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ZipPicks Awards
Best Cheap Eats Pizza in San Francisco
Best Family Friendly Pizza in San Francisco
Master Critic Review
Tricolore Caffè & Pizzeria
8.0
A family-run Italian kitchen operating since 1995 on the edge of the Financial District, built on daily from-scratch soups, sauces, and focaccia that keep the weekday lunch crowd loyal. The format is fast casual — order, grab a seat, and get back to work — designed for people who want a real meal without burning a full hour. Thirty-one years at the same address speaks to a formula that delivers consistently without needing to reinvent itself.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tomato Lentil Soup, Focaccia Panini, Lasagna
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Family-run since 1995, every soup, sauce, and focaccia is made from scratch in-house daily
Who should go: Financial District workers who want real Italian lunch
When to visit: Weekday lunch only; open Mon-Fri 10am-3pm
What to order: Start with the tomato lentil soup, pair it with a panini on their housemade focaccia — portions are generous so one combo fills you up
Insider tip: The staff remembers regulars by name — go twice and you'll get greeted like family
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated lot — street parking and paid garages within a block on Sansome St (635 and 475 Sansome). Metered street spots fill fast during weekday lunch rush in the Financial District.
Weekend wait: Closed — open weekdays only, 10am–3pm
Weekday lunch: Fast-moving line, minimal wait even at peak lunch. Counter-service format keeps things quick.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options: Vegetariana Pizza (artichoke hearts, spinach, mushrooms), Caprese salad, Veggie Lasagna, Fusilli Vegetariana, Vegetariano Panini, daily soups
Vegan options: Vegan soups made fresh daily (non-dairy), plus a no-cheese pizza option (Senza Colpa — artichokes, spinach, mushrooms)
Gluten-free options: 12-inch gluten-free pizza crust available as a substitute on any pizza
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, for a casual first date — the cozy, charming interior with green window shutters and wine label imprints on the walls creates an intimate Italian trattoria feel. Owner Michael and his staff provide warm, personalized service that keeps the vibe relaxed. It's better suited to a low-key "getting to know you" date over pizza and cappuccino than a formal occasion. The small space keeps noise manageable for easy conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — this is a casual café-style spot that generally operates on a walk-in basis and does not appear to take reservations through standard booking platforms. During weekday lunch in the Financial District it can get busy with the office crowd, so arriving before noon or after 1:30pm gives you the best shot at immediate seating. For private events or celebrations, call ahead at +1 415-391-0509 to arrange.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the casual, family-run trattoria atmosphere is welcoming for kids. Pizza, pasta, and soups are easy crowd-pleasers for younger diners, and the relaxed noise level means children won't feel out of place. A dedicated kids menu has not been confirmed online, but the regular menu has plenty of approachable options. Best for a laid-back family lunch rather than a formal dinner outing.
Is it good for groups? Manageable for small groups of 4-6, but this is a cozy neighborhood café — not a large-format restaurant. For bigger gatherings or celebrations, they offer catering and private event bookings; call ahead to discuss. Don't expect to walk in with a party of 8+ and be seated on the spot. For regular dining, keep your group small.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — outdoor seating is available on Washington Street. Specific details on whether it is covered or heated are not confirmed online — call ahead if weather is a concern. The sidewalk setting puts you in the heart of Jackson Square, which is pleasant for people-watching during lunch hours.
Best For
Better for: Fast, fresh weekday lunch in the Financial District — handmade Italian at counter-service speed with genuinely scratch-made soups and dough
Skip if: You need dinner or weekend plans — they close at 3pm and are dark Saturday and Sunday
Hours
Monday10am - 3pm
Tuesday10am - 3pm
Wednesday10am - 3pm
Thursday10am - 3pm
Friday10am - 3pm
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed