Welcome to Mario's Italian Cafe
Mario's Italian Cafe is a popular pizza and Italian restaurant in Palm Desert, CA. Offering a range of traditional Italian dishes, Mario's is known for its delicious pizza, pasta, and salads. With a full bar and outdoor seating, it's a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family. Customers rave about the generous portions, great service, and wide variety of menu options. From homemade tiramisu to classic spaghetti dishes, Mario's is a must-visit for Italian food lovers looking for a satisfying meal at a reasonable price. With many vegetarian options available, there's something for everyone at Mario's Italian Cafe.
- 78152 Varner Rd Ste G-H Palm Desert, CA 9221178152 Varner Rd Ste G-H Palm Desert, CA 92211 Hotline: (760) 345-8900
Welcome to Mario's Italian Cafe, a delightful haven for pizza lovers and fans of authentic Italian cuisine. Nestled in the sunny locale of Palm Desert, California, this charming establishment, located at 78152 Varner Rd Ste G-H, serves up a warm atmosphere complemented by a full bar service. If you’re looking for a place that combines the essence of Italian dining with local flavor, Mario's is your go-to stop.
At Mario's, the menu features a compelling selection of classic dishes. Whether you're indulging in the Eggplant Parmigiano at $23.49 or the Sausage Marsala, also priced at $23.49, each dish speaks to a commitment to quality ingredients and detailed preparation. But let's not forget the catering options that allow you to bring the taste of Italy to your gatherings! With half pans of Sausage Marinara feeding up to 10 people for just $70.95, there’s something for every occasion.
Customer experiences at Mario's have been a mixed bag, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to continuous improvement. While one diner, Debra R., encountered issues with an overly tough chicken Parmesan, it's heartening to see that the owner promptly reached out for feedback, earning respect for handling the situation with integrity. This responsiveness assures patrons that their dining experience truly matters.
Many guests rave about the pizza. As noted by Deron R., the pizza remains a standout, consistently praised for its flavor and quality. However, some diners have mentioned that other pasta dishes have been occasionally overcooked, suggesting the need for careful attention in the kitchen. Nevertheless, the inviting ambiance, coupled with lovely decor and murals, offers a full experience that keeps customers returning.
The casual atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for both lunch specials—highly recommended by customers like Karl E.—and a relaxed dinner. Happy hour brings discounted appetizers that enhance the experience, drawing in a crowd eager to enjoy both food and company.
In summary, Mario's Italian Cafe encapsulates the essence of Italian dining, pairing delicious food with a welcoming environment. Although it faces some challenges, the sincerity of the staff and quality favorites keep bringing patrons back for more. Whether you’re in the mood for pizza or classic pasta dishes, Mario's is sure to offer a taste of Italy right here in Palm Desert. Don’t hesitate to call for your next meal at (760) 345-8900—your taste buds will thank you!

Love their everyday lunch menu, have been ordering the pizza lunch special lately with the salad.

I had just ordered chicken Parmesan to go and got home within 10 minutes and the chicken was like chicken jerky ...you could barely cut it with a knife. I ended up spitting it out! I don't know about their other food but it was the absolute worst chicken Parmesan I've ever had in my life! It was just plain gross and inedible. Ended up throwing it all out! ***Update from Mario's Italian Cafe. The owner contacted me regarding my experience and offered me a refund on the chicken Parmesan. I was very thankful because I had to throw it away. This is an honest establishment and a very respectful owner. He apologized and made it right in the end. Thank you.

I was looking for a sit down restaurant that was around the area. My initial thought was how pretty the murals were on the wall, the aroma of italian cuisine being served and the nice waitress seating us down. Food took rather long but expected for a busy sit down restaurant. We came here during happy our so, there was discounted appetizers As for the food, calamari was disappointing, with the baked dish shining the brightest. Price was fairly expensive sitting around 16 dollars a dish like pasta. I left full but needing more, overall good experience but would try something else next time.

Extra star for full bar service! Pizza is good as always. My pasta was overcooked to within an inch of its life. I don't understand how you can continually overcook pasta like this? Nevertheless, their pizza and sandwiches are the bomb!

A reasonably priced great Italian meal. Many locations throughout the Coachella Valley. Good pizza, a nice pour of wine, lovely decore.

Arrived around 4:45. By 5:15 most tables were filled. A little noisy; but could visit ok. Very good service. Happy hour from 3-5; We ordered drinks and salads. The salads were huge during happy hour. All the drinks were excellent. Wonderful wine and margaritas. Garlic bread Sooooo many options for main courses. Suggestion would be to study the menu ahead of time. Even others food; ALL looked delicious. No room for dessert. Great experience. Will return!

Not a bat little Italian spot. We were sat quickly, and the server was super friendly. We ordered garlic cheese bread which was delicious. For our entires we decided to go with meatball sub and Chicken park sub. I can't like I was a little discouraged when they came out as the presentation was super messy but let me tell you..best meatball sub I've had in a long time. Chicken parm didn't disappoint either but the star of the show was the meatball. Would definitely return next time I'm in town.

Very reasonable price Lots of menu Service is excellent So many order customers because next sun city community Big glass wine Kind remained used be go to Italian restaurant strings east bay Food's pretty good Definitely we'll be back here We live Rancho Mirage super More casual More comfortable here