Trattoria Contadina Reviews

The food is amazing, the service prompt and friendly, and the cable car stops right in front on Union and Mason. The best experience if there are seats open in the small bar is to sit at the bar if you are a couple. If you are lucky, one of the owners will be there to chat with. They are the nicest people in the world! My favorite dish is the Carlisimo. A little tiny bit spicy but amazing!

This place is adorable. Amazing service all around. Food was perfect. You have to try the meatballs no matter what. Not touristy at all.

Everything on menu is excellent. Heard about this place from a friend. Now every time we’re in San Francisco it on the calendar for dinner.

We were looking for a place close to beach blanket Babylon to go for dinner before the show we were blown away by the service and the food at this restaurant. You could walk right by this place and never take a second look but you must try it if you’re in the area every person in our group said it was the best meal they had in San Francisco and we had been there for a week when we had tried this place. The prices were very reasonable and like I said the staff were fantastic it’s family-owned and you can feel the great vibes in this place!

Nice ambiance but tables tightly packed together. Parking problematic but cable car runs very close. Service was slow and inattentive--only one who paid any attention to us was Marvin (busman) when we called him over. Never brought water and one of two apps ordered were never brought. Waiter apologized and wanted to bring it after mains were delivered!! Meals were mostly very good---veal saltimboco was excellent as was the ravioli. Linguine vongole had lots of fresh clams but the pasta wasn't the best. Wine list is extensive with something for everyone's taste and wallet. Ordered port at conclusion of meal and 3 of the glasses all had considerable sediment---they took them off the bill as they weren't drinkable. Overall, wouldn't hurry back.

Went here our first time in San Francisco. Great food, friendly staff, and authentic Italian. Will definitely come back.

Small restaurant already busy at 6pm but we had a reservation. Ordered a prawn appetizer that we shared for the 3 of us...more than enough. We each ordered a different pasta dish - spaghetti and meatballs, Nicoletta and Gnocchi. They were all excellent, hot and perfectly prepared. A decent sized portion. Service was good but not intrusive. Coffee and a shared Neapolitan dessert finished us off. All in all a lovely neighborhood spot with really excellent food.

My husband had the Veal scallopini and I had the clams Vongola - SUPERB ! My Second time here! Everything is always excellent.

Cute neighborhood place! Great that it takes reservations. The food was really good as well as the service!

I lived in the San Francisco for four years in the late 80s and this was one of the restaurants we enjoyed consistently so I was a little concerned it may not be as wonderful as I remembered. My fears were unfounded. The food (especially the meatballs, risotto, and ravioli) were scrumptious—just as I remembered. The tiramisu was worth the calories. The service was friendly, well paced and efficient without being pushy to turn the table even though they were packed. Two thumbs way way up for being as good today as I remember from 30 years ago. And that is saying something!

I was in SFO for 1 day after a 5-day seminar ! Quickly doing some tourism and travelling around with the Hop and Off bus ! Finally, after my hop and off bus evening time, I had to get back home but didn t where or what or how and suddenly I hop on the tram line from Powell to Hyde I guess and was on the right track to get back to my hotel ! But I was hungry so suddenly I ask the tram guy, where Little Italy is and so he recommended me this italian restaurant !! I got in ! It was busy but because I was alone, they said I could sit at the bar !!! I ordered my food and talked to the barman !!! He was responsible for my table/bar place ;-) and so he did a great job cause I was happy being there, enjoyed my food, had a great chat with him !!! It was the perfect closure for my solo evening in SFO ! The food was great and of a very good quality ! Top restaurant i could say xxx

We came here whilst visiting SF for a conference. The place was packed which is always a good sign. They serve wonderful Italian food and staff is very friendly. Prices are fair. I would recommend it to anybody looking for nice Italian food. Book ahead.

So glad we tried this restaurant, it lives up to the reviews! Food is fresh and delicious, service was awesome. The Carlesimo is so delicious, but be hungry or ready to take a box home with you, it's a generous serving. Shrimp Raviolis where on special that night, my husband loved them. The wait staff is very attentive, your water glass will stay full, and they check on you often. The seating looks very limited, however they have more tables up stairs, we recommend a reservation, then you don't have to worry about missing out on the wonderful itallian dining experience.

Years back I asked a close friend - he's 100% Italian :) - where to go for some good Italian food on a first date. Without hesitation he recommended Trattoria Contadina. Trattoria is the perfect representation of a high-quality, family owned/operated restaurant. We've come for random date nights, a birthday (8-10 people), when we have family in town, and every anniversary since. The service and food is always perfect. Thank you Correnti family for such great dining experiences with our friends and family!

Italian comfort food with an upscale twist. Good food in reasonable portions. Friendly unrushed service. Left feeling you are dinning in someone's house. Relaxed and unpretentious

This was recommended by a friend. So glad we went. Food was exellent. Great atmosphere friendly staff. Truly authentic Italian.

We loved our evening here, jet lagged as we were. Steven was our waiter, and he guided us to a menu that would let us taste a great variety of dishes. Let them guide you to what's good and you can't go wrong. We had a lovely pasta with fresh pea shoot pasta that was a special, and a wonderful local sole that was perfect on every level. The panna cotta was sublime. Good wine selection.

This restaurant's food was very authentic. After living in Italy, the gnocchi was one of the best I have had! Perfect for a date.

Three days in SFO....tried the "touristy" restaurant's and they were ok. Trattoria Contadina was more of a traditional family local restaurant. You definitely need to reserve as it is busy. We got sat next to a table of 4 locals who were having a multi course traditional Italian dinner....great fun. I had the Carlesimo pasta on the menu, my wife had the Pasta special with Gorgonzola and both we excellent. Try the Tiramisu as well.

Homemade pasta, yummy meatballs, piquant red sauce, friendly and attentive service—what’s not to love? Our party of 7 left full and happy, very pleased with our North Beach outing. Delicious in every way. Most wiped their plates clean, and washed it down with a nice red wine, not to mention tiramisu, cheesecake, and rich americano.

We made reservations for 6 p.m. but arrived around 5:15 and were warmly greeted and seated. Happy hour goes till 6 and you don't have to sit at the bar to enjoy. Antipasti: Castelvetrano olives lightly marinated and with fennel were delicious and h.h. at $2.50 instead of $5. Bruschetta with chopped tomatoes and ricotta at h.h. $2.50 a piece instead of $8. A glass of wine was $5 and perfectly made Cosmo with Tito vodka was $6. What a bargain for S.F. For dinner: Polpettine (spaghetti) with homemade meatballs (which they're famous for) with tomato sauce at $19. Delicious! Saltimboca (veal with prosciutto, mozzarella, sage, marsala , served with spinach, and garlic mashed potatoes at $31. So very delicious and filling. Meat was tender (personally I would of liked less sage), spinach cooked perfectly and potatoes with just the right amount of garlic. The two glasses of dinner wine, recommended by our server, were reasonably priced. Highly recommend reservations.

The food was awesome and service was fantastic. Make reservations! We did and they seated us upon our arrival. Very friendly servers. We will be returning!

Our hotel recommended this restaurant because it was family-owned and she thought it was wonderful. We called for reservations and could get in at 4:30 or at 8:30 my daughter and I decided on 430 so we could do other things in the evening. The restaurant is easy to find, it's on a trolley stop, very small and intimate and has a friendly bartender and waitstaff. I really don't remember what the name of our meals were but I do remember they were both delicious! We thoroughly enjoyed our visit and will return the next time we are in town! I highly recommend this restaurant. Call for reservations.

