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TOMMASO'S ARTWORK BLACK

Our Story

Tommaso's isn't just a restaurant.

Since 1935, Tommaso's has been one of North Beach's most cherished dining rooms, a cozy, wood-scented landmark built around an oak-burning brick oven and Neapolitan family recipes. The Cantalupo family lit the first fire; chef Tommy Chin kept it roaring and gave the restaurant its name; and for the last 51 years, the Crotti family carried the torch, making Tommaso's synonymous with hearty food, warm service, and constancy in a changing city.


In January 2025, longtime San Francisco restaurateur Maureen "Mo" Donegan became the fourth owner in our 90-year history. Mo brings nearly four decades of hospitality experience and a humble mission: "I'm just a steward. My job is to take care, as best I can, of a tradition, a craft, and a concern for customers and employees." Under her care, the dishes you crave remain: the blistered pies from the West Coast's first wood-fired brick oven, the northern Italian lasagna, and the Coo-Coo clams. Thoughtful updates have kept  the room and menu vibrant: warmer lighting to showcase the original murals, an updated wine list with beloved family labels and smart new finds, and a few wood hearth-born additions, plus oven-made desserts that celebrate the fire craft at the center of it all.


Rooted in history. Ready for what's next. Celebrating 90 years in 2025. Walk-ins are welcome.

Clam & Garlic Pizza

The Oven That Started It All

San Francisco's First Wood-Burning Oven.

At the center of Tommaso's is our oven — the first of its kind in the city. Imported from Italy and burning strong since day one, it has fired every pizza, lasagna, and roasted entrée with the kind of soul only time can perfect. It's more than a piece of history — it's the heartbeat of our kitchen.

Interior

Still a Family Affair

90 Years, and Still Going Strong.

Through changing times and trends, Tommaso's has remained true to its roots. What began as a humble neighborhood trattoria has become a legacy of love, fire, and flavor. Our team honors that every night with every dish — from fresh pasta and wood-fired pizza to hearty classics and seasonal specials.

Interior

Art, Atmosphere & Italian Soul

An Experience You Can Taste and See.

Step inside and you're surrounded by original hand-painted murals from an Italian artist, cozy booths, and a communal table that has welcomed generations of families and friends. It's not just décor — it's a feeling. A place where the past meets your plate.

"At Tommaso's, you don't just come to eat — you come home."

Honoring decades of authentic Italian cuisine, service, and legacy in the heart of San Francisco.
San Francisco Legacy Business

San Francisco Office of Small Business Legacy Business 2017-present

US Small Business Administration

SBA's 2018 Northern California family-owned small business of the year

Pizza Hall of Fame

Pizza Hall of Fame 2019 PMQ Pizza Magazine

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