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New Yorkers 1st Choice
San Jose's best

Salad and Italian food

A light salad before a hearty Italian meal feels like the right way to eat.

Based on 678 Opinions
+675
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Updated May 2026
01
Goodtime Bar image 1
Goodtime Bar image 2
Goodtime Bar image 3
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Wine bar

Small wine bar offers cozy patio seating and a modern interior with rattan decor and communal tables. Warm, inviting atmosphere features chill vibes and live DJ sets playing Bay Area classics. Limited seating creates an intimate setting popular for casual evenings and dates.

Fennel salad stands out with its fresh, crisp flavor and excellent preparation. Other salads like pea sprout salad add variety with their light, vibrant ingredients.

Strong, well-balanced Tom Yum pasta blends Thai flavors with Italian style. Creamy, cheesy paccheri comes with pancetta, crunchy snow peas, and garlic. Burrata and figs with brown butter add a rich, sweet touch.

People are saying

"The wine selection here is outstanding and thoughtfully curated."

"The Italian food here, especially the pastas, is creamy, cheesy, and chewy."

"I found the fennel salad to be heavenly."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Prices are around $14 per glass of wine and over $25 for food.

3

It can get crowded during peak hours, especially on weekends.

02
Pizza Maria image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small, family-owned pizzeria with cozy, vibrant atmosphere and unassuming decor. Offers arcade games and outdoor seating, creating a casual, welcoming vibe. Serves fresh, organic ingredients with a focus on thin, crispy crust pizzas and a variety of toppings.

Fresh salads come with careful preparation and attention to detail. Portions vary from small side salads paired with wine to larger servings included with meals like spaghetti.

Spaghetti stands out with excellent quality and a good portion size, served with bread and salad. Handmade pasta comes with rich, authentic sauces, while pizza and a meatball sandwich feature house-made meatballs and a Dutch crunch roll. Tiramisu uses coffee instead of amaretto, suitable for nut allergies.

People are saying

"I loved the pizza and beer in the outdoor space."

"I thought the Italian food, especially the pizza, was outstanding."

"I found the pizza and salads delicious."

Good to know

1

Pizza Maria offers a wide range of pizza toppings and other menu items.

2

The restaurant has been locally owned for 40 years, emphasizing its community roots.

3

Expect to see stray cats outside, as the restaurant cares for them.

03
Bertucelli's La Villa Gourmet image 1

Small Italian deli with tight space and a busy atmosphere filled with classic Italian charm and New York swag. Crowded during peak hours, it offers mostly takeout with a few outdoor tables and a ticket roll system. The vibe blends authentic Italian deli feel with a friendly, lively energy.

Salads come in varied sizes, starting from half a pint. Options include classic Caesar and fresh caprese, often paired with garlic bread. Salads are sold by the pound alongside sandwiches and snacks.

Raviolis stand out with beef filling and authentic taste. Lasagna and Italian sandwiches also offer solid, traditional flavors. Breads and panettone complement the menu well.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches were made with care."

"The Italian food here, especially the ravioli, is perfectly cooked and authentic."

"I picked up some delicious caprese salad and garlic bread."

Good to know

1

Customers have to get a numbered ticket and wait in line.

2

Expect a long line around lunchtime, but it moves quickly.

3

Parking in their lot is sometimes difficult due to its downtown location.

04
Island Taste Caribbean Grill image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Small, intimate space with Caribbean-themed decor and island-inspired music creates a vibrant, lively atmosphere. Outdoor tables accommodate pets, and the open floor plan offers wheelchair accessibility. Clean, cozy environment invites guests to enjoy authentic flavors in a welcoming setting.

Macaroni Salad stands out with its rich flavor. Island Salad mixes sweet cucumbers, onions, and carrots. Cucumber Salad and rice and peas have new recipes that make them absolutely amazing.

Creamy, perfectly cooked pasta stands out with creamy sauce and peppers cooked to perfection. The Vegan Rasta Pasta features phenomenal Jerk Tofu that adds a bold flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, packed with flavor, and tastes homemade."

"The Rasta Pasta is creamy and amazing."

"The Macaroni Salad was the star of the show."

Good to know

1

Ordering is at a counter at the front.