Its a very cozy, friendly neighborhood restaurant that makes guest feel quite welcome. Servers and bartender are very good. I just found our meal to between ok and meh. It was a basic bognese but it lacked any memorable flavors. I will however give it a second try as its a warm and lively restaurant.

This is a favorite Italian restaurant for my wife and I. We have been coming since Vince (the Grandfather) was running the restaurant. It has been excellent under Derek, Kevin & Gina and now Vince (their cousin). Thanks Vince for another great dinner and conversation. Always appreciate you guys and your continued great service and food. Keep it up and we’ll keep coming back when we’re in town.

My daughter picked this restaurant for her birthday dinner when visiting San Francisco. We made reservations ahead of time. The table was ready upon our early arrival. The restaurant was two story (which was a little hard for one in our party) and close quarters, but it was perfect otherwise. The service was amazing- especially our waitress Hannah. The food was all fantastic- not a single person in our group of 6 was disappointed. I would love to visit again. Thank you for our fantastic dinner experience, and my daughter LOVED her birthday slice of tiramisu. Delicious!

Loved it had the pasta bolognese it was terrific!! Also Had the gnocchi and they were terrific as well!! Went twice great both times.

We walked a few blocks away from the wharf to this great family restaurant. Started with a negroni. DELICIOUS. Four of us had the gnocchi. It was light with a perfect texture and the tomato cream sauce was not too heavy. The pasta in my daughter's entree was perfectly al dente. Definitely worth the walk up a few not terribly steep hills.

I only get here about once a year, during visits to San Francisco, but Trattoria Contadina is as enjoyable as ever. Quality food, excellent service, fun atmosphere (it gets a little loud with everyone seated so close together) and reasonable prices.

One of our favorite restaurants in San Francisco. It did not disappoint. And, the service was exemplary.

Delicious food. Price compatible with what was served. We ordered gnocchi, ravioli and fettucine and they were all wonderful. Top quality Italian food. I recommend

Trattoria Contadina is among our favorite restaurants in San Francisco's North Beach neighborhood. We were there in late July to celebrate our 30th anniversary. The food, as usual, was outstanding and the service top-notch. The staff is super-attentive and will guide you if you're unsure of what among their delicious dishes you might select. Thanks for another good memory!

Fabulous food and atmosphere. If you're looking for small, quaint local restaurant with good food, this is it. The location is right on a stop for the Powell-Mason Cable Car line.

I always start with the good so here goes: the staff was friendly and they got us in without a reservation very quickly. The food was just average. Both my husband and I used the word bland to describe our dishes; he ordered the ravioli and I ordered the gnocchi. The restaurant itself Is very small and very loud. Overall we didn’t leave satisfied and would not go back.

This is a wonderful small neighborhood trattoria. The service is excellent, and they do not mind if you linger over your meal. We were headed to an event in North Beach, and this restaurant is just a short walk from there. The menu is real Italian, and the wine list extensive.

Great food and service. Found after a stroll in Little Italy. Hidden gem. The caprese salad still makes me smile. It was heaven. Fresh pasta was delightful. Sauces were perfection and service was spot on.

It's surprising how many excellent Italian Restaurants there are in San Fran. This is a old school favorite. It's a small, almost hard to find place, family owned and it shows. Warm greetings and hospitality comes from everyone working and it feels like coming home. The food is exceptional with big portions and sharing few dishes is a fun way to go.

We visited the Trattoria Contadina twice on our last visit to San Francisco. Happily, it was our "local" Italian, just around the corner from our apartment. It's located on the corner of Mason and Union Streets and has the ambience of a bustling, family owned local restaurant. I've been to numerous Italian restaurants over the years, including many in Italy itself and the Contadina is one of the very best. Unlike many other restaurants in the area it is not geared to tourist traffic but is rather aimed to serving a local clientele. Accordingly, both the service and food quality are exceptional and memorable for all the right reasons. The Contadina is obviously popular so reservations are highly recommended.

First time visit to San Francisco for a quick weekend. A friendly taxi driver suggested this restaurant, saying it had been going 40 odd years and family run. What a delight. Turned up without reservation and luckily they had a table for a late sitting. The place was busy and bustling with a couple of large parties. A warm and friendly atmosphere. No loud music just a good vibe.

Corner restaurant. No Parking anywhere. A neighborhood place, Intimate bar. We had dinner with 4 drinks and a bottle of a Napa Cabernet, nice bottle, priced at $45.00, decent value. Shrimp appetizer before, Tiramisu after. Both were OK. Veal Saltimbocca, a little dry served with mashed potatoes that were light and nicely done, Chicken Voldostana seemed to be moist and also served with the same potatoes. All in all, it's a nice place and serves a decent meal. Out the door for $233.00, including tip. A piece of Italy in the City that Knows How.

We had dinner at this restaurant and we were not disappointed. The personal service is incredible and paying attention to detail is impeccable. We had spaghetti and meatballs the eggplant with onions and mozzarella was excellent. We would definitely recommend this local restaurant. A must in San Francisco

I am italian and here 2 days for business. This restaurant is ok only for american. Really absolutely nothing to do with italian food ! Very bad and lot of garlic ! No way !

Got the tip from the hotel concierge and when we arrived, we found a very small place, very cozy which spreads a family feeling. Menu is rather limited, we shared a carpaccio which was very good and after that, we had a risotto (unfortunately average), gnocchi (very good) and spaghetti vongole (excellent). The bottle of red wine we order (Montepulciano) was good, but too warm (not usual for an Italian restaurant). Service is average, although they really try hard to make it a good service. If you want to escape the usual tourist trap, this is the right place.

Now I KNOW that young folks usually like restaurants which are loud and bustling, but tonight (a Thursday) folks were literally screaming to be heard all around us and after over 20 minutes of this it literally made me ill! I asked our waiter to box up our meals so I could go home and eat in peace, but instead he offered us a "quieter" (not much!) table downstairs. My husband ordered the pork dish which was tasty enough, but the "Pavorati pasta" which I ordered was pathetically tasteless with almost nothing but rotini. It purported to have chicken, onion, sundried tomatoes and zucchini in a CREAM sauce, but what showed up was a plate full of rotini with perhaps 2 tbsps. of watery, tasteless milk, about 5 slices of zucchini, 4 tiny bits of watery chicken, and 5 tiny bits of sun dried tomato. I asked for extra cheese and extra pepper but it was still tasteless and so I DID have it boxed up, took it home and had to recreate the dish from scratch! (My version was delicious!) But needless-to-say, we will NOT be dining at Contadina ever again!!!

Glad I found this place after looking through other reviews. Service, food and wine quality were on point. If I had any complaint it would be how close the tables are to each other but I also understand you have to maximize your revenue especially for a small intimate place. I would not hesitate to go back and also would (and have) recommend.

They are a very popular place, but were able to accommodate our large party with a 8:30pm reservation. They had something for everyone. My daughter is vegetarian, and they were able to accommodate her. The Vongola, spaghetti with meatballs, seafood pasta were excellent. We would go back in a heart beat!

