Charming hole in the wall
We found L'Osteria del Forno, while walking back to our inner city apartment from Ghirardelli Square, by the usual method: the husband points to large, tourist-friendly restaurants that are all but empty. I say NO firmly and drag him into a hole in the wall. This hole in the wall was deservedly featured in Bon Appetit some years back.

The place is absurdly tiny. Servers are friendly in the sense of being willing to exchange stories about trips to Europe, rather than in the "Hi, I'm Emilia, I'll be your waitron" sense. The menu is somewhat longer than seems possible in the space available. Wine is available in half bottles.

The focaccini are delightful: crunchy and well-stuffed with fillings. Be warned that the menu does not kid about the use of sea salt. If you like salt (and I do), you will be happy. You will come back. You will try the creme caramel, which isn't half bad. Allow plenty of time for lunch, as the experience is leisurely, almost as if you were back in Italy.    [02 Jun 2003 15:35:13]

Food:    Service:    Ambiance:    Overall: 
Recommended Dishes: Focaccini

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