a16
(415) 771-2216
2355 Chestnut St
San Francisco,
CA
94123
37.8
-122.442
Neighborhoods: North, Marina
What People Are Saying About a16
The Editor
Joanna Currier
Citysearch
The Scene
A deceptively intimate front-of-house wine bar belies an expansive dining corridor that travels along a massive exhibition kitchen (with ringside seats) and ends with a heated outdoor terrace. Epicurean delights hit the eye at every turn--house-cured salumi being lovingly sliced, gourmet pizzas exiting the wood-fired oven, mouthwatering presentations and bright, excellent servers explaining the seasonal menu and hefty wine list.
The Food
The wood-fire pizzas served alla Napolitana are a must (thin, blistery crust, smooth tomato sauce, molten mozzarella floating on top), as is a tasting plate of the house salumi (though the luganega can be overly fatty). Toothsome house-made pastas come in appropriately small portions. Simple, fresh and hearty Campania-inspired entrees include roasted pork ribs with lemon, and lamb with fennel, radishes and parsley. The rich wine list is heavy in small-batch Italian and Californian varietals. If possible, desserts merit saving some room.
User Reviews
lazde
April 05, 2009
Took a while to get reservations. After eating there, no wonder! Arrived early and sat at the bar. We are really picky on our wines and the bartender had great suggestions which we ended up with for dinner. Staff was excellent, friendly, very helpful. We had the Tuna Conserva Panzanella for starters (WOW), the Salsiccia Pizza, the Pasta Special with spring peas inside (very light)and a Chocolate Budino Tart recommended by our waitress (very light). Served as 3 courses shared by the two of us. Everything was amazing! When we got the bill, we could not believe how inexpensive for such great wine and food. Would definitely go back ...
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taylormelissa27
March 24, 2009
We went on a Saturday night without a reservation. We had to wait 45 min for a table. We grabed a glass of wine, and waited patiently. It was all worth it. The pasta with mint and walnuts was so delicious. I could easily have that dish every day.
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CSMobileUser2
March 04, 2009
hostess with terrible attitude. Manager unresponsive and wimpy. Wait time too long. Pizza is soggy. I've seen a total deterioration in service and quality over the past year. Save your wait and money for a better restaurant.
read full reviewThe Details on a16
Know Before You Go:
Don't fret if you don't have a reservation. A number of spots, whether at the bar or the cafe tables, are reserved for walk-in diners.
What to Drink:
Along with the 350 bottles of Italian and Californian wines, there are 40 by-the-glass options.
Where to Sit:
The main room can be noisy--try scoring a table on the outdoor patio or seats at the "chef's counter" along the exhibition kitchen.
Look Good:
Though welcoming, this is a stylish, see-and-be-seen Marina restaurant; guests may want to dress accordingly.
Fun Fact:
A16 is the route name of the major autostrada that cuts Italy from Naples to Canosa.
Category:
Payment Methods:
American Express, Visa, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
Romantic Dining, Special Occasion Dining, Brunch, People Watching, Lunch Spot, Date Spot, Group Dining, Dine At The Bar, Notable Wine List
