5 /5 Meagan McCall: I recommend making a reservation for Mamas Meatball on Higuera Street in advance, as its one of the top three best Italian restaurants in San Luis Obispo and can get quite busy (we saw people being told that they wouldnt be able to sit without a reservation on a Friday night). They start you off with complimentary garlic knots that are delicious and help hold you over before the main course arrives. I loved coming to Mamas Meatball in college, and Im glad it is still around!
If youre both gluten free and lactose intolerant, they are able to accommodate both! I went with the Spaghetti Bolognese ($18) with gluten free noodles (+$5) and custom added goat cheese (+$3). The online menu was outdated by $2 regarding the gluten free upcharge, but I was still so excited that they have GOOD gluten free noodles.
Pollo Pesto Lasagna ($23) is a clever creamy twist on both traditional lasagna and pesto pasta. I’ve never even seen anytime this before.
There is a small parking lot in the back, but if thats full there is plenty of street parking available. You cant see the restaurant from the street, as its in the middle of a mini-piazza at the end of the main street (Highuera) of Downtown SLO. Our server Cosmio was very nice, and I have always felt the hospitality here is great. Theres also a small discount if you pay with cash with a very unique interior design.
In case youre curious, my personal top 3 favorite Italian restaurants in SLO are: Café Roma, Mamas Meatball, and Giuseppes Cucina.