"Many have bemoaned the gentrification of the Mission district, but if they stepped into the cozy, welcoming Delfina, they’d probably change their minds. I most certainly did. Modeled on the friendly family trattorias of Tuscany, Delfina exudes an “everyone’s welcome” vibe. On every visit, I’ve been cheerfully ushered to my table within minutes of arriving. And, don’t let the colorful tattoos and piercings of the waitstaff fool you: They’re consummate Italian cuisine experts and can dispense recommendations with the best of them. Do inquire about the specials, because they’re usually phenomenal, and made with the freshest seasonal ingredients. And, if a special doesn’t strike your fancy, then you can’t go wrong with the superb fresh calamari with warm white bean salad, slow-roasted pork so tender you can slice it with a fork, and Brussel sprouts topped with succulent pancetta."

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