Rose Pistola

(North Beach)
532 Columbus Ave.  
415-399-0499 Map it
www.rosepistola.com

$$$-$$$$
Italian
bar scene, business lunch, dine at the bar, family style, good for groups, late-night dining, lunch, notable wine list, open 7 days, outdoor dining, romantic

SCENE: This vibrant North Beach standby keeps tourists and regulars coming back for more. The tall tables and zinc bar in the front are prime people-watching spots, while the focal point of the big round tables and cozy leather banquettes in the back is the drama of the open kitchen.

EATS: Old-school Italian meets California cuisine here. Start with an array of antipasti for the table: a refreshing salad of roasted beets with grilled radicchio and a plate of velvety tuna tartare leave enough room for cheese-filled focaccia drizzled with truffle oil. A bountiful mixed grill for two shows off the briny flavors of calamari, mussels and a whole fish boned tableside, while the homemade pasta dishes are always winning choices. Ask your server for a suggestion from the extensive selection of Italian wines.