Dining review: Fabrizio keeps it casual and real

Fabrizio's offers a reprieve from our near-maniacal obsession with all things local, artisan, organic and sustainable. The longtime

Larkspur eatery keeps it real with its straightforward, unpretentious Northern Italian food served up in a casual, neighborhood trattoria.

Since 1981 Fabrizio Martinelli has been feeding locals his superb gnocchi, risotto and Tuscan-style pastas.

Originally from Lucca, Italy, Martinelli worked his way through numerous North Beach restaurants before opening his own in Marin. His comfortable, unfussy approach to food carries over into the restaurant's decor. The custard yellow walls are adorned with red holiday wreaths and there's a small bar housing the beer and wine offerings.



A piece of Italia in America

I don't write reviews, not my thing, really.
My family and I stumbled upon Fabrizio's by accident. Looking for Italian restaurant while on vacation, and a "what the heck" moment.
I can honestly say 2 remarkable things: I have never eaten at a better restaurant. The crab ravioli were perfect, as were the porcini gnochi. Felt like I was eating at a relative's house. But the second and even more remarkable thing is, I can not recall ever eating any better in Italia. Highly, highly recommended. You'll love it.
July 05, 2009 by Louis in Stockton, CA
http://www.merchantcircle.com/business/Ristorante.Fabrizio.415-924-3332/review/read?cid=713393
"I don't write reviews, not my thing, really. My family and I stumbled upon Fabrizio's by accident. Looking for Italian restaurant while on vacation, and a "what the heck" moment. I can honestly say 2 remarkable things: I have never eaten at a better restaurant. The crab ravioli were perfect, as were the porcini gnochi. Felt like I was eating at a relative's house. But the second and even more remarkable thing is, I can not recall ever eating any better in Italia. Highly, highly recommended. You'll love it." 
-- July 05, 2009 by Louis in Stockton, CA
 

Fabrizio's on Zagat.com


My sister and I taste tested lobster specials in the North Bay and City. This was the winner. Osso Buco night is also good. They shine in the classics - an excellent, crisp caesar and gnochi that is little pillows of happiness. I keep returning. The hominess and hospitality of the place, solid dishes, and can't lose specials make this one of my favourites in Marin.
  - Reviewed by Chris 94901 on 03/02/2009 on zagat.com

Fabrizio's on Yelp.com

"Never had a bad meal-or even a good meal. It's always at least very good to excellent. The food has a depth of flavor that shows considerable skill with sauces and pairing ingredients. The homemade papardelle in Bolognese sauce was so good, I ate it as slow as I could to savor the taste. The gnocchi in porcini sauce are always a winner, too. My kids love it. My dad eats here at least once a week...." - Mark M. on Yelp.com
 




Four Course Meal for $18.50 5pm - 6:30pm Special

Soup or salad, pasta, a choice of three entrees, dessert wine & gelato. 5pm-6:30 pm.
  

The History of Fabrizio and the Restaurant

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I n 1967 Fabrizio came from Lucca Italy as a young man to pursue his dream of opening an authentic Italian restaurant. When he arrived in San Francisco, he enrolled in school to learn English while maintaining a full time job in restaurants in North Beach. After working as a waiter and in the restaurant business for 13 years, he knew he was ready to open his own restaurant and fulfill his long time dream.