Pausa Bar & Cookery

Name: Pausa Bar & Cookery
Address: 223 E 4th Ave, San Mateo, California, 94401, US
Telephone: (650) 375-0818
Price range: $$
Rating: 4.3

$$$ • Italian, Pizza, Cocktail Bar

Hours:
223 E 4th Ave, San Mateo
(650) 375-0818

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About Pausa Bar & Cookery

Pausa Bar & Cookery is a modern Italian restaurant that offers an innovative and flavorful dining experience. The dishes are expertly prepared, showcasing a variety of textures and aromas, with a strong focus on fresh seasonal ingredients. The quality of everything is excellent for the price, providing top-quality food and service without the Michelin star price tag. The menu is creative and not stuck in traditional ways, featuring tasty and visually appealing options like salumi and cheese boards that customers look forward to every time. The house-made charcuterie is outstanding, especially the finocchiona and salame al parmigiano. The crab and shrimp ravioli is generous and delicious, while the risotto is rich and creamy without being heavy. Cocktails are bright and creative, and the service is warm, professional, and attentive without being intrusive. The ambiance strikes the right balance between upscale and comfortable, making it feel like a cozy meal at a good friend's house.

Located in a busy area, Pausa is perfect for a summer evening outing. The menu includes traditional Italian dishes along with homemade wood-fired pizzas, and they offer an extensive wine list, although wines are priced higher. The pizzas, made with dough matured for 72 hours, are a highlight, and the outdoor seating in the parklet adds to the experience. Customers enjoy the scallop crudos and the prawn bisque, which adds umami to the dish. The ricotta cheesecake is a favorite—not too sweet, allowing the cheese flavor to shine, complemented by peach compote.

Pausa also offers a mix of all Italian cuisines, creating a fusion atmosphere. The modern and chic setting makes for a lovely dining environment, whether inside or outside. The staff provides exceptional hospitality, creating a friendly atmosphere. However, there are moments when assistance is hard to find. Overall, the experience is impressive for casual dining. While some dishes may feel inconsistent, the excellent service remains the main highlight. For those expecting authentic Italian cuisine, there may be more focused options elsewhere, but for a casual, modern setting, Pausa offers a pleasant experience.