In a city known for its iconic hills, fog-kissed bay, and rich culinary heritage, the Florese family has carved out a name synonymous with authentic Italian hospitality. From their first venture in 1997 to the grand opening of Steps of Rome Trattoria in April 2025, the Florese story is one of tradition, resilience, and a deep love for sharing the flavors of Italy with San Francisco.
Hours
| Friday | 12–11 PM |
| Saturday | 12–11 PM |
| Sunday | 12–10 PM |
| Monday | 12–10 PM |
| Tuesday | 12–10 PM |
| Wednesday | 12–10 PM |
| Thursday | 12–10 PM |
Address and Contact Information
Address: 401 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133
Phone: (415) 875-9721
Website: http://stepsofromesf.com/
Menu Photos
Order and Reservations
Reservations: opentable.com
Related Web Results
Steps of Rome Trattoria – San Francisco, CA
Steps of Rome Trattoria Restaurant – San Francisco, CA | OpenTable
Steps of Rome Trattoria: Authentic Italian Flavors in San Francisco
Reviews
Steps of Rome Trattoria holds a special place in my heart and in San Francisco’s North Beach food scene. When I moved to the area in the 1990s, I didn’t know many people. I started going to Steps of Rome because they showed soccer matches. The Italian staff loved the games just like I did, especially during the World Cup, and that made the restaurant feel like home.
Over time, I became a regular and learned the names of many staff members. I began bringing friends with me, and soon, Steps of Rome became our favorite spot—not just for the great food and coffee but also for the lively atmosphere and the warm, welcoming spirit of the staff. The restaurant was friendly and full of life, and even as friends moved away, we always made time to meet there.
The Original Steps of Rome (Before 2011)
The original Steps of Rome was more than just a place to eat—it was an experience. I don’t know when it first opened, but it was an important part of North Beach for at least fifteen years before it closed in 2011. It was known for classic Italian comfort food like bruschetta, gnocchi, and fettuccine with salmon. The lively Italian staff created unforgettable moments, whether through playful conversations or impressive dessert presentations.
At its height, Steps of Rome had two locations on the same block, showing how much people loved it. Its closing in 2011 left a gap in the neighborhood—a sign of the gradual decline of North Beach’s Italian-American culture.
The Rebirth of Steps of Rome (April 2025)
That’s why it was so meaningful to walk into the newly reopened Steps of Rome at 401 Columbus Avenue. The Florese Family, known for their Italian hospitality in San Francisco, has revived it with great care. Their history includes well-known spots like Mona Lisa Restaurant and the Old Clam House, and their work on the Steps of Rome honors the past while looking forward.
I visited the new location a couple of weeks ago, and I’m happy to say it felt like the original. The food was delicious, the service friendly, and the welcoming spirit was there—the same energy that made the first restaurant so special. It felt like coming home.
We started with Burrata Fresca and I had a glass of Pinot Grigio with it. Then we shared a Steps of Rome pizza and lasagna, both satisfying and tasty. The Florese family aims to bring back the original chef and the beloved flavors of the past. This isn’t just for show—it’s a true effort to keep something special alive. This new beginning feels like a gift in a neighborhood that has worked hard to maintain its Italian food traditions.
This was one of the worst dining experiences I’ve had in San Francisco.
The arancini was extremely bitter, dry, and unpleasant. The first pizza arrived burnt with a strong ash aftertaste. We were offered a remake, but the second pizza was still not enjoyable.
When we raised this again, the owner came to our table and the conversation turned uncomfortable. Instead of focusing on the food, he asked where I was from and then dismissed my complaint by saying that because he is from Italy, I “don’t know what I’m talking about.” He raised his voice rather than trying to resolve the issue. The staff appeared visibly embarrassed.
Being questioned about my background and talked down to in this way felt inappropriate and discriminatory, especially in a situation that should have been about food quality and customer service.
We were ultimately forced to pay for food we could not eat. There are many places in the city that serve excellent Italian food without treating customers this way. We will not be returning.