%. Based on 319 positive remarks, diners consistently rave about the delicious, authentic cuisine, especially the fresh pasta and excellent cocktails. Many appreciate the menu selection and generous portion sizes.
Food
357
Reviews
89%
Satisfaction
25
negative
13
neutral
319
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Fresh, authentic pasta
- Delicious, quality food
- Excellent gluten-free options
What people don't like
- Inconsistent pasta texture
- Too much sauce
- Limited portions
Often praised
- foodWe shared the spinach salad, bread, and the seasonal special which included pancetta wrapped scallops and cheese ravioli with sun dried tomatoes. The food was fantastic, and the service and atmosphere were also great.
- pastaLearning that all their pasta is made in-house heightened our anticipation, and rightly so. Each pasta dish we tried was a revelation – fresh, flavorful, and expertly prepared. It’s clear that Fino takes great pride in their craftsmanship, and it shows in every bite.
- Italian foodMy experience at this restaurant was exceptional. The hotel reception recommended it, and in one simple sentence, it was the best Italian I have ever had! All four meals were delicious and very substantial, so remember this when ordering starters.
- FoodThe service was incredibly friendly and attentive. The food and wine were absolutely top-notch. Highly recommended.
- portionsOur server, José, truly went above and beyond to make our experience exceptional. His recommendations were absolutely delicious, and the portions were very generous. For a party of four, we ordered two pastas, a pizza, a Caprese salad, and a bottle of wine, which was more than enough food.
- wine listI appreciated that the pasta was cooked perfectly al dente, not overmixed. The restaurant offers an excellent wine list, and we enjoyed both bringing our own bottle ($30 corkage) and purchasing one from their selection. The prices were reasonable, making it a great value.
- zabaglioneOrdering that is a treat because the cook comes to the table and pours it into the glass of berries until it overflows.
- cocktailsShe makes the best cocktails too
- dessertsDesserts were perfect and not to be missed.
- dishesdishes are all beautifully prepared and full of flavor
Frequently criticized
- pastamy pasta was a little bit too al dente
- foodThe food on the other hand… Was very unsatisfying
- spaghetti carbonarathey have a spaghetti carbonara which is not really a carbonara. It does not have eggs and it has onions and paper.
- breadrestaurant doesn't give bread for the table.
- bread and olive oilThe bread and olive oil were awful.
- dietary guidelinesno dietary guidelines were given on the menu
- drinkspoorly made drinks
- fresh breadShe also makes the best cocktails. The food was great, though I was a bit surprised I didn't get some fresh bread. It's definitely going to be a must when I go back to the city.
- gnocchi pastathe pasta was a bit doughy feeling and stuck to my teeth
- homemade ravioliNous avons pris les raviolis maison avec 6 pièces par assiette, c'était limité
If you're seeking an authentic Italian meal with delicious, high-quality food and fantastic fresh pasta, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be mindful that some dishes might have a generous amount of sauce, and the bread might not be a highlight.
Service (8.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 90% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot generally hits the mark! With a solid score of 8.4 and a customer satisfaction rate of 84.9%, its clear that most diners have a good experience. Out of 219 total comments, a whopping 186 praise the staffs attentiveness, friendliness, and amazing service, often highlighting their warmth and genuine hospitality.
Many shout out specific servers for going the extra mile and offering excellent recommendations. However, its not all sunshine and roses, as 31 comments point to some bumps in the road. Some guests have encountered long waiting times, bad service, and even rudeness or an impatient waitress.
There are also mentions of feeling rushed during their meal, which can definitely put a damper on the dining experience. It seems theres a bit of inconsistency that could use some polishing.
Service
219
Reviews
84%
Satisfaction
31
negative
2
neutral
186
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Staff provides attentive service
- Experience warm, friendly welcome
- Servers offer great recommendations
What people don't like
- Expect long waiting times
- Beware of rude service
- Dining can feel rushed
Often praised
- serviceThe food was good, and the atmosphere was enjoyable, rated at 4 out of 5. While the service was also rated highly at 5 out of 5, I didn't find anything particularly outstanding that would make me want to return and order the same dishes again. It was a nice place, but lacked a unique element to make it memorable.
