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From Citysearch.com

Elegant northern Italian cuisine and luxurious surroundings make this a special-occasion destination.

The Scene
This venerable Italian restaurant has the same rarefied dignity it's always had, with pale yellow walls and watercolors of Venetian scenes glowing softly in the elegant Murano lamplight. Sparkling crystal decanters and oversized flower bouquets add drama to the small dining room, where anniversaries are celebrated, marriages are proposed and San Francisco's Italophiles come to worship.

The Food
Culinary treasures continue to impress with elegant but earthy takes on dishes like Parmesan budino (a savory custard), accessorized with spinach and zucchini. A tasting menu with paired wines challenges the taste buds with flavors that range from the delicateness of black truffles served with asparagus tortelloni, to robust parsley-crusted lamb loin. For dessert, try a bourbon-caramel semifreddo with amaretto sauce.

Opentable Reservations

Acquerello, named for its original watercolors, envelops guests in a warm and gracious atmosphere the moment they arrive. A recent renovation of the 20-year old restaurant, led by designer John Wheatman, highlights the former chapel, graced with arches and a rustic wood-beamed vaulted ceiling, with warm Mediterranean colors of gold and terracotta. The 50 seat dining room is softly illuminated with light from polished brass lamps which dances off an extensive collection of crystal decanters and a large floral bouquet greeting guests as they enter. Co-owners Giancarlo Paterlini and Suzette Gresham-Tognetti work together to provide an unparallel Italian dining experience. Acquerello has received countless awards, including a Michelin star in the first-ever 2007 Bay Area guide.

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