A16 San Francisco is hands down one of my favorite Italian restaurants in San Francisco. I first experienced A16 when I was still living in New York City and was visiting San Francisco on business. I had heard from a local friend it was a must try so I went in by myself and LOVED IT! I met Benito, one of the bartenders who has since become a good friend. Our friendship started during my first visit as I was dining by myself inquiring about the wines. He lead a small wine tasting and the rest was history!! He has since taken fabulous care of me and really makes each visit very special, delicious and always a LOT of fun!!  Typically the moment I walk in the door and he spots me I have Persecco in my hands within a minute or two. We then progress to wine bases on my mood and what I’m ordering. My kind of experience, right?

As a local to San Francisco, I can now call A16 one of my regular spots I love to frequent. I usually go with a girlfriend for a drink which eventually leads to a bite or two at the bar. There’s not much better than amazing, flavorful food, an awesome lively ambiance, great service and a spot that feels like home. A few of my favorites include: The Burrata Appetizer, Mozzarella Pizza, Maccaronara Pasta, and the Chocolate Budino Tart Dessert with Sea Salt. No matter what you order, you have to save room for dessert!

The front bar area that I absolutely adore… This is typically where I eat (as it’s my FAVORITE spot) but you can enjoy amazing A16 food anywhere in the restaurant. *

Prosecco, the first thing I start with during any visit to the A16 Bar

Recently, I had the pleasure of meeting their owner and Wine Director Shelley Lindgren. She was beyond friendly and extremely knowledgeable about their Italian Wines leading me and a friend through a delicious Italian Wine Flight. I really felt like a lucky girl! To not only meet the owner of one of my favorite local restaurants, but to hear her expertise first hand in an intimate setting was beyond special. Whether Shelley, Benito, Alex or Steve are covering the bar I know I’m in great hands and will have an amazing experience! For those in the East Bay they also have a location in Oakland that I also adore, A16 Rockridge.  2355 Chestnut St. San Francisco, CA. 954105. 415-771-2216.

Owner Shelley Lindgren leading us through our wine flight

My second visit to A16, still living in NYC with some local SF pals (of course dining at the Bar)

A newer addition to the menu as of Spring of 2015; Bruschetta with Feta Cheese, Capers, Tomatoes and Crispy Bacon. Divine!

Close up of my favorite A16 Pasta, The Maccaronara. It’s soooo good I recommend the large portion! 

The Burratta another appetizer I enjoy during almost every visit. *

The infamous A16 Pizza, a must try! * 

Chef Rocky Masseli he oversees both A16 San Francisco & A16 Rockridge *

Hosting New York pals Sean & Tracey for Wine and appetizers at the Bar

TheMaccaronara Pasta in a white sauce with garlic. A new take on my go to and favorite dish!

* Photos courtesy of Kelly Puleio