Pauline's

Pauline's, the little yellow pizzeria on Valencia that still feels hidden away from the Mission's main restaurant strip, is more than a quarter-century old now. And yet its pies, with their crackly crusts and seasonal toppings, resemble anything you'll find at Pizzeria Delfina or Gialina. Owners Sidney Weinstein and Randy Nathan still grow most of the vegetables they use in their salads and pizzas on their farms (their other customers include a number of four-star restaurants). Pies are served family-style here and range from the straightforward to baroque daily specials. A good sense of culinary balance, not to mention a good crust and good sauce, keeps everything reliably delicious.

• Cuisine(s): Italian, Pizza

  Hours: Tue-Sat 5pm-10pm

  Price: $$, $$$

• Payment Types: MasterCard, Visa

  Features: Takeout, Private Party, Family Style

  Serving: Dinner

• Alcohol: Beer/Wine

  Reservations: Accepted, Recommended for Large Parties

  Parking: Street