InoVino — Restaurant in San Francisco

As the person who organized my company holiday party, I had the absolute pleasure of working with the InoVino staff for the most perfect night. Kristen, the amazing manager there, was my main point of contact and really made sure to deliver on everything we were looking for. She was incredibly thoughtful, friendly, and patient as I flooded her with questions. I was invited in to do a wine tasting and to discuss the menu, where I sat down with Kristen and the owner, Francesco. Boy let me tell you, there was not one wine on that line up that disappointed. With Francesco's in depth knowledge and Kristen's tips we were able to narrow the selection for our party down to 4 beautiful options (one of which was a sparkling rose, that I am SO glad she recommended as it ended up being the party fave - thanks, Kristen!). We went for heavy appetizers vs. a sit-down meal, so that our party could be mingle friendly. Folks left incredibly satisfied with the food and we even had leftovers, which Kristen packed up for us to take home - so sweet! The food was amazing. People were raving about the pizza, even the next day! The space is cozy and beautifully decorated. We had 13 people there and had plenty of room (i'd say 18-22 people is the sweet spot, but i believe they've hosted larger events as well!), we even played 2 games in the space! It was truly perfect, I can't say thank you enough to the entire staff at InoVino for taking such good care of us. If you're considering a private event with good food, wine, and an awesome space - look no further! I can't wait to visit again, during their regular times to sit down for another glass of wine and...

This is one of the best places for happy hour, enjoying a drink, and having a great evening. Every time I go, I have a really good experience, which starts with the warm and welcoming staff. They're always ready to set the right atmosphere and recommend delicious snacks paired perfectly with amazing wines. It's just one of those places that makes me feel happy and relaxed sitting at their outdoor tables. If it's cold after 7pm, I love the cozy interior which reminds me of a little restaurant in northern Italy. You can warm up and have an authentic dinner with family and friends surrounded by wine bottles and happy people. I'd also recommend it for small work meetings or first dates. In my opinion, they have one of the best wine lists in town, and I particularly love the Bronner organic wine from Alto Adige. I've also tried their perfectly balanced spritz. For small bites, I recommend the Cavolfiori con Bottarga Di Tonno Rosso and Fiori di zucca con Mozzarella e speck, but they have great vegetarian options too like the delicious carciofi al prezzemolo. During white truffle season, I can't resist their Pappardelle Al Ragù Di Coniglio e Tarufo Bianco. When it's out of season, the Pappardelle con Brasato di Agnello makes for the perfect dinner. My vegetarian friends love the Gnocchetti Alla Sorrentina, and when I'm in the mood for veggie dishes, I order the pinsa with verdure or taglierini al pesto. Their pinsa has an airy crust, soft inside, and crispy edges like it should. If you can't decide between San Daniele or Bufala 'nduia, get both - you won't regret it! And of course, always finish with...

InoVino is a disaster. The food is overpriced, and the service is appalling. It doesn’t even compete with the other Italian restaurant in the neighborhood, Bambino’s, which is significantly better.

The food is nothing to write home about, the meatballs were bland, the pasta undercooked, the insalata has no depth. Portions were laughably small for the absurd prices they charge. There was at least a 25 min gap between our appetizers and entrees and the pinsa was served lukewarm.

After receiving our bill, we noticed the “SF Mandates Employee Benefits” junk fee of 5% which is not required by law. We rightly deducted this from the tip, leaving a more than generous total of 17% for the quality of the service and restaurant. Apparently, that wasn’t enough for our server, who decided to confront us, yelling why we left a “10% tip”. Even if you do remove the fee portion, I’m not sure how he arrived upon this number. We calmly explained to him that we subtracted the tip based on the fee he charged us following which he again screamed at us to leave the restaurant and never come back again. Having a difference of opinion is ok, but screaming at your patrons and the toxic behavior which is evident from the replies the owner leaves on others’ reviews, makes me worried for others who visit this despicable restaurant. We’re certainly not missing out on being barred from this substandard place.

I’m sure the owner’s inevitable unhinged reply will only reinforce what a dumpster fire this place truly is.

Attached are images of our receipt...