Sole Ristorante Italiano

69 37th Ave, San Mateo, CA 94403, United States
$$$ Italian restaurant
(366 Reviews)
Price Range $30–50

If you find yourself in San Mateo, California, a culinary journey awaits you at Sole Ristorante Italiano. This charming Italian restaurant, nestled at 69 37th Ave, offers an authentic taste of Italy that transports diners straight to the sun-drenched streets of Sicily. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, whether you opt for the tent-covered sidewalk dining with ample heaters or enjoy the warmth inside the restaurant itself.

Sole Ristorante Italiano is renowned for its traditional Sicilian cuisine, crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu is a celebration of Italian flavors, featuring standout dishes that are sure to please any palate. Indulge in the Pollo al Marsala, where tender chicken scaloppine is enriched with earthy mushrooms and a decadent Marsala wine cream sauce – a dish that embodies comfort and sophistication for just $29.50. Alternatively, the Maiale Con Pancetta offers an irresistible pork tenderloin wrapped in savory pancetta and sage, finished with a rich brown sauce for $30.50.

Vegetarian options also shine with the Parmigiana di Melanzane, a layered masterclass in flavors featuring eggplant, aromatic basil, and a luscious tomato sauce—all for $25. Each dish reflects Chef Mario's passion for Sicilian heritage, as echoed by delighted diners like Noah Machtinger, who praises the “satisfying and fresh” meals that keep guests returning time and again.

As you savor your meal, don’t forget to browse the dessert selections. The Tiramisu, a traditional delight, is an exquisite finale—layered lady fingers soaked in espresso and mascarpone, dusted with cocoa powder, all for $11. Or perhaps, indulge in the delightful Sfogliatina di Mele, where filo dough embraces warm apples and vanilla gelato, creating a heavenly experience that requires patience, as it’s made fresh to order.

Guest reviews reflect the inviting atmosphere at Sole; A McEnroe cherishes it as her father’s favorite birthday spot, appreciating the balance in the menu that caters to both varied and familiar tastes without overwhelming diners. Furthermore, Mitch Stewart describes it as a “culinary destination tucked away on a fun little side street,” emphasizing the consistent quality of the food and the pleasant service from the attentive staff, always ready with a smile.

While some guests have pointed out that the romantic back patio is no longer in operation, the delightful front sidewalk patio offers a warm and protected dining experience, especially appreciated during the winter months. Regardless of your dining choice, the convivial atmosphere, coupled with friendly staff like Karen and her team, ensures a memorable visit.

Sole Ristorante Italiano is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that envelops you in the warmth of Italian hospitality. So, gather your loved ones and make your reservation today for a truly enchanting night at one of the best-kept secrets of San Mateo. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a special dinner—it promises to be a delightful treat for your taste buds.

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has great wine list
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Romantic
Crowd
Family friendly
Good for groups
Planning
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Somewhat difficult to find a space
Openings Hours
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Monday

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

,

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

,

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Wednesday

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

,

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Thursday

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

,

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Friday

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

,

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Saturday

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

,

5:00 PM - 9:30 PM

Sunday

Closed

366 Reviews
Keokia P

08 Sep 2025

Biggest disappointment was the misleading romantic photo of the back patio and tent, which has not been set up for a couple years, since the pandemic concern has eased. Luckily, there’s still a front outdoor area, tented on front sidewalk, with great heaters (I did not smell propane) for those who can’t afford to get sick during major high-level viral season. Protected and comfy enough with a nice breeze despite high around 57 outside. Luckily for us, wasn’t busy so carved a comfy niche with great company. The beautiful crown jewel of Sole Ristorante is the woman who must be Karen, owner, waiter, “busboy!” Welcoming, personable, fun, highly accommodating and attentive, no airs, no accent, no problem—even when we continued chatting long after lunch hours! 6 stars! She’s certainly worth returning for! :) Admittedly, I’ve dined enough Michelin-type dining over the years to have, arguably, a semi-food-snobbish frame of reference when I review. This is a good down-to-earth home-cooked Italian rendering. The complimentary bread was ok, but the complementary sundried tomato olive oil “confit” was lovely. The mozzarella tomato caprese over spring mix appetizer was a good 3.5. My cioppino was a solid 4.5 with three nice garlic toasts, cooked the right amount, delectable garlic olive oil tomato broth with great seasoning, good-size salmon chunks seemingly farm-raised. (I did not hear comments about my pals’ linguini vongole, picture-perfect rigatoni bolognese, or plump spinach-filled ravioli of a semi-particular diner—but all was readily consumed!) I was impressed by the large neat tiramisu (4), delicious vanilla ice cream (4.5-5)—partly with affogato (3.5, decaf on request), then more with apple turnover (4). My caff latte 4.5-5 … yum+lovely! I appreciated the impressive selection of coffee/espresso. Easy free street parking! You get a bit of the gist of the 3-4 atmosphere by the posted photos, other than the now-defunct back-patio gala. I was not enthralled by the unisex restroom in the back of the kitchen, but I’ve def seen worse—so maybe skip that if possible? $30-$50 pp on avg sounds right. Id be happy eating that cioppino virtually everyday :) Grazie, Karen!!!

Noah Machtinger

03 Aug 2025

Food is exceptional and true to its Sicilian heritage. Always a joy to visit chef Mario and his pleasant staff. The food is just so satisfying and fresh. We love this place and look forward to every visit.

A McEnroe

01 Aug 2025

My dad’s favorite place to celebrate his birthday! Delicious homemade pasta, fresh green salads, and just enough variety on the menu where there is something for everyone… but not too much where you feel overwhelmed. Service is great and the wait time for your meal is perfect. Always a hit!

Mitch Stewart

28 Jul 2025

A delicious culinary destination tucked away on a fun little side street in San Mateo. The food here is fresh and bright. I’ve visited a dozen times over the years and never been disappointed. My favorites are the special dishes they have every day but also the regular items like pork tenderloin and spaghetti with meatballs. The desserts are yummy and they have an extensive wine list.

Loloni Danozeya

14 Jul 2025

Brought by kins who are regulars here. They knew the owner, Karen, the waitress & the busboy'. We were welcomed and brought to our table, there were groups pf diners office workers. People here know the owner & the waitress was very nice. I ordered pork tenderloin (VG) linguini ale vongole, flat iron steak & salad. All were very good. We also ordered deserts which were all excellent. Highly recommended

Tee Ponsukcharoen

02 Jul 2025

Solid Italian restaurant in the Peninsula Area. The staff is kind and attentive. We love the warm and soft bread with the tomato based dip. The burrata and tomato is good, a bit too simple in my opinion, but it is not bad. The dishes we enjoyed the most are the pasta. It is freshly made, noodle perfectly cooked, with the sauce packed with flavors. Both beef and lamb sauces are delicious. The chicken scalloped is good but it is nothing compared to the pasta. So definitely get the pasta if you need to pick just one. If you are craving for authentic pasta, this place is right for you.

Aaronray Antonio

23 Jun 2025

A hidden gem! I have never had such a delicious red sauce for dipping such a tasty soft bread! Definitely worth going back for the steak!

Totoro E. T.

30 May 2025

One of the better Italian restaurant in the area. The owner is from Italy and their food reflects his region of Italy. If you go during the weekend, make sure you make a reservations before you go.

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