Best Italian Restaurants in San Mateo

Price: Moderate (78)Price: Expensive (33)Price: Very Expensive (5)

34 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Pausa Bar & Cookery restaurant

1. Pausa Bar & Cookery

4.7

Exceptional(1819)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • San Mateo

Booked 39 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(842)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • San Mateo

Booked 4 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 Tomatina - San Mateo restaurant

3. Tomatina - San Mateo

4.1

Excellent(142)

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.

4. Sapore Express

4.5

Awesome(14)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • San Mateo

Booked 1 time today

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 Il Fornaio - Burlingame restaurant

5. Il Fornaio - Burlingame

4.4

Awesome(4403)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Burlingame

Booked 22 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 Pizzeria Delfina Burlingame restaurant

6. Pizzeria Delfina Burlingame

4.7

Exceptional(385)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Burlingame

Booked 17 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 Trapeze Restaurant - Burlingame restaurant

7. Trapeze Restaurant - Burlingame

4.8

Exceptional(1165)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Burlingame

Booked 4 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.

8. Vivace - Belmont

4.7

Exceptional(2370)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Belmont

Booked 13 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.

9. Rocca Ristorante

4.8

Exceptional(1720)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Burlingame

Booked 11 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 Pinstripes - San Mateo restaurant

10. Pinstripes - San Mateo

4.4

Awesome(22)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • San Mateo

Booked 8 times today

Pinstripes in San Mateo is the epitome of stellar American cuisine, offering a delightful fusion of Italian-American flavors that will leave your taste buds craving more. With its scratch-made dishes, the restaurant shines with menu favorites like meatballs and polenta, described by one guest as "the star of the night." The ambiance, complemented by engaging activities like bowling and bocce, ensures a dining experience that’s both fun and fulfilling. Guests rave about the "fabulous" food and "superb" service, making it a must-visit for an authentic and enjoyable American dining experience. Whether it's the praised Sunday brunch or the vibrant happy hour, Pinstripes stands out as a local culinary gem in San Mateo.

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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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