We noted this cute little spot the evening before as we waited for a Cable Car from the stop across the street. It looked really inviting. The next day we promptly made a reservation and walked down after our conference. We were greeted warmly and promptly seated in their balcony section. The service was impressive with true team-work by a well-trained staff. Each server went out of their way to make sure we had what we needed. We shared a number of plates, including one fo the best clam-based pasta dishes I have had anywhere. It was subtle and sublime. The cocktail and wine pours were suitable. Each course was a treat. We would recommend the Caprese as an appetizer, it's fun to see such a standed delivered with so much care and flavor..

After reading the reviews on Trattoria Contadina I decided to try it for myself. There were so many good reviews for a reason. The restaurant is pretty small so you definitely need to make a reservation. We were seated right away and served almost immediately. The pasta dishes were so good. We shared a bunch of them. What stood out was the spaghetti and meatballs, spaghetti in white clam sauce and the penne fra Diablo. A few people had fish and veal in addition. Everything looked great, I think a lot of pictures were taken of the entrees and pasta dishes. Glad I looked up reviews and tried Trattoria Contadina. It was a good as everyone said.

Given its generally high rating, we went for dinner the other night and had a very disappointing meal. I asked the waiter about the popularity of the veal dish and he said it was a top dish and his very favorite, so we ordered it. The veal was very poor quality meat and not of a quality we could eat. There were also two slices of veal--each of which was to be prepared with a different sauce. The tomato sauce ran over both pieces and so they both tasted the same, which in addition to the poor quality of the veal were prepared with too much sage. We finished the spaghetti side, but left the veal. We told the waiter and he said he was sorry because he loved the dish. The tiramisu for desert also did not have the richness that a quality one would have. We are confused about the popularity of this restaurant in such a discerning locale as SF. Is it a tourist restaurant?

Wonderful Italian food in a cozy (ok- tight) setting a block or two off Columbus in North Beach. Great for couples, but small space so not for families. Nice whisky selection and strong drinks (Old Fashioned). Gnocchi and Bolognese were very good.

We were here on a Thursday evening (pretty early) and the place filled quickly. We ordered from the specials of the day and certainly enjoyed our meal. Preparation was quick with very generous portions. Service was good also. I asked for a glass of wine that they didn't have, but the waiter brought over two bottles to sample to see if they would work. A nice touch versus just recommending something else. Highly recommend giving the restaurant a try if you haven't been there before.

Food and service was fine. Attentive. Veal was tasty and tender. Tiramisu was great. Small so reservations might be warranted

We made a reservation before a nearby show. It is quaint, superb food and the service was excellent. Nice menu and selection. Small, cozy like in Italy and nearby action. Good for a date night.

Just a block or two off the main part of North beach gets you to an excellent Italian place that has both the familiar and creative. House wine was tasty as were the mains. Spaghetti and gnocchi were perfectly done. Service was prompt and friendly. Dining room was lively. Not stuffy or fancy. Felt like a local joint.

Had a reservation for 4 at 545 on a Sunday, a nice table was set up when we arrived. The restaurant is quite small but very charming and I had a great view of the kitchen. Our waiter did an excellent job along with the assistant. Drinks were served promptly along with our bruschetta appetizer and bread for the table. I ordered the meatballs with pasta for my entree, I would highly recommend this dish, served with 3 meatballs - it was plenty of food! I finished with the blackberry cabernet sorbet which was delicious! A wonderful experience!

This is an excellent choice. Everything we had was strong. I will go back here on our next trip to SF. Given the many choices available, that says something.

If you're looking for a good, basic SF Italian place this is the spot. It's a crowded, noisy place, with a mix of couples and families the night we visited. The burrata was excellent, salads fine, pastas very good (we had vongole and puttanesca), service friendly if a bit slow. Perfectly fine for a week night meal or a big family meal.

Be sure to make a reservation for this small Italian restaurant---there was a big line when we left from there for the theatre. Service was prompt, friendly & efficient. The food was very good. They serve an antipasto appetizer platter which we rarely find & it was great. Lots of good wine choices by the glass or bottle. I would return...

This is the worst Italian food I've ever eaten. The noodles were chewy and gummy, and the sauce was thick and goopy. Flavor of the sauce was overpowering. Definitely far from authentic Italian. There are much better Italian restaurants in SF. All of the Italian restaurants I've eaten at in SF (at least 20) are better than this place. Beware of fake 5 star reviews.

Reservation made by a colleague of mine. Really small, very old school restaurant, but aestetics aside, AMAZING food and very friendly service. Shared a bunch of appetizers and all were delicious (eggplant, salads, proscuitto & mozz, pepper). I had the Spaghetti and clams for my entree, a bit different with added capers, but really really good. Had tiramisu for dessert and beyond delicious. I will definitely keep this one in mind the next time I am in SF.

The best food we ate during our San Francisco trip. Make a reservation as it books up quickly. Everything was excellent! The wine, bruschetta, and the dish Carlesimo was the best!

I walk past this place everyday, and it is always SO busy. Thus, I decided it was time for me to try. The entrees are a bit pricey but so worth it. The stuffed peppers with cheese was to die for. I will dream of that dish. I got the homemade Gnocchi and I would easily say it was my top 5 favorite pasta dishes (and I have traveled to Italy countless times). I will go back here, again and again!

Local's directed us to Trattoria Contadina 26 years ago when we honeymooned in SF....outstanding friendly Italian Bistro....they have a sign over the door (in Italian) that translates to "Leave your troubles at the door"....great food, charm, outstanding servers...what more could you ask for (and you can reach it via the trolley if you want)

Advised on booking special 60th birthday for my husband. Wasn’t looking for any freebie but was hoping for a nice greeting and a “happy birthday” greeting at least. On arriving not even a normal welcome, literally here’s your seat. I mentioned my phone was playing up so couldn’t use QR code. The irritated waiter gave us a stained paper version. I asked to see a wine list (by the glass) told that’s not possible as they don’t have. We have eaten Italian food all over the world (numerous times in Italy). This is nothing like that! Rubbery, tasteless pork. Fish that had so much garlic and vinegar on I couldn’t eat. Nobody checked all ok so paid bill and left. Don’t bother booking this restaurant- not worth the money !

I returned to Trattoria Contadina with a lot of fond memories and high hopes, but left feeling like the experience didn’t quite match what it once was. The atmosphere is still charming and the staff was friendly, but some of the food missed the mark. The polpettine were decent, though they took a while to arrive. The bruschetta, unfortunately, was underwhelming—lacking the bright, fresh flavors I’d expect. My espresso martini was fine but unremarkable, and in hindsight, I might’ve been better off ordering one of the pasta dishes they’re known for, like the rigatoni or a white sauce option. It’s still a nostalgic spot with character, and I’m not upset I went—just felt like it may be past its peak. I’d recommend it for those looking for a classic North Beach setting, but manage expectations on the food side.

Saw this little corner Italian place off the more well travelled streets of SF. Decided we would give it a try. Found out that it has been family owned for 36 years. Downstairs was small and intimate. Service was outstanding. The bread was excellent and both of our pasta dishes were cooked perfectly. Best meal we had in our 5 days in SF.

