14 Best Italian Restaurants in San Luis Obispo

“Nate's on Marsh offers a fantastic dining experience with exceptional food and service. The menu features standout dishes like the Octopus and Ribeye, which can be paired with a separately ordered sauce. The White Lotus drink is a highlight, and the ambiance of the old house provides an intimate setting. The staff, including the bartenders and servers, are always friendly and accommodating. Whether for a special occasion or a regular visit, Nate's on Marsh is a must-try destination.“

“Pizza Republic is a casual spot with great staff and a delicious, mostly Italian menu. They offer gluten-free options like ravioli and GF crust, along with a variety of salads. The restaurant is known for excellent pizza, pastrami sandwich, and pan-fried chicken sandwich. Vegetarian diners will find plenty of options in pizza, pastas, and salads. With fresh ingredients brought in daily, this place offers fast and friendly service at good prices. A perfect spot for deli salads, pizza, and pasta, with plenty of parking and outdoor seating available. Highly recommended for a satisfying meal.“

“Tiki Hut is a surprising gem with delicious Caribbean sauce, spicy food, and a great atmosphere. The workers are friendly and remember regular customers. The Yaki Beef Bowl is recommended for its phenomenal taste. The place embodies the name "Tiki Hut" with awesome music and atmosphere. Offering fresh, fast, healthy, and delicious meals with lots of vegetables, this restaurant is a bargain compared to others. Customers wish there was a branch in North County.“

“Buona Tavola is a must-visit Italian restaurant with amazing food and great service. The Carciofi ai petali di parmigiano salad is one of the best salads ever tried. They offer a fantastic selection of wines, including a Super Tuscan, which complements the meals perfectly. The Crema Di Vaniglia Della Buona Tavola and Fior di Seta desserts are unforgettable. While prices are on the higher side, the delicious food and warm atmosphere make it worth it. Come with a big appetite and you won't be disappointed!“

“La Locanda serves the best Italian food on the Central Coast, offering a range of delicious dishes including Arugula salad, Spaghetti Limone, and homemade gelato. The menu features many vegetarian options, and standout dishes like butternut squash ravioli and lasagna. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxed, with quality service and a simple yet pleasant decor.“

“Giuseppe's Cucina Rustica is a popular Italian restaurant in Pismo with delicious food and a nice atmosphere. They offer a variety of dishes like spaghetti and wagyu meatballs, calamari, teramisu, and pistachio cheesecake. The restaurant has a spacious interior and provides complimentary bread. Customers appreciate the great service and enjoy the traditional upscale Italian feel with music like Sinatra playing in the background. The restaurant can get busy on weekends, but the wait is worth it for the authentic and tasty Italian cuisine.“

“Cafe Roma serves amazing food, with a variety of dishes to love. The staff, including the owners, provide personal attention and friendly service. Recommended dishes include squash blossoms, Oso Bucco, Veal Marsala, lasagna, mushroom ravioli, and Salmon and shrimp piccata. Enjoy a wonderful dining experience with attentive service, though be prepared for occasional slow drink delivery.“

“Humble Oven is a great pizza place with a food market vibe, offering outdoor seating and convenient parking. The Margarita pizza with pepperoni is generously sized, making it a great choice for sharing. The crust is crispy and well-seasoned, with a taste of fresh ingredients. The salad has a good amount of cheese, but the red sauce is a bit thin. However, the pesto and pasta in both dishes are outstanding. Meatballs are solid with nice seasoning and large enough to cut in quarters. Don't forget to try their tiramisu, as it's been highly recommended as the best in SLO county, with distinctive flavors and a noticeable taste of mascarpone and chocolate dusting on top.“

“Mama's Meatball offers amazing food and fantastic service in a friendly atmosphere. Customers can enjoy delicious meatballs and seafood pasta, or try the pollo lasagna with pesto for a tasty experience. The restaurant is accommodating for gluten-free options and even offers patio seating for furry friends. Look out for Mama's Meatball on Diners Drive Ins and Dives soon!“

“Olive Garden Italian Restaurant is a popular dining destination known for its friendly and efficient servers, as well as its varied menu. The atmosphere is typically busy, but not overly loud, making it a suitable choice for various occasions. While some customers have had mixed experiences with the quality of certain dishes, such as the chicken Parmesan, the fettuccine Alfredo and the gluten-free options have been praised. Overall, the restaurant provides a generally enjoyable dining experience, with the ability to accommodate dietary restrictions and the option to take home leftovers.“

“Yolo Cannolo is a restaurant known for its delicious cannolis, which have been praised as some of the best and freshest by multiple customers. The minis have a perfect ratio of cream to crunch, while the large size is generous and flavorful. The filling's balance and the wrap's crunchiness are both highly commended. The restaurant's team, including Jeff and Emma, are appreciated for their excellent communication and seamless experience. Yolo Cannolo is a great spot for both individual visits and larger company events. Their cannolis are available at local farmers markets, and they offer chocolate chip and pistachio options, both highly rated by customers.“

“Nucci's On Broad is a wonderful gem that serves outstanding food with excellent service. The meat lasagna is a must-try, and the classic cheesecake is a highlight of the menu. This restaurant has been a consistent favorite for many years, with a lunch special featuring a salad and slice of pizza that is considered the best pizza ever. The lunch menu is highly recommended, with options like half-size sandwiches with salads and the delicious Raspberry Salad. The pizza is a standout, with high-quality toppings and a chewy texture.“

“Flour House is a fine dining Italian restaurant that offers an exquisite culinary experience. The pizza dough is light and airy, with a variety of topping options. The restaurant has a fancy atmosphere and friendly staff. Vegetarian options are clearly labeled and abundant. The owners are personable and ensure the quality and consistency of the meals are outstanding. The pasta dishes, including the clam pasta, are cooked to perfection. The pizzas have a crispy wood-fired crust and Neapolitan-style toppings. While reservations are not accepted, it's recommended to arrive early as the restaurant can get busy by 6pm.“

“Gino's Pizza SLO serves up delicious food with a focus on fresh ingredients and generous toppings. Their gluten-free options, including the gluten-free margherita pizza, are a hit with dietary restrictions. The pasta, appetizers, and salads are also yummy, making it a great spot for picky eaters. The atmosphere is family-friendly, with an arcade on the side and comfortable seating inside with TVs. The staff, including the owner, are warm and friendly, ensuring a welcoming experience. The pizzas, such as the Gino's special and calazon, are cooked to perfection and arrive hot and steamy. Overall, Gino's is a must-visit for pizza lovers, with its stellar ingredients, flavors, and service.“