Pausa Bar & Cookery menu overview in san mateo ca 94401 usa italian dining experience downtown san mateo fresh italian cuisine wood-fired pizzas seafood saffron pasta artisanal starters desserts cocktails wine beer modern trattoria upscale approachable chef's table option gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights gourmet italian food delights
Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown San Mateo, Pausa Bar & Cookery offers a truly exceptional Italian dining experience. Known for its balance between an upscale and welcoming atmosphere, this stylish trattoria showcases a menu rich with authentic Italian flavors and Northern California’s finest ingredients. Whether you're craving wood-fired pizzas, savory pastas, or inventive starters, Pausa brings a modern twist to traditional Italian cuisine, making it a favored spot for food lovers and trend-conscious travelers alike.
starters
Begin your meal with a selection of artisanal starters that highlight the kitchen’s dedication to fresh, bold flavors. The House Made Focaccia, infused with fragrant rosemary and drizzled with rich olive oil, is a perfect introduction. For those seeking something more indulgent, the Roasted Bone Marrow offers a decadent blend of garlic and parsley served alongside crusty bread. A standout choice is the Burrata, paired with butternut squash puree, cranberry marmellata, porcini bread crumbs, pine nuts, chives, and Sausalito watercress, delivering a harmonious blend of creamy texture and vibrant accents.
mains
Pausa's main dishes celebrate the essence of Italian cooking with a contemporary edge. The Margherita Pizza offers a classic combination of tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil atop a thin, chewy crust fired to perfection. For a richer experience, the Porchetta Pizza combines succulent porchetta with tangy gorgonzola and slightly bitter radicchio, creating a complex flavor profile. Lovers of risotto will appreciate the Carnaroli Risotto, crafted with seasonal vegetables and parmesan for a comforting yet sophisticated dish. Seafood enthusiasts can indulge in the Saffron Casarecce, featuring saffron-infused pasta paired with fresh seafood, echoing the coastal flavors of Italy.
desserts
Complete your culinary journey with delectable desserts that provide a sweet finish to your meal. The Panna Cotta is silky smooth, made with cream, sugar, vanilla, and gelatin for a classic Italian treat. Alternatively, the Bomboloni offers a delightful twist with its fluffy dough, ricotta filling, and bright lemon zest, capturing the essence of Italian pastries.
drinks and specials
Pausa Bar & Cookery also boasts an impressive drinks selection, including expertly crafted cocktails that perfectly complement the menu's flavors. Guests can enjoy a curated list of wines and beers, enhancing the overall dining experience in a lively yet elegant setting. With options for dine-in, takeout, and delivery, Pausa caters to a variety of occasions, from casual gatherings to special celebrations, all within the vibrant downtown San Mateo neighborhood.
- House Made Focaccia starter - aromatic with rosemary and olive oil.
- Porchetta Pizza main - robust flavors from gorgonzola and radicchio.
- Saffron Casarecce main - a delightful seafood pasta with saffron notes.
- Panna Cotta dessert - creamy, classic and smooth vanilla flavor.
