Highlights
- Great wine list
oChef » Piccino Presidio – San Francisco
Piccino Presidio - San Francisco
Photo from Piccino Presidio
Piccino Presidio at a glance
San Francisco Presidio of San Francisco
- 🍝 Italian Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $51–$60
mentioned by 22 of the guests
#711 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#51 Italian Restaurant out of 122 in San Francisco
Good
7.9 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
159
Reviews
80.5%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Delicious Food
- Cozy Ambiance
- Good Service
Frequently criticized
- High Prices
- Small Portions
- Loud Environment
The restaurant Piccino Presidio is an Italian restaurant nestled in the scenic Presidio of San Francisco. You’ll discover a cozy and trendy atmosphere here, perfect for enjoying a meal.
A standout feature you’ll appreciate is their great wine list, complementing their delicious offerings. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch or an intimate dinner, this spot has you covered.
Overview: Introducting Piccino Presidio
Piccino Presidio offers a dining experience where the atmosphere truly shines, often described as a nice, upscale Italian spot that feels both warm and cozy. Guests frequently highlight the ambiance and space , noting its beautiful setting and comfortable seating arrangements.
While the food receives considerable praise for its fresh ingredients and delicious offerings, some diners express concerns about the value and portion sizes. Service generally garners positive remarks, though a few experiences suggest occasional inconsistencies in staff attention.
Good
7.9
out of 10
159
Reviews
80.5%
Satisfaction
28
negative
3
neutral
128
positive
Piccino Presidio achieves a solid overall score of 7.9, reflecting a generally positive dining experience, and boasts a good customer satisfaction rate of 80.5%. This assessment is drawn from 159 customer opinions, with 128 positive and 28 negative remarks.
The Ambience (8.6) stands out as a particular strength, closely followed by the quality of Food (8.5). Service (7.3) is also rated well, indicating a competent and often friendly staff.
However, Value (2.9) is a clear area for improvement, with many guests finding the pricing to be on the higher side for what is offered.
What people like
- Delicious, fresh food
- Warm, cozy ambiance
- Attentive, friendly service
What people don't like
- High prices
- Small portions
- Loud atmosphere
If you prioritize a beautiful setting and well-prepared Italian-Californian cuisine, Piccino Presidio is certainly worth considering. The Recommendation Score of 8 suggests a strong likelihood of a satisfying visit, especially for those seeking a pleasant atmosphere.
However, be prepared for a potentially higher bill and smaller portions, as the value aspect is a consistent point of contention. It’s a place for an enjoyable meal and setting, but perhaps not for those on a strict budget or expecting generous plate sizes.
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 Piccino Presidio
Food (8.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 93% of the guests
When it comes to the food, diners are generally raving, with a strong 8.5 score and an impressive 88.1% customer satisfaction. Many of the 74 positive remarks praise the delicious, fresh ingredients and amazing pastas, often highlighting the fluffy focaccia, corn pizza, and even the BEST lasagna some have ever had. The interesting flavor combos also get a shout-out.
However, not everyone was completely won over. A handful of the 9 negative comments mention concerns about small portions, particularly for pasta dishes and pizza, with some finding the fish to be mediocre. A few felt the food was over-decorated rather than focused on taste, leading to disappointment.
Food
84
Reviews
88%
Satisfaction
9
negative
1
neutral
74
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious, fresh food
- Amazing pasta dishes
- Unique flavor combos
What people don't like
- Small portions
- Mediocre fish
- Subpar pizza
Often praised
- foodDelicious fresh and seasonal, some of the best Italian food
- cocktailsMarinated olives and cocktails
- FoodFood is outstanding
- aranciniHer demeanor was kind, warm, and professional. This excellent service was the cherry on top of some delicious food, including the arancini, polpette, pizza, and seasonal greens!
- fresh ingredientsEverything was delicious with fresh ingredients.
- pizzaHer demeanor was kind, warm, and professional. This excellent service was the cherry on top of some delicious food, including the arancini, polpette, pizza, and seasonal greens!
