Pazzia serves one of the most authentic, delicious Italian dishes around. And somehow, they manage to prepare the dishes with less cheese and bread than other greasy North Beach joints. Service is attentive and friendly. I don't think they take reservations for parties smaller than 6 so be prepared to wait. The room is a little one-dimensional, and can fill up quickly. Last night, I had to yell over the large birthday party group just to hear my date. But the food more than makes up for my throbbing throat.


Fresh, warm bread the old-fashioned way. The Medessi beer is drinkable. And any choice of their thin crust pizzas is good. We ended the night sharing an affogado glass, warm coffee syrup over a scoop of vanilla gelato. Note to self: get back on the treadmill....now!

Is it a romantic place to bring a first date? Probably not. A fourth date with someone you feel comfortable eating delicious, messy spaghetti with? Absolutely.