La Lanterna Ristorante

I always appreciate when outdoor space is accommodated--we had tables outside, even though it was just on the sidewalk in front of the restaurant (there is no established parklet or terrace space). The prices felt a bit high for the food, which was good but not great. Additionally, each of the mains came out at quite staggered times, so some members of our party waited quite a while from the time their plate was dropped, to when the final persons was, before they started to eat. It was a good meal, but nothing spectacular.

This is our go-to spot for great Italian food. They're the best! Staff is friendly, food is delicious, and ambience is warm and inviting. What more could you want?

Once again La Lanterna was spectacular! Today for lunch I brought my Northern Italian aunt who was in her time the best Italian cook around. To find anywhere that serves polenta as delicious is not possible. The fried triangles are crispy on the outside while soft and tender inside. The delicate mushroom mascarpone cream sauce is such a compliment it's a crime not to scrape every drop on the plate with the warm bread. I did refrain myself and already regret it. My aunt was thrilled to see much an offering on the menu. Our calamari was done to perfection with a delicate crumb that did not over power the texture or taste. Two sauce options were served a cilantro aioli or tangy cocktail sauce . Both offered a different experience. Our server Hector was spot on making sure we were comfortable the whole time. I had asked the day before for special accommodations for my elderly aunt and they seated us in a lovely booth so we could be side to side. It was so warm and cozy inside it's hard not to over stay your welcome. Seating is not over crowded so conversation is easy and pleasant. Although we had a very light meal this time they prove over and over again consistent delicious food with a pleasant atmosphere. Hector again made this special time for us even more perfect. Until we see you for our anniversary in two weeks we thank you all again for providing such a perfect afternoon!

Totally enjoyed the array of food I had here for a friend's birthday party. The restaurant has a private room that is reservable and it provides a cozy setting for a private function - and they do accommodate if you wanted your party to start a little earlier so you could get settle in and also have some time for group pictures before other dinner patrons arrives. From the mista salad, to the milk fed veal tortellini, the pan roasted salmon with crab mashed potatoes to the gelato, it was all very good. Definitely will be back for special occasions or if I wanted a nice meal.

Phenomenal dinner with friends. La Lanterna focuses on ensuring their customers have a wonderful experience. The food was amazing with authentic Italian cuisine as it's been from the beginning. We feel like family and part of this local Italian-family run gem.

Neighborhood gem. Great food and service reasonable prices. On street parking usually pretty easy.

Delicious meal at La Lanterna...place is spacious, welcoming with a variety of dishes of appetizers, pastas, meats, salads to choose from that it was hard to decide what to get.Ordered: :: Calamari Fritti - whole calamari lightly dusted, seasoned and fried just right accompanied with cocktail sauce and a horseradish/mustard - 4.5 / 5 :: Tortolloni - housemade with veal, spinach, ricotta in a rich, creamy marsala sauce - lick your dish delicious! - 5/5 :: Squid Ink pasta with clams, shrimp - good dish but preferred my friends tortollloni! Dishes were all nicely prepared with great flavors...ended up with 1/2 my dish packed. Friend wanted dessert but next time will have it to-go as we left quite full! Wonderful dining experience with our server Michael taking care of us with old- school customer service.5 star for the dishes, service and welcoming atmosphere this visit. I would definitely return again as there are plenty of dishes to try along with a repeat of the housemade tortolloni! Plenty of street parking with 4 tables available for outside dining. Approx $60/person with 2 drinks, tax and tip

The best gnocchi I have ever had. Every time I come back to the Bay, if I want good Italian food, I come here.The sauce is delicious. It's flavorful and has a great umami flavor. They also serve perfect portions. The dish is sure to fill you up, but you'll still be wanting to eat the rest even if you're already full haha.Their bruschetta is also phenomenal. I love the decor inside. Very traditional and kinda upscale? I love the Italian paintings on the walls.Service is always really professional, attentive, and quick.

From the greeting and seating our experience at La Lanterna was a stellar experience Our Main server Merrick,got Everything Perfect for us! The 2 dishes we ordered were wonderful, the presentation, the flavor and that the food was hot when it was served..... We enjoyed our meal and topped it off with a the double crème brûlée which was delicious....We are highly recommending La Lanterna for a Top Shelf Italian Restaurant in SanMateo,Ca

Delicious food, great atmosphere and excellent service. This restaurant always impresses.