Enrico's
San Francisco, CA 94133
Phone: (415) 982-6223
Fax: (415) 397-7244
- Price:
- $$$
- Cross Street:
- Kearny Street
- Best of Citysearch:
- Bar Menu 2004, Bar Scene 2004, Outdoor Dining 2004
- Hours:
- Mon-Thu 11:30am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11:30am-11pm, Sun 11:30am-10pm
Editorial Review for Enrico's – by Gina Goff
The Scene
Renowned for its premium people-watching location, this North Beach staple's crown jewel is a 40-seat, heated veranda that overlooks Broadway. Other noteworthy architectural elements, such as Greco-Roman columns and handsome French doors, were crafted by original owner Enrico Banducci and have been preserved throughout renovations. Indoors, a bustling bar serves classic cocktails to a generation-spanning crowd of locals and tourists, while the cream-colored dining room hosts those seeking a full meal. Both camps are within earshot of jazz musicians, who play at the foot of a mural depicting a Beat-era street party.
The Food
Local, seasonal ingredients shine on the Italian-inflected menu: A juicy rainbow of heirloom tomatoes is topped with fresh burrata and dressed in aged balsamic, olive oil and sea salt, while the Frog Hollow Farm peach accompaniment steals the limelight from its charred pork tenderloin entrée. Pink Hawaiian salt adds texture to a delightfully creamy duck-liver pate appetizer, but the standout dish is an impeccably seasoned Alaskan halibut main--plated simply and elegantly on a bed of sautéed fennel and leeks. Espresso-ice-cream profiteroles capped with hot fudge and toasted almonds make a grand finale.
Hits: The large, inset portico is unbeatable. It somehow manages to deliver a unique experience from the dining room without leaving alfresco guests feeling banished from the indoor action.
Misses: Service is scattered at its best, and rude at its worst. While reservations are honored promptly, drink refills can be ill-paced and diners often feel ignored after entrees arrive.
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Insider Tips
When to GoLive music is performed nearly every night, usually beginning around 7pm or 8pm. Call for a detailed schedule of performers.
What to DrinkAsk the bartender for a recommendation and he'll advise the signature mojito--but the fully stocked bar also does a number of classic cocktails exceptionally well.
Fun FactThis legendary locale was once a popular hangout for celebrities ranging from Barbara Streisand to Woody Allen and Bill Cosby, who often performed at the nearby (but now closed) hungry i. The restaurant was also featured in the 1968 movie "Bullitt" with Steve McQueen.
User Reviews for Enrico's
09/17/2007 Posted by audreyjl
I was bummed to see this place boarded up and looking like it closed down for so long. This summer it re-opened it's doors and had some nice renovations done. I like the outdoor patio they have, but the inside is very nice too and they always have live music. I'm not too impressed with their menu, but you can't go wrong with a few of their appetizers or their small personal pizza with some of their tasty drinks. I personally like the oysters or frito-misto appetizers. Good service and nice atmosphere, fun way to start an evening.
Pros: outside dining, live music,
Cons: food is so-so
08/27/2006 Posted by chibitini
Enrico's has outdoor space in the front of the restaurant. It's tucked in from the street so its quieter. They have heat lamps outside but on a windy day, you can really feel it b/c its situated on the corner. The decor is nice and there was a band playing with a nice sounding woman singing. The service is attentive but our waiter was a bit deadpan but still friendly. For apps we had the clam with chorizo and tomato sauce--highly recommended! And for entree we had the pan iron steak made as ordered. They also have house made pasta and that was incredible. Definitely worth going back to again.
