It’s impossible to talk about old-school Italian restaurants without bringing up Fior d’Italia, a spot that’s away from all of the touristy Columbus Ave. chaos but still maintains North Beach charm. This place has been around since 1886 and proudly displays its longevity on a plaque in the doorway. Old cityscape photos line the walls of the dance hall-sized dining room, and red pepper flakes are served in steel goblets by tie-wearing staff—all to the soundtrack of Sinatra’s greatest hits. Get the parmesan-laden risotto alla milanese and a mound of bolognese, which are both standouts from the pasta section. And keep the free bread coming.
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