Alimentari Aurora

Burst of delicious flavors and great crunchy bread, but for it being $17 sandwich, the filling was disappointing.

This is a cute little gem that I discovered on a stroll through the Potrero Hill neighborhood. I ended up walking in and talking to the people working. They recommended some new cheeses for me to try. The cheeses were so yummy and a great combination of what I described liking. I ended up buying both cheeses and made a Charcuterie plate for dinner with the cheeses and some stuff I had at home. Very happy. Definitely check out! I know I will be back :)

Great place to get a quality sandwich for lunch. They pressed the sandwiches in a panini press so they're warm but not too toasted. Just right! They also have a very secluded feeling outdoor seating area or front, but no indoor seating.

I’ve never seen tuna spread this thin and still called a sandwich for $16.29. It’s also curried which was not in the description so I thought they mixed it up with the curried cauliflower. Why is one called vadouvan and the other curry if they're the same thing? The sales tax charged “for here” should go to saving the parklet because what's the point of asking and charging it when there’s no seating in the establishment? "To go” is the same thing when you eat at the parklet and doesn't get charged sales tax. I don't expect anyone running a business like this to know that, nor do I expect it to last long with Hazel's down the street being the obvious better choice. I'll also bring popcorn to watch the Valencia location die, what a joke, what was Fault Radio thinking renting from these losers

Joe Flimflam was at the Alimentari Aurora, and I was right across the street at the bookstore hoping to see the signed copy of the Magna Carta they've got on display, and all the sudden the hunger pains hit, and they hit hard! Well, a person can always see an original King John signed document from 1215 ...But not everyone can nab a perfect sandwich from Alimentari Aurora! ☆☆☆☆☆

This is a cute little deli and Italian grocery store tucked in Potrero Hill. You can enjoy the daily kitchen specials in the park-let or get takeout to enjoy at home. This is one of my favorite spots for satisfying focaccia cravings. What makes it special is Chef Dario’s obsession with quality ingredients and no shortcuts. The sourdough has a beautiful sour taste that’s a result of a 3 day fermentation process - I don’t know of any other focaccias that are proofer, rested and allowed to ferment for 72+ hours, except some mad scientist home bakers. I find this better than Liguria bakery, the OG of San Francisco focaccia, and that speaks to the quality and flavors that Chef Dario is able to create. The sourdough focaccia is thick and satisfying but not dense. It’s usually served during the weekend, for dinner, and comes in 3 different types: herbed, pizza and one with meat (fine Italian speck). I order it online on their website and probably commit blasphemy by toasting it for a couple minutes. For lunch they serve 2 kinds of paninis: one meaty and another veggie. I haven’t tried the panini yet but that’s my next quest. It looked delicious in the Yelp pics. I was fortunate to sample some excellent funky cheese that they sell in the store along with charcuterie, Calabrian chili oil, olives and many other curated specialty items. Chef Dario is the nicest guy and knows his tradecraft. I was impressed when he mentioned the gelato and pizza places I loved in Bologna. Ask him for some recommendations or from his excellent staff, who recommended the most unique cheese that I have ever sampled. I hope their oven gets repaired soon as I am craving my weekly fix of sourdough focaccia. Be warned it’s very very very addictive, and I don’t use my very’s very often.

This is one of my favorite spots in the city! Great paninis for lunch, amazing cheese , cold cuts and many more delicious products. Everyone working here is really nice. Definitely worth visiting whenever you’re in Potrero Hill.

Dropped in for lunch - basically only 2 panini options each day (meat or no-meat). Solid sandwich on a nice, crusty baguette. Friendly service. Cute, small outdoor seating area. Would visit again if I was in the neighborhood. They do sandwich loyalty cards as well (free sandwich after 10 purchases).

OMG the sandwich I got here was next-level delicious. I don't remember the name of it because they feature new sandwiches regularly, one with meat and one vegetarian option. Also very friendly guy behind the counter. Can't wait to go back and try another one.

