Restaurant Reservations - Free • Instant • Confirmed
Learn More
Restaurant Reviews
Find Restaurants in Your Area
Select a Location
Reserve now:

SPQR Reviews List

SPQR

SPQR is a Northern California restaurant inspired by Italian cuisine and wine.

An acronym for Senatus Populesque Romanus, SPQR translates to “The People and Senate of Rome” and was the emblem of the Roman Empire.

We strive for a balance in offering the highest quality of food, wine and service we can for each guest’s experience in a relaxed, fun, and inviting atmosphere.

If you would like to dine at our Chef counter please mark your reservation. Please inform us of any allergies or dietary restrictions as we will try our best to accommodate.
See more SPQR details
297 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
(297 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 297 reviews
5 stars
(145)
4 stars
(103)
3 stars
(31)
2 stars
(13)
1 star
(5)
Food 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Service 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Ambiance 
3.8 / 5
(Very Good) 3.8 / 5
Noise Level
2.5 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • fit for foodies(232)
  • neighborhood gem(168)
  • notable wine list(149)
  • special occasion(115)
  • hot spot(81)
  • romantic(70)
SPQR Reviews List
Review 1 for SPQR
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

pricey but worth it

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This restaurant is worthy of a special night out. The food is generally really good, though some dishes are definitely better than others. The Ceasar wedge as appetizer was delicious, the truffle pasta special we had was expensive and not that great, but the fava bean stuffed ravioli was to die for - exquisite. The mortadella appetizer was just as good as it was in Italy except...they fried the mortadella (personal preference of mine is not to have it fried). The wine list was extensive and good. Service was outstanding. Our seating felt a little cramped, but you could also call it romantic. :) All in all, it was a great place to come for a special celebration, though it was quite expensive."
Dined on 6/14/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 2 for SPQR
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Fun night out on Filmore

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Two of us dined at SPQR. Small but cozy. If you like to watch the chefs preparing ask to sit at the counter. Started with corn soup...probably my favorite dish of the night. Also had a mushroom pasta which was a bit heavy and once I added more cheese it came to life. The waiter recommended the sea urchin but the person I Was with didn't like it. I ordered a pasta with saffron and I don't think I would order it again. We split a salad with large bacon bits and goat cheese and arugula...we both liked it. For dessert we had Italian donuts with ice-cream and apples with caramel sauce and it was yummy. So we loved some things and didn't like others. I would definitely try it though. Seemed to be popular always full with people waiting to get in."
Dined on 6/13/2013
 2012
Special Features: neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 3 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Sublime

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"One of the best restaurants in the City. Everything is delicious!"
Dined on 2/25/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 4 for SPQR
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Good food but terrible value. The portions are tiny and we left hungry, despite dropping $150 on the meal. Just not worth the price."
Dined on 6/11/2013
 2002
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 5 for SPQR
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Small bits of food

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Small forgettable portions. Expensive. Menus looked more interesting than the actual food."
Dined on 6/15/2013
 2008
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 6 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We all had a great evening

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food was excellent and the service outstanding. Our server did a great job of making us feel special."
Dined on 6/13/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 7 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"food gets better and better. Really delicious."
Dined on 6/10/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 8 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Good eats!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My daughter and I enjoyed a fabulous dinner here. The food was outstanding and the service was great. The elderflower spritzer they made for her was delicious! We would definitely recommend it to our foodie friends."
Dined on 6/09/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 9 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Experience

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/09/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Food was amazing, service was fantastic. The buckwheat tagliatelle, cider and bacon braised suckling pork and spigarello is a must have! As are the doughnuts for dessert. Overall, incredible!"
Dined on 6/09/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 10 for SPQR
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Excellent food.

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/08/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The dishes were excellent. The ambiance good, the service good but the dessert was really disappointing."
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, hot spot, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 11 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great service

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"Our waitress was very knowledgeable about the food and the wines offered that evening. Her recommendations were wonderful."
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 12 for SPQR
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/08/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great food and a great staff!!!"
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 13 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food and WIne extraoridnaire

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/09/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Absolutely best experience for amazing pasta and wine pairing for lunch today. The bartender/waitress has terrific knowledge of the wines and shows passion in the pairings. Laid back authentic atmosphere. A must do if you appreciate great food and wine"
Dined on 6/09/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 14 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Tiny gem

