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Best Italian Restaurants in San Mateo

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36 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Pausa Bar & Cookery restaurant
1. Pausa Bar & Cookery
4.7
Exceptional(1844)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • San Mateo
Booked 60 times today
Pausa Bar & Cookery in San Mateo offers a captivating escape into the world of contemporary Italian cuisine. Celebrated for its "modern and innovative approaches," Pausa delights diners with house-made pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and expertly cured meats that elevate traditional Italian flavors. Guests rave about the "phenomenal experience" that reminds them of dining in Italy, praising the "delicious combinations of ingredients" and "incredible attention to detail." The ambiance is described as "modern and trendy," perfect for both lively gatherings and intimate dinners. With "top-notch" service consistently mentioned, Pausa stands out as a must-visit for an authentic and inventive Italian dining experience.
A photo of Vespucci Ristorante Italiano restaurant
2. Vespucci Ristorante Italiano
4.8
Exceptional(855)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • San Mateo
Booked 3 times today
Vespucci Ristorante Italiano, located in the heart of San Mateo, is a celebration of authentic Italian cuisine, where "every dish exudes the true essence of Italian flavors." Praised for its commitment to tradition and quality, the restaurant features a menu crafted by Italian-born chefs that evoke the culinary spirit of Italy. Diners rave about the "Gnocchi with Gorgonzola," described as "homemade pillows of perfection," and the atmosphere that "perfectly complements the culinary experience." The warm hospitality and personalized service make every visit memorable. As one reviewer notes, "Definitely my only go-to place when I'm craving Italian food!" Vespucci Ristorante Italiano is truly a gem that offers an exceptional Italian dining experience, making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors alike.
A photo of Sapore Express restaurant
3. Sapore Express
4.5
Awesome(16)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • San Mateo
Sapore Italiano opened on Burlingame Avenue, Ca in 2001 and has been a family favorite for over 19 years. Home-made pasta in rich sauces made with the finest quality ingredients has made Sapore Italiano a success and now we bring you a fast, casual dining experience with the same taste and quality Sapore is known for. Sapore Express offers the best of what our flagship restaurant has to offer in a casual dining experience that is fast-paced. At Sapore Express, you won’t sacrifice quality for price and you won’t have to choose between taste and time. Ciao-- and see you at Sapore Express in San Mateo!
A photo of Tomatina - San Mateo restaurant
4. Tomatina - San Mateo
4.1
Excellent(143)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • San Mateo
For parties over 4 guests or if desired time not available, please contact us directly at 650-918-5030 to book your reservationWE CATER ANY EVENT no celebration is too large or too small!You’re always welcome at San Mateo’s Tomatina, our family-friendly Italian restaurant at the corner of 4th and B Streets in the heart of downtown San Mateo just off Highway 101. Located just 10 minutes from San Francisco International Airport, minutes from the San Mateo Event Center and a block from Century 12 San Mateo, we are here for any occasion. Tomatina is designed to appeal to as many people as possible, which is why they carry a vegetarian, gluten-free and children's menu in addition to their regular ones. Each month, Tomatina offers seasonal specials in addition to the normal menu.
A photo of Il Fornaio - Burlingame restaurant
5. Il Fornaio - Burlingame
4.5
Awesome(4450)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Burlingame
Booked 73 times today
Il Fornaio is renowned for its authentic award winning Italian cuisine. Specialties include wood-fired rotisserie and grilled meats, poultry and game; housemade pastas; pizzas from an oak wood burning oven; fresh salads and housemade soups; a wide variety of desserts; and fresh baked bread made daily from scratch. Annual winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.
A photo of Trapeze Restaurant - Burlingame restaurant
6. Trapeze Restaurant - Burlingame
4.7
Exceptional(1186)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Burlingame
Booked 5 times today
Trapeze Restaurant in Burlingame is a beacon of European culinary excellence, where Chef Jose Rodriguez, with his rich Michelin Star background, crafts dishes that resonate with authenticity and innovation. Diners rave about the "delicious" European flavors, from the divine chicken Marsala to the exceptional asparagus wrapped in prosciutto. Reviews consistently highlight the "outstanding" food and service, with one guest recommending the restaurant as a place where "you wished it was OK to lick your plate!" With its inviting ambiance and a menu that balances sophistication with approachability, Trapeze offers a European dining experience that's both delightful and memorable.
A photo of Saltyard Restaurant and Bar restaurant
7. Saltyard Restaurant and Bar
4.5
Awesome(753)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Burlingame
Booked 16 times today
Saltyard Restaurant and Bar in Burlingame is a stellar example of American cuisine done right. This vibrant spot, newly introduced to the Burlingame dining scene, has quickly gained praise for its “fresh, tasty, beautifully presented” dishes and “incredible” food. Guests rave about the variety and quality, from the power lunch specials to the seafood risotto, which one patron described as "excellent!!" The ambiance is described as “comfortable” and “modern,” providing the perfect backdrop for enjoying American classics with innovative twists. Whether it's for a business lunch or a cozy dinner date, Saltyard delivers an exceptional dining experience highlighted by “excellent service and food” that keeps patrons returning for more.