Was in a big mood for a good sandwich and found Alimentari Aurora. They change their menu for food items everyday, so everyday is a surprise! My boyfriend and I shared a pan pizza and both got a focaccia. My goodness the food was so good! I have nothing but good things to say. It was freshly made and you can taste it. The focaccia had avocado, heirloom tomatoes, carrot top chimichurri, arugula, and smoked mozzarella. I would only say I wish there was meat in the sandwich. If I'm in the area I'd definitely come again to see the sandwich of the day.

Walked in around 5:30pm on Friday to grab a snack. No wait, was able to place my order quick. Limited snack menu with 2 items but you can order meat and cheese from the case or open up a can of tinned fish. Seating is outside on their parklet, it was super cold so be prepared, they do provide blanket which was a super nice touch! Food: Pan y tomate - this was topped with a marinated mussel, pickled onions and peppers. The bread was nicely toasted, smeared with a thick tomato paste, mussels were plump and flavorful, pickled onions and peppers added a nice briney contrast. A very good snack. Service, great staff even checked up on me in the parklet since it was so cold. Overall a great spot for a light bite if you're in the Portero area, it is on the pricier end but quality was great. Store has a great selection of artisanal foods focused mostly on Italian imports. Tip you can also grab a glass of natural wine to pair with the snacks from Ruby's next door.

5/5 gourmet sandwiches and curated products. So blessed to have this hidden gem in our neighborhood. The owner made his own bread I think. He curated high quality ingredients and put together beautiful and delicious sandwiches. The menu changed daily so check their IG beforehand. The wooden outdoor patio has some seats if you want to dine in. Remember to grab some wine next door from Ruby Wine too.

Lovely shop stocked with specialty foods and deli counter with daily specials. Their focaccia is revelatory! The texture, distinct sourdough flavor, and quality of ingredients make each bite a heavenly experience. Most recently, my husband and I shared the pizza focaccia slice and eggplant focaccia, as well as a beautiful platter of prosciutto and salami with pistachios. Truly a feast! You can take your food to go, dine in the parklet, or stop in at Ruby Wine next door to pair your meal with wine. If you're craving something sweet, their fig cookies make a delicious treat!

Tiny gem! Had the only item listed on the special board- unique sourdough focaccia bread that my daughter said was the best bread she's had. Topped w/ whipped feta, arugula and Jimmy Nardello grilled peppers. Tasty, unique, special. $8 pizza slice, with a simple, tomato sauce on their delicious bread. A cabinet full of unique Italian speciality items. Cute place!

Had their daily special sando today which was an interesting mix of coppa, sweet potato, brussels sprouts, garlic, cheese and probably something else. I would say it mostly worked though I think the sweet potato in particular felt out of place both in terms of taste and texture. They have a pretty interesting collection of tinned fish with a lot of things I haven't seen before (and I've seen a good amount).

So thankful to Yelp for pulling up this cute little shop when I searched for "snack" in Potrero Hill! This was the perfect pick-me-up while I was killing some time between plans. I tried the pan pizza focaccia which was tomato sauce/mozzarella on the springiest, boingiest focaccia ever. It was pillowy yet substantial, and I almost wish I just had the plain version so I could savor the actual bread more! The parklet out front is also really nice - it has different levels and seat options and I settled into a little corner to read as I ate.

This is a cute little deli and Italian grocery store tucked in Potrero Hill. You can enjoy the daily kitchen specials in the park-let or get takeout to enjoy at home. This is one of my favorite spots for satisfying focaccia cravings. What makes it special is Chef Dario's obsession with quality ingredients and no shortcuts. The sourdough has a beautiful sour taste that's a result of a 3 day fermentation process - I don't know of any other focaccias that are proofer, rested and allowed to ferment for 72+ hours, except some mad scientist home bakers. I find this better than Liguria bakery, the OG of San Francisco focaccia, and that speaks to the quality and flavors that Chef Dario is able to create. The sourdough focaccia is thick and satisfying but not dense. It's usually served during the weekend, for dinner, and comes in 3 different types: herbed, pizza and one with meat (fine Italian speck). I order it online on their website and probably commit blasphemy by toasting it for a couple minutes. For lunch they serve 2 kinds of paninis: one meaty and another veggie. I haven't tried the panini yet but that's my next quest. It looked delicious in the Yelp pics. I was fortunate to sample some excellent funky cheese that they sell in the store along with charcuterie, Calabrian chili oil, olives and many other curated specialty items. Chef Dario is the nicest guy and knows his tradecraft. I was impressed when he mentioned the gelato and pizza places I loved in Bologna. Ask him for some recommendations or from his excellent staff, who recommended the most unique cheese that I have ever sampled. I hope their oven gets repaired soon as I am craving my weekly fix of sourdough focaccia. Be warned it's very very very addictive, and I don't use my very's very often.

