Oh Piccino, I heart you so much. I remember before you moved and you were a mere hole in the wall, hidden in Potrero Hill. Now you have blossomed into a beautiful new space, with an expanded menu, maturing ever so graciously.
After multiple recommendations from Potrero Hill locals, Reid and I tried Piccino, a small, crowded, no frills pizza spot. The pizza was awesome. The space could have used some work. The next time we went, they had moved into a bright yellow building on Minnesota. With high ceilings, loft-like beams, lots of pine, bright lights, an open kitchen and spacious bar, the restaurant had done a complete 180. Now I adore this place even more because I am a stickler for great ambiance. It makes the dining experience just that much more fabulous.
Reid and I visit this restaurant, at the very least, once a month. The menu does not change very often and each time we can’t help but order the same things and then rave about how delicious the roasted cauliflower with farro and almond gremolata is or how brussel sprouts can actually taste good if made by Piccino and cooked with lemon, garum and roasted garlic. Recently we added a third app into the mix; toma della rocca (Cheese! In case anyone was wondering…), hen of the woods mushroom and caramelized onion bruschetta. Yes, we devour all three apps and still have room for the two pizzas that won us over many moons ago; the funghi: roasted mushrooms, stracchino and shaved garlic and the salsiccia: house made sausage, mozzarella and red onion. Last night we shared this special gem with Reid’s dad, Rick. Rick took cues from the veterans and let us chose the appetizers and he ordered a salsiccia himself. Wash the meal down with a Scrimshaw or a glass of Nebbiolo and you’re set. Taste buds are alive and satisfied. If you aren’t happy with their wines, walk next door to the very conveniently located, Dig, and pick out a bottle. Corkage is $20. Piccino, 1001 Minnesota Street, San Francisco, CA 94107. Don’t forget to try their coffee bar, which adjoins the restaurant. Start that morning off right with a warm cup-o-Joe and a fresh pastry. The coffee bar is open daily from 7:00 am – 5:00 pm.
