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oChef » Molinari Delicatessen – San Francisco
Molinari Delicatessen - San Francisco
Photo from Molinari Delicatessen
Molinari Delicatessen at a glance
San Francisco North Beach
- 🥪 Deli
$$
Price per Person $21–$30
mentioned by 117 of the guests
#1255 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#13 Deli out of 18 in San Francisco
Good
7.4 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
623
Reviews
72.6%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Quality sandwiches
- Authentic atmosphere
- Fresh ingredients
Frequently criticized
- Long waits
- High prices
- Limited amenities
The restaurant Molinari Delicatessen invites you to experience a taste of authentic San Francisco. Located in the vibrant North Beach neighborhood, this deli offers a classic culinary journey.
You’ll find yourself immersed in a local favorite, perfect for a quick bite or a hearty meal. Discover why this spot is a must-visit for delicious, quality fare in the city.
Overview: Introducting Molinari Delicatessen
Molinari Delicatessen offers a genuine taste of Italy, celebrated for its well-regarded sandwiches and a wide array of cold cuts. Many appreciate the fresh ingredients and the generous portions, making for a satisfying culinary experience that often lives up to its reputation.
However, be prepared for potential challenges. While the atmosphere evokes an authentic Italian feel, some find the waiting time to be considerable, and the overall value can feel a bit expensive for the portion sizes, especially given the practical limitations like seating.
Good
7.4
out of 10
623
Reviews
72.6%
Satisfaction
132
negative
39
neutral
452
positive
Overall, Molinari Delicatessen earns a solid 7.4 out of 10, with customer satisfaction standing at a good 72.6%. This indicates a generally positive experience for most patrons, supported by 452 positive remarks against 132 negative ones out of 623 total comments.
The culinary offerings truly shine, with Food scoring an excellent (8.2), reflecting its strong reputation for quality ingredients and delicious preparations. However, not all aspects receive such high marks.
While the Ambience (7.8) contributes positively to the experience, both Service (5.9) and Value (5.8) hover in the average range. Many customers note that the wait times can be substantial, and some find the pricing a bit steep for what you get, suggesting areas where the deli could improve to match its food’s high standing.
What people like
- Delicious, quality sandwiches
- Authentic Italian atmosphere
- Fresh, varied ingredients
What people don't like
- Significant wait times
- Perceived high prices
- Limited seating/amenities
If you prioritize exceptional Italian sandwiches and a truly authentic deli experience, Molinari Delicatessen is certainly worth considering. The Food quality is a standout, making it a destination for those seeking genuine flavors, despite some operational hiccups.
However, be prepared for potential waiting time and a higher price point. With a recommendation score of 7.8, it’s a good choice if you have patience and are willing to invest in quality, but perhaps not ideal for a quick, budget-conscious meal.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Molinari Delicatessen
Food (8.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 96% of the guests
When it comes to food, this spot truly shines, earning a good score of 8.2 and a good customer satisfaction rate of 83.7%. Based on 292 positive remarks out of 349 total, many rave about the incredible sandwiches , highlighting their authenticity and quality ingredients . The focaccia often gets special mention for its deliciousness, with generous portions ensuring you leave satisfied.
However, not every bite is perfect, with 41 negative comments pointing out some areas for improvement. Some found the bread to be an issue, describing it as too hard or stale. A few experiences mentioned sandwiches being salty or flavorless , and occasionally, condiments were either missing or overpowering.
Food
349
Reviews
83%
Satisfaction
41
negative
16
neutral
292
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Authentic Italian sandwiches
- High-quality ingredients
- Delicious focaccia praised
What people don't like
- Inconsistent bread quality
- Sandwiches can be salty
- Flavorless sandwich experiences
Often praised
- sandwichesI go here a lot and the food is consistently good stuff. Regarding a negative review I saw, they "stand around" because they toast the sandwiches, and that takes some time. My advice: don't come at noon on a Saturday if you are in a hurry.
