We adore a proper Italian trattoria—the kind where you can linger over lunch like a local and the sort that makes you the hero of date night. And these Stockton spots deliver that magic while serving up perfect pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and other delights to thrill your carb-loving and ‘not too carb-y’ soul.
The Waterloo Restaurant
$$ | (209) 931-4019 | WEBSITE
The Waterloo Restaurant is one of the more memorable Italian spots in Stockton. Sticking to hearty classics with a few twists, the Stockton eatery delivers satisfying things like their rib ends and New York steak with fettuccine. Their version of the bread pudding is our favorite in the area. Their menu stays consistent, but keep your ears open when their delicious salmon with pesto or pumpkin cheesecake makes an appearance.
They tend to get busy, so plan to arrive before 7pm, especially on Thursday evenings.
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
$$ | (209) 954-9018 | WEBSITE
Of course we’d fall for a place called Olive Garden. But this Italian restaurant is more than its name since you can fulfill your pasta cravings and walk out with a satisfying meal and leftovers packed to go. We particularly enjoy the never-ending salad and wonderful bread. They’re consistently fresh, well seasoned, and have a crisp texture and satisfying flavor. We also like that they accommodate large groups well and provide wheelchair accessibility.
There’s a pleasant atmosphere here, with polite and attentive servers making everyone feel welcome. And if you dine in, be sure to enjoy their hot and delicious entrees, too.
Angelina’s Spaghetti House
$$ | (209) 948-6609 | WEBSITE
Angelina’s Spaghetti House may be tucked away, so rather look for the classic Italian signage in this Stockton neighborhood. Though it’s a cozy space, the restaurant has a warm and inviting interior. They are known for their authentic pasta dishes, and that’s what you should get. The homemade ravioli and spaghetti with meat sauce have a comforting taste, reminiscent of traditional family recipes. We also enjoy the steak dinner, which is served with bread and a choice of soup or salad bar.
If you’re looking for a more casual option, their bar area is perfect for enjoying a drink while you wait or relax.
Mezzo Ristorante
$$ | (209) 473-7300 | WEBSITE
Mezzo is the perfect Italian escape to savor classic flavors (but with a fresh twist). We order the amazing Bolognese sauce, along with the perfectly tender corned beef with rich mustard sauce. But their menu offers so many elevated takes on traditional dishes that you’ll actually need a couple visits to try them all. The shepherd’s pie reminds us of comfort food with its flavorful layers. Another favorite is the creative fish special, filet of sole, which showcases superb quality.
If and when your celebration calls for something special, you can find charming patio seating with a vibe that could easily be mistaken for Napa or Carmel. And you can also continue the experience with their attentive service, though there have been a couple of missteps, the knowledgeable staff consistently enhances the dining.
De Vinci’s Delicatessen & Catering
$ | (209) 957-2750 | WEBSITE
De Vinci’s Delicatessen & Catering opened years ago, quickly gained popularity, and now remains a trusted choice for Italian food in Stockton. Their restaurant is in a welcoming neighborhood spot, which is consistently busy, so come early for easier seating and before the daily specials run out. While ravioli might sound simple in a lineup of more interesting Italian dishes, order it if it’s on the menu.
Think fresh pasta filled with rich cheese and topped with even more pesto and Parmesan—it’s our favorite item here. And if you’re in the mood for something hearty, we recommend their old school bolognese served with generous portions of pasta. And we love that the interior of the restaurant reminds us of a cozy Italian kitchen with warm lighting and many tables donning checkered tablecloths.
Express Pizza & GriLL
$ | (209) 465-0500 | WEBSITE
Located in Stockton, Express Pizza & Grill stands apart for their consistently delicious menu, family-friendly atmosphere, and reliable service. But if there’s one must-have order here, it’s the signature barbecue wings, cooked to perfection with just the right amount of smoky sweetness. The best in town, these crispy wings pair perfectly with their amazing pizza, featuring a crust that’s just right and toppings that are always fresh.