- staffThe desserts were also amazing! Thanks again to Charles and the staff for an amazing meal and time.
- serverWe were able to walk in without a reservation, which was awesome. Our server was a trip and made the experience so enjoyable, and the food was great! Would recommend if you're in the area.
- ServiceVery friendly and attentive service
- CharlesCharles was amazing. He provided great suggestions and very attentive
- waiterMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The place was super cozy, and our waiter was the best. The food was spectacular, and the price was not too bad.
- JoseJose is the best very helpful, smiling and friendly
- attention to detailThe restaurant offers a very intimate setting with delicious food. Our server, Charles, was exceptional, providing excellent recommendations and paying close attention to detail, which made my birthday celebration truly special.
- bartenderSebastian, the bartender, ... everything was fabulous
- server CharlesWe were indecisive on where to go and truly lucked out with our choice. Our server, Charles, knows his wine and food. He's helpful and had great suggestions.
Frequently criticized
- servicewith this Charles attitude .. you have to reconsider your service
- attention to detailAttention to detail is the difference between an ok restaurant and a great one.
- bad servicethe bad service overall
- behaviortolerate this man’s atrocious behavior
- contempt and arroganceher talking to us was sort of contempt and arrogance
- customer servicecustomer service is crucial?
- explanationwithout ever once apologizing for the inconvenience or offering me a coherent explanation
- forgot our drinksshe forgot to bring our drink
- impatient waitressThe waitress was impatient while taking our order
- kitchenwas told the Kitchen is closed
If you're looking for a place where the staff often provides attentive and friendly service, this restaurant is generally a good bet. Just be prepared for the possibility of occasional longer waits or inconsistent staff interactions, which might slightly impact your visit.
Ambience (8.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 58% of the guests
Based on 100 customer comments, the ambiance here truly shines, earning a good score of 8.6 and an excellent customer satisfaction of 90%. Guests frequently rave about the cozy atmosphere, intimate setting, and soft lighting, making it feel like a hidden gem perfect for a special occasion. With 90 positive remarks, its clear the vibe is a major draw.
However, a few guests (4 comments) did note some minor drawbacks. Concerns popped up regarding tight sitting and feeling a bit cramped. There was also a specific mention of a Restroom smell, ' suggesting a small area for improvement.
Overall, these are minor points compared to the overwhelmingly positive feedback.
Ambience
100
Reviews
90%
Satisfaction
4
negative
6
neutral
90
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Cozy, intimate atmosphere
- Elegant, warm vibe
- Great for dates
What people don't like
- Tight, cramped seating
- Unpleasant restroom smell
- Old building feel
Often praised
- atmosphereWe shared the spinach salad, bread, and the seasonal special which included pancetta wrapped scallops and cheese ravioli with sun dried tomatoes. The food was fantastic, and the service and atmosphere were also great.
- ambianceThe wine list at Fino is another aspect that deserves high praise. The ambiance of Fino strikes a balance between understated elegance and a cozy intimacy, although it can feel a bit cramped. This, however, does little to detract from the overall experience, as the quality of the food and service more than makes up for it.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- ambiencevery charming ambience
- dining experienceI had a great intimate dining experience. The food was amazing and the service was top notch!
- experienceOverall, it was a great experience
- noise levelNoise level:Quiet, easy to talk
- placea place, we'd definitely recommend
- restaurantPetit restaurant mais super convivial
- waiting areanice with a comfortable waiting area
Frequently criticized
- Restroom smellRestroom smell not good
- crampedalthough it can feel a bit cramped
- restaurant buildingThe restaurant building is old but not in a good way feels dirty.
- tight sittinga little bit of tight sitting
If youre seeking a restaurant with a truly inviting and romantic atmosphere, this place is definitely worth a visit. Its cozy charm and elegant setting make it ideal for a special night out, despite a few minor mentions of tight seating. Youll likely find the overall experience delightful.
