I was a little disappointed in the meal - both her fish and my shellfish were a slightly overcooked, and my pasta went beyond the bounds of "al dente". That being said, the patio dining is very nice, under a redwood in the rear courtyard, the wine list is extensive, and the staff were friendly and helpful. Pleasant, but not... more

We recently moved to the area and found Bona Tavola when we were roaming the street fair. The food was pretty good... but a few weeks later we discovered Giuseppe's. It is about $5 more a person to eat at Giuseppe's but it is well worth the cost difference and the short 2 block walk up the street. more

I've only been here once, but it was the day i got engaged. It was after a long, fun-filled day and this was the romantic place I picked to eat after I proposed. My, then fiance, was so excited that we were engaged, she was showing it to random people on the street as we walked to the restaurant. Once... more

It's on Monterey Street just before the start of the downtown shops, but you don't need an address. Just look for the sweet little 1957 Fiat Cinquecento car parked outside. We dined in the covered patio room and I recommend it if you like lots of room. I wasn't in the mood for a heavy pasta dish so I ordered... more

My daughter and I had dinner here last Monday night (2-23), and it was very very good! They have a wide and varied selection of Antipasti, try the "Bruschetta al pomodoro fresco e basilico" (grilled garlic bread smothered with diced fresh roma tomatoes, basil, and EVOO, fresh goat cheese is optional) or the "Lattughette novelle di stagione" (organic mixed baby... more

We booked reservations for 4 people for their pre-fixed Valentine's Day menu at $42.50 per person. The food was very disappointing, unimaginative and NOT italian inspired. Our Main complaint is they were focused on rushing us through our 4-course meal. We finally asked our waiter to NOT bring dessert so we could at least enjoy the bottle of wine we... more

I have been going to this restaurant since I moved to California, 4 1/2 years ago. My boyfriend and I were lost, in a residential neighborhood, and asked for directions. We also asked for any good recommendations for an italian restaurant. The girl happened to be a waitress at Buona Tavola! She said they make all of their pasta's from... more

Coming from Boston with its famed North End, we were hesitant to have Italian for one of our California dinners. But Buona Tavola far exceeded our expectations. We were seated in the comfortably heated back patio. Our server was professional and had an amazing command of the daily special recitation. We chose a spectacular red zinfandel from local vineyard Nipa... more

This place has been here for a really long time, my parents used to have their anniversary dinner here each year. Their service varies, sometimes it's great and sometimes it's a little below average. The food is always good, but my favorite reason for going is for the back patio. It is beautiful at night, cozy, and romantic. If you... more