Just had dinner tonight with friends. Booked as it was a birthday and told the restaurant that It was a special occasion. They did absolutely nothing to mark the occasion which is really surprising and disappointing. Had text reminders about the booking so made sure we were on time. On our arrival our table wasn’t ready so instead of offering us a drink to wait at the bar we were put upstairs in an area which was rather grotty and characterless. We felt the meal was rushed and the restaurant was empty by 10.15om! I’m surprised for a Saturday night. Not what we wanted for a birthday meal out.

My wife and I made a special trip here based on the T/A reviews. Old, family owned restaurant that must be living on reputation. Caesar salad for appetizer which was too fishy for my tastes. The anchovies must have been hidden within the dressing. Were we never offered ground, black pepper for the salad, although they did grind fresh psrmesan on for us. Glass of chianti was a bit sour and course tasting. We went for the classic spaghetti and meatballs. The sauce was not spicy and a bit acidic. Served with three meatballs that were dense with no breadcrumbs, a bit of garlic and overly salty. We did not have dessert. Check came to $68 plus tip. Will not return.

I don't remember who first told me about Trattoria Contadina, but if I could I would have to thank them. Every visit to San Francisco, dinner at Trattoria Contadina is a must. It's nothing fancy, just a little corner place in a residential area. What it has though is solid Italian food with a very comfortable atmosphere. After dinner, if you get lucky, hop on the Mason Street cable car for a ride back over Nob Hill.

Small local restaurant. Takes reservations. We waited only a short time for our table. Lovely selection of wines by the bottle. Gluten free options. We had a GF diavolo and regular pasta which was nice size and mildly spicy. Pesce picatta redfish with vegetables yummy sauce and fresh veggies. Ravioli correnti looked boring but the person eating was very happy. We split the affogato and tiramisu (shareable piece). The food came out quickly. Maybe a bit rushed. Overall good experience and I would go back.

We ate here all the time when we lived in SF 25 years ago. We hadn’t been back to SF or Trattoria Contandina again until now and it is just as quaint and delicious as we remember.

This is a small, one of a kind jewel. Not typical of the North Beach tourist stuff along Columbus, more of a neighborhood gem. Family run, authentic, ITALIAN. Kitchen is small, chefs are artists. Go if you like good food, laughter, and warmth.

I may be partial because immediately, I saw a picture including Rocky Graziano, who was my grandmother’s cousin. How fun! But aside from that, we had a really nice dinner. Seafood ravioli and gnocchi in a tomato cream sauce. The gnocchi was homemade and so delicious. We had a bottle of wine which went perfect with our pastas. Our server was awesome as well. I cannot forget the burrata and prosciutto. The prosciutto was to die for. Best I had in a long time. The atmosphere was homey and cozy. Would definitely recommend and would go back for sure.

Having stayed in North Beach and just in general enjoying Italian food, we wanted to make it a point to eat at such a place. This restaurant for us was easily accessible via cable car (literally along the line). Our order included gnocchi and risotto, along with complimentary bread. The food was good, and the atmosphere was pleasant, and seemed to have the vibe of a neighborhood establishment (although we weren't the only tourists there). The service was attentive and satisfactory. The place is a bit cozy, to put it that way, and reservations are highly encouraged.

This is a go to for that special diner. Located on russian hill above north beach it's off the beaten track. The food is...Fabulous.

A friend suggested we meet here for dinner. It is absolutely fantastic. The cuisine is real Italian, not inspired, but legitimate. I wouldn't have even known of this place as its in a neighborhood in N. Beach. Seemed to be filled with locals. Make a reservation as it got packed & it was a Wednesday evening. Try the vongole & spaghetti, and tiaramasu for desert.

We picked this place last minute and arrived without reservations around 4-5pm for an early dinner. We were greeted very warmly and had no problem getting a table that early in the evening. The place is small, tight but with a lot of charm. Our server was very friendly and talked us in to the house wine of the night, a Chianti, which we enjoyed. We started off with an order of bruschetta. It was OK, but really lacked "something". Our entrees arrived and speaking for myself, mine was WAY too salty, it burned going down. We all liked our entrees, but everyone agreed they weren't anything special. Probably our least favorite food of the trip. Just loved the atmosphere and warm personalities of the staff, however.

We dined here while visiting San Francisco. Great meal. Good service. Crowded local place. Good menu. Great wine and bar list.

This local Italian is a real find. It might be a bit off the beaten path for you...but its well worth the visit. The moment you walk in you feel as if you are stepping into your nonna's dining room. The ambience is rustic, casual, warm and authentic. And the food...the food is superb. I recommend the gnocchi - its hearty, super tasty and would make grandma proud. Whether you go alone, with friends, colleagues, or with a big group to celebrate - Trattoria Contadina is a winner. I only wish Trattoria Contadina was in my neighbourhood.

Amazing Sally Silva starter (clams and shrimps with a white wine, citrus, persil sauce) and Vongole pasta (one of the best I ever eaten over the world!!) Wines were fantastic too. Great and friendly employees. Noisy but it worth it !

An incredible experience from start to finish - warm welcome, great service, and crucially, delicious food. Both me and my partner love Italian food, but know that it can sometimes miss the mark. Not the case at Trattoria Contadina - they know what they’re doing, and do it well. Couldn’t recommend highly enough!

This place is very small but packed and for good reason. The food is amazing! It really is authentic and reminded me of my time I. Rome and Florence. It was amazing and very reasonable!

Quite literally the best Italian food Ive ever had in the US. The menu is interesting with a solid variety and they have a great little bar for an after dinner adult beverage.

What a terrific restaurant with great owners. The ambiance is intimate and candle lit. The plates are not too big and very well done. Large wine list and excellent service. If you're trying to impress a date, this is the spot.

The combination of great food and service makes this a must eat place! We love the ambiance, tight quarters but lots of energy. Everyone seems to enjoy the food and energy!

Disappointed with everything about this restaurant,the food was below average in quality Seating uncomfortable and the noise levels were so high you couldn’t hear your own conversation Wine overpriced I would pay more attention to trip advisor and choose some place else

We were able to get a reservation at this restaurant in short notice for my Birthday celebration; we chose it based on good reviews on Trip Advisor and Yelp. We were not disappointed! We had a terrific bottle of prosecco; I ordered gnocchi, which was delicious and a very generous portion. My husband ordered spaghetti with clams, which he really enjoyed. We shared a great Caesar salad with anchovies my husband raved about. Our son ordered saltimbocca (veal with prosciutto) and his friend ordered spaghetti with meatballs--he completely cleaned his plate! Our waitress was wonderful (I unfortunately did not get her name) and brought me a candlelit piece of Birthday tiramisu at the end of our meal! We definitely would go back there; it appears to do a brisk carry-out business, which to me also is a good sign.

Second night in San Francisco and I found the best Italian Restaurant around. My wife and I oder a glass of Chianti Classico and a chardonnay to start with. My wife ordered for an appetizer a Caprese which was awesome. The tomatoes were so sweet and the burrata was so delicate. I ordered glass in a spicy sausage sauce. For entrées my wife ordered homemade gnocchis in a lite cream sauce and I ordered homemade ravioli stuffed with beef in a wild mushroom sauce. It was the best ravioli ever. For dessert we shared a blackberry Cabernet sorbet. Again, awesome. Definitely go to this restaurant if you love Italian food.

