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"Caffe Macaroni in North Beach is the kind of old-school Italian spot where dinner feels like a family reunion—even when it’s your first visit. The tiny dining room is steps from an open kitchen, where the owners joke with the chefs and introduce regulars who’ve been coming here since doors opened in 1990. They’ll also recommend dishes to you based on what you’re in the mood for, including anything off-menu. If making your own decisions, stick to the pastas, like linguine di mare and save room for an obligatory limoncello shot with the owners at the end of your meal." - julia chen 1, patrick wong