The Stinking Rose, San Francisco

Among many notable places in San Francisco’s North Beach, there’s one that took a look at garlic and said, Let’s build an empire around it. Fittingly called “The Stinking Rose,” this one-of-a-kind dining spot celebrates garlic in every form.

Opened in 1991, the restaurant was dreamed up by Jerry Dal Bozzo and Dante Serafini, two local visionaries who clearly weren’t afraid of strong flavors—or strong opinions. Their tongue-in-cheek mantra “We season our garlic with food” captures the spirit perfectly. Housed in a vibrant space just off Columbus Avenue, this eatery is instantly recognizable by its indulgent, garlic-drenched interior: crimson walls, black-and-white checkered floors, strings of garlic bulbs dangling like chandeliers, retro kitchen décor, and even a mannequin proudly donning a garlic-bulb hat.

However, what sets The Stinking Rose truly apart is its daring menu—a love letter to the world’s most polarizing ingredient. On offer here are over 40 garlic-forward dishes, including classics like the 40-Clove Garlic Chicken and Bagna Calda (a playful “garlic hot tub” dip to delight any garlic lover), plus the garlic-laced seafood items such as mussels and Dungeness crab, accompanied by a plethora of potato dishes, and even ice cream to make one's breath a civic event. The bartending team embraces the theme with quirky creations such as the “Gartini,” a garlic martini that is sometimes surprisingly divisive but always memorable.

The Stinking Rose’s fame extends beyond taste buds. Every day, the restaurant consumes about forty pounds of garlic, or seven tons a year!!! Rumor has it that rideshare drivers sometimes avoid the place due to its customers' lingering garlic breath. But beyond the aroma, reviewers applaud the generous portions and general warmth. Outdoor seating invites people-watching along Columbus Avenue, while inside, intimate tables create a convivial vibe: laughter spilling from booths, waiters cracking jokes, and the comforting hum of a North Beach evening in full swing...

For anyone seeking a fun, unforgettable culinary adventure in San Francisco, The Stinking Rose—a boisterous ode to garlic culture—is a must-visit. Whether you're a garlic enthusiast or simply curious about the city’s spirited dining scene, experiencing The Stinking Rose is sure to leave a fragrant—and delightful—impression.