San Mateo, a vibrant city nestled on the San Francisco Peninsula, is known for its diverse culinary scene.
Among the many dining options, Italian cuisine holds a special place, offering locals and visitors alike a taste of Italy’s rich culinary traditions.
From rustic trattorias to elegant dining establishments, San Mateo boasts some of the finest Italian restaurants in the Bay Area.
If you’re craving authentic pasta, wood-fired pizza, or classic Italian desserts, here are the five best Italian restaurants in San Mateo, California, that are sure to delight your taste buds.
1. Osteria Coppa
Atmosphere: Casual elegance with a modern touch
Must-Try Dish: Bucatini all’Amatriciana
Osteria Coppa is a culinary treasure in downtown San Mateo, offering a modern take on traditional Italian cuisine.
This restaurant is the perfect blend of casual elegance and contemporary dining.
Osteria Coppa’s menu is a reflection of Italy’s regional diversity, with an emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that are expertly transformed into delectable dishes.
One of the standout dishes here is the Bucatini all’Amatriciana, a classic Roman pasta dish featuring bucatini noodles coated in a smoky, spicy tomato sauce with guanciale (Italian cured pork).
The dish perfectly balances the heat of chili flakes with the richness of the pork, creating a memorable dining experience.
In addition to their pasta, Osteria Coppa’s wood-fired pizzas are a must-try, with toppings ranging from traditional Margherita to more inventive options like the Coppa pizza with spicy salami, ricotta, and honey.
The ambiance at Osteria Coppa is both inviting and sophisticated, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch with friends or an intimate dinner date.
The restaurant also boasts an impressive wine list, featuring both local Californian and Italian wines that complement the menu beautifully.
2. Café Tiramisu
Atmosphere: Cozy, intimate, and welcoming
Must-Try Dish: Lasagna Bolognese
Café Tiramisu is a charming Italian bistro that brings the warmth and flavors of Italy to the heart of San Mateo.
This cozy, family-run restaurant has earned a loyal following for its authentic Italian dishes and friendly, personalized service.
The atmosphere is intimate, with a rustic yet refined decor that makes you feel right at home.
One of the most popular dishes at Café Tiramisu is the Lasagna Bolognese. This dish is a true labor of love, featuring layers of house-made pasta sheets, rich Bolognese meat sauce, and creamy béchamel, all baked to perfection.
Each bite is a comforting reminder of traditional Italian home cooking.
Another highlight is the restaurant’s namesake dessert, the Tiramisu, which is light, creamy, and perfectly balanced with a hint of espresso and cocoa.
Whether you’re stopping by for a casual weeknight dinner or celebrating a special occasion, Café Tiramisu offers a welcoming atmosphere and dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving for Italian comfort food.
3. Spasso
Atmosphere: Warm, inviting, and lively
Must-Try Dish: Gnocchi alla Sorrentina
Located just a short drive from San Mateo in Burlingame, Spasso is a beloved Italian restaurant that’s well worth the trip.
The name “Spasso,” which means “fun” in Italian, perfectly captures the restaurant’s lively and inviting atmosphere.
With its warm decor and bustling energy, Spasso is the ideal place for a casual yet memorable dining experience.
Spasso’s menu is a delightful mix of traditional Italian dishes with a few contemporary twists.
The Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a must-try — these tender potato dumplings are baked in a rich tomato sauce with melted mozzarella, creating a dish that is both hearty and comforting.
For pizza lovers, Spasso’s wood-fired pizzas are not to be missed, offering a perfect balance of crispy crust and flavorful toppings.
The restaurant also features an extensive wine list, with a carefully curated selection of Italian and Californian wines that pair wonderfully with the menu.
Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely dinner with family or catching up with friends over a glass of wine, Spasso delivers a dining experience that’s both fun and delicious.
4. Trattoria Da Vittorio
Atmosphere: Cozy, family-friendly, and authentic
Must-Try Dish: Cacio e Pepe
Trattoria Da Vittorio, located in nearby San Carlos, is a family-owned restaurant that brings the flavors of Northern Italy to the Bay Area.
The restaurant’s namesake, Vittorio, hails from Bergamo, Italy, and his passion for authentic Italian cuisine is evident in every dish served at this cozy trattoria.
The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a family dinner or a romantic evening out.
The menu at Trattoria Da Vittorio is a celebration of Italian simplicity and tradition. The Cacio e Pepe, a Roman classic, is a standout dish.
Made with just three ingredients — Pecorino Romano cheese, black pepper, and pasta — this dish exemplifies the beauty of Italian cooking, where quality ingredients and careful preparation create something truly special.
The restaurant also offers a range of antipasti, fresh salads, and hearty main courses, all prepared with the freshest ingredients.
Trattoria Da Vittorio is also known for its warm hospitality. Vittorio and his team go out of their way to make every guest feel like part of the family, ensuring a dining experience that’s as memorable as the food.
5. Il Fornaio
Atmosphere: Elegant, sophisticated, and classic
Must-Try Dish: Tagliatelle Bolognese
Il Fornaio, located in Burlingame, just minutes from San Mateo, offers a dining experience that transports you to Italy.
This popular chain of Italian restaurants is renowned for its dedication to authentic Italian cuisine, with each location meticulously designed to reflect the charm and elegance of Italy.
At Il Fornaio, the Tagliatelle Bolognese is a must-try dish.
This classic pasta dish features broad ribbons of tagliatelle tossed in a rich and hearty Bolognese sauce made with a blend of beef, pork, and tomatoes, slowly simmered to perfection.
The result is a dish that’s both satisfying and deeply flavorful. The restaurant’s wood-fired pizzas are also a highlight, with a variety of traditional and gourmet toppings to choose from.
The ambiance at Il Fornaio is elegant yet welcoming, making it a great choice for both business lunches and romantic dinners.
The restaurant also features a bakery where guests can purchase freshly baked bread, pastries, and other Italian treats to enjoy at home.
San Mateo’s Italian dining scene offers something for everyone, from casual bistros to elegant fine dining establishments.
Each of these five restaurants brings its unique flair to traditional Italian cuisine, ensuring that no matter where you choose to dine, you’ll be treated to a delicious and authentic experience.
Whether you’re in the mood for a simple plate of pasta or a full-course Italian feast, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you planning your next visit.
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