Experience Italian cuisine the way it was meant to be -- focusing on the freshest, simplest ingredients possible. Flour and water are the stars here, and this modern, rustic spot in the Mission turns out unbelievably delicious pizza and pasta the way Italian mamas have been doing it for generations.

A quiet and secluded spot for a date this is not. Less than half the tables can be reserved, and everyone else lines up outside, sometimes an hour before the doors open, to grab one of the tables reserved for walk-ins, a spot at the bar, or wherever else they can squeeze in for a bite of house-made pasta. The communal table is a favorite where strangers share conversation and sometimes even food. The extensive list of Italian wines doesn’t hurt the boisterous atmosphere either.

At Flour + Water it’s all about the food. Servers wear street clothes, but they’re also extremely knowledgeable about each dish. Customers pour their own wine, but grab a place at the bar and the bartender will help you choose the perfect glass for every course. Pair this laid back attitude with decor that is refurbished, repurposed, and reclaimed and you have the perfect San Francisco restaurant.