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/05/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Looks are decieving at this Cal-Ital restaurant on Filmore Street in San Fran. The tables are tiny and the clients are packed in but still the place only serves a small clientelle each night. It looks like the menu changes nightly according to what is in season and freshly available. The menu is very innovative - pairing unusual combinations. This is not the Italian, I was brought up on back east. For example our appetizer was sweet carrot and lentil salad, medjool date and vadouvan curry crema, followed by pasta entree of torchio, morel mushroom, mushroom broth, stridoli, garden rosemary and pecorino and finished with cappuccino and bamboloni. Amazing dinner, makes us want to go back nightly to try everything else on the menu!"
Dined on 6/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 15 for SPQR
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Unimaginative tasting menu

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/04/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We have sampled numerous tasting menu's over the years. This tasting menu was 'one-note' and unimaginative. Each of the five courses was a pasta dish, so there was no tasting of appetizers, salads, second courses or deserts. Only one of the pasta's stood out. We also felt rushed as they had us out the door within 90-minutes. As this was an anniversary dinner we had hoped to languish over beautiful food and delicious wine as we gazed into each other's eyes. Instead, well enough said!"
Dined on 6/04/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 16 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Never fails!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/03/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"SPQR is always excellent. Probably the best real pasta in San Francisco and excellent service. Great to have this place just a few blocks from home. If you like Roman/Italian food... The this is the place..."
Dined on 6/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 17 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Wow! Amazing unique food!

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/28/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We hadn't been to SPRQ in several years as we keep going to the new restaurants in SF. But I had been reading about how great it is so we went back this week. Loved it! Sat at chef's counter which was really fun and interesting to see the six young chefs in action. We had a variety of their apps and pastas to share - all unique and delicious. One of my personal favorite dishes was the carrot & lentil salad. Best carrots dish I've ever had! Great start to the meal. We finished with two desserts and then the owner sent us another special dessert of the night - the main ingredient was parsnips!"
Dined on 5/28/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 18 for SPQR
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Wish the food matched the service

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/23/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We ordered two pastas and a main (short ribs). Duck bolognese was delish...tagliatelle so so and the short ribs are served 1 degree below cold. I sent it back but it came back the same temperature after "chef checked it twice and said it was 'perfect'". Our server and all the staff were amazing, though. So bummed - really wanted to love the food!"
Dined on 5/23/2013
Special Features: notable wine list
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 19 for SPQR
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Beautifully presented, flat flavors

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/26/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I had seen SPQR favorably reviewed on "Check Please" and in the SF Chronicle. Four of us were there for lunch on Sunday, and had the scrumptious chicken liver mousse, the excellent green salad, which was perfectly seasoned and prepared, the squab rignoletti, which was ordinary, two veal scallopini/sweetbread dishes in a caper butter sauce, which were flat and bland and we needed to ask for lemon to give them any depth of flavor, and the scallop dish, which was very sparse, with several halved scallops in a sauce combination that looked beautiful, but again, lacked flavor. We brought our own French burgundy, and our excellent server forgave the $25.00 corkage fee. Presentation is excellent, but the flavors don't match the presentation."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 20 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Chef's tasting menu

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/26/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My wife and I asked for the chef's tasting menu on a Sunday night, and spent the next 2 hours in culinary delight. I'll highlight the corn soup, the scallop mushroom dish, and the mint chocolate desert as our favorite."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 21 for SPQR
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Terrible dining experience

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/21/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food was creative and quite good, however, the overall dining experience ruins it. Six to eight inches between tables is so extreme you can't talk loud enough to avoid becoming drowned out by the conversations of the tables around you. It was especially annoying, since several tables for four went unused for the two hours we were there. And what's with asking during booking if it is a special occasion? The snooty hostess could have at least wished me a happy 65th birthday!"
Dined on 5/21/2013
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 22 for SPQR
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/23/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Outstanding, innovative cuisine. Service is terrific."
Dined on 5/23/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 23 for SPQR
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Good experience, but not great

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/15/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food was good. The restaurant was overcrowded (minimum space between small tables), quite noisy, but the service was really nice."
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 24 for SPQR
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Think again!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/20/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Thought the food was over priced and the cuisine was good but not great. The cooking was too contrived in its execution. Service was very good and staff was very attentive."
Dined on 5/20/2013
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 25 for SPQR
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"A very small, narrow restaurant. Definitely need reservations; it's very popular and crowded. Great food both in presentation and taste. Server was very helpful in explaining menu entrees as they were distinctive and unique. One negative was the music was loud, intrusive, and inappropriate for a relaxing dining experience. If one wanted a romantic dinner spot, this would not be it. On the other hand, if one's primary focus were outstanding cuisine, this is definitely the place."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 26 for SPQR
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/17/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Tables are really close together so you can hear people's conversations. Staff are very knowledgeable about thei wine list but they don't have a full bar. Loved all of their pastas. Happy to see duck liver terrine on the menu, although it wasn't super smooth despite being described as a refined dish. Desserts were not noteworthy. Would go back for more pasta. The mushroom spaghetti with duck bolognese was wonderful - rich up front but the more I ate, the more I wanted."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, notable wine list, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 27 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Consistently one of the best in SF

