Gourmet Casual Italian
Enjoy gourmet casual Italian food and wine in a relaxed setting. Sandwiches, salads, pastas, pinsas and more made with imported Italian meats and locally sourced ingredients.
Two Bay Area Locations
We are Located inside Swirl on Castro. Dine at the high-tops, outside on the sidewalk, or in our lovely parklet. Join the Swirl Wine Club to dine and drink in the hidden garden.
Quietly nestled next to the downtown Berkeley library, the garden patio is the perfect escape. Or come inside and settle into a booth to dine and drink.
Our Bread:
Roman Pinsa Flour
One of the standout features of Roman Pinsa flour is its unique texture. It produces a light and airy crust with a slightly crispy exterior, perfectly complementing the soft interior. It's all about that perfect balance!
Nutritional Value: Imported from Italy, this high quality blend of wheat, rice, and soy flours, offers a nutritional edge compared to dough using standard American flour. Unless you are Celiac you can eat our normal sandwich and pinsa dough as it only has about 15% gluten vs 80% in American floured breads - In 4+ years of Heroic Italian no one has come back to me saying that they had a negative gluten reaction...That being said we have a wonderful GF bread replacement for our sandwiches.
The Heroic Ethos
Heroic Italian marries the exquisite flavors of Italy with a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere.
Depending on when you swing by, you will be greeted by the sweet smell of basil, the earthiness of mushrooms, or even the punch of garlic. The menu is a celebration of Italy's culinary traditions and the Italians who made the US their home. Offering a variety of antipasti, pasta, salads, and—of course—sandwiches, our ingredients are carefully selected, with many sourced locally to ensure the freshest flavors. From handmade sauces, to our Montesacro Pinsaria bread, to our unique creations, each dish is thoughtfully created for taste and presentation.
Despite our gourmet offerings, we maintain a relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere. The staff is friendly and approachable, creating an environment where you can truly savor your meal without feeling rushed. Guests are encouraged to linger over their food and wine, enjoy good conversation, and soak in the atmosphere.
Whether you're dining with friends or family, or on a romantic date, Heroic Italian provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable gourmet casual Italian dining experience. The combination of exceptional food, a relaxed atmosphere, and the spirit of la dolce vita makes this restaurant a must-visit for those seeking a taste of Italy without the fuss.