Saturday night, last night of our vacation. Reservations at eight, seated promptly. Ordered, what turned out to a great Tuscan red, to enjoy with a great dinner. They had a special appetizer which was a large platter of meats, cheeses, olives and “pickled things” outstanding and almost too big for two people, but we ate the whole wonderful thing. For entrees we enjoyed two of their pastas Carlesimo, which is a rigatonelli with pancetta and porcini and a few other delectable ingredients. My wife throughly devoured their Pavarotti, which was chicken, fusilli, prosciutto etc. great service great food and wine. Seems like a great family that owns the restaurant they are present and throughly seem to enjoy the business.

Fabulous food. The Pavarotti pasta was delicious (I asked for it with Gnocchi rather than pasta and not an issue). Hot and tasty - no need for me to add my usual salt and pepper Ice cream was a lovely way to end the meal

Reviews were good so we gave it a shot...Glad we did. First, great service staff (friendly and they get it). Second, meal...Great Italian selection. Very happy with our selections. Nice wine selection also. Third, Atmosphere. Seemed like a neighborhood restaurant so down to earth. Met a local couple that were regulars there (new friends!). When we return, This will be a “must go to”.

Wow! What a great Italian restaurant! The decor is warm and homey. Service was great. Food was superb and reasonably priced. We enjoyed the burrata and meatballs for appetizers. We had all 3 salads on the menu and they were fresh and delicious. We've been to Italy 3 times and this was the best ravioli I've ever had! All six of us really enjoyed the meal. We will definitely be back the next time we visit San Francisco.

After reading other reviews we had to have dinner here. Very friendly staff and extra special service. The food was wonderful. They were busy but it didn't effect the pace of our meal. We ordered all the specials of the night and very happy! Tip: make a reservation, they do get busy. Ask for a window table so you can enjoy the cable cars go by.

While we were walking through Russian Hill, we chatted with a local who suggested that if we wanted a great meal at a place you wouldn't find listed in travel guides, we should come here. So we took his advice. The food was excellent, and the service (our waiter was named Milo) was outstanding. After we chatted briefly with our waiter and he learned we were visiting from Boston and what we had already done in San Francisco so far, he came by later with a great list of suggestions of places we might want to visit in town. The only reason I rated four stars instead of five was that it was quite hot in the restaurant even though it was cool outside - it seems this is because the restaurant is so small and the kitchen is so close to the seating. Also, because it's small, wait times for a table can be long. Overall a great experience though.

Very noisy, staff is running around. The girl pouring the water was all over the table. The fish was dry, the rest of the food was ok. We expected more based on other reviews. As Europeans we didn’t think this was excellent service. Too much, too busy, too many different people at our table. No quiet diner.

Delicious food. Atmospheric. Friendly. Very popular so reservation essential. Very reasonably priced. Highly recommend.

So we just got back from Trattoria Contadina. I had the Vongole. My girlfriend had the Carlesimo, and my kids had the Pavarotti. Best Italian food I have ever experienced. The atmosphere is fantastic, the service is so friendly and professional. The price was very very fair for food and service of this caliber. So glad we chose to go here. All pasta was perfectly cooked. Sauces were so full of deep delicious flavor. Thank you so much for a meal experience that will be remembered for a long time!

Trattoria Contadina feels like a bit of little Italy from the moment you walk in the door. The aroma coming out of the kitchen is inviting & sublime. The Italian fare described on the menu all looked so appetizing, it was hard to choose. So, we asked our waiter for the house specialities or signature dishes. “Other than the specials” he was quick to point out, “we are most famous for our veal saltimbocca and carlesimo pasta dish.” We took his advice and ordered 1 of each to share family style. What a great move – both were most tasty & more appetizing than the mouth- watering menu description and particularly great examples of traditional Italian recipes prepared perfectly. Plus, both dishes matched well with our choice of reds a Montepulciano and a Barbera. Trattoria Contadina has been in this same Russian Hill neighborhood spot for years. It's just up the hill from the array of Italian eateries on Columbus Avenue. It’s always a good sign to see a restaurant filled w/ happy diners and even better to see a restaurant that pleases customers year after year, after year.

Really delicious the risoto parmesan, the staff are lovely and the price is honest by the quality. I didnt make a reservation but the staff made all possible to be make dinner great.

This lovely restaurant was everything I'd hoped for when selecting an Italian eatery in North Beach. We were warmly welcomed, given a nice table, and service was attentive but not smothering. If you like a good Caesar salad, don't miss this one and add the anchovies - superb! My Il Diavolo pasta was cooked to a perfect al dente state and the sauce was just-right spicy. My sister loved her Carlesimo although the rigatoni could have used a minute or two more on the stove as it was a bit chewy. That said, the sauce was excellent, and we practically licked our plates clean. We still managed to enjoy dessert as we couldn't pass on the cannoli. As for drinks, my Dirty Martini was generously sized and the wine selection offered many good choices, even by the glass which is sometimes not the case. We were not rushed and allowed to enjoy our meal at our own pace. When next in SF, I will definitely return, and meanwhile highly recommend this restaurant.

Cozy and rustic restaurant. Offering your typical Italian dishes. Service was good. Prices very reasonable.

We had an amazing meal here. The restaurant is small and family owned giving it a great atmosphere. All the staff are friendly and went out of their way to meet our requests. The food is fresh and delicious. Highly recommend the spaghetti and meatballs, it was one of the best I’ve ever eaten.

First ones in the door. Happy Hour Menu is wonderful with lots of options. We had 4 drinks, 2 apps and shared a dinner. With tip our meals cost $85. If you love homemade food and personal mom and pop service, this place is for you. Make a reservation.

This was my third or fourth visit and the restaurant has never failed to impress. Arriving for our reservation, we received a prompt and friendly greeting before being led to our table. I had one of the house specialty cocktails; the Trattoria Contadina Old Fashioned. This had a few upgrades from a traditional Old Fashioned, including a flavorful blend of three different bitters. So, a good start. We started dinner with the Roasted Bell Pepper starter. This is a dish that I had on my first visit, and have ordered it on each subsequent visit. It consists of a roasted, yellow bell pepper served in a small dish with a spicy, tomato cream sauce. This is topped with a cheese blend of Asiago, mozzarella and Bel Paese. The server listed several recommendations for dinner. I chose the “Carlesimo” pasta: Rigatoncelli, pancetta, porcini, peas, sun-dried tomatoes, spicy tomato cream. It was a rich, tasty, filling dish with a little spice kick from the sauce. The server also proved himself with the wine recommendation. Asking for assistance from the list of mostly Italian wines, he recommended a Chianti but them offered that for $5 more, there was a delicious Montepulciano. He was correct. The Montepulciano was well worth the extra $5. Great meal. Great drinks. Great service.

We did not have reservations and where told to come back at 9pm. Someone must have canceled since we were seated right away. Small restaurant (seats about 30 downstairs) The food was out of this world! They make their own pasta and sauce. If you want old world Italian this is your place.

San Francisco is one of my favorite cities, and on each trip I try to enjoy at least one evening dining in North Beach. However, I am often cautious about stepping into tourist trap with mediocre food. Trattoria Contadina has become my go to Italian restaurant in North Beach for a truly delicious Italian meal. The pasta always tastes freshly made, and whether you select a risotto, gnocchi or steak you will not be disappointed. The atmosphere is always casual and the service is good.

