BAIA

"Baia, a massive and popular Italian restaurant in Hayes Valley, will close on Saturday, March 30. The restaurant’s team announced the closure without providing a reason. Baia was well-loved as a luxe go-to venue before events at Davies Symphony." - Paolo Bicchieri

"Baia is a big and fancy vegan Italian restaurant in Hayes Valley that’s perfect for when you want to dress up and not feel dumb. A beautiful, sparkling string light fixture hangs at the center of the two-story space. People in suits and cocktail dresses are everywhere (thank the proximity to the symphony, opera, theater, and ballet for that). Just be careful about getting your suit or $400 cocktail dress dirty—this place serves sauced-up pastas (go for the spicy spaghetti or fresh fava bean radiatore), solid pizzas, and excellent finger-food starters like crispy mozzarella sticks and spicy maitake n’duja with crisp puccia bread. If you’re dining with someone who enjoys music and theater, and are into simple, beautifully plated Italian meals, this is the spot.  " - Julia Chen 1, Lani Conway, Ricky Rodriguez

"Baia is a big and fancy vegan Italian restaurant in Hayes Valley that’s perfect for when you want to dress up and not feel dumb. A beautiful, sparkling string light fixture hangs at the center of the two-story space. People in suits and cocktail dresses are everywhere (thank the proximity to the symphony, opera, theater, and ballet for that). Just be careful about getting your suit or $400 cocktail dress dirty—this place serves sauced-up pastas (go for the spicy spaghetti or fresh fava bean radiatore), solid pizzas, and excellent finger-food starters like crispy mozzarella sticks and spicy maitake n’duja with crisp puccia bread. If you’re dining with someone who enjoys music and theater, and are into simple, beautifully plated Italian meals, this is the spot." - Ricky Rodriguez

"Italian food without all the meat never tasted so good. Two-story plant-based palace Baia is a must-try for symphony and theater fans given its proximity to local venues. Unlike vegan neighbor Om Sabor, Baia will be busier and not quite as easy to secure a walk-in. Reserve in advance." - Paolo Bicchieri

"It’s not so much that Italian food is laden with meat, but there is a strong association of Italian food with cheese, which can make things difficult for a vegan to do an Italian dinner out. Enter Baia, which promises pasta, pizzas, and appetizers — all made vegan. Add onto the fact that the pasta and pizza crust can be made gluten-free on request, and you’ve got an inclusive Italian dinner for all." - Lauren Saria, Dianne de Guzman, Eater Staff