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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(5266)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Half Moon Bay
Booked 26 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 It's Italia restaurant
2. It's Italia
4.8
Exceptional(2050)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Half Moon Bay
Booked 23 times today
At It's Italia in Half Moon Bay, the cocktail bar is a standout feature that consistently draws praise from patrons. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, the bar is manned by locally famous bartenders who craft fun and inventive cocktails, making each visit a lively social experience. Reviewers rave about the quality and creativity of the drinks, with one guest celebrating, "Our cocktails and food were also fabulous! Thank you!!" The restaurant's commitment to excellence is evident, as another diner noted, "Awesome cocktails and terrific food." It’s Italia not only promises a delightful dining experience but also an exceptional cocktail journey that complements its exquisite menu offerings perfectly.
A photo of Fattoria E Mare restaurant
3. Fattoria E Mare
4.3
Awesome(264)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Half Moon Bay
Booked 8 times today
Fattoria E Mare in Half Moon Bay offers an exceptional Italian dining experience that stands out in the Bay Area. With a focus on organic, sustainable ingredients, each dish crafted by Executive Chef Pablo Estrada resonates with authenticity and innovative flair. The restaurant's dynamic menu features standout items like the "Best tiramisu up and down the coast" and a Bucatini Alla Carbonara that leaves diners raving about its "rich and velvety texture" complemented by the "perfectly al dente pasta." Guests frequently highlight the freshness of the seafood, with dishes like the Pan Seared Day Boat Scallops Alla Limone described as a harmonious blend of flavors that are "artfully arranged" and "seared to perfection." The atmosphere, described as a "warm hug," along with the attentive service, makes Fattoria E Mare not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience, highly recommended by locals and visitors alike.
A photo of Mezza Luna Restaurant restaurant
4. Mezza Luna Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3426)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Half Moon Bay
Booked 20 times today
Dive into the delectable depths of oceanic flavors at Mezza Luna Restaurant, a beacon of seafood excellence in historic Half Moon Bay. Nestled in the Princeton Inn building, Mezza Luna has been enchanting diners for over 30 years with its authentic Italian offerings and pristine seafood dishes. Locals and visitors rave about specialties like the Insalata Mezza Luna, brimming with fresh marinated seafood, and the Ravioli Mezza Luna, stuffed with a succulent seafood mix. Awarded as the Best Italian and Overall Restaurant, the establishment ensures every dish sings with freshness. As one diner put it, “The fresh branzino was cooked perfectly,” highlighting Mezza Luna’s commitment to quality and the authentic seaside dining experience. Whether you’re in for a cozy evening by the fireplace or a scenic meal overlooking the harbor, Mezza Luna promises a culinary journey that’s both delightful and memorable.
A photo of Pausa Bar & Cookery restaurant
5. Pausa Bar & Cookery
4.7
Exceptional(1836)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • San Mateo
Booked 41 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 Il Fornaio - Burlingame restaurant
6. Il Fornaio - Burlingame
4.4
Awesome(4427)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Burlingame
Booked 51 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 Pinstripes - San Mateo restaurant
7. Pinstripes - San Mateo
4.4
Awesome(29)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • San Mateo
Booked 10 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.
A photo of Vivace - Belmont restaurant
8. Vivace - Belmont
4.7
Exceptional(2384)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Belmont
Booked 31 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.
A photo of Trapeze Restaurant - Burlingame restaurant
9. Trapeze Restaurant - Burlingame
4.8
Exceptional(1179)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Burlingame
Booked 17 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 Rocca Ristorante restaurant
10. Rocca Ristorante
4.8
Exceptional(1736)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Burlingame
Booked 16 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.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • OpenTable Diner
    California Central Coast •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We have been there 3 times now and every single time the food was exceptional. Every single item we have ordered salads, soup, appetizers, main courses and desserts were seasoned to perfection. I don't know how they do it, but it is always perfect. I fancy myself as quite a cook, but I am so impressed with their palates. The service is great, also, always there when you need them.
    More info
    Pasta MoonPrice: Moderate• Italian• Half Moon Bay
    •
    4.7
  • JoAnne
    San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We were seated promptly from friendly and professional staff . The food was exceptional and your staff was exceptional as well. Perfect place to eat when we are staying in town. Always are recommended to our friends.
    More info
    Mezza Luna RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Italian• Half Moon Bay
    •
    4.7
  • Vivekananda
    New York City •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    This restaurant was a great little find. Great food, great staff and ambience. Really cute little find.
    More info
    Pausa Bar & CookeryPrice: Expensive• Italian• San Mateo
    •
    4.7
  • Annevip
    San Francisco Bay Area •22 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 13, 2024
    Such a delightful place! A group of 8 ladies met there today for lunch. It was a warm and cozy spot on a drizzly day. Our server was a delight: friendly and welcoming, professional yet completely charming. She provided great insight on the dishes. The food and service were spot on. We will definitely be back. Don’t miss this restaurant!
    More info
    It's ItaliaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Half Moon Bay
    •
    4.8
  • Jimvip
    San Francisco Bay Area •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 12, 2024
    The entire experience was wonderful. Knowledgeable staff. Excellent cosmopolitan cocktail. Pacing of the food was also excellent. We had the Tagliarini and Branzino and both were outstanding!
    More info
    Fattoria E MarePrice: Expensive• Italian• Half Moon Bay
    •
    4.3

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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