Where California's seasonal bounty meets Roman culinary traditions, Che Fico San Francisco transforms the bustling Divisadero corridor into an Italian taverna that celebrates both heritage and innovation. Executive Chef David Nayfeld's deeply personal vision marries his Russian-Jewish roots with extensive Italian travels, creating a distinctive Cal-Italian experience that has earned national acclaim since opening in 2018.

Nayfeld's journey from San Francisco native to celebrated chef culminated in this love letter to Italian gastronomy, particularly the Jewish-Roman cuisine known as "cucina ebraica." The restaurant quickly garnered recognition on Bon Appétit's Hot 10 Best New Restaurants and Esquire's prestigious lists, establishing Che Fico as a cornerstone of San Francisco fine dining. The chef's meticulous approach—testing over 60 pizza dough variations to achieve the perfect crust—exemplifies the restaurant's commitment to artisanal excellence.

The cuisine showcases handmade pastas like silky cacio e pepe elevated with sharp pecorino romano, and the signature rigatoni with pork sugo, spicy fennel sausage, and rapini. Roman-style pizza alla pala features naturally fermented dough creating puffy, blistered crusts, including the celebrated pie with pineapple, red onion, and fermented chili. House-made salumi and fresh mozzarella anchor the antipasti program, while dishes like carciofi alla giudia (Jewish-style fried artichokes) honor traditional Roman preparations. The wood-fired oven produces everything from charred broccolini with pecorino sardo and Calabrian chili to whole-roasted branzino, showcasing California's finest seasonal ingredients through an Italian lens.

Designed by Jon de la Cruz, the 120-seat space occupies a century-old former auto body shop, transformed into an airy, stylish environment with exposed brick walls, Edison bulb lighting, and custom wallpaper by artist Wayne Pate. The open kitchen creates theater while maintaining intimacy, and the vibrant bar program features inventive cocktails incorporating unique elements like green walnut and basil eau de vie. The Italian-focused wine list emphasizes natural producers from Piedmont, Tuscany, and Sicily, complemented by thoughtful California selections.

Reservations through Resy are essential for this perpetually busy destination, though the welcoming bar accommodates walk-ins when available. The expanded Che Fico universe now includes the downstairs wine bar Alimentari and additional locations, cementing Nayfeld's vision as a defining force in contemporary Italian-American dining. For discerning diners seeking authentic Italian flavors reimagined through California's culinary lens, Che Fico delivers an unforgettable experience that honors tradition while embracing innovation.