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Best Italian Restaurants in Half Moon Bay

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25 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Pasta Moon restaurant
1. Pasta Moon
4.7
Exceptional(5300)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Half Moon Bay
Booked 63 times today
Nestled in the picturesque Half Moon Bay, Pasta Moon is a shining beacon of Farm-to-table cuisine, celebrated for its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients. With over 30 years of culinary excellence, this beloved restaurant has earned a reputation for offering "the best Italian dining experience on the coast" without breaking the bank. Guests rave about the exceptional seasonal dishes like the pumpkin tempura and homemade pasta, which highlight the vibrant flavors of local produce. The cozy ambiance, attentive service, and beautifully restored setting create a memorable dining experience that "exceeds expectations." Pasta Moon truly embodies the essence of authentic Farm-to-table dining.
A photo of It's Italia restaurant
2. It's Italia
4.7
Exceptional(2065)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Half Moon Bay
Booked 25 times today
Nestled in the heart of Half Moon Bay, It’s Italia is renowned for its vibrant cocktail bar that perfectly complements its exquisite California-Italian cuisine. The bar, staffed by “locally famous bartenders,” crafts cocktails that are as creative as they are delicious, with the lavender lemon drop being a standout favorite among patrons. Guests rave about the "great drinks" and "fun cocktails," making the bar an ideal spot for a lively night out. Whether you're enjoying a refreshing cocktail in their beautiful Tuscan-style courtyard or inside with a warm ambiance, It’s Italia promises a cocktail experience that is both memorable and delightful.
A photo of Fattoria E Mare restaurant
3. Fattoria E Mare
4.4
Awesome(277)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Half Moon Bay
Booked 8 times today
Fattoria E Mare in Half Moon Bay offers an extraordinary seafood dining experience that delights the senses. Known for its "exceptional and well-executed menu," the restaurant is a treasure trove for seafood enthusiasts. Guests rave about the "perfectly cooked" branzino and the delectable seafood platter, which includes a feast of branzino, calamari, steamed clams, and mussels. Executive Chef Pablo Estrada's commitment to freshness and authenticity is evident in every dish, making each visit "absolutely outstanding." The ambiance, paired with attentive service, ensures a memorable dining adventure that will undoubtedly have you eager to return.
A photo of Mezza Luna Restaurant restaurant
4. Mezza Luna Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3459)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Half Moon Bay
Booked 30 times today
Mezza Luna Restaurant in Half Moon Bay is a culinary gem offering an authentic Mediterranean dining experience that delights locals and visitors alike. Renowned for its "consistently excellent" food and ambiance, the restaurant has been celebrated as the best Italian and overall dining spot. Guests rave about the "delectable" clam linguine and house-made gnocchi, while the seafood pasta is a standout favorite. The commitment to using fresh, local ingredients ensures each dish bursts with flavor, capturing the true essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether enjoying a romantic evening by the fireplace or a festive family gathering, Mezza Luna promises a delightful experience.
A photo of Pausa Bar & Cookery restaurant
5. Pausa Bar & Cookery
4.7
Exceptional(1852)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • San Mateo
Booked 52 times today
Pausa Bar & Cookery in San Mateo is the epitome of Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering an authentic and unforgettable dining experience. With a menu that features house-made pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and house-cured meats, every dish is crafted with precision and passion. Guests rave about the "creative and delicious" offerings, with the squid ink spaghetti and lamb porchetta being standout choices. The restaurant's commitment to Italian authenticity extends to its "exclusively and properly Italian" wine list, making it a haven for wine enthusiasts. Coupled with "impeccable service" and a "vibrant atmosphere," Pausa promises a memorable pause from the everyday hustle.
A photo of Vivace - Belmont restaurant
6. Vivace - Belmont
4.7
Exceptional(2390)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Belmont
Booked 15 times today
Vivace - Belmont is a vibrant culinary gem that perfectly captures the essence of Northern Italy with its exceptional Pizza Bar. Nestled in the charming town of Belmont, this lively restaurant has garnered glowing reviews from patrons who rave about the "amazing food and service" and claim it has the "best pizza I've had in years." The kitchen's dedication to authentic Italian flavors is evident in every slice, making it a standout choice for pizza aficionados. The combination of a warm ambiance, a talented culinary team, and an award-winning wine list ensures that every visit to Vivace is a memorable delight.
A photo of Il Fornaio - Burlingame restaurant
7. Il Fornaio - Burlingame
4.5
Awesome(4459)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Burlingame
Booked 42 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 Rocca Ristorante restaurant
8. Rocca Ristorante
4.9
Exceptional(1756)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Burlingame
Booked 14 times today
