I dined at Buca di Beppo with a group of about 20 people. One end of the table ordered lightly, the other end ordered like crazy. Dish after dish after dish of pasta, meat sauce, cheese, etc.... More

I dined at Buca di Beppo with a group of about 20 people. One end of the table ordered lightly, the other end ordered like crazy. Dish after dish after dish of pasta, meat sauce, cheese, etc. arrived and it was way too much food. Our end enjoyed antipasta salad and calamari. The few pasta dishes we ordered were decent, but nothing exceptional. A bit too much sauce and lacking in spice/flavor. Perhaps if we had all been at a nice ROUND table, the odd ordering would not have happened. Long rectangle tables aren't even good for board meetings. We were very cramped. The restaurant was so loud I couldn't hear the person sitting next to me. The music was loud, so all of the diners shouted at each other. The Italian-Pope-Catholic decor was fun but corny. I am glad I experienced this "landmark" SF eatery, but I won't be rushing back any time soon.
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I've been to Buca Di Beppo a few times, always with a large group and always for someone's birthday. I guess they're well regarded because the portions are huge and eaten family style and it's not... More

I've been to Buca Di Beppo a few times, always with a large group and always for someone's birthday. I guess they're well regarded because the portions are huge and eaten family style and it's not too expensive. The bread and salad were decent. The pasta dishes all seemed to be topped with sauces that came from a can or jar, a la Ragu. The meat dishes were yucky. I was overstuffed and in need of a shower after leaving this place. Huge drinks are a plus.
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is a great place for big groups. the portions are huge family style dishes and best to dine at with atleast 4 people so you can try the various dishes. great home cooking style italian food. the... More

is a great place for big groups. the portions are huge family style dishes and best to dine at with atleast 4 people so you can try the various dishes. great home cooking style italian food. the decor is interesting as well. any birthday celebrations are good to have at this restaurant because they come out with HUGE candles....fun place.
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Bulk portions resulting in lower standards; an ok place to go with a group, not a couple; generally very loud. This is the kind of place that people take their 16 daugher for her birthday - and I... More

Bulk portions resulting in lower standards; an ok place to go with a group, not a couple; generally very loud. This is the kind of place that people take their 16 daugher for her birthday - and I think several parties were going on the night I was there. If you have a party under 15, skip it. Basic fare - the pasta is decent.
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This is a well know established restaurant in Northern California. If you're in the mood for homemade Italian food, go here. The salads and entrees are good. It's best to go with a large group of... More

This is a well know established restaurant in Northern California. If you're in the mood for homemade Italian food, go here. The salads and entrees are good. It's best to go with a large group of people so you can sample different items. Best to make reservations so you don't have to wait. Service tends to be on the slow side.
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