Rose Pistola is a funky Italian restaurant (with a great bar) that attracts a young, hip crowd. I can only describe the menu as "California-Italian," if that makes any sense. The Liguorian fare is cooked with a California twist. I had an artichoke salad appetizer that was delicious, but definitely nothing like anything I have ever had in Italy. They have a large selection of interesting salads,pasta dishes and seafoods. The food is good, but not outstanding.
We waited a long time for our table, but the bar is so nice (and smoking is prohibited in bars and restaurants in SF) that we enjoyed having a drink there while we waited. Be aware that this is a very loud restaurant (they have a jazz trio playing by the bar), so I don't recommend it for a romantic night out. We also waited some time for our meal to arrive, but the food was good once it came.
I wouldn't recommend Rose Pistola for a quiet night out. But it's a fun place, visually interesting and the jazz music was pretty good. Plus, it's located in the funky North Beach section of town, so the loud, eclectic atmosphere kind of goes with the whole feel of the neighborhood. Go here with a large group of friends, when you won't mind the wait.