Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown San Mateo, Pausa Bar & Cookery offers a chic yet approachable Italian dining experience. This stylish trattoria is celebrated for its wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas, and a thoughtfully curated cocktail menu, all crafted with Northern California’s freshest ingredients. Whether you’re a foodie craving authentic Italian flavors or a digital nomad seeking a lively spot to unwind, Pausa delivers a memorable meal in a modern, warm atmosphere.
Pausa's menu features standout items that delight the senses — the perfectly executed duck with crispy skin is a crowd favorite, tender and bursting with flavor. The wood-fired pizzas impress with their thin, chewy crusts and inventive toppings. Don’t miss the rich burrata paired with roasted beets, pomegranate seeds, and pistachios, or the fried raviolini that delivers the ideal crispy bite. Complement your meal with expertly mixed cocktails or an extensive selection of Italian wines for a complete culinary journey.
The design balances upscale sophistication with a welcoming vibe that suits both casual dinners and special occasions. Guests relish the lively bar area and the outdoor patio, perfect for warm California evenings. Service is a highlight here, with attentive and knowledgeable staff who ensure every visit exceeds expectations. Whether you’re celebrating with a group or enjoying a quiet meal, Pausa’s team makes you feel right at home.
Pausa Bar & Cookery is highly regarded for its authentic Italian dishes, attentive service, and inviting ambiance. Diners frequently praise the fresh ingredients, the perfectly balanced flavors, and the professionalism of the staff, cementing Pausa’s reputation as a must-visit destination in San Mateo.
- Dine-in, takeout and delivery services: Enjoy your meal at the restaurant or from the comfort of your home.
- Outdoor seating: Relax and dine al fresco on the charming patio.
- Reservations accepted: Book your table easily via OpenTable or phone.
- Parking options: Paid garage and street parking available nearby.
- Payment methods: Accepts credit, debit, and NFC payments.
- What are the operating hours of Pausa Bar & Cookery? Pausa operates Monday through Thursday from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM, Fridays and Saturdays until 9:30 PM, and Sundays until 8:30 PM.
- Is there outdoor seating available? Yes, the restaurant offers a lovely patio area for outdoor dining.
- Does the restaurant accept reservations? Yes, reservations can be made via OpenTable or by phone.
- Is there a dress code at Pausa Bar & Cookery? The dress code is business casual.
- Does the restaurant offer takeout or delivery services? Yes, both takeout and delivery are available for your convenience.
Nestled in the heart of downtown San Mateo, Pausa Bar & Cookery stands as a vibrant beacon of authentic Italian cuisine. Since opening its doors in 2018, this stylish trattoria has been delighting food lovers with wood-fired pizzas, Italian mains, and expertly crafted cocktails. The restaurant's co-founder and executive chef, Andrea Giuliani, hailing from the Veneto region of Italy, brings over three decades of culinary mastery to the Bay Area, infusing every dish with genuine Italian flavors and techniques.
The year 2018 marked a significant milestone as Pausa Bar & Cookery opened its doors to eager diners seeking a fresh take on Italian dining in San Mateo. Almost immediately, its commitment to quality and authenticity earned it the prestigious Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence, highlighting its exceptional wine program that perfectly complements its cuisine.
Pausa's dedication to delivering an authentic Italian dining experience did not go unnoticed. In 2022, the restaurant earned a coveted mention in the MICHELIN Guide, a testament to its quality and service. Building on this momentum, Pausa proudly received the MICHELIN Bib Gourmand award in 2023, recognizing it as an outstanding establishment offering excellent food at moderate prices.
Pausa Bar & Cookery offers a lively and upscale yet approachable atmosphere perfect for casual dinners, special occasions, or enjoying fresh Italian fare with friends and family. Diners rave about standout dishes like the perfectly roasted duck with crispy skin and innovative items such as the wood-fired pizzas with thin, chewy crusts and inventive toppings. The restaurant’s expertly curated cocktail menu and wine selection enhance every meal, providing a well-rounded culinary adventure.
- 2018 Pausa Bar & Cookery opens in San Mateo, launching its journey of culinary excellence.
- 2018 Receives Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence, highlighting its superior wine collection.
- 2022 Earns recognition in the prestigious MICHELIN Guide, affirming its culinary quality.
- 2023 Awarded the MICHELIN Bib Gourmand, celebrating its excellent food at great value.
Nestled in downtown San Mateo, Pausa Bar & Cookery stands out as a stylish trattoria that masterfully balances authentic Italian flavors with a modern, inviting atmosphere. Known for its wood-fired pizzas, meticulously crafted Italian mains, and a refined cocktail menu, this restaurant offers a culinary journey that appeals to both casual diners and special occasion guests alike.
Pausa's strengths lie in its dedication to crafting Italian cuisine from scratch, ensuring each dish bursts with traditional flavors elevated by modern techniques. The restaurant boasts an extensive selection of Italian wines, perfectly complementing the diverse menu offerings. Guests often praise the inviting and contemporary decor, which creates a warm yet upscale environment. Attentive and knowledgeable staff enhance the dining experience, providing insightful recommendations and impeccable service. For those seeking an elevated experience, the private Chef's Table offers an intimate setting to enjoy exclusive dishes prepared with care. Additionally, outdoor seating allows diners to savor their meals in a relaxed al fresco setting during pleasant weather.
While Pausa offers an exceptional dining experience, potential visitors should be aware of a few factors that might influence their visit. The restaurant positions itself at a higher price point compared to some local eateries, reflecting its quality ingredients and sophisticated preparation. Vegetarian diners may find the selection somewhat limited, as the menu emphasizes traditional Italian dishes often centered around meats and seafood. Additionally, parking in the downtown San Mateo area can be challenging during peak hours, so planning ahead for paid garage or street parking is advisable.
- Authentic Italian cuisine made from scratch: delivering traditional flavors with a modern twist.
- Extensive Italian wine selection: perfectly paired to elevate your meal.
- Inviting and modern decor: creating a warm atmosphere suitable for casual and special occasions.
- Attentive and knowledgeable staff: providing excellent service and thoughtful menu guidance.
- Private dining options including Chef's Table: ideal for an exclusive and personalized dining experience.
- Outdoor seating: allowing guests to enjoy meals in an open-air setting.
- Recognized in the MICHELIN Guide and Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence: underscoring its quality and reputation.