- foodThe Grilled Focaccia Special was stacked with prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, sweet peppers and I had basil pesto on it.
- sandwichThe ordering process required taking a number and waiting to be called. Despite the wait, the sandwich was still good with soft bread, but the 30-minute wait made it not entirely worth it. Additionally, the cheese remained cold after the sandwich was toasted.
- FoodFamous and recommended by locals, we arrived at 12: 30 PM and didn't encounter a long line. The restaurant offered fresh ingredients and a wide variety of bread options. They closed early because they were filming a show there.
- ingredientsAfter waiting 50 minutes, there were still 9 tickets ahead of us, so we decided to leave. While I didn't get to try the food, it was cool to experience the buzz and see all the different ingredients and local characters coming in and out. I wouldn't recommend this place unless you're willing to wait a long time for an $18 sandwich, or if you can go at a time when there's no queue.
- meatThe Renzo or Luciano specials were really good. It was well worth the wait, as these guys do not skimp out on the meat. The food was excellent, and the service and atmosphere were also top-notch, both receiving a perfect score.
- Italian deliMy experience at this restaurant was the apotheosis of an Italian deli. They also make incredible salami, and it’s inexpensive if you buy in store.
- Luciano Specialthis was a magical and majestic combination of cured meats, buttery hot focaccia, and more...DELICIOUS!
- cold cutsMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! They offer a wide variety of cold cuts, including pastrami, salami, prosciutto, and turkey, alongside a great selection of fresh and vintage cheeses. The menu is incredibly rich, catering to all taste buds, so take your time to choose.
- prosciuttoIf you like the prosciutto – get the prosciutto.
Frequently criticized
- sandwichMy sandwich which was a black pepper turkey on a sesame seed roll was very salty and nothing special.
- sandwichesDefinitely not worth waiting in such a long line. The cold cuts were overly salty, and I’ve had much better sandwiches here in SF.
- Italian sandwichMy experience at this restaurant was disappointing, particularly with the Italian sandwich. An Italian sandwich should not have mustard and mayo on it. Period.
- flavorless sandwichMy experience at this restaurant was one of severe disappointment. After waiting 30 minutes in line, I was served stale bread and a flavorless sandwich, which cost almost $15 each. This was particularly disheartening given the positive buzz I had heard about the place.
- focacciaThe Italian combo sandwich was comparable to others I've had elsewhere. Although they ran out of focaccia for the Luciano special, the sandwich still tasted good. I would only consider returning if it wasn't busy.
- Dutch Crunch breadThe Dutch Crunch bread didn't have as much crunch as I would like
- Italianthe taste was the unfortunately the worst Italian I've ever had
- Italian breadthis was tough. Taking a bite required moving the bread back and forth to tear it off.
- Italian comboItalian combo is not an actual italian sub
- arancini ballleft the arancini ball out of my bagged order
If you're craving an authentic, generously portioned Italian sandwich made with quality ingredients, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be mindful that some experiences mention issues with bread texture or seasoning, so you might want to specify your preferences when ordering.
Service (5.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 75% of the guests
The service here presents a bit of a mixed bag, with a score of 5.9 placing it in the average range, and customer satisfaction at 50.3%, indicating a somewhat balanced experience. Many customers rave about the friendly staff, knowledgeable team, and incredible hospitality. With 91 positive remarks out of 181 total comments, there's a lot of love for the welcoming and efficient crew, making the experience worthwhile for many.
However, 76 negative comments highlight significant issues like long wait times and slow service. Some patrons also point to poor organization with the ticketing system, leading to frustration, especially for new customers, and occasional reports of indifferent or even rude staff interactions.
Service
181
Reviews
50%
Satisfaction
76
negative
14
neutral
91
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, kind staff
- Knowledgeable team
- Great hospitality
What people don't like
- Long wait times
- Slow service
- Ticketing system issues
Often praised
- staffEach bite was a delightful blend of textures and tastes, embodying the quality and tradition that Molinari Deli is known for. The staff at Molinari Deli are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their offerings, providing excellent recommendations and ensuring a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or stocking up on gourmet Italian goods, Molinari Deli is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates top-notch Italian fare.