- polpetteHer demeanor was kind, warm, and professional. This excellent service was the cherry on top of some delicious food, including the arancini, polpette, pizza, and seasonal greens!
- Amalfi cocktailcrafted an Amalfi cocktail that was a revelation
- Arancinithe Arancini and focaccia were spot on
- Italian - Californian - eclecticThe cuisine is a fascinating blend of Italian - Californian - eclectic
Frequently criticized
- pizzaMy experience at this restaurant was terribly disappointing. Coming from the authentic food scene in LA, I found the food to be mediocre, even the pizza was sub par. To add to the disappointment, we were overcharged for an appetizer.
- chickenThe portions were very small, and the fish was not really edible; the sea bass was mushy. The chicken was also super vanilla. It felt like they spent more time and love on decorating the food than caring about its taste.
- decorating the foodspent more time and love on decorating the food than caring about its taste
- fishthe fish was not really edible
- foodfood to be mediocre
- pasta dishesWe only had water, one pizza, two pasta dishes, and two appetizers. While I understand that prices can be high these days, spending that much for a few bowls of pasta and a pizza felt excessive.
- portionsThe portions are very small
- sea bassit was mushy
If you're looking for fresh, creative Italian-Californian dishes with interesting flavors, this place is definitely worth a visit. While a few found portions small or some dishes underwhelming, the overwhelming majority rave about the quality and taste, making it a strong contender for a delicious meal.
Service (7.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 60% of the guests
Overall, the service here shines brightly, earning a solid 7.3 score and a strong customer satisfaction of 70.7%. Many guests raved about the attentive waitstaff and excellent meal pacing, noting their kindness and professionalism. With 29 positive remarks out of 41 total, it's clear the team often delivers a great experience.
However, not all experiences were perfect, with 10 negative comments highlighting areas for improvement. Some patrons encountered issues with bar service, slow plate clearing, and water refills. There were also concerns about staff attention and unprofessional management, suggesting a need for more consistent training.
Service
41
Reviews
70%
Satisfaction
10
negative
2
neutral
29
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Attentive waitstaff
- Perfect meal pacing
- Friendly, kind service
What people don't like
- Ignored at bar
- Poor staff attention
- Unprofessional management
Often praised
- serviceShe's the epitome of good service.
- staffIt is everything that Dogpatch Piccino is! The food was delicious, the staff wonderfully friendly, and the atmosphere was cozy. We will be coming back often!
- accommodatingShe was terrific, embodying the epitome of good service. Sonia was efficient, accommodating, and possessed a wonderful sense of humor. The food was excellent, and the atmosphere was enjoyable, contributing to a great overall dining experience.
- ServiceService:5
- SoniaSonia was terrific. She's the epitome of good service.
- accommodating with our toddlerIt's a great addition to the Presidio. The food was delicious, the ambiance was on point, and they were very accommodating with our toddler!
- arrival of dishes and pacingthe arrival of dishes and pacing was 💯% on point
- attention to detailShe displayed such a high attention to detail
- attentiveness of the staffWe enjoyed marinated olives and cocktails, ahi crudo, and the BEST lasagna I've ever had. It seems they recently opened, but you would never know it based on the attentiveness of the staff and sophistication of the palate. I can see this being a future date night or a nice place to take your parents when you want to impress them, or anyone really!
- efficiencyShe was terrific, embodying the epitome of good service. Sonia was efficient, accommodating, and possessed a wonderful sense of humor. The food was excellent, and the atmosphere was enjoyable, contributing to a great overall dining experience.
Frequently criticized
- alternativesNo alternatives were offered
- assistant manager replyAssistant Manager’s reply was generic and unprofessional
- bar servicesat at the bar and were completely ignored
- front doorI was advised to arrive at the Chestnut gate on Lyon street. However, if car services drop you off in the area behind the building, it's unclear how to get to the front door. This initial navigation challenge detracted from an otherwise positive experience, as the food, service, and atmosphere were all rated highly (5/5).
- management standardsMy subsequent email to the restaurant resulted in a generic and unprofessional reply from the Assistant Manager, showing no accountability and no real intention to improve. This experience reflects a significant lack of staff training and management standards. I honestly can’t believe this restaurant has any staff training or a manager who actually does their job.
