Allegro Romano

Lorenzo is a wonderful host whose wine pairing recommendations are spot on. Food has been consistently delicious for the 10 years we've dined there. Allegro celebrated its 20 years anniversary this year and continues to be a favorite spot for a special dinner.

My only complaint is that I somehow missed going here before now in the ten years I have lived nearby. This tiny, perfect neighborhood Italian spot feels like stepping into a locals-only Roman restaurant. Barely larger than a living room, It's intimate and very romantic (flower petals on the tables, lovely table settings). The menu is also small but perfect, with 4 choices each of always-changing starters/salads, primi (pasta) and secondi (meats). If you have a favorite dish of...read full review

OK. I admit it. I didn't eat there. And I hear it's fantastic. So fantastic that on a whim I climbed Russian Hill one Monday and just headed for it. But it was closed, like every other Italian restaurant between Hyde and Pacific. So on Wednesday, I made a reservation through Open Table, climbed the hill again, and it was closed again. One woman passing by as I huffed and puffed on the bench outside couldn't understand why it was closed, but another woman said, "Oh yeah, he closes...read full review