13 Best Italian Restaurants in San Luis Obispo

“We were immediately greeted and seated (we made reservations online in advance)... our waitress greeted us within a short period of time and took our cocktail order... I'm happy they offer my favorite wine, Austin Hope Cabernet by the glass... I've only known Ember to offer it!... My son ordered a Ni Rada? Martini that tasted how I imagine a household cleaner to taste, he reluctantly sucked it down... we didn't bother to complain but we wouldn't recommend it... he later ordered a Paper Plane Martini which he liked better... After reading other reviews, I see we didn't get the initial bread w/Ricotta offering, probably for the best since we've cut down on gluten and wanted to try a pasta dish... We started with a (not pictured) POLPETTE (large meatball) and it was moist, flavorful, & yummy... alongside PAPPARDELLE RAGU, I was hesitant about it due to not being a fan of lamb... however, it was cooked perfectly without any hint of the game flavor I dislike... my only complaint is there isn't a gluten-free pasta substitute option... It may not be Michelin standard... but it would be great to have some gluten-free Ancient Harvest pasta with any of those yummy ragu/pasta sauces available for the many people with gluten sensitivities... MARY'S 1/2 CHICKEN was flavorful and yummy with the silky mashed potatoes... and the melt-in-your-mouth OSSO BUCCO and tasty polenta did not disappoint!... The atmosphere is cozy with home-style elegance... From the initial welcoming greeting, the friendly & timely food service, the "in-tune" staff that directs you to the restroom without having to ask, the constant spotting of Nate's friendly smile as he ensures his operations are running smooth and the thanks for your patronage as you leave... our experience was pleasantly memorable... This was my 2nd visit to Nate's... the first time I had the pork chop which was flavorful, tender and simply superb... We will return!“

“When I Go through SLO.. Tiki hut., is a Treat Destination. Glen and Crystal.. are always Accommodating 💯💯 the Yaki Bowls are .,. 💯👍♥️❤️🙂 and the service is Like family. ♥️💯👍💗⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐“

“I had the hot pastrami sooo good 👍“

“Great server, great food and atmosphere!“

“The place is a gem in downtown San Luis Obispo. Great food. Amazing service and phenomenal cuisine. I suggest the Escargot as a starter and the rest of the food options will not disappoint the lover of the fine dining experience. Highly recommend.“

“If you like wood-fired pizza this is the place, with a variety of excellent choices. They go out of their way to make you happy, and it's always an amazing food experience. You can taste their passion for making quality food in every order. Where American Gourmet meets Old World Italian style. This place makes me feel like I'm eating pizza in Napoli. I'm always skeptical about Lasagna, but my friend made me try it and honestly, it's not bad.“

“Everything was wonderful. Difficultu these days to find a restaurant that provides great service and food at a great price. Cafe Roma -does exactly that. We had a wonderful server named Grace!! She was incredible. Corkage fee was extremely reasonable. Room was crowded with many people all enjoying the wonderful friendly atmosphere. Food was spot on. From bread service through to dessert. We will definitely be back to finding this amazing gem to still enjoy classy dining out without breaking the bank.“

“Still great! Nico and his staff do great things on a regular basis with food and people. I eat ther often and would recommend this restaurant to all! Special appetizers, incredible pasta dishes and amazing desserts. Dont miss the pizzas.“

“Awesome food, they have one of my favorite dishes: butternut squash ravioli with a white sauce. I finish the whole plate even if I’m so full I could pop! Outstanding service and a great atmosphere. I love Giuseppe’s 💖“

“This olive garden is pretty standard Olive Garden. I suggest the chicken shrimp carbonara, chicken marsala, zuppa toscana soup, and dipping donuts. 👌 The waitress I had this day was loud and distant seeming, but she ended up visiting frequently and getting food to the table quickly. So it was a pretty good visit. 👍“

“Great service and great Pizza 🍕“

“Fantastic service , quality food !“

“Best crust I have had in years“