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/16/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My partner and I went to SPQR again, for a special treat. We've probably been 4 times now, and, well, it's pretty close to perfect. The food is really exceptional: interesting combinations and flavors, not too heavy, really wonderful salads and burrata, and probably the best pastas in the city. The decor, staff, music, and attention to detail make this place pretty special. They must have sound-proofed the room....it is totally packed with diners, yet the noise isn't crazy."
Dined on 5/16/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 28 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

First timer

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/14/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Service was amazing! Food was great, loved the music they were playing. Even though the space was small, felt very comfortable! Overall experience was great!"
Dined on 5/14/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 29 for SPQR
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Best pasta in the world

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/14/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The asparagus risotto and kale ravioli were two of the best pasta dishes my friend and I have ever had. The rabbit "lasagna" was a bit gamey and far too dry. But the rest of the meal was spectacular. Nice staff, cozy wood space, and chef counter make this a great place for a date or a regular spot (though it is on the pricey end)."
Dined on 5/14/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 30 for SPQR
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

A Line Around the Block

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/15/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We were dining early. On arrival we were greet immediately. The host stand is in the doorway?!!
We were seated immediately. The interior is dark. Decor is black on black, but the space is comfortable and the waitstaff immediately
attentive. The pseudo Italian food was off the hook in terms of creativity and flavor. The server was very assertive. She was going to take care of us whether we wanted her or not.
They were going to flip these tables, so the server had to get in and get the job done. We might have like a little time
to get settled and say hello to each other before the barrage of specials, wine requests etc. The food came in a
very timely manner and it was delicious and beautiful to look at. Would highly recommend SPQR.
"
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 31 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/09/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"wonderful food and great service."
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 32 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Excellent Dining Experience

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This was my 1st experience eating at a Michelin Star rated restaurant. I had taken my wife there for her birthday on Wednesday May 8th, and I knew that we were in for a treat when the only reservations available for mid-week were either 5:30 or 9:30, when booking 2 weeks in advance. Upon arrival we were greeting by a friendly & professional wait staff. The restaurant was edgy, and current in decor. The menu was hard to decipher but our server was extremely helpful. My wife admitted that having looked at the menu before hand, she would have not chosen this restaurant as it seemed a bit more challenging than she usually likes, although she is a foody and enjoys fine dining experiences. Needless to say, we loved it! DELICIOUS! SPQR = 10!"
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, notable wine list, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 33 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

SPQR--A SAN FRANCISCO GEM!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Provides a very special dining experience--the menu, wine list, service and ambiance blend into a most perfect combination."
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 34 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Pasta to dream about

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Love SPQR -the most creative and delicious pasta, and salads entrees and desserts are also wonderful. Fusilli with veal and spinach a month ago was so good I dreamt about it. This visit had an amazing spaghetti with black trumpet mushrooms and duck bolognese. Carrots five ways including a carrot top fritter was a delicious salad to share. Amazing chocolate dessert."
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 35 for SPQR
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Not as good as it usually is...

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/21/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"For the first time in the many times going to SPQR, my dinning experience was average at best. Something was off in just about every dish we had where either the dish was over salted or the ingredients in the dish did not jive or felt out of place. Example: Rabbit lasagna had nice presentation, but tended to be a bit dry and lacked moisture or additional sauce to make up for it.
One nice thing that my party enjoyed during brunch were the "breakfast biscuits" as we called them (wished I would have asked the name of them).
Definitely will be back and is still one of my favorites, just a miss this time."
Dined on 4/21/2013
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 36 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Yes!

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Excellent food that was creative and balanced in taste and texture . Prices moderate and value worthwhile. Parking may be problematic but well worth a visit. Will go again during another season for a different take on their menu."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 37 for SPQR
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

don't waste your money

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"what is michelin thinking? we have dined at michelin recommended restaurant all over the world - this place does NOT belong in the same book. the food preparations are ridiculous. there is no flavor "bang" or "kick" in anything. this restaurant is very expensive for a cramped experience with silly preps of standard italian dishes. the italian chefs obviously learned their craft in the states, because a true italian chef would never send out this mish-mash."
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: notable wine list, neighborhood gem
-1point
0of 1voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 38 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Pet Friendly