Trattoria Contadina was the perfect choice for a rainy San Francisco evening. The atmosphere is warm & cozy, the food is traditional comfort Italian homestyle options & the staff is friendly & efficient. The overall goal is to please their guests in a cozy, casual setting. We will definitely return again.

Been coming here for years, but the long line is a tad daunting. Food is worth the wait, but since everybody now knows about it, the service has become more hurried unfortunately

Had a wonderful meal with my niece. The negronis were fabulous. We had an excellent and attentive server. Started the meal with the meatball appetizer with tomato cream sauce. My entree was the Carlesimo. It was very good and look forward to having it again on my next visit.

We were told to try this place from a friend and we were pleased we did. The food was delicious and the staff was welcoming and professional. The server was very friendly attentive. I recommend the gnocchi.

Nothing but love for this restaurant and those working there. I spent my 50th birthday evening with them and by the end of the night it was like we were old friends. We started the evening with a drink from Casey at the bar. Drinks were all good. Then were seated upstairs in a very cozy / quaint table. There were 4 of us - myself, husband and 2 older daughters. We started with the carpaccio and that was fabulous. Then we had 4 pasta dishes all served family style and all were great. Our favorites though were the gnocchi and the salvatore dishes. We also shared the meatballs and they were great. By the end of the evening, we had made friends with the lovely couple sitting next to us and enjoyed chatting with our waitress, Nicole. We finished our red wine at the bar after dinner with Casey (bartender), Nicole (waitress), and Vince (host?). They were so friendly and fun to talk to. This is not a pretentious place if that is your style. Very casual and fun with fabulous food. My new favorite SF Italian restaurant by far!!! Can't recommend it enough.

Excellent Italian restaurant. Went with 8 people (including 3 children) and everyone liked their dinner. Excellent salads. Amazing pastas. Terrific selection of excellent wines by the glass. And they made a pesto for one of the kids even though it wasn't on the menu. We enjoyed it so much that we went back the next night!

This was my 2nd visit to Trattoria Contadina and it was as equally good. It is a small neighborhood restaurant with great food and authentic atmosphere. We started with the caprese salad. The burrata was wonderfully creamy and the tomatoes were full of flavor. I had the melanzane and shells for my entree and it was delicious. For dessert I had the spumoni which was also good. My coworkers had the pesce picatta and nicoletta which they both enjoyed. They said the tiramisu was wonderful.

This little neighborhood italian restaurant is a highly popular local spot that deserves the crowd and the attention. Friendly service complimented by some delicious italian food. Definitely try the veal saltimbocca and the famous meatballs. No way you could be disappointed.

Looking for an Italian restaurant for dinner, we came across Trattoria Contadina. As soon as we got into the place, the waiter approached speaking in Italian with a clear accent from Piedmont ... we were all coming from the same region! After zucchini as appetizer, we had pasta with clams, gnocchi with pesto, meatballs and bufala mozzarella with greens. Food was delicious, as well as the espresso was super! A special thank you to Gianandrea to have spoiled us and made us feel feel home! Don’t miss Trattoria Contadina if you are nearby!

My wife and I had dinner here at 5:00 on Monday, December 19th. I was hesitant to write this review because I don't want this little gem in North Beach to be discovered by the throngs of people I know will eventually make it their favorite Italian restaurant. To start with, it's on Mason Street a couple of blocks off Columbus Avenue, so you don't have to deal with all the noise and traffic. The place is quaint and quiet, and the people who work there could not have been more welcoming and friendly. We started off with clams and mussels as an appetizer, and it was outstanding. The bread was tasty and the olive oil they serve for dipping was extraordinary. We split a caesar salad, which is made with their homemade dressing, and it was superb. My wife had the Inverno Verde and it was, by far, one of the most delicious main courses we have ever tasted. The creamy pesto was the tastiest we have ever had. I ordered the Polpettine and it was the perfect blend of spices and flavors. The spaghetti was al dente to perfection and the three large meatballs were to die for! The amount of food they serve is more than we expected, and the quality was five stars. The tiramisu was the perfect end to one of the most outstanding Italian dinners we have ever had. It was truly an experience! We visit San Francisco several times a year and are always looking for the best Italian restaurant in North Beach. We found it!

4.5 stars for this gem of a generational Italian restaurant with a very reasonable price point. The service is great here and the small San Francisco neighborhood feel emanates from this charming eatery and albeit small bar. The dishes are consistent and most of them meet expectations. The burrata caprese is exceptionally good. Again, this neighborhood and friendly eatery are charming. The service is solid. It is also located on a cable car line if you feel especially lazy and don't wish to walk. Like with most places in San Francisco, don't even try to drive and park anywhere near here save a few nearby garages.

We had a party of 11 for my wife's birthday and really loved it. The service was exceptional, the food outstanding and the ambiance is the best. This is a local gem in my mind. Note they have a upstairs room that is quite nice for a larger party like ours. We've always been downstairs below and didn't even know that had the room upstairs. Personally, I like the penne Milanese, but all of the pasta dishes are great.

We flew in a day early just to fit in another dinner here. As with our two previous vists (2016 and 2013) we were not disappointed. The food, as well as the service, are excellent and the atmosphere is what makes it a special place for us. Can't wait to visit again in the future!

Trattoria Contadina Restaurant is a cozy family restaurant with excellent service and food. The same family owns and runs this restaurant for 3 generations. I thoroughly enjoyed the Pesce Picatta.. Red Snapper with capers, lemon, white wine and vegetables. Others in our large group chose a variety of pasta dishes - all were excellent. This place reminded me of the small, family owned and operated Italian restaurants in northern New Jersey that I used to enjoy when I lived there. I highly recommend it!

Midweek evening meal during business trip. Pleasant & helpful service. Lovely wine. Shared mixed starters were very good - antipasto, bruschetta etc. Mains were large, but seemed less impressive - flavors inoffensive but less adventurous. Nice evening without being particularly memorable.

My friend and I came here without doing any research, because it was in walking distance of fisherman's wharf. We came around 5, hoping to get an early supper. Of course, the restaurant was BUSY when we got there. They asked if we had a reservation (we didn't) and then spent about five minutes figuring out where we could be seated. I'm so glad we got in! It was absolutely delicious. I had the gnocchi and was very happy with it. My friend had the diavolo, which she enjoyed. We had a few drinks and took a tiramisu back to our hotel room to enjoy later. I just wish we had ordered two- SOOOO GOOOD!

Great small Italian restaurant in North Beach...love the food and atmosphere...a full house on a Wednesday night !!!

Small place in North Beach near Washington Square. Unpretentious decor. Service was so-so during a time when place was not at all busy. Bartender made an excellent Old Fashioned. House red wine and Chianti by the glass were both mediocre, but moderately priced. Happy hour until 6, I think. Bruschetta were huge but otherwise unremarkable. Entrees - Carlesimo and Ravioli - were excellent. The Carlesimo was among the best pasta dishes I've ever had anywhere. Prices were very reasonable. I would definitely come here again.

Normal prices for usa (so expensive for a European). Otherwise the food is good, the atmosphere is American a little noisy without being disturbing. Dishes are served a bit quickly... less than an hour between sitting down and leaving with dishes and coffee.

Great place, old school Italian cooking that's getting harder to find these days as many establishments feel the need to take everything upscale and nouveau. Not here, just good old fashion Italian cooking the way it should be. We started out by showing up at happy hour where wine was $5 a glass and Perroni beer on draft was $4, great value. Meal started with commentary bread and olive oil dip, very nice. We shared an appetizer of 24 month aged prosciutto served with soft cheese over arugula topped with fig jam, delicious! Both of us had pasta mains of her's ravioli and mine pesto sausage with shell pasta. We both loved it. Finished with piping hot espresso, perfect. If you're looking for excellent Italian, this is the place. Go there and enjoy!

Our family group of 10 was accommodated with a prior reservation. The service for a group this large was excellent, and everyone loved the food. Very generous portions, almost too generous! We would definitely recommend it.

Excellent food, friendly service,in the Italian area, very busy with good atmosphere, best to book,as we went on a Thursday night , and it was full l!!

I wanted cozy. I wanted Italian food. I wanted convenience to our evening show of "Beach Blanket Babylon." I got all three in Trattoria Contadina. The excellent no-nonsense service and warm atmosphere was a bonus. I had tried twice to get a reservation — short notice means no luck. So, we made plans to go somewhere else before our show. Fortunately that place didn't take reservations, so when we walked past, I poked my head in just in case. The hostess greeted us warmly and said she'd had a couple no-shows, "So let's do it!" We were seated immediately and quickly had bread and attentive service. I was happy — happier moments later with wine poured. We split the trio of meatballs — solid 2.5" orbs of meat with choice of sauce (we had the classic tomato). I had a cup of minestrone that was good but not special. My gnocchi were excellent and a large portion. I judge an Italian restaurant by its gnocchi, and these were denser than I prefer but still very tasty in a creamy tomato sauce. A crew of attentive staff ensured we always had water, bread, hand-grated parmesan, fresh pepper and a clean table. We skipped dessert because of the show time, but I am confident that the menu of Italian standards would have delivered just as well as the other courses. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with friendly people waiting on you — and things moved quickly. Two families with small children enjoyed meals nearby, as did other groups, and it was clear this is a place with a loyal base of local customers as well as tourists who stumble on it via guidebooks or Google. I'm definitely keeping this one on my list of places to return for a quality Italian meal.

We just got back from a week in San Francisco and Napa and this is where we had our favorite meal of all! Service was wonderful- our waitress suggested some of the dishes that they are known for and we completely enjoyed each and every dish we had. (Matter of fact, I'm still dreaming of mine!!) Place was crowded on a Friday night, but we had made reservations in advance which I'm sure is a good idea. Don't hesitate to try this place. We paid three times as much for meals at other places that weren't anywhere near as delicious!

IF you are looking to dine either alone or in a group this is the place. They are attentive, the dining room is moderate sized but can accommodate small groups or single diners (like me that night). The bar and menu selections are not huge but well curated so you have great well prepared choices. A memorable meal!

I had dinner here with a coworker, and the food was fabulous! The pasta was cooked perfectly and the sauce was very flavorful. The appetizer and desserts were also amazing. Even though it’s a small place, we were not rushed at all, but were able to enjoy a leisurely dinner. Highly recommend it!

Excellent Italian fare. Great veal scalopini and risotto. Good service, atmosphere. Excellent Caesar salad with anchovies. And don't miss the raspberry Cabernet sorbet.

A nice little Italian restaurant that you can easily get to using public transportation or a leisurely walk. We enjoyed the food but the service was lacking. It is hard to imagine that in a small restaurant the service could be so poor. The waiter took mine and my husband's drink order and promptly walked away without taking my daughter's and son's drink order. Mind you they are both in their mid to late twenties, maybe they look young but that is no excuse for not getting their order. It was weird but the start of the whole tiresome dinner. Waiting to order, waiting for another drink, waiting to be asked if we wanted dessert. Maybe the waiter was having a bad night but it was almost a snobbish and condescending attitude. It definitely ruined dinner and even if the food was delicious we didn't enjoy it. We had high hopes based on other reviews.

Looking for that perfect neighborhood style Italian joint? You know—where the bartender winks at you knowingly and the server has just right amount of knowledge and discretion? And the food tastes like Grandma made it based on some old country recipe handed down? You’ve found it here. Simple, casual, well prepared favorites, good wine list, terrific service and a fun, “let’s all make this work” atmosphere. I’ve been looking for an unpretentious Italian joint in SF for a decade— found it and will be back!

We celebrated my boyfriend's birthday here. The food was amazing!!! Best yet I've had in SF. Service was great as well. The atmosphere was very nice and relaxed. Waiter surprised as with a surprise birthday tiramisu. I will definetly visit this place again!!! I would highly recommend to book your table before hand. We have tried to get here before but it has been fully booked.

This place is great. Fantastic atmosphere, traditional family run trattoria with classic Italian deliciousness. The wait staff know their stuff and are more than happy to help with your choices. Go for the specials, enjoy the proper Italian food.

Celebrated my 40th birthday here and it was lovely! We ordered the aged prosciutto with burrata, caprese with burrata, gluten free pasta with clams, gluten free chicken Valdostana, and pork saltimboca. Everything was amazing. Our server described the menu in great detail so we knew how to order well. The imported burrata was lucious with fresh tomatoes and incredible prosciutto. The chicken valdostana was my dish and it was incredible and they handled my gluten allergy beautifully. Our server was so attentive and brought us small glasses of Prosecco to toast my birthday, an extra glass of Chianti for me at the end of the night, a piece of tiramisu and then gelato when he remembered I was gluten free—all complimentary. The extra touches were sweet and made the evening. We drove into the city to celebrate and will definitely return! It’s a new favorite.

Traditional decor, fast service, an extensive menu and wine list. Also good cocktails. A restaurant serving Italian cuisine where the waitstaff speak Italian.

We went here with 2 of our grandkids and we all enjoyed our food. The meatballs with pesto were amazing with the other appetizer that has bell pepper. The service was impeccable, warm and welcoming, attentive and personal (without being weird).

Located in the center of the Italian neighborhood, this place is the typical italian restaurant: small, loud, cramped, but the food and the service were very good. They have all the typical italian dishes plus some specialties. Do make a reservation or you will have to wait for some time!!!

A cozy place within walking distance of our hotel, the place was packed on a Saturday night. Reservations are a must. Apps and salad courses were good but the standouts were the cheese ravioli and the pasta special, with fried pancetta and tomatoes. Yum!

We got there early, and though not open, let us come in from the wind until 5. Then, we feasted on happy hour negronis, wine, and outstanding pasta that melted in your mouth! Never had such rich and succulent pasta in my life. I also had the burrata caprese salad with heirloom tomatoes. Outstanding! You really must try this place and the Powell cable car stops right out front.

Contadina is a nice old-school Italian restaurant. Really took me back to the way Italian-American neighborhoods in NYC or Philly looked in the 70s and 80s. The open kitchen concept gives the restaurant a certain intimacy. Wine selection was full of good value and the service was excellent: friendly and attentive without being smothering or condescending. We started with the meatballs (just like mamma used to make), burrata and bruschetta (way too much cheese). As a main course, I had the Veal Correnti (pictured) which was flavorful. As those who have read my reviews have come to understand, I’m definitely an Italian food snob and I’m happy to say that Trattoria Contadina passes the test!

Always a favorite. Been dining here for 20 plus years. Food was Delish. Service is excellent. Always a go to when I am in town.

My last night in San Francisco I asked the concierge to recommend a place. This was it. This restaurant is adorable. I strongly recommend reservations as it is not a large place. I had brochette to start. Lots of tomatoes and just a hint of basil. For my main course I had the gnocchi with the tomato sauce. It was delicious. The portion was big and I was not able to finish. Great end to my vacation. Special shout out to Kevin for not making me wait too long, and my server Hunter was right on the ball.

We came here for our first night in San Francisco, what a great choice - highly recommend. The food we had was amazing, Buratta & Prosciutto, Spaghetti Meatballs, and Rigatoncelli, finished with some home made Tiramisu. Our server, Gian was absolutely wonderful - super friendly and very attentive. If I ever come back to San Fran, would very much come back!

3 of us dined there the other night. The menu looked really good, but all of the meals weren't. 2 of us ordered off the menu and loved the meals. I ordered the risotto special and was really disappointed. If was bland and watery, no texture or taste. Our waitress was nice, if overly friendly. The wine and wine list were good and so were the appetizers and dessert. Fore $200 for 3 people I expected more.

The place looks and feels like the food just should have been better...…. We pulled in searching for a meal that reminded us of home. It was not to be. The food was ok, nothing to write home about on this visit, but it could have been so much more. I had a regular menu dish and the wife had a special. The special was lacking flavour.....it's italian and it's meant to be seasoned. If I am smashing the salt and pepper at the table and you own the place, make sure that you talk to your chefs and get them to taste it before sending it out. Look, the service was good, the drinks were cold, but I came for nourishment......it's italian,,,,,,,,nourish me! Would I go back.....yes, I believe that they do better and could do better. The owner is on the floor and thats a good thing. Next time!

First time visit and we were thrilled with our delicious salad and pasta dishes. They were absolutely superb!! Good selection of wines too and great service!! This restaurant is on the keeper list for our next visit. Don’t go without a reservation!

Great experience for our last night in San Francisco. Service was exceptional; family run business. Would recommend.

We've been here a few times when traveling to San Francisco. Not too fancy, just a great restaurant for Italian food, service, drinks, and wine. We're always satisfied when finished.

Best meal. Service was exceptional. Very attentive staff. Food was of the highest quality. Nice way to round off our San Francisco trip.

This is a classic, small North Beach restaurant with traditional, familiar Italian food and very moderate prices. A great family place, and a bit off the beaten track, no tourist hype here. I've been enjoying Contadina since the 1990s and this time was there with a 14-year-old boy who had just graduated from middle school and his mom. The boy has a typical teenage boy appetite(!), and he was very happy with hearty food and generous portions. The staff were concerned and careful about his serious shellfish allergy, reassured us but also checked in with the chef to be sure there would be no cross-contamination in the kitchen. If you want authentic food in a warm, welcoming atmosphere -- yes, eat here.

This restaurant is situated on a street corner whereby both San Francisco trolley cars and trams go by. It is accessible also by buses that stop right outside. On the ground level, request a table near the window to enjoy the ambiance! We were a group of 12 and although we could have been comfortably seated on the main floor, we were accommodated on the 2nd floor, where we enjoyed a more cozy, intimate feel, as though we were dining in a friend's home. The selections all were served with signature sauces. The roasted bell peppers with spicy tomato cream sauce were enjoyed by all. The tastes of our diners ranged from meatballs to pasta to fish, and each came with more than ample servings. I had the pesce picatta, which came in a lemon caper sauce and was light and tasty. I paired it with the grilled zucchini, which came with just the right amount of crispness and minimal seasonings so as to not obscure the fresh taste. The servers were attentive and accommodating of substitutions without chastisements or eye-rolling! We felt cared for without feeling like we were being continually interrupted. The pace was very slow, which made for each course to be enjoyed, along with the wine pairings and conversations. There is no question I will return to try other offerings!

I went on recommendation from Hotel of Union Square. It is a cute small corner restaurant on Mason st. It’s away from the more touristy Columbus st. We got a table right at 5:30pm without waiting but it’s popular so u might have to wait outside. I had a wonderful green salad and the homemade meatballs and spaghetti. The sauce was great the meatballs were tasteful. The service is spot on.

It is always great when the visitor from Dallas can recommend a place to friends that live in San Francisco and the hosts are impressed! Not a big place and they take reservations, make them! The food is fresh, find and the vibe is a local lively crowd of couples/ friends and families!!! We were very happy with this experience!

We had an amazing experience at this small corner Italian restaurant, and can see why it is a favorite with locals and celebrities. Fresh pasta, flavorful sauces and many choices. Everything we tried was fantastic, from the appetizers to the Limoncello dessert wine. Wine list good, too, with many traditional options. Service was good, but our server did not have all our answers right away. Maybe he was new. Can not wait to eat here again!

My wife and I were looking for a place to eat one night and trip advisor'd this place and just showed up with out a reservation. They said they were full up for the night but managed to get squeeze us in right away. The food was so good, and wait staff even better.

We happened on this wonderful restaurant by wandering past and the welcoming atmosphere enticed us in, which I'm very glad it did. Despite being very busy the manager was very accommodating and after a short wait at the bar we were seated. The food and wine selection were excellent and our meals one of the best Italian meals we've ever had. The waiters were all great and we would definitely have visited again if we'd been in San Francisco longer.

Small charming Italian restaurant with home style Italian cooking. Food selection was amazing and server was very attentive and explained all the dishes very well. Excellent selection of wines and dessert was divine. Price was very reasonable for the quality and presentation of the food served.

It all starts with the owner, Kevin who is delightful and makes you feel right at home. Nancy Pants...her nickname...was our wonderful server. You know a restaurant is great when you have a server like Nancy who has worked here for over 15 years. Beef raviolis were very tasty. Good wine selection, too. Definitely coming back again. Oh and make sure you book a reservation as there was a waiting line out the door.

Nice atmosphere in older venue with charm. The food was good, especially Putaneskan. Unfortunately, the waiter was more interested in getting paid and it barely felt like you could finish your wine. Once they got paid, they didn't pretend we existed. This pulled down the grade considerably.

Had dinner upstairs away from the noisy crowd downstairs. All our pasta dishes were very good but the bread they served was not warmed. We had an excellent spumoni for dessert.

When we tour San Francisco with out of town visitors, we always try to end the day with a great meal at Trattoria Contadina. At the corner of Mason and Union, the place is right on the Powell/Mason cablecar route and just a short block off Columbus Avenue in North Beach. The atmosphere is cozy and service is attentive and friendly. The menu is limited but includes several delicious pasta dishes, fish dishes and meat dishes along with appetizers, salads and soups. The kitchen was kind enough to make a simple plate of pasta with a meatball for our picky 10 year old niece while we adults enjoyed house-made ravioli and other pasta dishes. They have a full bar and a great wine list. Reservations are a good idea any night. We tried to reserve on Open Table with no luck, but calling them directly did the trick. Cost for our party of 4 adults and one child was about $35.00 each before tax and tip. That included 4 entrees, one appetizer (prosciutto with burrata cheese, arugula and fig jam..yummy), the child’s plate mentioned above, 2 glasses of wine, one draft beer, a sparkling water and a coke. They don’t have pizza, but you won’t miss it!