Albona Ristorante Istriano
Home-cooked cuisine from a little-known Adriatic region highlights this intimate North Beach restaurant.
(510) 488-3767
545 Francisco St
(at Mason Street)
San Francisco,
CA
94133
37.8046
-122.4142
Neighborhoods: Northeast, North Beach
What People Are Saying About Albona Ristorante Istriano
The Owner
Albona Ristorante Istriano
Owner
ALBONA, the first and only Istrian restaurant on the West Coast, boasts a cozy dining room bathed in a rosy glow, accented by the mahogany woodwork and reflected in the beveled mirrors. Intimate seating and background music add to the ambience.
Albona Restaurant?s uniqueness is derived from it?s distinctive roots in the European town of Albona, Istria, built on a high hill overlooking the gateway of the Adriatic Sea, sharing cultural and political soils with Croatia, Slovenia and Italy.
The culinary infusions are mostly from the Italians, but also from the Austrians, Hungarians, Slavs, Spaniards, French, Jews, Greeks, and Turks. While cumin, pasta str udels, sauerkraut, etc. are usually not associated with Italian cuisine, in Istria they reflect the unusual dishes and recipes of that region.
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
In Short
This small eatery features burgundy banquettes, ornate mirrors and an intimate atmosphere fostered by longtime owner Bruno Viscovi. The menu is based on the traditional dishes of Istria, a peninsula in the northern Adriatic Sea near Trieste. This cuisine features a unique group of Northern Italian dishes with Eastern overtones, such as the house-made ravioli stuffed with raisins and pine nuts, and the braised rabbit with juniper berries.
User Reviews
janet57
September 20, 2008
My husband and I have loved Albona for its intimate setting and wonderful food/wine. We have spent 3 new years eves there. Recently,Michael took over and I can not say how pleased we are! The food and service are better than ever. A true gem
read full reviewAnonymous
September 11, 2008
I couldn't believe how amazing the food is here. They offer Free Valet, which rocks... the food is so good. The service is excellent. The prices are a little high, but still reasonable.
read full review
chxit34
June 27, 2008
I've been coming to Albona for the past 8 years and it never dissapoints. The food and service are simply top notch. This is a great place to go on a date, to celebrate something special, or just enjoy a teriffic meal. Allow me to make a recommendation--try the pork loin and strudel. The insalada is amazing too. Decent wine list as well.
read full reviewThe Details on Albona Ristorante Istriano
Know Before You Go:
Reservations are accepted for large groups.
Parking:
Valet parking is free.
Category:
Payment Methods:
Carte Blanche, American Express, Visa, Discover, Diners Club, MasterCard
Restaurant Special Features:
Family Style Dining, Hidden Find
Cuisine:
Message from Albona Ristorante Istriano
- Notable Wine List
- Intimate Dining Room
- Decadent Desserts
ALBONA, the first and only Istrian restaurant on the West Coast, boasts a cozy dining room bathed in a rosy glow, accented by the mahogany woodwork and reflected in the beveled mirrors. Intimate seating and background music add to the ambience.
Albona Restaurant?s uniqueness is derived from it?s distinctive roots in the European town of Albona, Istria, built on a high hill overlooking the gateway of the Adriatic Sea, sharing cultural and political soils with Croatia, Slovenia and Italy.
The culinary infusions are mostly from the Italians, but also from the Austrians, Hungarians, Slavs, Spaniards, French, Jews, Greeks, and Turks. While cumin, pasta str udels, sauerkraut, etc. are usually not associated with Italian cuisine, in Istria they reflect the unusual dishes and recipes of that region.
