
The Stinking Rose San Francisco: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Ultimate Visitor Guide
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction
Located in the heart of North Beach, San Francisco’s iconic Italian-American neighborhood, The Stinking Rose is a culinary institution dedicated to garlic in all its forms. Since the early 1990s, this whimsical restaurant has transformed garlic from a simple ingredient into the star of an inventive Californian-Italian menu, offering a sensory journey through bold flavors and playful décor. Whether you’re a die-hard garlic fan or a first-time visitor curious about this landmark, this guide covers everything you need to plan your visit: hours, reservations, travel tips, menu highlights, accessibility, and nearby attractions.
For complete details, menu, and reservations, visit the official website or learn more at the Urban Dining Guide.
Contents
- Introduction
- History of The Stinking Rose
- Visiting Hours & Reservation Details
- Accessibility, Parking, and Travel Tips
- Menu Highlights & Culinary Innovation
- Ambiance & Thematic Décor
- Special Events & Community Engagement
- Nearby Attractions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
- References
History of The Stinking Rose
Founded in the early 1990s, The Stinking Rose quickly secured its place in San Francisco’s food scene. Its name is a poetic nod to garlic—the “stinking rose”—and reflects the restaurant’s mission to elevate this pungent bulb to culinary stardom. Situated in North Beach, the city’s Little Italy, The Stinking Rose honors local Italian-American heritage while turning garlic into an art form. The kitchen uses over 3,000 pounds of garlic monthly in its wide-ranging dishes, cementing its reputation as a must-visit for food adventurers (Family Destinations Guide, SFCitizen.com).
Visiting Hours & Reservation Details
Address:
430 Columbus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94133
Hours:
Open daily, typically from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., though hours can vary during holidays and special events. For the latest hours, check the official site or call +1 415-781-7673.
Reservations:
Strongly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends, due to the restaurant’s popularity. Reservations can be made via phone or online platforms linked on the official website. Walk-ins are welcome but subject to availability.
Tickets:
No tickets are required for standard dining. However, special events (e.g., the Garlic Lovers’ Dinner) may require advance booking or ticket purchase.
Accessibility, Parking, and Travel Tips
Accessibility:
The Stinking Rose is wheelchair accessible and can accommodate guests with mobility needs. If you require specific assistance, it’s best to call ahead.
Public Transit:
Located in a pedestrian-friendly area, the restaurant is accessible by MUNI bus lines and is a short walk from major transit stops.
Parking:
Street parking is limited. Several paid lots and garages are available nearby. Reserve parking in advance with services like SpotHero, with rates from $18 to $32 per visit.
Travel Tip:
Rideshare services or public transit are highly recommended to avoid parking challenges, especially during peak hours.
Menu Highlights & Culinary Innovation
Garlic-Forward Philosophy:
The Stinking Rose is famous for its playful motto: “We season our garlic with food” (thestinkingrose.com). Every dish—except for select “Vampire Fare” options—features garlic, from subtle infusions to bold, aromatic presentations.
Signature Dishes: (Menu PDF)
- Bagna Cauda: Oven-roasted garlic cloves in olive oil, butter, and anchovy, served with bread.
- Dungeness Killer Crab: Whole, fresh crab roasted in secret garlic sauce.
- 40 Clove Garlic Chicken: Chicken roasted with 40 cloves of garlic.
- Garlic Noodles & Neon Ravioli: Rich, garlic-infused pasta dishes.
- Garlic Ice Cream: For the adventurous, a sweet and savory finale.
Starters & Salads:
- Italian Garlic Pot Stickers, Bruschetta di Aglio, Burrata Prosciutto, and garlic-infused salads.
Mains:
- Sizzling Garlic Prime Ribeye Steak, seafood cioppino, wood-fired pizzas, and more.
Desserts & Beverages:
- Unique garlic ice cream, classic Italian desserts, a robust wine list, and the “Gartini”—a garlic martini.
Dietary Options:
- “Vampire Fare” (no garlic) dishes for sensitive diners.
- Gluten-free and vegetarian choices are clearly marked.
- Note: The kitchen is not certified gluten-free; those with severe allergies should exercise caution.
Ambiance & Thematic Décor
The Stinking Rose is as much about experience as cuisine. The restaurant’s interior features vibrant murals, whimsical garlic-themed art, and the “world’s largest garlic braid” looping through the dining area (The Stinking Rose About). The casual, family-friendly setting is perfect for groups and celebrations. Outdoor seating on Columbus Avenue offers lively people-watching in North Beach.
Special Events & Community Engagement
The Stinking Rose regularly participates in neighborhood festivals and San Francisco’s food scene. Private dining rooms are available for events, accommodating up to 300 guests. Themed events and seasonal promotions are announced on their website and social media.
Nearby Attractions
Extend your North Beach adventure with these nearby landmarks:
- Washington Square Park
- Saints Peter and Paul Church
- Coit Tower
- City Lights Bookstore
- Chinatown
Each is within walking distance, making The Stinking Rose a perfect stop during a day of sightseeing.
Visitor Tips
- Book Ahead: Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
- Parking: Use SpotHero or plan for public transit.
- Group Dining: Large parties are welcome, but separate checks are not provided (the bill can be split evenly for up to six).
- Prepare for Garlic: Bring breath mints—garlic is in almost everything!
- Try Something New: Don’t miss the Bagna Cauda or garlic ice cream.
- Check for Events: Special themed dinners or seasonal events add extra fun.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are The Stinking Rose’s visiting hours?
A: Typically open daily from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Check the official website for updates.
Q: Is the restaurant accessible?
A: Yes, it is wheelchair accessible. Contact staff for specific needs.
Q: Are there options without garlic?
A: Yes, “Vampire Fare” dishes are prepared without garlic.
Q: Is The Stinking Rose family-friendly?
A: Absolutely. The fun atmosphere suits families and children.
Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: Dogs are welcome in outdoor seating areas.
Q: Are group/private events available?
A: Yes, private dining rooms are available for large groups and events.
Visuals & Media
See photos of signature dishes, the signature garlic braid, and the lively interior décor on Instagram.
Alt tags such as “The Stinking Rose Garlic Braid décor” or “Dungeness Killer Crab at The Stinking Rose San Francisco” enhance accessibility and search visibility.
Internal Links
Conclusion
The Stinking Rose is a true San Francisco original, offering a spirited blend of culinary creativity, welcoming ambiance, and quirky charm. Open daily with recommended reservations, it delivers unforgettable garlic-rich experiences for all palates. Located steps from some of the city’s most revered landmarks, it perfectly complements any North Beach or San Francisco itinerary. Plan your visit, bring your appetite—and prepare for a meal to remember!
For the latest hours, menu, and special events, visit the official website or follow on Instagram.
Contact Information
- Address: 430 Columbus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94133
- Phone: +1 415-781-7673
- Website: thestinkingrose.com
- Social Media:
References
- The Stinking Rose Visiting Hours and Complete Guide: History, Menu, and Visitor Info, 2025, (thestinkingrose.com)
- The Stinking Rose: A Garlic Lover’s Guide to Visiting This San Francisco Icon, 2025, (sfcitizen.com)
- The Stinking Rose San Francisco: Visiting Hours, Menu Highlights & Local Attractions Guide, 2025, (thestinkingrose.com/menu1.html)
- The Stinking Rose San Francisco: A Garlic Lover’s Guide to Dining in North Beach, 2025, (thestinkingrose.com)
- Urban Dining Guide: The Stinking Rose San Francisco, 2025, (urbandiningguide.com)
- Family Destinations Guide: Garlic-themed restaurant San Francisco, 2025, (familydestinationsguide.com)