When in San Francisco’s Rome: North Beach

Visiting Little Italy? Or just passing through? Here are eight places you must hit before you leave!

Liguria Bakery
To taste authentic Focaccia Bread, stop by the Liguria Bakery found by the Soracco brothers who emigrated from Italy and established this bakery in 1950. Make sure to stop by early because once they are sold out, the bakery closes for the day! 

Coit Tower
This 210-foot building is on top of Telegraph Hill where you can catch a 360-degree view of the city below. This tower was named after Lilli Hitchcock Coit who donated money to bring something beautiful to the city. 

Mama’s
Stop by Mama’s for a bite to eat! You’ll have to endure the long line outside, but the food is worth the wait. It got its name from the mother of the Sanchez family, the owners, whose bubbly personality won over her community. 

Piazza Pellegrini
Grab a delicious slice of pizza from Piazza-Pellegrini. This pizza is not like anything you will have tried before. They have a special truffle oil that is drizzled on top of each slice that sets it apart from all other pizzas. 

Columbus Avenue
One of the main streets in North Beach, Columbus Avenue, deserves an afternoon stroll. You will find Italian delis, the legendary City Lights bookstore, and lines of shops. Head there during the night to see it light up with the street lamps. 

Washington Square
It is a must to stop by the oldest park in San Francisco, Washington Square. This park was established in 1848 and is filled with individuals embracing their cultures or relaxing in the afternoon. 

Saint Peters and Paul Church
This breathtaking church was built in 1924 that stands 191 feet tall. It was built to celebrate the success Italian immigrants have had since moving to San Francisco.  

The Beat Museum
This museum was established to celebrate The Beats, individuals who were writers, artists, and thinkers in 1950 in San Francisco. This museum was discovered in 2003 by Jerry and Estelle Cimino and was officially opened across from the City Lights Books bookstore in 2006.