“ Definitely check it out! I don't know why this place was not busier last night, 1/23/25, a Thursday. It is much better than the place across the street, and the ambiance at Ristobar is superior, including the recently renovated room which is beautifully decorated with comfortable chairs and amazing marble table tops. Seriously, this place is consistently remarkable. I read an outstanding review I wrote for it over 15 years ago (Emporio Rulli, same restaurant under a different name), reminding me just how long this place has been turning out amazing meals. Last night was great, and our recent visit on Christmas eve 2024 was outstanding. Wonderful oysters and hamachi antipasti, mushroom and truffle pappardelli primi, branzino secondi, with a few expertly paired wines (by Nicola, the server). My wife and I split all courses, including desert, and had plenty of food and were very happy. We didn't hold back (oysters, truffles, etc.) since it was Xmas eve and the bill of $350 including tip reflected that, but it was Christmas Eve. The place is not inexpensive but we normally get out for less than $200, sharing. It's not just the food, the whole environment transports you to Italy. And it's not just the chef, all the staff take good care of you. Mattia, the GM, is terrific, and if you're lucky you'll get there on a night when he put together the menu after chatting with his Mom in Italy - I kid you not. (1/24/25 update: Sadly I must report that Mattia has left, a real loss for the restaurant and dining experience. I know you guys are always looking to mix things up but this is unfortunate, in my opinion.) Our favorite Italian in SF, and top couple of restaurants overall. As I said, definitely check it out! ”

“ What an amazing dinner! So good, beautiful restaurant. The service was excellent, everyone was so friendly yet professional..We just left the Warriors game and had decided to try The Risto Bar on a friend's recommend..Im so glad we did..Our dinner was absolutely delicious.. The Bar tender was awesome hope my video comes through..I would highly recommend The Risto Bar..You will not be disappointed. Stephanie and Nicolai were our servers..Thankyou so much for making our dinner experience the best it can be..We appreciate you. Peter, and Kat ”

“ We booked a large party holiday dinner at Ristobar with the GM Mattia. He was amazing! Everything from the menu, the wine, the food, the service was perfectly executed for our large party of 20 guests. The restaurant has a very nice atmosphere and a great vibe. We have done large party dinners for many years and everyone on our team agreed this was absolutely the best experience in all aspects. Thank you Mattia for all your hard work. We appreciate it. ”

“ Such a fun spot to hop into. Fancy ambiance, but also chill. Food is delicious and staff is incredible, kind and knowledgeable. If you are in the neighborhood, make sure you pop in. Also, great music. ”

“ I now have a new hangout for extended meetings over bottles of wine, fresh oysters, small plates and selected gourmet cheeses. They understand cheese here, You need not venture to the Fisherman's Wharf to struggle with parking and crowds to have a great fish dinner. The corner foot traffic was also great for people watching. Service was excellent and the Manager Mattia, was indulgent. Can't wait to be back. ”

“ The food at Ristobar is outstanding but the thing that keeps me coming back is the service. From the minute you walk in the door, you are taken care of by everyone in the restaurant. This is my second time going and both times, I have left extremely happy with the service and food. Our waiter both times has been enthusiastic, helpful and attentive. Not to mention the owner who walks around to check that you're enjoying your meal, the host also comes around to make sure you have water or wine. Can not recommend Ristobar enough, the service makes the experience even better! ”

“ Ristobar, an Italian restaurant located in San Francisco's Marina will make your dining experience truly memorable with their attention to service, nice atmosphere and hearty fare. We ordered cocktails, along with the frito misto, grilled octopus, and San Daniele Pinsa with prosciutto, cheese and arugula. We shared a variety of pastas, expertly cooked al dente and complemented with delicious, rich sauces. My personal favorites were the Cavatelli al pesto and Agnolotti that were filled with beef, veal, and pork. For desserts, we tried cassata, which is a Sicilian rolled cake filled with ricotta cream, pistachio rum sponge, and candied orange. The interior of Ristobar is a treat for the eyes, with a painted ceiling, crown moulding and chandelier, creating a charming and romantic ambiance that is perfect for a romantic evening out. ”