Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. San Francisco Bay Area

Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in San Mateo

Price
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

6 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Pausa Bar & Cookery restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1845)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • San Mateo
Booked 57 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
4.8
Exceptional(855)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • San Mateo
Booked 9 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 Pasta Moon restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(5288)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Half Moon Bay
Booked 81 times today
Pasta Moon, situated in the charming town of Half Moon Bay, has been a beacon of Italian culinary excellence for over 30 years. This restaurant is renowned for its dedication to authentic Italian cuisine, using only the freshest local produce to craft dishes that are both delightful and beautifully presented. Diners consistently rave about the menu, highlighting the "homemade pasta dishes" and "exceptional lasagna,” which some claim surpasses even those found in Italy. The cozy setting, heralded by its old arched casement windows, creates a perfect backdrop for a meal served by "attentive and knowledgeable" staff. Pasta Moon is not just a meal; it's an experience where every bite tells a story of tradition and quality, making it a must-visit destination on the California coast.
A photo of Donato Enoteca restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2821)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Redwood City
Booked 19 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Redwood City, Donato Enoteca stands out as a gem of authentic Italian cuisine. Executive Chef Donato Scotti crafts a menu that captures the essence of Italy with dishes that are both traditional and innovative. Patrons rave about the "delicious and amazing" selections, highlighting the "unbelievable wonderful" wine list and the "tasty selection" of homemade pastas and wood-oven pizzas. Ingredients like fresh imported burrata and artisanal olive oil elevate each dish, offering a taste of Italy's regional diversity. The atmosphere is consistently praised as "very family friendly and also great for couples," making Donato Enoteca a top recommendation for anyone seeking a genuine Italian dining experience in Redwood City. Enthusiastic reviews often note the "exceptional" service and the "creative food," ensuring every visit is memorable.
A photo of Delizie restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(651)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • San Carlos
Booked 7 times today
Delizie in San Carlos is a haven for seafood lovers, offering a menu that brilliantly showcases the best of Italian coastal cuisine. Diners rave about the "seafood gnocchi" and the fresh "branzino and cod," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Reviews frequently mention the authenticity and exceptional quality of the seafood dishes, with one guest praising the "best Italian we have had outside of Italy itself!" The cozy and elegant ambiance of Delizie, combined with its attentive service, makes it a top choice for anyone craving authentic Italian seafood in a welcoming setting.
A photo of Stamp Bar & Grill restaurant
4.3
Awesome(21)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • San Carlos
Nestled in the vibrant San Carlos neighborhood, Stamp Bar & Grill epitomizes the essence of great American cuisine with a dash of global flair. Diners rave about the "fresh, organic, and delicious" ingredients that elevate each dish, from the succulent bone-in pork chop to the innovative rib eye taco appetizer. A true gem in the Bay Area, Stamp Bar & Grill is not only about food but also about creating memorable experiences. As one patron put it, "The food was amazing... and the service was attentive and pleasant." Whether it's the dog-friendly patio, the welcoming staff, or the cozy atmosphere, Stamp Bar & Grill ensures every visit is special, making it a must-visit spot on Laurel Street for anyone seeking authentic and exceptional American dining.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • lisaVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •72 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Simply a delightful place, with excellent food and great service.
    More info
    Donato EnotecaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Redwood City
    4.6
  • Ardath
    Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Food is inventive and delicious . It has a bistro vibe and is very cosy. Service was attentive but since the space is small it felt a bit rushed. The shared plates are generous. Don’t miss the oven fired bread with tapenade and the arancini.
    More info
    Back to BackPrice: Expensive• Pizzeria• Nob Hill
    4.8
  • Emiliza
    Sacramento / Sacramento Valley •6 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    We had a party of 7 dining at Delizie a few days ago. The service was friendly and very attentive by the wait staff. The restaurant is small, quaint, intimate, and cozy. Waters for the table, fresh focaccia bread, and olive tapenade were provided for our table. The bread and tapenade were exceptionally fresh and so good. We had to control ourselves from eating too much of the bread. We shared calamari fritti as an antipasti - lightly breaded calamari and carrots - delish - crispy on the outside and so tender inside. The entrees are substantial portions for our small stomachs, so we primarily shared between twos... The shared entrees were the pappardelle al salmone, fettuccine al porcini, and spaghetti alla carbonara. All the entrees tasted very good, the salmon dish was a little too salty, otherwise the rest if the entrees were well seasoned. We could tell all the pastas were freshly made. We all loved our meal... black coffee were ordered and was very smooth to taste and hot - we could tell that it didn't come from a drip coffee maker. The coffee was a nice ending to a wonderful dinner. We highly recommend Delizie.
    More info
    DeliziePrice: Expensive• Italian• San Carlos
    4.8
  • KristinaVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 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 7 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

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in San Mateo

Explore the vibrant contemporary Italian dining scene in the San Mateo neighborhood of the San Francisco Bay Area, where culinary innovation meets traditional flavors. The Peninsula's Italian restaurants are celebrated for their creative interpretations of classic dishes, featuring locally sourced ingredients and artisanal techniques. Diners can expect a diverse menu offering everything from house-made pasta and wood-fired pizzas to exquisite seafood and meat preparations. Each establishment prides itself on a unique ambiance, ranging from the sophisticated and modern to the warmly rustic, ensuring an inviting dining experience for every occasion. The region is known for its commitment to quality and authenticity, often highlighted by the personal touch of the chefs and owners who strive to make every meal memorable. This area's contemporary Italian eateries not only cater to the taste buds but also to the soul, making them must-visit destinations for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you are looking for a casual dining experience or an elegant night out, the San Mateo area delivers with exceptional service and genuine hospitality.

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo