There is something backwards about having dinner in San Francisco's Financial District, given that all the life in the area inevitable leaves with the suits at 5pm. In an attempt to bring a shot of hipness to the area's serious culinary scene, an ambitious design by Cass Calder Smith frames a world-class Italian eatery with style and substance. Located in a historic 1913 building, the sleek space includes a large all-white marble bar area, exposed brick walls throughout the main floor dining room and sleek glass staircase leading to a private mezzanine eating area with window views of the open-air kitchen below.
The Food
Dinner begins with a bang, as tables are set with addictive breadsticks that are as flavorful as anything on the menu. Not that the menu isn’t impressive, offering Bay-area salumi, artesian meats and fresh pansotti served with homemade walnut butter. Chef Staffan Terje recreates Italy’s prized Piedmont and Liguria cuisines with homemade ravioli and agnolotti, Bollito Misto and milk-braised pork shoulder with polenta and cabbage. Desserts include a prized pistachio panna cotta, fruit basket tarte and biscottis.
Last Word
Parties of two should opt for a booth in the bar, one of the best tables in the entire restaurant.
