Rose Pistola

02/16/07

ok

by audreyjl at Citysearch

We came here after work for some wine and a light dinner and found just that. Although our watiress was not knowledgable at all on the wine list which was somewhat annoying because the list is quite extensive. We had a few appetizers, all were tasty. The place is pricey, but has a nice atmosphere, but would have expected better service overall from the decor, attitude and price of the place. Had a nice time.

• Pros: wine list, atmosphere
• Cons: service

12/30/06

Reliable fallback

by dewalker at Citysearch

I like the fact that you can order food here late, though it will be a limited menu. Good- not great- Italian. You don't get good house cured sardines everywhere, and the very-thin-crust pizza is very very good. The octopus is shockingly overcooked, even for Italian. Portions could be a bit more generous, and I'm not into humongous meals.

12/01/06

A North Beach standby still delivers the Italian goods.

by Contributor at Citysearch

The Scene
Columbus Avenue gets its fair share of tourists and this North Beach institution, with its exposed wood beams and sleek design, is no exception. A wood-burning oven roars away at the center of an open kitchen, while white smock-clad servers scurry around the multiple dining areas providing warm, if perfunctory, service.

The Food
Make no mistake--the olive oil-drenched antipasti are the highlight of the meal. In high spring, plates include bright-green fava beans speckled by cubes of soft pecorino; sashimi-like tuna crudo with crunchy shaved artichoke salad; and grilled rabbit livers wrapped around skewers of fresh rosemary. Main courses spotlight seafood, with more than five varieties prepared in several ways, from roasted with fennel to braised with a spicy tomato broth.

05/07/03

pricey but good

by cflann01 at Citysearch

I had the strip steak and really regret it (very fatty). Has a tremendous menu (changes daily). Be weary if you don't like REAL and AUTHENTIC Northern Italian food! (rabbit, quail, etc.). Great Wine list. Nibbled on other plates...seafood was delicious.

Loud and bustling restaurant (the way I like it).

• Pros: wine, atmosphere, real italian food
• Cons: crowded, slow service, bad parking

01/26/03

A Rose with no thorns

by nino001 at Citysearch

I went here with a group of people for the first time last night and I was for the most part not disappointed. The quality of the food was outstanding, the service excellent (though the front desk staff was slow in seating us) and the ambience very well thought out. We sat outdoors and watched the nightlife of North Beach unfold as we munched out pizzas, chicken, salads and more. Rosa Pistola is definitely a place that I will return to again.

• Pros: Outdoor seating, Wine list, Wait staff
• Cons: Crowded, Front desk staff

05/25/02

An acquired taste

by Silver_and_wise at Citysearch

I've been to RP several times since the New Year began.Although initially unimpressed friends have caused me to return and I have acquired the taste.The fish is excellent(very fresh) and "...to die for" with the roasted tomated sauce.In season the corn polenta is very special.Fascinating bar scene populated by movers and wantabees.Good music with an overall fun atmosphere.Service is spotty but tries hard.

• Pros: fresh fish, atmosphere
• Cons: service, parking/valet

05/14/02

No complaints

by peterbehle_citysearch at Citysearch

I've always had a great time here. Head in for lunch and everything's good. Plus the prices are better. At night it can be a zoo, but what do you expect?

• Pros: Great menu
• Cons: Crowded at night