Value (6.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 13% of the guests
When it comes to value, this spot has an average score of 6.3, with customer satisfaction sitting at a mixed 56.5%. Many guests, accounting for 13 positive remarks out of 23 total, found the prices to be quite reasonable and felt they got good value for their money. Terms like prices, value, and affordability popped up often, with some even saying it was worth every penny and that the wine list wouldnt break the bank.
However, its not all sunshine and rainbows. About 7 negative comments pointed out that the value can be a bit of a sticking point. Key terms like surcharge and expensive frequently appeared, with some customers feeling that the prices werent justified for what they received, especially with an added 6% surcharge for San Francisco employer mandates' causing some frustration.
Value
23
Reviews
56%
Satisfaction
7
negative
3
neutral
13
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Prices are fair
- Great value
- Wine list affordable
What people don't like
- Surcharge added
- Prices not justified
- Can be expensive
Often praised
- priceThe service was top-notch, and the food was prepared very well. Overall, it was a great meal that was reasonably priced. I will definitely return and recommend it.
- pricesThe staff was efficient and friendly. The prices are in line with what is charged in San Francisco.
- affordabilitysurprised at how affordable it was
- billMy experience at this restaurant was phenomenal. The food was truly amazing, so much so that when I received the bill, I felt like we were cheating them. Thank you to everyone else for their reviews; they led me to this fantastic find.
- valueWorth it's value and more.
- wine listthe wine list is just the right size and quality that wont break the bank
- worth every pennyThe pasta was excellent, making it one of the best Italian restaurants in San Francisco. While it is quite expensive, it was worth every penny for the great experience. Our server, Jose, was the best – very helpful, smiling, and friendly.
Frequently criticized
- 6% surchargea 6% surcharge is added to all bills
- San Francisco employer mandatesfor "San Francisco employer mandates."
- breadon me l’a facturé 6 dollars !!!
- expensiveThe pasta was excellent, making it one of the best Italian restaurants in San Francisco. While it is quite expensive, it was worth every penny for the great experience. Our server, Jose, was the best – very helpful, smiling, and friendly.
- pricewe spend over 400$
- pricesthe prices are not justified for what you get here
- surchargeThey chose this route instead of raising menu prices, believing it creates less “sticker shock” and aligns with how most other restaurants present their prices. However, I disagree; it does not create less sticker shock, it causes more. I will not return.
Overall, the value here is a bit of a mixed bag. Many find the prices reasonable and the experience worth it, but a 6% surcharge can be a point of contention. If youre prepared for that, youll likely feel it's a good deal; otherwise, it might feel a bit pricey.
How are the prices at FINO?
On average, you’ll spend around 55 per person – based on what 149 guests reported. That places this Italian spot squarely in the $51–$60 category, which feels like a comfortable mid-range, perhaps a touch on the higher side for Italian. Interestingly, while the average is 55, the prices are quite spread out.
Many diners find options in the 21 – 50 $ range, but theres also a good number of guests enjoying more premium experiences, pulling that average up. Its a diverse menu with options for various budgets!
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 149 reviews.
See how this Italian restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
We think the pricing feels quite fair for an Italian Restaurant in San Francisco. With a good spread of options, you can tailor your experience to your budget, whether you’re looking for a casual meal or something a bit more special. It seems like a solid choice for value.
Customer Reviews: what people think about FINO
Price per Person
- $31–$40
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Service Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Moderate
9
Excellent Italian in San Francisco
My experience at this quaint Italian restaurant in the heart of San Francisco was excellent. The service was top-notch, and the food was prepared very well. Overall, it was a great meal that was reasonably priced.
I will definitely return and recommend it.
- service10
- food9
- meal9
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Moderate
2
Reservation Nightmare at Fino
I have dined at Fino numerous times over the past 15-20 years, almost every time I visit San Francisco. However, my recent experience has led me to decide "never again. " My issue began with a reservation.
