San Francisco's North Beach and Telegraph Hill neighborhoods are full of innovative new bars and restaurants redefining the area. Sometimes it might feel a bit overwhelming to know which ones to visit first. We've gone ahead and picked out some of the must-try hot spots worth your time and your money. Bon Appétit.

Photo courtesy of Pesce E Riso 

Pesce E Riso - 1224 Grant Street

There’s no shortage of classic Italian restaurants and pizzerias to choose from around North Beach and nearby Telegraph Hill. Japanese-Italian fusion, however, is new. Pesce E Riso meaning “fish and rice” in Italian, is most comfortable when they’re pushing boundaries. It opened last summer to rave reviews.

Owner Joe Lin took over the space after a deal fell through to merge the former Viva Pizza and the now-closed Greek restaurant, Estia. (Viva is now Betty Lou’s, a seafood and grill restaurant on Columbus Avenue, just next door to Pesce.) It all worked out for Pesce E Rise, as Lin had merging plans of his own. He wanted to combine Japanese and Italian culture, which he sees as a natural fit at his restaurant. 

The menu features fusion options like an “arancini” spicy tuna roll and an udon Frutti di mare with Japanese noodles in a sake miso broth. There’s also a happy hour menu with beer, wine, and cocktail specials.

Photo courtesy of The Salzburg

The Salzburg - 663 Union Street

An Austrian ski chalet may seem out of place in Northern California, but it turns out a glass of wine, fondue, and a fireplace are exactly right for the city’s foggy, chilly nights. At least that’s what owner, Jay Esopenko, envisioned as he stood chilling outside the former Cinecitta restaurant on Union Street and saw a “for sale” sign. He bought in and enlisted co-owner Melissa Gugni to help bring his vision to life. (The pair are also co-owners of a Russian Hill wine bar, Union Larder, and of Little Vine, which is in nearby Telegraph Hill.) 

The Salzburg, which opened in October, features an outdoor firepit and picnic tables. Indoors, you’ll find wooden beams on a slanted ceiling, which gives the feel of a true ski chalet. There’s a full list of wines from Austria, as well as closer-to-home pours from California. The food menu offers hearty fare like house made sausages, cheesy fondue pots, pretzels, and a schnitzel sandwich.

Photo courtesy of Brandy Ho's
 

Brandy’s Bar - 217 Columbus Avenue

Tiny, 100-foot bars seem to be a new trend making its way around San Francisco. North Beach now has its own micro-bar space. Next door to parent restaurant, Brandy Ho’s, the 10-seat watering hole opened last year, and is manned by a bartender who used to work at Mr. Bing’s. (That’s the famed North Beach bar Anthony Bourdain was a fan of. It closed in 2016 after 50 years in operation.) At Brandy’s, you’ll find classic cocktails Tuesday-Friday evenings. If you can find a seat, that is.

Photo courtesy of Burger Shack 

Burger Shack - 2237 Powell Street 

For the lunch crowd looking for a quick bite, or for anyone craving a burger and fries, options around North Beach were limited. Now, fast casual Burger Shack has moved in and solved that problem. In October, the “Shack” moved into the former China House Bar and Grill space on Powell Street. The space has been transformed and now features a modern, minimalist vibe. The menu is full of American favorites including various burgers, curly and garlic fries, and root beer floats. You’ll even find mini corn dogs and Nutella milkshakes. Those looking for a real drink are in luck. Beer and wine are now available, as are TVs to catch games. A full bar is still in the works, though.