It was a cold, windy day when we visited The Ferry Building in San Francisco last week. In search of a place that would accommodate several different dietary restrictions (vegetarian, die-hard carnivore, picky kid), we found ourselves at Il Cane Russo, an Italian counter service restaurant, specializing in using local ingredients.

Luckily when we arrived, there was no line. As we looked at the board to make our selections, a line quickly formed down the hall.

Once you place your order, you’re given a card with a number on it to take to a table. Sitting outside wasn’t really an option since it was so cold, so we were forced to hover around the tables for a vacancy. One table opened, and then another, and another. One of the employees kindly assisted us in putting the tables together and grabbing chairs for our party of six.

My dad and I got the slow-cooked pork shoulder sandwich, with green cabbage slaw and mustard aioli. It was delicious. Even my father, a notoriously critical eater, gave it the thumbs up.

My daughter, ever the picky eater, chose the side of penne pasta. As it was just a side, the portion was rather small for $7.

My pesco-vegetarian husband declared his warm egg salad sandwich (pictured at the top) one of the best egg salads, if not the best, he’s ever had. Who even knew there was such a thing as warm egg salad? This sandwich was served open-faced, with garlic anchovy butter, aged provolone, and local greens. I have to admit that it was pretty tasty – though not as good as the pork sandwich.

The other two in our party got the avocado & crescenza sandwich and the soup/sandwich combo with the classic chicken salad. We all enjoyed our food as our plates (and bowls) were pretty clean at the end of the meal.

On a warm day, Il Cane Russo would be the ideal spot to grab a bite and sit outside and enjoy the view of the bay. Even on that chilly winter day, I felt like eating Il Cane Russo was a superior choice to the famed Slanted Door (which the restaurant directly faces), and cheaper too!

Location –One Ferry Building #41, San Francisco, 94111
Website – http://canerossosf.com
Kid-Friendly – Yes
Kid’s Menu – No
Pesco-Vegetarian Friendly – Yes
Vegetarian/Vegan Friendly – Yes
Gluten-Free Options – Limited