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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
4.7
Exceptional(5276)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Half Moon Bay
Booked 38 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
4.8
Exceptional(2052)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Half Moon Bay
Booked 17 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
4.3
Awesome(266)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Half Moon Bay
Booked 2 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
4.7
Exceptional(3435)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Half Moon Bay
Booked 27 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
4.7
Exceptional(1837)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • San Mateo
Booked 46 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 Pinstripes - San Mateo restaurant
4.4
Awesome(32)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • San Mateo
Booked 3 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 Il Fornaio - Burlingame restaurant
4.4
Awesome(4435)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Burlingame
Booked 45 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 Vivace - Belmont restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2369)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Belmont
Booked 18 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
4.7
Exceptional(1179)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Burlingame
Booked 11 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 Pizzeria Delfina Burlingame restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(390)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Burlingame
Booked 18 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.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Stevenvip
    Philadelphia County •27 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Lasagna was fantastic. Not something I would usually order but it looked interesting on the adjacent table. Large helping was sitting in delicious sauce with sausage and cheese. Really outstanding taste. The stuffed pork chop was tender and juicy, cooked just right, surrounded with vegetables and mashed potatoes. Vegetables were crisp, not overcooked. Dessert was the lemon parfait, a mountain of sweet meringue on top of tart lemon sorbet for a tasty combination of sweet and tart tastes. The tables were spaced nicely so we didn’t feel cramped and the servers were all pleasant and attentive. Just a great dining experience.
    More info
    Pasta MoonPrice: Moderate• Italian• Half Moon Bay
    4.7
  • Lesa
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Great food, nice atmosphere in the heart of downtown. We took our son and his girlfriend and our 2 dogs for lunch. Their courtyard is dog friendly and they had many fireplaces so it was a cute and cozy atmosphere for lunch.
    More info
    It's ItaliaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Half Moon Bay
    4.8
  • Shelly
    San Francisco Bay Area •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Excellent food and drink with personal service….particularly like that the food courses came out with the proper timing
    More info
    Fattoria E MarePrice: Expensive• Italian• Half Moon Bay
    4.3
  • Chris
    San Francisco Bay Area •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Thanksgiving Day here is great. They have the traditional turkey plate if you want that--it was the nicest looking Thanksgiving plate I've ever seen--but they also have a full-range menu of fish, meat, pasta and salad. A very diverse menu for an "Italian" restaurant.
    More info
    Mezza Luna RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Italian• Half Moon Bay
    4.7
  • Margarita
    San Francisco Bay Area •5 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Dinner was very good. The music is played at a very high volume that conversation was difficult. We asked the hostess to have the music lower a bit and her response was; let me ask the manager. Volume was not lowered; we then asked our waiter and he immediately made the miracle of listening g to the request. Definitely too high of music volume.
    More info
    Pausa Bar & CookeryPrice: Expensive• Italian• San Mateo
    4.7

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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