Picture your favorite Italian diva. Sophia Loren, perhaps? Now slip on your darkest sunglasses and start channeling. If that doesn't work, maybe a glass of wine at VinoRosso will put you in a more Italian state of mind.

The new pocket-size wine bar in Bernal Heights is run by Roman native and experienced sommelier Giuseppe Manna and his wife, Vega Freeman-Brady. Take a seat at one of eight small tables for two and sip on rare southern Italian vintages like Nero d’Avola, Cerasuolo di Vittoria, and Negroamaro. The knowledgeable staff is on hand to educate patrons about the wine they’re swirling.

If your inner movie star is feeling peckish, nibble on a variety of stuzzichini or small plates, including artisanal cheeses like Moliterno and Robiola from Fresca Italia (supplier to The French Laundry) along with fresh bread, dates, figs, honey, toasted almonds and olives.

You might not want to end this little Roman holiday.

Vino Rosso, 629 Cortland Avenue (415-647-1268).   Open daily 4:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. and till 11:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.