- serviceThe service is always friendly and wonderful.
- Servicedidn’t got a too long line
- friendly staffI wish I could rate Molinari higher. They have amazing food and very friendly staff. However, the lines are just way too long, and this issue has persisted for months.
- waitBe ready to stand in line and wait but it's so worth it
- experienceGabriel created the best experience for my boyfriend and I today for our birthday! My boyfriend likes to bring home the best cuts wherever he goes; this took a considerable amount of time, and this young man was just as kind as when he began with us as new customers.
- linethere's always a familiar friendly face.
- AdhamAdham took great care of us
- CashCash was attentive and he really made this a personal experience
- Friendly serviceFriendly service!
Frequently criticized
- waiting timeHowever, after 10 minutes, I inquired about the order and was told it would be ready in 2 minutes. This turned into more than 15 minutes of additional waiting. When I asked the staff to be truthful about the order status, one employee responded with "another type of Italian features" and then aggressively told me to "shut up" in a violent manner when I questioned if they were even making the order.
- serviceWhile the food was okay, leaning slightly towards good but not exceptional, it felt like just another sandwich shop. The real issue was the god awful slow service. It took us a staggering 50 minutes to get two mid sandwiches.
- staff" I immediately left to report the restaurant to GrubHub. While the first person who attended me apologized, the staff member who treated me badly continued to look at me as if something was wrong with me. I wish the owner would be informed so they can address this behavior, as rude treatment towards customers is unacceptable.
- wait timeThe attitude of the staff is notable, and I wish they would get off their laurels and start earning their reputation again. Even when the place was nearly empty, the wait time was excessively long. The service issues continued with a customer's non-service dog in the way, and employees engaged in conversation instead of making sandwiches.
- wait timesThe wait times can get a bit long, but the sandwiches are definitely worth it. If you're short on time, I recommend ordering online to avoid the wait.
- waitingI know this place is really popular, but honestly, I found it pretty mediocre. Definitely not worth waiting in such a long line. The cold cuts were overly salty, and I’ve had much better sandwiches here in SF.
- waitwait about 30 minutes standing in line
- accepting new customerskeep accepting new customers although they can’t take care each one of them
- attitudethe attitude of the staff is notable
- bagged orderleft the arancini ball out of my bagged order
If youre not in a rush and appreciate genuinely friendly and knowledgeable staff, youll likely have a good experience here. However, be prepared for potentially long waits and a sometimes confusing ordering system, especially during peak hours.
Ambience (7.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 42% of the guests
The ambiance here is definitely a highlight, scoring a solid 7.8 and leaving a good impression with 82.2% customer satisfaction. With 60 positive remarks out of 73 total comments, many rave about the authentic Italian family feel and the old school vibe. Its often described as a theatric performance and a unique experience, especially with the outdoor seating adding to the charm.
However, not everything is perfect. A few of the 7 negative comments point out practical issues like challenging Parking and the lack of a bathroom. Some also noted the limited space and seating area, ' which can make it feel a bit cramped at times.
Ambience
73
Reviews
82%
Satisfaction
7
negative
6
neutral
60
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Authentic Italian vibe
- Lively, theatric experience
- Charming outdoor seating
What people don't like
- Limited seating space
- No public bathroom
- Difficult parking
Often praised
- atmosphereMolinari Deli is a true gem in the heart of the city, offering an authentic Italian delicatessen experience that is second to none. From the moment you step inside, the rich aroma of fresh ingredients and the friendly, welcoming atmosphere make you feel right at home. The deli is a feast for the senses, with a vast array of Italian meats, cheeses, and specialty items that showcase the true essence of Italian cuisine.
