Luisa's Italian Restaurant

I never had dinner here because every time I walk by, they always have either big plastic bags filled with garbage or waste boxes in front of their restaurant. The sidewalk in front their restaurant is dirty from their garbage. Sometimes they even left broken glasses there. There are so many dogs and people walking on Union st.
Doesn't the city care about the health issue?

This is absolutely my favorite Italian restaurant in the city! I have eaten at many Italian restaurants in North Beach and would definitely recommend Luisa's over all of them. It is also great to see the owner, Luisa, walking around, chatting with her clientele, and making new friends. The decor in the restaurant is quintessential Rome with a home-style touch.

When I go to Luisa's I do find it hard not to order my favorite signature dish, Osso Bucco. I consider myself to be a connoisseur of Osso Bucco and Luisa's is one of the best! I would say the menu is a hearty affair, so if you're in need of some serious comfort food this should be your place; that being said, if you're looking for lighter fare, then Luisa's might not be a perfect fit.

My husband and I had a nice italian dinner recently at Luisa's Italian Restuarant on Union Street. We were both pleasantly surprised as all of the tables were bussed, and very clean as well as, the silverware. The atmosphere was very cozy and when the server arrived to take our orders and offer suggestions, she was very courteous and helpful. She was perfect - not too intrusive, but very responsive and friendly - excellent service overall.

I had the house ravioli's and they were perfect. They were not over cooked and mushy and the red sauce was nice and thick and very tasty like what my father (who's Italian) made for us growing up. The portion size was good (not huge, nor just bird food) and the galic and basil flavors were not overwhelming.

My husband had the house spaghetti with meatballs and his noodles were also cooked perfectly and strained correctly (not in a pool of water like some restaurants) and he also said the tomatoes in the sauce tasted very fresh and in general it tasted home made.

I would recommend this restaurant for any couple that's looking to have a small romantic dinner without the loud noise and bustle of buzy bodies moving all about like other large restaurants.

Luisa is the best! The portions are large and the rigatoni with meatballs are very tasty! With the wine bottles hanging from the ceiling this place has a warm friendly vibe and I would eat here again in a heartbeat.

Being a pasta lover, I know what Im talking about. We opted for the gnocchi and fettuccine so we could share a bit and believe me the portions are more then adequate to split up. My sorrentina sauce was fantastic and my wifes fettuccine was exceptional. The menu has plenty of authentic choices, but I gotta have my pasta. If you want more of authentic Italian taste and feel and less of corporate restaurant, Luisas is a must.