Beretta reopens in the Mission with retro Italian charm
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Beretta's new decor features a decked-out Italian retro-futuristic style. Photo: Courtesy of Back of the House Inc./Michelle Min
Beretta reopened its original location in the Mission this week with a revamped menu and retro-futuristic look.
State of play: After 17 years on Valencia, the neighborhood staple from restaurateur Adriano Paganini resurfaced after a six-week remodel with a menu showcasing traditional Italian dishes and signature cocktails from its early days, when it was a service industry magnet.
- For years, it was the Mission haven where industry folks wound down — or kept the night going — thanks to its lively atmosphere, late-night bites and endless rounds of "cheekies," miniature complimentary shots (often mezcal) shared with peers in the city's bar scene.
The vibe: The refreshed space pays homage to the Italian mod era with sweeping furnishings that include a red marble bar, spherical pendant lights, burnt orange leather stools and a geometric mural with warm, golden tones.
- The restaurant formerly had a dark and sultry interior that combined rich wooden accents with industrial lighting and Victorian flourishes.
Dig in: The menu was restored with dishes crafted by the late Ruggero Gadaldi, Beretta's original chef and partner.
- Those include an array of stuzzichini (Italian small bites) such as the eggplant caponatina agrodolce with burrata ($11) and saffron risotto with ossobuco ($28).
- Pizzas will also be a mainstay, with classics like the margherita ($18) and the new mortadella with pistachio ($25).
Best sips: The cocktail program includes oldies like the Acadian with rye, sloe gin and honey ($14) and new drinks such as the Mojave Road Trip with vodka, pineapple and ancho verde ($14).
- Wine, nonalcoholic options and an extensive selection of spirits are also available.
My thought bubble: The new space feels nostalgic — part ambiance, part memory of sitting at the bar with my coworkers after a late shift bantering over mezcal negronis and crab arancini. Some professions just understand each other. Hospitality and journalism might be two of them.
If you go: Hours vary. Open daily at 1199 Valencia St.
- And order a cheeky for old time's sake!