I booked online for 5 people on a Saturday night at 7 pm well in advance and received a confirmation. Days later, I received an email and text stating my reservation had been moved to 7: 30 pm, with no explanation or apology. When I called to inquire about the change, Charles, who identified himself as the restaurant manager, responded with 5-10 minutes of the rudest invective I've ever encountered.
He repeatedly interrupted, spoke down to me, talked over me, and raised his voice, all without an apology or coherent explanation. His reasons shifted from "not enough room" to inconveniencing other guests, and then to having too many people at earlier reservation times – none of which were my concern. His dismissive, confrontational, and rude demeanor was as bad as his words.
He never offered assistance, asked if the time mattered, or apologized. When I asked to speak to a manager, he claimed to be the only one in charge and refused to provide any other contact. I was astounded by his apparent indifference to whether I dined there or not, especially from a manager in a customer-service-critical business.
Consequently, I canceled my reservation and found another excellent Italian restaurant that accommodated my party of 5 at 7 pm. Given the abundance of great restaurants in San Francisco, I will not tolerate such atrocious behavior.
- food8
- reservation1
- restaurant manager1
- rudest invective1
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Loud
3
Expensive meal, poor service and restroom.
My experience at this restaurant was disappointing, especially considering the amount we spent. We ordered a lot of food and 8 cocktails, totaling over $400. However, we were only provided with one bottle of water, and we had to refill it ourselves.
The restroom also had an unpleasant smell. This was enough for us to decide it's a one-time visit.
- food7
- cocktails7
- water bottle2
- refill water2
- Restroom smell2
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Loud
10
Amazing Food and Service!
My experience at Fino Ristorante & Bar was amazing! 😍 I loveee their food — everything is so flavorful, fresh, and perfectly cooked. The atmosphere is cozy and elegant, and the service is always wonderful.
Definitely one of my favorite spots in the city! 🍝🍷✨
- food10
- atmosphere9
- service10
Price per Person
- $31–$40
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
10
Authentic Italian Gem with Outstanding Service
My experience at this Italian restaurant was fantastic. The cuisine was truly authentic, and the service was outstanding. I also enjoyed the excellent cocktails and wine.
The atmosphere was quiet, warm, and inviting, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a great meal. Highly recommended.
- authentic cuisine10
- outstanding service10
- excellent cocktails9
What FINO offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Transgender safespace
- Tourists
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Family-friendly
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Kids' menu
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
- Restroom
Offerings
- Vegan options
- Hard liquor
- Happy hour drinks
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Happy hour food
- Cocktails
- Organic dishes
- Vegetarian options
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Catering
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Counter service
Service Options
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Curbside pickup
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Parking
- Paid parking garage
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Upscale
- Romantic
- Cozy
- Trendy
FAQs
Is FINO accessible for guests with mobility needs?
Yes, FINO is committed to providing an inclusive dining experience. You’ll find a wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, and restrooms, ensuring comfort and convenience for all guests in San Francisco’s Lower Nob Hill.
Does FINO offer options for specific dietary preferences?
Absolutely! At FINO, you can enjoy a diverse menu that caters to various needs. They proudly offer both vegan and vegetarian options, alongside organic dishes, ensuring you have delicious choices for your Italian dining experience.
How does FINO generally rate among diners?
FINO holds a strong overall score of 8.6, with 87% customer satisfaction. Its Food (8.8), Ambience (8.6), and Service (8.4) are particularly well-regarded, while Value (6.3) is considered average.
What do customers appreciate most about FINO's dining experience?
Diners frequently praise FINO’s fresh, flavorful pasta and overall Italian food quality. The atmosphere is often described as charming and intimate, complemented by very attentive and friendly service.
Are there any common concerns or drawbacks at FINO?
Some customers express dissatisfaction with unexpected surcharges on their bills, impacting the overall value. A few also noted the seating could feel a bit cramped, and there were isolated comments about restroom cleanliness.