There are many Italian Restaurants in San Luis Obispo, but if you're looking for a truly authentic Italian dining experience, then you should consider Mama's Meatball Restaurant. Rated among the best San Luis Obispo restaurants, Mama's Meatball uses the freshest, quality ingredients grown locally to create some of the most outstanding dishes you could find in San Luis Obispo eateries. For your convenience, Mama's Meatball offers dine-in, takeout and delivery service. Mama's Meatball is one of the few restaurants near Mission San Luis Obispo, and a block away from hotels in downtown San Luis Obispo to offer private dining options and banquet accommodations for corporate parties and family celebrations. Click here to request a quote for your next private event.
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Many customers praised the food for its deliciousness and quality, particularly highlighting dishes like meatballs, pasta, and desserts.
Service Experience
While some reviews noted excellent service from specific staff members, others reported poor service, including long waits and inattentive staff.
Cleanliness Issues
Several customers mentioned cleanliness problems, including dirty tables and concerns about food safety.
Atmosphere
The restaurant's ambiance was generally well-received, described as cozy and inviting, suitable for various dining occasions.
Mixed Reviews
Overall, feedback was mixed, with some customers having fantastic experiences while others reported significant issues.
MM
Marv Meske
2 days ago
5.0
Really enjoyed the meatballs. Our waitress was a kick! She was Greek! Our wait staff very attentive as well.
AC
Alma Carrazco
Dec 27, 2025
5.0
Riquisima la comida , el servixio excelente y el lugar muy bonito muy acogedor, recomendado 100%
CP
Christopher Payne
Dec 21, 2025
5.0
What a delightful restaurant! Our Waiter, Jaime, is such a professional, very friendly and thoughtful person. The atmosphere was perfect for time with close friends, dates or just to Treat Yourself. And the Food was refreshing delightful and fresh, great quality ingredients. Someone shared their salad with me and even though I dislike beats, theirs was sweet and flavorful. Their Mac and Cheese with braised short ribs now has become my Deathrow last meal ( so if I ever was on Deathrow, I want this to be my last meal and what a way to go 🤤). Such a beautiful hidden gem.
SS
Susan
Dec 8, 2025
1.0
First red flag: the table they sat us at was still dirty — crumbs, sticky spots, and utensils that clearly hadn’t been replaced. We asked for it to be cleaned, which took another ten minutes, and even then it was rushed and half-done.
Once we finally ordered, the problems kept piling up. The food that arrived wasn’t even close to what the menu described. My plate was barely warm, the sauce tasted burnt, and the portion looked like something off a kids’ menu. My wife’s dish had ingredients missing altogether, and when she asked about it, the server acted annoyed instead of helpful.
To top it off, the noise level was out of control. Staff yelling across the room, plates crashing, and a manager who looked overwhelmed but didn’t seem to be doing anything to fix it.
We left hungry and irritated, wondering how this place has any good reviews at all. If you want a clean table, edible food, or basic customer service, you’re better off going literally anywhere else.
NE
Nick e
Dec 8, 2025
1.0
I do not often leave reviews. But tonight I was nothing short of disappointed, IF NOT FOOD POISONED! I went into this establishment with my wife, as we are both visiting San Luis Obispo for the weekend. Upon arrival we could tell it was busy, even for a weekend night. After almost a 1 hour wait we where finally seated, and brought menus 15 minutes after being seated. In an effort to make things quicker we ordered what we thought they would no doubt have a large supply of... SPAGHETTI AND MEATBALLS, but to my dismay, mommas meatballs was fresh out of meatballs!!! How could this be? So we waited another 45 minutes for our spaghetti and meatballs to get to the table, and when I tell you these meatballs where practically living, I could not be exaggerating in the slightest. I spoke with a manager who assured me that my bloody meatballs where safe for consumption. If you care about your health or the health and safety of those around you, do not attend this establishment.