2

Expect to pay around $30 for a plate.

3

They host a great comedy show every 4th Friday of the month.

05
Angelo's Italian Restaurant image 1

Booth seating and a jukebox create an old school atmosphere with a cozy, quaint vibe. The setting is casual and welcoming, with a small business feel that draws a steady crowd. Sports games play quietly, adding to the calm and vibrant energy.

Salads come crisp and cold with every meal deal that includes soup or salad and garlic bread. They stay fresh and arrive promptly alongside other dishes.

Lasagna consistently satisfies with rich layers. The spicy sausage rigatoni stands out for bold flavor. Pasta dishes overall come out super delicious and well-prepared.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the pizza with its perfect dough."

"This small, family-run spot serves Italian food like nonna's."

"I thought the salad was always fresh and crisp."

Good to know

1

Most entrees come with soup or salad and garlic bread.

2

The meal deal with soup or salad and garlic bread makes it a great value.

3

Expect higher prices compared to typical Italian restaurants.

06
Locanda Ischia image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a cozy, upscale ambiance with colorful decor that evokes the Amalfi coast. Atmosphere feels lively and festive, often bustling with energy and a warm, welcoming vibe. Guests enjoy family-friendly settings and a spot suited for special events or romantic dinners.

Salads here come with fresh ingredients and a balanced flavor. They pair well with dishes like cacio de Pepe.

Fresh pasta dishes stand out, especially the Saffron Linguini with squash blossom and crispy pork cheeks. Classic plates like carbonara and eggplant Parmesan come highly detailed, and the Wrong Scarpariello offers a spicy twist with Calabrian chili and burrata.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the Primitivo with the Gnocchi."

"The cacio e pepe here is amazing, especially table side."

"I shared a very good Caesar salad."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back of the restaurant.

2

Reservations are recommended for special events or busy weekends.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during dinner hours.

07
Zanotto's Willow Glen Market image 1

Grocery store with wide selection of Italian products and high-end quality groceries. Atmosphere is clean and well-maintained, with a lively deli featuring fresh sandwiches and a sushi chef. Prices tend to be above average, reflecting the focus on fresh ingredients and specialty items.

Fresh made salads come from a deli with great variety and quality ingredients. The salad bar operates without a dedicated employee during busy times.

Wonderful pastas stand out here, paired with notable ice cream. Staff show limited knowledge about the variety of salami offered during Christmas.

People are saying

"This grocery store has high-end quality groceries and fresh produce."

"I loved the wonderful Italian food pastas and bakery goods here."

"I think the salads here are great."

Good to know

1

Wine pairing events occur on the first Wednesday of each month.

2

Expect higher prices for quality groceries and specialty items.

3

The deli features a variety of prepared foods and sandwiches.

08
Eos & Nyx image 1
Californian restaurant

Two-story space with lush greenery and a liquor carousel creates a luxurious, dramatic setting. Loud music and lively energy fill the room, especially during busy hours. Outdoor patio welcomes dogs, and unique features like an elevator bar add visual interest.

Tomato salad stands out with its fresh, surprising flavor. Chicken Caesar Salad features anchovies and more chicken than greens, making it hearty. Potato salad tastes fresh and well-balanced.

Lobster Tagliatelle features lobster medallions, egg pasta, parmigiano, beurre blanc sauce, and Tsar caviar for a rich, buttery taste. Duck lasagna uses green pasta layers and tiramisu stands out as a show stopper dessert.

People are saying

"The food here is creative and unique, with perfectly cooked dishes."

"The Italian food here is perfect and very tasty."

"The Chicken Caesar Salad had more chicken than salad."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

2

A $5 cake fee applies for each person if you bring your own cake.

3

Brunch costs around $50 per person, including food and drinks.

09
Jubba Somali Restaurant image 1
East African restaurant

Spacious indoor area with colorful seating and a family-friendly atmosphere welcomes groups and kids dining on the porch. The environment stays LGBTQ friendly and comfortable despite occasional noise from nearby trains. Outdoor seating options and complimentary tea add to the relaxed vibe.

Side salads come fresh and accompany main dishes well. Some plates include two side salads, adding variety. Salads pair nicely with flavorful meats and sometimes come with a spicy green sauce.