- AtmosphereEveryone knows their mortadella is the adult bologna you’ve been searching for… Honestly, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu—every hero is layered with nothing but the best. Beyond the sandwiches, the shop itself is a treasure trove of Italian specialty goods, adding to the charm and authenticity. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Molinari’s is an absolute must for any sandwich lover.
- placethe place is very unique
- tables outsidethere are a few tables outside.
- vibeAs you walk in, you’ll feel as if you were transported to Italy. The whole store is filled with imported food goods from Italy, and it’s a great vibe that gets your appetite going. They also slice the deli meat in front of you for some cool showmanship.
- Italian DeliThis is a cute Italian Deli, likely located in SF's Little Italy. The space is quite small, with a few tables available outside.
- Italian shopA truly Italian shop, it feels like being in my city in Italy!
- SF institutionit’s an SF institution at this point
- authentic Italian familyVery "authentic" Italian family.
- beautiful settingI had a delicious experience at this restaurant several years ago, and I still have a vivid memory of its authenticity and delicious Italian specialties, all served in a very beautiful setting.
Frequently criticized
- No bathroomNo bathroom I go around the corner
- ParkingParking not so good
- bathroomthere is no bathroom
- parking spaceDifficult to find parking
- seating areaThere are no seating area
- spaceIt's pretty small in side
- ticket signthe ticket sign is small and not obvious
If youre looking for a vibrant, authentic Italian atmosphere and dont mind a bit of a squeeze or hunting for parking, this spot is definitely worth experiencing. It's a lively place with a unique charm, perfect for soaking in the local buzz.
Value (5.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 14% of the guests
Many customers found the value to be quite a pleasant surprise, with 9 positive comments praising the price per person and often noting it was worth the price or reasonably priced for top quality. Some even found items inexpensive if you buy in store, suggesting great food at reasonable prices. While the overall score sits at an average 5.8, theres a clear appreciation for what you get.
However, the value proposition isnt universally loved, as reflected by a 45% customer satisfaction. With 8 negative comments out of 20 total, many felt the price was expensive or overpriced, often citing an expensive sandwich. Concerns about small portions for the cost also surfaced, leading to feelings that the price was obscenely high for what was received.
Value
20
Reviews
45%
Satisfaction
8
negative
3
neutral
9
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Worth the price
- Top quality food
- Reasonable prices
What people don't like
- High prices
- Sandwiches overpriced
- Small portions
Often praised
- priceMy experience at this restaurant was the apotheosis of an Italian deli. They also make incredible salami, and it’s inexpensive if you buy in store.
- pay extraMy experience at this restaurant was centered around their Italian sandwich, which was excellent. I found it was worth it to pay extra for the Calabrian chili spread. I am planning on coming back to try the hot sandwiches and their ample bread selection.
- price per personPrice per person:$1–10
- reasonable pricesGreat food at reasonable prices
- reasonably pricedvery reasonably priced for top quality
- value for moneybut worth it
Frequently criticized
- priceThe sandwich size is small, at least for me. I found it quite expensive.
- expensiveFriendly staff. The deli itself is filled with interesting and fun Italian goodies, albeit very expensive.
- $18 sandwichWhile I didn't get to try the food, it was cool to experience the buzz and see all the different ingredients and local characters coming in and out. I wouldn't recommend this place unless you're willing to wait a long time for an $18 sandwich, or if you can go at a time when there's no queue.
- overpricedIt was simply meat, cheese, mayo, and yellow mustard. Furthermore, I found the meal to be really overpriced.
If youre looking for top-quality deli items and dont mind potentially paying a bit extra for unique flavors, you'll likely find the value here. However, be prepared for prices that some consider high, especially for sandwiches, and manage your expectations regarding portion sizes to avoid disappointment.
How are the prices at Molinari Delicatessen?
On average, you’ll spend around 22 per person – from 117 guests. That puts the restaurant in the $21–$30 category. For a Deli, that’s comfortably mid-range, maybe a touch above.
Interestingly, while the average is 22, most diners actually spend less, clustering around the $11–$20 mark. A good chunk also falls into the $21–$30 range, showing a nice mix of options.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 117 reviews.