I'm sorry I don't have any food photos because I enjoy everything there so quickly! I love this place for the homey neighborhood feel next to the wine and flower shops, and personal service from the owner. He knows I love tinned anchovies! This store is all about good food whether dine in or small pantry items. 1) Weekday sandwiches- creative, rotating menu always with a vegetarian friendly option. The best bread with fresh ingredients and an amazing combo of flavors. This is different than your American sando (hazels down the street is delicious as well) but instead has baguette and a more European seeming design. 2) Weekend focaccia and focaccia sandwiches- fresh, yeasty/sourdoughy. sometimes features an exciting addition (tomatoes, anchovies, etc) that they also often carry in store 3) in store shopping- the owner is genuinely excited to share what tinned fish, cheese, meats and produce he finds delicious. I trust I pay for taste and quality with every purchase and love telling them how I used whatever I bought in my most recent kitchen adventure. It truly makes enjoying and cooking food at home a pleasure as well.

Such an amazing shop. Absolutely incredible curation of meat, cheese, chocolate, fish, and more. They also sometimes offer sandwiches, focaccia, and other daily specials (check which are currently offered via their Instagram). The owner is amazing - super helpful, smart, and friendly. If you're in Potrero, consider stopping by for a great lunch or picking up some goodies to take home with you to cook/eat later.

I've been following Aurora for a while through its pop up phase before it settled in the former Provender Cafe spot. If you love Italian food and an innovative menu, then this is the place for you. The owner's menu of the day was roast chicken and potatoes, using a local vendor's fresh chickens. The chicken breast was so tender, and the potatoes were perfectly paired and cooked. Since I cannot go back to Italy during Covid, it was a great opportunity to enjoy a dish that reminded me of my time in Florence. We also enjoyed a delicious rutabaga gratin that was made piping hot and awakened all your senses and taste buds. On top of the to-go treats, they sell some products from other local joints (including sauces from Lion Dance) and other vendors, flour for pasta making, and delicious cheeses. They also indicated their homemade pasta would return, something we loved during their pop ups. Definitely a must try in Potrero Hill. Friendly service and delicious food during Covid, what could be better?

Be aware, the price on the menu is not the price you are charged if you eat in. They will automatically charge an extra 10% "Dine In fee". So expect to pay that, and the tip, once you get your bill.

Great spot for sandwiches and Italian staples. Check Instagram day-of to see what sandwiches are available. Can't wait to try the focaccia and lasagna.

This cute Italian deli, shop and market is a gem of a place, A great neighborhood spot where you feel welcome and spoiled with delicious food made daily and super fresh! Dario, the owner is a warm soul and great to talk to and has great knowledge of food and wine, of course. I truly recommend Aurora for any occasion and day, when family or friends are in town, for a date with friends or a family day out! Enjoy!

I always liked that little group of shops and restaurants over 18th St. This was my first time going to this little shop and I am glad I did. Dario was super friendly and another employee was making up the sandwiches. I honestly hadn't planned on buying a sandwich. The cookies in the window actually are what caught my attention. Oh my goodness. What great sandwich with an amazing combination of flavors. All the ingredients were as good as they could be.. I will definitely be back!

Great deli with a fun selection of meats/cheeses/snacks/condiments. Every version of the focaccia is so good, creative and delicious sandwiches, and the lasagna was amaaaazing. Everyone that works here is also really cheerful!