- plate clearingno one cleared our plates
- reservationreservation for 6 people in advance. It was confirmed
- staff attentionchecked on us once
- staff trainingMy subsequent email to the restaurant resulted in a generic and unprofessional reply from the Assistant Manager, showing no accountability and no real intention to improve. This experience reflects a significant lack of staff training and management standards. I honestly can’t believe this restaurant has any staff training or a manager who actually does their job.
- water refillrefilled water
If youre looking for a place with generally good service and attentive staff, this spot is a solid bet. While most experiences are positive, be aware that some guests have noted inconsistencies, particularly with bar service and staff attention. Its worth trying, but keep an eye out for those minor hiccups.
Ambience (8.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 57% of the guests
The ambience here truly shines, earning a strong 8.6 score and an excellent 92.3% customer satisfaction. Based on 24 positive remarks, guests consistently praise the beautiful space, often highlighting the fresh wildflowers, warm wood and lighting, and the overall upscale hip setting. Many found the dining room cozy, especially with natural light and comfortable booths.
However, its not entirely without its quirks. A couple of observations (2 negative mentions) point to some challenges. Some found that conversations really echoed, making the place feel loud, and there were instances where outdoor seating was the only option, which wasnt ideal for everyone, especially in colder weather.
Ambience
26
Reviews
92%
Satisfaction
2
negative
0
neutral
24
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Beautiful space
- Warm, cozy atmosphere
- Fresh wildflowers
What people don't like
- Loud conversations
- Limited indoor seating
Often praised
- atmosphereatmosphere is like a nice, upscale Italian spot
- ambianceambiance on point
- spacea large space that somehow manages to feel warm and cozy
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- ambienceBeautiful ambience and setting
- beautiful settingthe setting is beautiful too
- boothThe booth we were sat in was cosy and allowed gave us great separation
- dining roomVery cool dining room with tons of natural light
- flower arrangementflower arrangement on the bar that night was so artistic and beautiful
- heatersheaters were installed on the ceiling for the comfort of the guests
Frequently criticized
- conversationsThe conversations really echo through the place - it was loud
- seatingseating was offered only outside. My grandma is 87 and it was too cold
If youre seeking a beautifully designed spot with a generally warm and inviting vibe, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be aware that it can get a bit lively with noise, and if you prefer indoor seating, its wise to confirm availability, especially during cooler times.
Value (2.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 20% of the guests
When it comes to value, theres not much to cheer about, but based on 8 customer opinions, at least 1 diner appreciated the parking validation for a discount. Its a small silver lining in an otherwise challenging picture, showing that some thought went into easing the overall cost, even if just a little. However, the overall sentiment paints a starkly different picture.
With a score of just 2.9 and customer satisfaction at a mere 12.5%, value is clearly a major concern. Many guests felt the price was too high, citing hidden surcharges and an expensive a la carte menu , with some even calling it a scam .
Value
8
Reviews
12%
Satisfaction
7
negative
0
neutral
1
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Parking discount
What people don't like
- High prices
- Hidden surcharges
- Perceived as scam
Often praised
- parking validationthey validate for a discount
Frequently criticized
- a la carte menuThe a la carte looked pretty pricey
- appetizerComing from the authentic food scene in LA, I found the food to be mediocre, even the pizza was sub par. To add to the disappointment, we were overcharged for an appetizer. Overall, the experience did not meet expectations.
- billthe total bill including tip was about $230
- hidden surcharge20 dollar hidden surcharge on every order
- priceit’s overpriced
- price per personIt felt like they spent more time and love on decorating the food than caring about its taste. Despite the small portions and unappetizing food, the price per person was $100+, which is quite high for the quality received. The service and atmosphere received a rating of 4, but the food only a 3.
- scamFull on scam
If you're looking for good value, this might not be the place for you. The high price and concerns about hidden surcharges mean your wallet might take a hit, despite the small perk of parking validation . Proceed with caution if budget is a primary concern.
How are the prices at Piccino Presidio?