Comparing value for money against similar restaurants in San Francisco.
Overall, we think the pricing feels quite fair for a Deli in San Francisco. It offers options for different budgets, which is always a plus for diners.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Molinari Delicatessen
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Excellent Italian Deli Experience
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I found an excellent deli with a wide range of in-house salamis and cured meats. They also offer a great wine and cheese selection.
The staff were knowledgeable and happy to provide samples. I purchased a hanging salami and an Espresso liqueur, both of which were delicious. If you're looking for an Italian deli fix, this is definitely the place to go.
- salami and cured meats10
- wine and cheese selection9
- staff10
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
10
Molinari's: A North Beach Sandwich Gem
I've been coming to Molinari's for years and have tried everything they offer, from their salamis to all their sandwiches. It's truly a North Beach staple that you must try if you're in the neighborhood and looking for a sandwich. Get a sandwich with the local focaccia and you will never be disappointed 👌.
- salamis9
- sandwiches9
- local focaccia10
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Long (31+ min.)
2
Overrated with Long Waits and Hard Bread
My experience at this restaurant was disappointing. They have a "take a number" system that leads to very long waits. To make matters worse, retail customers are served in between those with numbers, further increasing the waiting time.
While the owner seemed to be working faster, the other staff were less efficient. One employee was overly chatty, slowing things down, and another was clearly in training and moving very slowly. I ordered their "special" drink and a pastry.
I paid extra for hard Italian bread, which was so tough I could barely bite through it, causing the sandwich to fall apart. They were heavy on the mustard and light on the mayo. This place was a significant disappointment, and I won't return unless there's no line, as it's not worth waiting for.
- owner5
- mayo7
- waiting time2
- retail customers3
- employee2
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Group Type
- Family
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Molinari: Still Amazing After All These Years
I always make it a point to get by Molinari whenever visiting friends/family. It is still amazing after all of these years. The food is a perfect 5/5, and the service and atmosphere are both a solid 4/4.
- food10
- service8
- atmosphere8
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
7
Good Food, Terrible Service
My experience at this restaurant was a mixed bag. The food was excellent, with the sandwiches being particularly noteworthy, earning a perfect food score. However, the service was a significant letdown.
The deli workers were indifferent and dismissively arrogant, which almost overshadowed the quality of the food. Their attitude made me feel like they believed they had a monopoly and didn't need to be pleasant. The atmosphere was rated a 3, and while parking was described as difficult to find, the wheelchair accessibility was questionable.
- sandwiches10
- food5
- atmosphere6
- deli workers2
- service2
- parking space3
What Molinari Delicatessen offers
Service Options
- Delivery
Parking
- Paid street parking
FAQs
Does Molinari Delicatessen offer delivery services?
Yes, Molinari Delicatessen provides convenient delivery options for you. You can enjoy their delicious deli offerings from the comfort of your home or office in San Francisco’s North Beach area.
What parking options are available when visiting Molinari Delicatessen?
When you visit Molinari Delicatessen in North Beach, San Francisco, you’ll find paid street parking available nearby. This allows you to easily access the deli and enjoy your meal.
What is the overall rating for Molinari Delicatessen?
Molinari Delicatessen holds a good overall score of **7.4** out of 10, with customer satisfaction at **72.6%**. This is largely driven by excellent **Food** (8.2) and good **Ambience** (7.8), though **Service** (5.9) and **Value** (5.8) are average.
What kind of food can I expect at Molinari Delicatessen?
You can expect high-quality Italian deli items, particularly celebrated **sandwiches** and a wide selection of **cold cuts** like prosciutto and salami. Many customers praise the fresh **ingredients** and generous portions of meat.
Are there any common issues or things to be aware of before visiting?
Yes, customers frequently mention significant **waiting time** and long lines, especially during peak hours. Some also find the prices to be on the higher side, and practical amenities like seating and bathrooms are limited.