This is a SF and Potrero Hill gem I'm excited to share with visiting friends. The vibe is great as is the food and team behind it. The sandwiches are creative and unique. The parklet is perfect for sharing charcuterie and a bottle of wine with friends.

I used to love the little hipster coffee shop that was in this space for years so it took me awhile to get over its closing and fully embrace this Italian deli that took its place. But I'm now a big fan. The owner is super friendly. One time I was having a hard time finding Guanciale for a recipe I was trying to replicate after a recent trip to Italy and he told me exactly what I should get and when the next shipment would come in so I could get first dibs. And their freshly made rotating sandwiches of the day are always a great lunch option. Glad to have them in the 'hood!

Wonderful neighborhood spot with the best focaccia I've ever had. Cute shop with a small but excellent selection of dried goods, tinned fish, cheese. They make delicious panini 12-2 every day they're open, but focaccia is Saturday evenings only. IMO plain is usually best because the ones with toppings--while delicious!--can be a bit soggy/gummy (maybe base should be parbaked first?) Brunch focaccia panini with leftovers on Sundays.

I mean, what's not to adore about this place? I love all the beautiful tins of fish and pickled things lining the shelves. The staff are warm, friendly, and helpful. They'll make you a plate of cheeses and/or meats plus crackers, bread, olives. Whatever you like, or a surprise :) expect to pay $30 for a generous amount of very fresh and tasty things. I can't decide which is more European: the wonderful items for sale, or the smooth techno coming out of the speakers. Seriously guys, what's on your SoundCloud? Take your date here for a plate of charcuterie and a glass of natural wine from next door (Ruby wine). Both are hidden gems that transport you far away from the windswept grind of San Francisco.

Foodies alert! This spot is a real gem, a curated boutique Italian deli by an amazing guy. Best spot to get a panini, amazing cheese and cured meat, unique pantry products and snacks. Dario the owner is really passionate and you can feel it from the moment you walk inside. Definitely worth the trip to Potrero even if you don't live nearby. A+

I live near by and this place is one of the best in the neighborhood. They usually have two types of paninis during the weekday - vegetarian/non-vegetarian - and they've both been delicious every single time.

Another fantastic panini from Dario. This time the menu options weren't up on insta and I still trecked over on muni because I knew whatever he was serving would be worth it - all his ingredients are so delicious and high quality. Thinly sliced Italian ham, grilled favas, smoked mozzarella (real Italian smoked, none of that "slap the liquid smoke on the cheese" grossness), arugula, pesto - all on a tasty crusty panini. Warmed just so. Absolutely fantastic!

Hidden little gem !!! Cool spot super good food i got mix plate i love it !! Totally recommended cool staff too

Best focaccia in the city. It's not even close. Their sandwiches are mind blowing as well.

Amazing place. Calling this a deli is a disservice. The paninos are masterful and surprising. And the lasagna! Simply incredible

This is my new favorite place in Potrero. Dario is from Italy and hand picks high quality artisan goods. From incredible preserved scallops to amazing cold cuts and cheeses, this place has it all. He also serves fresh sandwiches that are fantastic. Place is complete with personal touches, smiles, and warmth that we all miss so much during this pandemic.

Where should I start? Aurora has the best Italian charcuterie in town. Period. Aurora's sandwiches are amazing (I don't want to say best in town, because there are many, and I haven't thought this through, but can't think of a better one off the top of my head). The high quality of every ingredient and the pairings make the difference. The selection of other products is also great. Tomatoes preserves which will make you miss the summer a bit less. Seafood preserves of various kinds. I should also mention that Dario is a hunter of interesting foods from other places like France and Spain. This place has already become a habit, and it will be for a long time!

Such a special place. The deli is top notch, but it is the different dish for lunch or dinner each day that really stands out. Definitely a regular spot for me now

A spot of heaven. I went in to look around and ended up with a divine sandwich (ham from the gods, homemade ranch dressing, savoy salad, roasted red pepper, swiss) that was so beautifully prepared and showstoppingly delicious. I was planning to save some for my family but oops! I can't wait to come again. Also, had a lovely conversation about San Francisco and the times. What a gem of a place!