The Stinking Rose

"The Stinking Rose, a San Francisco institution, takes its name from the medieval moniker for garlic and lives up to it with unabashed pride. Nestled in the vibrant heart of the city, this restaurant has been a bastion of garlic-infused cuisine since its inception, drawing both locals and tourists alike into its warmly lit embrace. Its motto, "We season our garlic with food," isn't just a witty saying; it's a culinary manifesto that permeates every dish served here. Walking into The Stinking Rose, one is immediately enveloped in an atmosphere that is part Italian trattoria, part eccentric garlic shrine. The decor, featuring garlic bulbs dangling whimsically from the ceiling and vintage Italian posters, sets the stage for a dining experience that is anything but ordinary. The air is fragrant with the scent of garlic, a precursor to the flavor journey ahead. The adventure begins with their number one appetizer: garlic cloves roasted to perfection in a bath of olive oil. This dish is simplicity itself, yet it encapsulates the very essence of what makes The Stinking Rose special. The garlic, mellowed and sweetened by the roasting process, spreads like butter, offering a surprisingly delicate flavor that belies its pungent reputation. It's a testament to the restaurant's ability to transform the humble garlic clove into something sublime. Then, there's the garlic-infused margarita pizza, a masterpiece straight from the wood-burning oven that further cements The Stinking Rose's reputation as a culinary innovator. The pizza, with its thin, crispy crust and generous topping of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, is elevated by the bold addition of garlic, infusing every bite with a depth of flavor that is both unexpected and utterly delightful. The Stinking Rose's history is as colorful as its menu, having opened its doors with the aim of celebrating and elevating garlic from a simple ingredient to the star of the show. Over the years, it has not only succeeded in this mission but has also become a beloved landmark in San Francisco's dining scene. Its unique flair, from the garlic-themed decor to the inventive dishes, makes it more than just a restaurant; it's a tribute to the versatility and universal appeal of garlic. Dining at The Stinking Rose is a sensory experience that goes beyond the palate. It's a journey through history, a celebration of culinary creativity, and a bold statement of love for the "stinking rose" that gives the restaurant its name. In a city known for its gastronomic diversity, The Stinking Rose stands out as a testament to the enduring charm and flavor of one of the world's most beloved ingredients."

"Service and Gnocchi Alfredo were excellent. The Alfredo sauce wasn’t too thick and it was well seasoned. The texture of the Gnocchi was good too. The pizza was average- it was lacking some flavor and seasoning. The garlic boat was good though, and the bread they provided was crunchy on the outside and very soft on the inside. Verdict: 3/5 It just felt like the flavor was lacking and I could recreate these dishes at home. The portions were also kind of small for $23-26 a plate."

"If you're a garlic fan then you'll definitely like this place! Starters and mains were delicious, the staff were funny and friendly, and the atmosphere is very enjoyable - only note is you are seated closely next to others, it didn't bother me though as the restaurant isn't too big anyway (I didn't have any space left for dessert so cannot rate that unfortunately)."

"I won’t lie, we saw this place and thought it was one of those restaurants that’s been around forever, you go to it just to say you’ve been, and it’s alright. I was wrong! This place is fantastic. The street seating is such a vibe, the service was amazing, and the food/drink selection impressed us! I truly was shocked. Definitely will bring friend and family by for the experience. The haunted vampire theme fit perfectly in October which elevated it that much more."

"I'll be honest, the way the restaurant is talked about I thought it was going to be over the top garlicky. There are definitely garlic dishes, but every single bite I had was so well made and done with such quality that I was floored! The garlic ice cream is what really surprised me! It shouldn't be good, but it is! The place is Decked out in kitsch, and the service is great."