Somali pasta features prominently, often served with chicken or goat on a sports plate. Dishes mix spaghetti and rice, with rice standing out as especially tasty.

People are saying

"The Sweet Spicy tea was delicious."

"The beef suqaar's tender, juicy meat is complemented by the salad."

"I thought the Italian food here was amazing."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available at Jubba Somali Restaurant.

2

It takes about 20 to 30 minutes to receive your order when ordering in person.

3

Portions are large enough to share with 2-3 people.

10
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant image 1

Elegant Italian restaurant with a cozy, family atmosphere and generous booth spacing. Music plays at a lively volume, creating a warm and inviting vibe where conversations flow easily. The space feels clean and comfortable, suitable for casual dining and celebrations alike.

Salads come with free refills and arrive quickly, even when the place is busy. Staff regularly check in to offer more salad or breadsticks, keeping the table well stocked.

Chicken tortellini Alfredo and Fettuccine Alfredo stand out with rich flavors. The never-ending breadsticks come with soup and pair well with pasta dishes like shrimp and chicken or classic spaghetti.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and hot."

"The salad here is amazing and fresh."

"Pablo's friendly service made the Italian food experience so pleasant."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait during peak hours on weekends.

2

Parking is usually available on-site without any fees.

3

The restaurant allows splitting the check for large groups.

11
Pasta Fresca image 1
Italian restaurant

Live pasta counter showcases fresh, handmade pasta prepared to order. Shared outdoor seating creates a cozy, busy atmosphere with wandering acoustics and a great playlist. Authentic Italian dishes appear alongside vegetarian options, offering surprisingly filling portions despite a no-frills setup.

Caesar salads come in small side portions and regular sizes. They taste fresh and flavorful and often come with bread on the side.

Fresh pasta is handmade to order at a live counter with authentic Carbonara made from egg yolks and Pecorino Romano. The menu features filling ravioli like beef and butternut squash with excellent sauces and simple, well-made dishes at affordable prices.

People are saying

"I found the pasta to be fresh and handmade."

"I found the Carbonara here to be truly authentic, made with egg yolks and Pecorino Romano."

"The Italian food here is handmade and fresh."

Good to know

1

Expect small portion sizes for the price, especially during busy times.

2

The average meal costs around $15, with some dishes priced higher.

3

The wait time can be around 20-30 minutes during busy evenings.

12
The Pasta Market image 1
Italian restaurant

Large space with festive theming and Instagram-worthy decor creates a warm, quiet atmosphere for friends and family. Food serves in generous portions with affordable prices and a mix of authentic and fast-food style service. Locally owned vibe blends casual dining with unique presentation like sandwiches on cutting boards.

Salads come with a thousand island sauce that stands out. The cob salad tastes good and looks fresh. Lunch specials include a side salad with bread and cheese spread for under $20.

Fresh pasta made in house stands out alongside seafood pasta and spinach tortellini with Alfredo sauce. Dishes like chicken parmesan and lasagna offer shareable portions with authentic Italian flavors.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, was really good."

"Their house-made bread with cheese spread is legendary."

"The salads here are fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $22 for a sandwich with tip and tax.

2

Kids are welcome, making it a family-friendly dining spot.

3

The restaurant has been locally owned since the 1980s.

13
Littlest Little Italy image 1

Restaurant offers spacious layout with separate bar, wine, and outdoor seating areas. Atmosphere feels casual and cozy, suitable for dates and gatherings, with a neighborhood-style vibe. Arcade games add a family-friendly touch to the experience.

Salads here stand out with fresh ingredients and classic options like Caesar and caprese. They pair well with appetizers and pasta dishes.

Rigatoni with vodka sauce and Italian sausage stands out with rich flavor. Arancini made from mushroom risotto and truffle offers a unique twist not common nearby. Family-style dining lets you sample various pizzas and pastas along with delicate alfredo and fresh caprese salad.

People are saying

"The casual Italian food here is authentic and delicious."

"The Italian food, especially the pizzas and pastas, is great."

"I loved their terrific Caesar salad."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging during events at the Shark Tank.

2

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

3

They stop serving sandwiches at 6 pm, so plan accordingly.

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