Our Story
Since 1993, Ideale has been bringing the authentic flavors of Rome to the heart of North Beach.
Founded by Maurizio Bruschi and his brother, the restaurant quickly became a beloved gathering place where Roman traditions met San Francisco’s vibrant Italian-American community.
In January 2025, Maurizio passed the torch to Paolo Fraschetti and Fabio Cinelli, who continue to honor the restaurant’s legacy while adding their own warmth and hospitality — hallmarks of a true Roman trattoria. The same trusted staff remains, ensuring that what made Ideale special since the beginning still shines today.
Over the years, Ideale has welcomed politicians, world-renowned directors, and countless loyal guests who have made the restaurant part of their own stories. In 2011, Ideale was featured on Check, Please! and in March 2024 it proudly became a recognized San Francisco Legacy Business.
Fabio Cinelli, originally from Rome, joined Ideale just one year after its opening, bringing his warmth and friendliness to every guest’s experience. Now, as co-owner with Paolo, he continues to serve the restaurant’s signature thin-crust pizza made with imported fior di latte mozzarella, alongside beloved Roman classics such as Spaghetti alla Carbonara and Bucatini all’Amatriciana.
For more than 30 years, Ideale has been more than just a restaurant — it’s been a place where the flavors of Rome come alive, where friends and family gather, and where tradition meets community.
What Media Are Saying
“For an authentic Roman holiday without the airfare, this undiscovered North Beach gem is worth seeking out.”
“A bright, colorful Italian restaurant, Ideale is the modern version of a traditional Roman trattoria. It is “festive and boisterous…la vera cucina italiana.”
— Zagat
“Going back to Ideale was like meeting an old high school friend. The service has a neighborly demeanor, seemingly unaffected by years of hosting tourists.”
”When people talk about where to eat in North Beach, Ideale is often overlooked... but the pizza and those roasted potatoes alone are worth a visit.”
— San Francisco Chronicle
“The great North Beach pasta hunt / After visiting more than 40 restaurants, we uncover the best”
”The modern decor and light touch with pasta and seafood put this restaurant a step above more touristy offerings.”
— SFGATE - August 4, 2004
“…Other North Beach restaurants fake Italian accents, but this trattoria has Italians in the kitchen, on the floor and at the table. Roman owners serves authentic, al dente bucatini amatriciana (tube pasta with tomato-pecorino sauce and guanciale) and ravioli and gnocchi handmade in-house (‘of course!’). North Beach’s best-value Italian wine list ensures everyone goes home with Italian accents as well as a craving to return as soon as possible.”
— Guida Lonely Planet San Francisco
“I immediately fell in love with its thin, saltine-colored crust with a few darkened bubbles and a slick of bright tomato sauce, puddles of mozzarella and fragrant leaves of basil.”