Little Henry's Italian Food

3600 Balboa St, San Francisco, CA 94121, United States
+1 415-387-8761
$$$ Italian restaurant
(215 Reviews)
Price Range $20–30

Little Henry's Italian Food is a cozy, family-run Italian restaurant nestled in the Richmond District of San Francisco, where classic Italian-American dishes meet an unexpected Asian influence. The setting reflects an old-school, mom-and-pop vibe with a warm, welcoming atmosphere—nothing overly polished but genuine and straightforward. This spot feels like a neighborhood staple where regulars and newcomers alike are greeted with friendly familiarity.

The menu offers a wide range of hearty, comfort food-style Italian fare, with highlights like Veal Cutlet, Veal Scaloppini, and Chicken Marsala sitting alongside intriguing items such as Oxtail Stew accompanied by steamed vegetables and garlic bread. There’s a comforting blend of classic pasta dishes like White Linguine Alle Vongole and housemade soups, including clam chowder and other hearty options that suit a relaxed, sit-down meal. Portions are generous, and the pricing is modest given the filling nature of the plates.

This is the kind of place where you might stop by for a casual lunch or early dinner, especially if you’re looking for familiarity and comfort rather than trendy twists or fine dining flair. The crowd tends to be a mix of locals who appreciate the consistent flavors and the approachable ambiance—whether you’re craving a straightforward chicken sandwich with fries or feeling adventurous enough to try their Seafood Combination or steamed clams.

Service here is noticeably attentive without being overbearing, and the owner Sally is known to go the extra mile, making sure catering orders and special requests are handled with care. The staff’s kindness extends beyond usual expectations, such as accommodating special needs at the table, contributing to the down-to-earth and attentive vibe.

The restaurant carries a distinctly neighborhood feel, marked by a blend of Italian culinary roots and subtle Asian touches, evident in both the menu offerings and the warmth of the service team. It’s a place where you get the sense that people come both for the food and the genuine hospitality. Best visited during quieter weekday lunches or early evenings, it’s a spot where locals grab comforting, sizable meals without the fuss, making it well suited for families, couples, or anyone looking for a no-frills, filling Italian meal in San Francisco's outer Richmond neighborhood.

Highlights
Has fast service
Popular for
Popular for breakfast
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
What they serve
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Quick bite
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Best for
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Serves dessert
Has seating
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Paid street parking
Plenty of parking

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Wednesday

11:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Thursday

11:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Friday

11:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Saturday

11:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Sunday

11:00 AM - 08:00 PM

215 Reviews
Super Superman

06 Jan 2026

Mom and pop joint. I enjoyed my veggie breakfast omelette and my partner thought the Philly mushroom cheesecake was mediocre. Partner thought it was weird to have it served with lettuce, and wished there was an option for Swiss cheese instead. My partner is too picky and difficult to please. I tried the sandwich and it was fine to me. I hope to come back and try other items on the menu.

Melody Ybona Gawliu

17 Dec 2025

Sally is the owner and so wonderful! I ordered catering for a Valentine's event at my church and she added tons of extras to our order to make sure everyone was fed and well satisfied. My favorite dish is the Fettuccine Della Casa! Support local!

hong nguyen

13 Nov 2025

The best place in town! Here are some of my favorite dishes/meals posted below. Little Henry's never seems to disappoint because their quality is unmatched and the food is always delicious! Sally, the owner is also a sweetheart and her staff is just as awesome!Been ordering here every other day since the quarantine and I don't regret it.

Francisco Velasquez

27 Oct 2025

They had a type of fusion of Italian and I think Chinese. The food smelled good and had a variety of options. I decided on a Philly cheese steak and a refreshing beverage. It was overall a good experience and it's a place to enjoy comfort food.

r t

03 Oct 2025

I love this mom and pop restaurant. They always are warm and welcoming here. It’s an Asian Italian restaurant. Food is good quality here, very early Americana feel to this place. Just good decent food for an okay price. Tonight they really touched my heart when they offered to cut my food up because of my broken hand. It’s the kind of thing I expect when I come here, always welcome, considerate, and well fed. Love this place and the people here

Michele Tran-Wong

22 Sep 2025

Love this small mom and pop. Been coming here since I was in High school and still coming here 20 years later. Great food, great service, and nice clean place to come to with friends and family.

Sarah T

14 Sep 2025

Such an amazing experience with lovely service! Very hospitable and french fries were soo yummy

Join the Little Henry's Italian Food Newsletter

Get the latest updates on seasonal pastries, special events, and local highlights directly in your inbox.