A photo of Rocca Ristorante restaurant
8. Rocca Ristorante
4.9
Exceptional(1751)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Burlingame
Booked 18 times today
At Rocca Ristorante in Burlingame, every meal is a dive into the heart of Northern Italy, with a delightful Californian twist. Patrons rave about the authenticity and flair of dishes like the Osso Bucco and Veal Saltimbocca, calling them "some of the best on the Peninsula." The restaurant's enchanting Tuscan-inspired decor, complete with a Florentine copper and bronze ceiling, sets a spectacular stage for a dining experience that consistently exceeds expectations. With an "always reliable" reputation, the extensive Italian wine selection perfectly complements each dish, ensuring a meal that is both "delicious and satisfying." Whether it's a casual lunch or a special occasion dinner, Rocca's combination of exquisite food, welcoming atmosphere, and top-notch service makes it a culinary gem in Burlingame.
A photo of Pizzeria Delfina Burlingame restaurant
9. Pizzeria Delfina Burlingame
4.7
Exceptional(392)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Burlingame
Booked 28 times today
Pizzeria Delfina in Burlingame is a gem that brings a slice of Italy to your table with its Neapolitan-inspired pizzas. Famed for its "amazing crust" and authentic Italian flavors, this beloved establishment stands out for its fresh, seasonal ingredients and family-friendly atmosphere. One diner raved, "The pizza is great, just like in Italy," underscoring the authenticity that Pizzeria Delfina delivers. With a menu that evolves daily, featuring seasonal antipasti and handcrafted piatti, it's no wonder that guests keep returning. Whether it’s the "exemplary service" or the "delicious food," Pizzeria Delfina captures the essence of Italian dining, making it a must-visit in Burlingame.
A photo of Vivace - Belmont restaurant
10. Vivace - Belmont
4.7
Exceptional(2379)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Belmont
Booked 23 times today
Vivace - Belmont is a treasure for Pizza Bar enthusiasts, boasting a vibrant atmosphere that mirrors the liveliness of its name. Nestled in the charming city of Belmont, this restaurant is celebrated for masterfully crafting pizzas with a Northern Italian flair, which are consistently praised for being "deliciously temperature hot served every time." The fire pizza oven is a centerpiece, churning out authentic and scrumptious pizzas that leave patrons longing for more. Reviewers rave about the quality, with one customer sharing, "This was a spontaneous pick by my husband and it was amazing. Pizza was good, husband had raviolis, his words were ‘phenomenal’ glad we found this place close to home. Definitely coming back for more pizza and wine." Vivace’s commitment to excellence is further highlighted by its longstanding reputation and glowing reviews, making it a must-visit for pizza lovers.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Rob
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Service was excellent and food isfresh. We started off with a Margarita Pizza ( excellent). Several pasta dishes ( pasta made fresh daily). Ambiance was uplifting and festive.
    More info
    Il Fornaio - BurlingamePrice: Moderate• Italian• Burlingame
    •
    4.5
  • KristinaVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Amazing from start to finish. Burrata and crudo were are favorite apps. Pizzas are all incredible. Reminds me of traveling through Italy. Finally a great spot without having to drive to the city!
    More info
    Pausa Bar & CookeryPrice: Expensive• Italian• San Mateo
    •
    4.7
  • Leslie
    San Francisco Bay Area •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Vespucci is a San Mateo gem. With so many Asian restaurants in town, it’s nice to have such a fabulous alternative. The food is excellent, the wine list is well-curated, the service is very good, the prices are reasonable and the proprietors are very charming. You can’t miss when you dine here!
    More info
    Vespucci Ristorante ItalianoPrice: Expensive• Italian• San Mateo
    •
    4.8
  • Stephen
    San Francisco Bay Area •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 12, 2024
    If ur in a mood for good freshly made pasta, this is as good as it gets here on the peninsula in my opinion. Also reasonably priced for everything from wine to dessert
    More info
    Sapore ExpressPrice: Moderate• Italian• San Mateo
    •
    4.5
  • Panfilo
    San Francisco Bay Area •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Oct 17, 2024
    Great place for Happy Hour/Dinner. Appetizers are tasty and filling enough where you can turn happy hour into a dinner. Staff is very friendly and accommodating. A group of 4 of us had pretty lose the entire appetizer menu.
    More info
    Tomatina - San MateoPrice: Moderate• Italian• San Mateo
    •
    4.1

Discover best Italian restaurants in San Mateo

Discover the essence of Italian cuisine in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, Peninsula, San Mateo. Renowned for its vibrant dining scene, this area offers a variety of Italian restaurants that cater to all preferences, from traditional family recipes to innovative culinary creations. Each establishment prides itself on delivering authentic Italian flavors, often highlighted by their use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and house-made specialties such as pastas and focaccias. Patrons frequently commend these restaurants for their exceptional service and inviting atmospheres, which often include tasteful Italian decor and artwork. The dining experience is further enriched by a commitment to hospitality, making each meal not just a feast for the palate but also a memorable event. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring San Mateo's Italian dining options provides a delightful culinary journey through Italy's rich gastronomic culture.

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