Rocca Ristorante in Burlingame captivates guests with its exquisite blend of Northern Italian cuisine and Californian influences, creating a dining experience that is both authentic and innovative. Known for its "phenomenal food" and "consistently top-notch service," Rocca stands out in the San Francisco Bay Area, a region celebrated for culinary excellence. The restaurant's signature Osso Bucco and tantalizing house-made pastas are must-tries, reflecting its dedication to quality and flavor. With a stunning Tuscan-inspired setting and a wine selection that impresses connoisseurs, Rocca Ristorante offers a vibrant yet sophisticated atmosphere that makes it a favorite dining destination for Californians.
A photo of Pinstripes - San Mateo restaurant
9. Pinstripes - San Mateo
4.3
Awesome(37)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • San Mateo
Booked 5 times today
Pinstripes - San Mateo is a superb destination for authentic American cuisine, blending the best of traditional flavors with a modern twist. Located in the heart of San Mateo, it offers an exceptional dining experience with its delicious scratch-made Italian-American dishes. The restaurant is celebrated for its "fabulous food" and "spectacular service," making it the perfect spot for everything from corporate gatherings to a family brunch. Diners rave about the "mouthwatering omelette station" and "hot, crispy and fluffy waffles" at the famous weekend bottomless brunch buffet. Whether you're enjoying a meal or engaging in modern bowling and bocce, Pinstripes promises an unforgettable culinary adventure!
A photo of Trapeze Restaurant - Burlingame restaurant
10. Trapeze Restaurant - Burlingame
4.6
Exceptional(1188)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Burlingame
Booked 5 times today
Trapeze Restaurant in Burlingame is a beacon of authentic French cuisine, expertly crafted by the talented Chef Jose Rodriguez, who brings his extensive experience from Michelin Star-awarded kitchens in the Bay Area. Known for his creative flair, Chef Rodriguez delights diners with a menu that balances approachable simplicity and sophisticated elegance. Guests rave about the “outstanding” food and “impeccable” service, describing it as a “cut above” the rest. The restaurant's warm, welcoming atmosphere complements the exquisite flavors, making each dining experience truly special. Trapeze Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking genuine French culinary excellence.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Meta
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Excellent food and attentive service. Fun evening that started at the bar with great cocktails and conversation with the bartenders. We enjoyed our meal in the private room with just one other table being served. Great night!
    More info
    Pasta MoonPrice: Moderate• Italian• Half Moon Bay
    •
    4.7
  • Glenda
    San Francisco Bay Area •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Always a delightful experience dining at Mezzaluna! Great service, delicious food, nice ambiance. Long time returning customers.
    More info
    Mezza Luna RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Italian• Half Moon Bay
    •
    4.7
  • Claudia
    San Francisco Bay Area •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    The service and food was excellent & decor very warm and inviting. Our server Duncan was very attentive and made sure we were well taken care of. I highly recommend Its Italia!
    More info
    It's ItaliaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Half Moon Bay
    •
    4.7
  • KristinaVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 25, 2024
    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
  • MicheleVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 24, 2024
    This place is one of the best kept secrets for food, service and ambiance in Half Moon Bay. Our party of 8 enjoyed a wonderful night! The large charcuterie and cheese platter was delicious and fun to share. My son's steak and the delicate layered potato and cheese au gratin on the side were exceptional. The homemade bread disappeared fast and so did my husband's seafood pasta. Also outstanding, the gluten-free pizza dough, homemade. Everyone was friendly and made our evening special. We'll be back again soon!
    More info
    Fattoria E MarePrice: Expensive• Italian• Half Moon Bay
    •
    4.4

Discover best Italian restaurants in Half Moon Bay

Discover the essence of Italian cuisine in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, specifically in the picturesque locale of Half Moon Bay on the Peninsula. This region is celebrated for its vibrant dining scene, offering a rich array of Italian eateries that masterfully blend traditional flavors with local ingredients. From the freshest seafood to homemade pastas, the Italian restaurants in this area are known for their authentic dishes and innovative culinary approaches. Each establishment prides itself on using high-quality, locally-sourced produce, ensuring every meal is both delicious and responsibly crafted. Patrons consistently praise the warm, welcoming atmospheres and the attentive service that enhances the dining experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring these Italian gems provides a delightful gastronomic journey through one of the most scenic parts of California. If you're seeking a genuine taste of Italy coupled with exceptional service and a picturesque setting, the Italian restaurants in Half Moon Bay are your must-visit destinations.

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