And for pizza purists, the classic pepperoni pie is another one of our favorites. While there are cozy tables here for dining in, most people grab their food to go or opt for delivery, and the restaurant stays consistently busy well into the evening thanks to their 26-year track record of satisfied customers.
Eddie’s Pizza Café
$$ | (209) 462-1234 | WEBSITE
Eddie’s Pizza Café has been serving up the finest pizza in the Central Valley since it first opened its doors. Contrary to its unassuming exterior, this hidden gem consistently delivers generous portions and delicious flavors that keep locals coming back. Our favorites here are their classic pepperoni pizza (with perfectly crisp crust and generous cheese), margherita pizza, and the meat lover’s special (a hearty combination that never disappoints).
And if you’re a pizza purist, they offer a simple but satisfying cheese pizza that highlights their quality ingredients. While service can sometimes feel inconsistent with occasional disinterested staff, the wonderful owners and genuine atmosphere make it worth the slightly higher prices for a truly high-quality pizza experience.
Dante’s Pizza & Cafe
$$ | (209) 474-0221 | WEBSITE
The local favorite Dante’s Pizza & Cafe has been serving Stockton for over 35 years, with its cozy and quaint atmosphere making it a great spot for both dates and family outings. Grab a seat in the warm, dimly lit dining room, and peruse the menu of inspired selections from thin and thick crust pizzas to seafood pasta and epic cheesesteak sandwiches.
Go for whatever sounds good, but make sure their generously topped pizza with that soft, chewy bread-like crust is on your table before you finish ordering. It’s a nice contrast to the salads. When you’re settling for mediocre pies at other spots, Dante’s is always consistently flavorful. So even without a reservation, they’re your best bet if you’re looking to grab a reasonably priced, tasty meal for the whole family.
Gian’s Delicatessen
$ | (209) 469-0108 | WEBSITE
We look forward to any lunch break where we have an excuse to grab one of these incredible sandwiches. Not to be confused with other Italian spots in Stockton, Gian’s Delicatessen is located in a traditional Italian deli setting and specializes in authentic mortadella sandwiches and antipasto, and that’s the reason why you should be here. If you haven’t had their #2 sandwich before, they will tell you to bring cash, as the deli operates on a cash-only basis.
These are generous, carefully crafted sandwiches piled with the most delicious cuts of meat sliced right in front of you we’ve ever had. The mortadella with pistachios, the #9 on focaccia, and the #10 on French bread with extra mayo are our favorite orders. It’s a carryout only, but we’re sure we’re not the only ones who take a bite before we even make it to the car.
De Parsia’s Restaurant & Catering
$ | (209) 944-9196 | WEBSITE
De Parsia’s Restaurant & Catering is a New York City-style Italian spot that’s become a Stockton favorite, tucked into its cozy, charming space. This place is famous for their incredible, top-of-the-line pizza that locals swear is the best in town—better than anywhere else, honestly. Their pizza truly satisfies the taste buds. We also love their pasta dishes, like the delicious and flavorful Penne Alfredo, which is a standout.
And there’s always the appeal of their hearty Calzone, which never disappoints. You’ll often find a steady crowd of regulars, but consider the wait a plus since it gives you extra time to decide between another slice or trying their praised ravioli dinner. Once you’ve ordered, settle into one of their intimate tables, where the friendly, efficient service makes you feel right at home.
Garlic Brothers Restaurant and Bar
$$ | (209) 474-6585 | WEBSITE
Garlic Brothers Restaurant and Bar can be easy to miss among all the dining options along the Stockton waterfront. But before you give up, just look for the patio overlooking the Delta. The outdoor seating area is pleasant and breezy, and there’s a spacious dining room where families and groups can enjoy generous meals. Order a drink from their happy hour menu, savor some hearty dishes like the tri-tip or pork belly with rice and soft-boiled egg, and save room for their delicious desserts.
Like the other Italian spots in the area, they also offer ravioli and other pasta dishes with varying quality. Yet, Garlic Brothers remains our local favorite because their friendly, attentive service and fantastic value make it a wonderful reprieve from the ordinary.