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/29/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"SPQR is pet friendly and human friendly. With ever visit which has been with 3 couples or our family dog, the food is excellent and we feel we get exceptional attention and service. SPQR is truly a neighborhood gem."
Dined on 4/29/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 39 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We had five dishes, and each

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We had five dishes, and each one was delicious. We followed the advice of on line reviewers and our waitress, so maybe we got the best of the menu. Each one was full of wonderful flavors and a mix of textures.
The only downsides are that it is pricy (over $200 for the two of us) and very crowded. They make maximum use of their small space, which means servers and customers have to turn sideways to squeeze past each other. I prefer a little more elbow room, personally. But the prevalence of wood in the furnishings and decor absorb a lot of sound, so at least the noise level is reasonable, in spite of the close quarters.
Would definitely do it again as a special night out."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 40 for SPQR
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Attentive service. Inventive

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Attentive service. Inventive and tasty pasta and small dishes"
Dined on 04/28/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 41 for SPQR
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

I found the food way too salty.

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I found the food way too salty. Because of the complexity of the menu, we had the tasking menu, which we didn't understand was only a pasta tasting. It was just about the worst thing I ever had. The first one was way too salty as was the 2nd. The last one a sliver of lasagna might have been good if it had not been fried. Who fries lasagna? The wine was actually very good, I had a very nice Valpolicella, but I wish our waiter had suggested a wine better suited for four courses of pasta. He was very nice, though I felt sometimes not that helpful. It was my husbands birthday and he was really looking forward to it and was very disappointed and said he wouldn't go back.
By the time I got home after I was hungry.
"
Dined on 04/25/2013
 2013
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 42 for SPQR
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We haven't been to SPQR for

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We haven't been to SPQR for about a year. We adore the owner of this restaurant. That being said, we had a rather odd night. Our waitress was not particularly friendly(which is not normal for this establishment!) and the food has really changed. I was mislead to believe my meal would be "mild tasting." It was incredibly spicy which made me wonder if the waitress had even tried it. I was tempted to send it back but we were sort of in a rush so my husband and I switched meals. His pork belly raviolis were divine! Additionally the duck liver appetizer was delicious and the Wagyu Beef appetizer was also perfectly presented and tasted lovely. The desserts were very different and beautifully presented."
Dined on 04/24/2013
 2003
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 43 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

OUT OF THIS WORLD

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Our experience at SPQR was wonderful. We started with a bottle of excellent recommended white wine. We enjoyed one small plate prior to the main course. I had the white asparagus, which was out of this world and gorgeous. My main dish was the tuscan kale francobolli with goat cheese. Absolutely fabulous. For dessert, I had this amazing smooth caramel-like sweet creamy dish in a small drinking glass topped with a macaroon-like biscuit. The menu seems to change very frequently. Honestly, I wouldn't hesitate to order any of the desserts on the menu. I can't find words to do this meal justice. I had a business dinner at Boulevard the night prior, but I enjoyed SPQR significantly more."
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 44 for SPQR
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

SPQR is a very special place

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"SPQR is a very special place and I wish that I could come more often."
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 45 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Chef's Counter makes the meal

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Sitting at the Chef's counter was definitely the most memorable part of the meal - watching them work was absolutely fascinating. The food was quite good too, although possibly not as mind blowing as I would have expected given the Michelin rating."
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 46 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Totally high level cuisine

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Totally high level cuisine and lovingly prepared. The highlight of our trip to SF."
Dined on 04/09/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 47 for SPQR
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

SPQR - Fabulous!

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My husband and I had a wonderful time at SPQR. If you go try the chicken mousse. It's amazing! The service is impeccable. This restaurant is definitely not for kids, but it's a great place for adults."
Dined on 04/15/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 48 for SPQR
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Disappointing

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Overall, we were very disappointed with the restaurant. For being a Michelin star restaurant, the food was presented well, but did not have the complex tastes that were expected. Either it was bland or one ingredient was too overpowering. The service was definitely not what it should have been either. Many of the wait staff were wandering around in the dining room looking confused trying to find which table food should go to. We won't be going back there."
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2013
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 49 for SPQR
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Try to avoid the kitchen counter

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Try to avoid the kitchen counter seats...the draft makes it quite chilly. Food was good but perhaps my expectations were too high."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 50 for SPQR
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

have been to sister restaurant

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"have been to sister restaurant A16. went with local couple one of whom is in the wine business and knows his eats as well. had multiple small dishes and shared one main- from duck heart salad to suckling pig. every course nicely plated and delicious. the wine list was extensive and strictly italian so was glad had expert along although the sommelier picked the main red. finished with nice dessert wine. not inexpensive but would highly recommend and look forward to my next visit."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
1 2 3 next>>