There’s no shortage of Italian restaurants in San Francisco, but Cotogna manages to hit that rare sweet spot: stylish but un-fussy, refined yet rustic, and always deeply satisfying. Tucked into the historic Jackson Square neighborhood, Cotogna is the kind of place that makes you want to linger—over a glass of Barolo, a wood-fired pizza, or a slow Sunday lunch that effortlessly turns into an early dinner.

Chef Michael Tusk, the James Beard Award–winning force behind Quince, brings a fresh approach to Italian cuisine at Cotogna. It’s approachable but elevated, seasonal but timeless. The open kitchen and wood-fired hearth set the tone—warm, lively, and full of intention.

What to Expect at Cotogna

The space strikes a balance between rustic and urban chic. Think terra cotta tiles, exposed wood beams, and a cozy yet energetic atmosphere that’s perfect for both date nights and solo dining at the bar. The service is polished but relaxed, and the wine list leans confidently Italian with plenty of California favorites sprinkled in.

Cotogna’s menu changes almost daily, but you can always count on house-made pastas, inventive antipasti, and wood-fired mains. There’s a rhythm to the way dishes arrive that makes even a casual lunch feel like a curated experience.

What to Order at Cotogna

Some dishes are practically permanent due to cult status. If they’re on the menu, don’t miss these:

1. Raviolo di Ricotta

A single, oversized raviolo filled with ricotta and an egg yolk that bursts with each cut. Drenched in brown butter and finished with shaved parmigiano—it’s a perfect bite of richness and restraint.

2. Agnolotti del Plin

Tiny, hand-pinched pasta parcels, filled with meat and seasonal herbs. Silky, tender, and deeply flavorful.

3. Wood-Grilled Meats

Whether it’s their famous Bisteca alla Fioerntina, chicken a la diavola or their rotational grilled meats, the wood fire imparts a depth that defines Cotogna’s signature style.

4. Seasonal Pizzas

The thin-crust pizzas here are more than a side note. Topped with local ingredients and kissed by the wood oven, they balance chew and char in every slice.

A Sister Spot Worth Mentioning: Verjus

Just a short walk away is Verjus— Cotogna’s effortlessly cool sister restaurant and wine bar. Also owned by Michael Tusk, Verjus offers a more casual, Parisian-style experience with natural wines and shareable plates. It’s the kind of place you pop into for a quick glass and end up ordering half the menu.

If you’re planning a food-focused day in San Francisco, starting at Cotogna and ending at Verjus is a pairing made in culinary heaven.

Final Thoughts

Cotogna is the kind of restaurant that reminds you why you fell in love with dining out in the first place. It’s thoughtful without being precious, elevated without being exclusive, and delicious in every sense. Whether you’re a local looking for your new go-to or a traveler building your perfect San Francisco itinerary—Cotogna belongs on your list.