On average, you’ll spend around 58 per person – from 22 guests. That puts the restaurant in the $51–$60 category. For an Italian Restaurant, that’s mid-range, maybe slightly above.
Looking at the spending habits, we see a good number of diners enjoying meals in the $31–$40 range. However, there’s also a significant portion of guests opting for higher-priced experiences, which pulls the overall average up. It suggests a nice mix of options for different budgets.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 22 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
Overall, for an Italian Restaurant in San Francisco, we think the pricing feels fair. It offers a good range, allowing guests to choose between a more casual meal or a more indulgent dining experience.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Piccino Presidio
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Outstanding Food, Even Better Than Sessions
My experience at this restaurant was outstanding. We used to go to Sessions, which was good, but this place is even better. The food quality is exceptional, and the overall experience surpasses our previous favorite.
It's a definite step up in dining quality.
- Food10
- This place9
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
2
Ignored at the bar, unprofessional response
My lunch experience on October 2, 2025, around 12: 30 PM, was extremely disappointing. We sat at the bar and were completely ignored the entire time. Our plates were not cleared, our water was not refilled, and no one checked on us.
While other tables received great service, we felt as though we didn’t exist. My subsequent email to the restaurant resulted in a generic and unprofessional reply from the Assistant Manager, showing no accountability and no real intention to improve. This experience reflects a significant lack of staff training and management standards.
I honestly can’t believe this restaurant has any staff training or a manager who actually does their job.
- other tables service7
- bar service1
- plate clearing1
- water refill1
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Family
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Moderate
9
Piccino's West Side Gem
I was so excited that Piccino opened a new location on the west side of the city! It’s just as good as the original. We had a great dinner when my mom was in town visiting.
The pastas and drinks are always sublime. Also, the flower arrangement on the bar that night was so artistic and beautiful — I think they said the owner made it! So cool.
- dinner8
- pastas10
- drinks10
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Cozy outdoor dining with great food
My experience at the restaurant was wonderful. The atmosphere was pleasant, and the indoor space was very clean. We chose to dine outdoors, and I was impressed to see that heaters were installed on the ceiling for the comfort of the guests.
We enjoyed our meal while feeling the warmth. The food was also delicious!
- atmosphere9
- indoor space9
- heaters10
Price per Person
- $31–$40
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Moderate
10
Delicious Italian, New Go-To Spot!
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I found the food to be delicious, fresh, and seasonal, truly some of the best Italian I've had in SF. They also source their ingredients from local farms, which is a great touch.
It was the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the Presidio. This has become a new go-to spot for me!
- food10
- local farms9
- Italian food10
What Piccino Presidio offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Crowd
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Brunch
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Takeout
Parking
- Usually plenty of parking
- Free street parking
- Paid parking garage
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of atmosphere and service options does Piccino Presidio offer?
At Piccino Presidio, you’ll discover a cozy and trendy atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed meal. You can choose from convenient outdoor seating, traditional dine-in service, or opt for takeout. This Italian restaurant aims to accommodate your dining preferences.
What are the parking and accessibility options at Piccino Presidio?
Parking is usually plentiful around Piccino Presidio, with options for free street parking and a paid parking garage nearby. The restaurant is also wheelchair accessible, offering both an accessible entrance and seating. Enjoy your visit with ease.
How does Piccino Presidio generally rate among diners?
Piccino Presidio holds a good overall score of 7.9 with a good customer satisfaction of 80.5%. Its Food (8.5) and Ambience (8.6) are highly regarded, while Service (7.3) is also good. However, Value (2.9) is a notable concern.
What makes the atmosphere at Piccino Presidio stand out?
Customers frequently praise the restaurant’s atmosphere, describing it as a nice, upscale Italian spot with a warm and cozy feel. The dining room is noted for its natural light and beautiful setting, with comfortable seating options like cozy booths.
Are there any common concerns regarding the pricing at Piccino Presidio?
Yes, many diners find the restaurant to be quite pricey, with mentions of high costs for a la carte items and small portions. Some opinions even refer to it as ‘overpriced’ or having a ‘hidden surcharge,’ indicating value is a significant point of contention.