Back in 2021, I remember running into Delfina chef-partner Craig Stoll at an event, and he was telling me about the big changes he and his wife Annie were making to DELFINA in response to the extra-challenging business conditions in SF (and it was time for the well-loved restaurant to have an update). After closing Locanda in the beginning of the pandemic, they transferred the liquor license over, and decided to consolidate Delfina’s space and the skinny Pizzeria Delfina (I remember when it was Krims Krams Palace of Fine Junk!) into one. Sounded like a genius move to me: cocktails, pasta, pizza, more seats, updated décor, a new private dining room, yes! And boy, did they do it right.
The space is quite gorgeous, complimenti to Sarah Fucinaro (Fucinaro Architecture), Roy Hospitality, and Cookline on the oh-so-stylish update. I was sorry to be out of town for their open house party on Sunday, so I could see it with my own eyes, but take a look at this piece in Eater for some pics, design details, and the menu (which includes a couple pizzas, but note the rest are to go). It’s wonderful to see this iconic SF restaurant have a grand makeover one year ahead of their 25th anniversary. Auguri!
Delfina is reopening this Wednesday October 26th, serving dinner Wed-Mon starting at 5:30pm (5pm on Sundays). Aperitivo Hour (featuring an inventive spritz menu from Colin Gallagher, with complimentary bites like cacio e pepe potato chips, arancini, and more) will be Mon and Wed-Fri 5pm-6pm. 3621 18th St. at Guerrero.
A look at Delfina’s new dining room. Photo: Albert Law.
