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First time at Mario's Place and had a great meal. Each of my 3 courses were delicious. The white corn soup was so flavorful and naturally sweet. The beef tenderloin was cooked perfectly and so tender. The dessert, some kind of caramel with cream topping, was decadent yet not heavy. The sourdough bread was crusty on the outside and pillow soft on the inside. Service was attentive and personal. Overall a great evening.
Classic Italian restaurant in the heart of Downtown Riverside. Came here to celebrate my wife's birthday and it didn't disappoint! We got a few specials that weren't on the menu: lobster bisque soup and clam pizza, as well as a mushroom risotto dish. All of the dishes were amazing and the highlight was the clam pizza for me. The cheese and clams were perfect and the seasoning was great. The risotto was really good as well, with strong mushrooms and cheese flavor. You also get complimentary bread and butter! The food was really good, the dishes came out to about $30 each which isn't too bad for an upscale Italian restaurant. Service was outstanding throughout! The staff took really good care of us and checked in on us often. Restaurant was clean with a classic Italian feel, nice decor and a good ambiance. Will definitely be back to try more dishes!
It's been about 8 years since I last dined at Mario's. I remember it being a lovely Italian restaurant in downtown Riverside with amazing bread. The interior is totally what one expects an Italian restaurant to look like. Upon arrival, the restaurant is as authentic and traditional as the last time I was here. It was about half full on a Friday night but bustling and busy. Our server was a bit slow throughout our entire meal and even told us they were getting over a cold (not something one wants to hear from the person breathing on and touching our food and drinks). We had the calamari fritti and yellowtail to share. Our table also got the diavola pizza, spaghetti bolognese, a couple orders of the mushroom ravioli that came with a runny egg, and sides of fingerling potatoes and broccolini. The food is as delicious as I remembered. Service was a bit off this particular night, but overall it was a good experience.
We sat in the back outdoor space which was decorated very nicely for the holidays. But what was out of place was the music playing fromZZ top to Michael Jackson Thriller. It made us laugh and thought we're probably listening to the early day setup music that never changed. Staff didn't even notice. Staff was very on top of things from refill of water glasses to bread. Always felt very taken care of. I ordered a salad with arugula and beets. For dinner a margarita pizza with glass of wine. He ordered the steak frites with caramelized onions and a Caesar salad. Very good and we will be back.
Grant provided great recommendations from the Penne Rigate, to the wine, and espresso martini. It was a great experience, The crew works so well together, and I truly felt appreciated for coming here. The Penne pasta was amazing with the oxtails that were seasoned very well. That was a nice combination. The ambience is very romantic, and I really enjoyed myself. They do have live music check. The schedule is towards the end of the month. Yes that was great. Everything Grant this is delicious.
Location is right across Mission Inn hotel. We had the window seat and it was very quiet and comforting. The staff were friendly and the service was quick. The pasta was our favorite dish and the sauce was delicious 9/10. The diavola pizza was good, however it was too burnt on the bottom, which unfortunately overpowered the flavors of the rest of the pizza 5/10. The angus beef tenderloin was flavorful however nothing too special 6/10. Overall, great service, however not order the same food items. Thank you
Mario's Place was highly recommended to me through word of mouth, especially for special occasions/ a romantic date night, and it lived up to the hype! First off, it's located in the heart of lovely downtown Riverside, which already creates an enjoyable ambiance. Secondly, I knew we had picked a winner when we walked in and saw that they had printed a "Happy Anniversary" placard for the table! I was very impressed by that above and beyond effort. All the staff were so friendly, sweet, and attentive and helped me choose the right dish for my dietary requirements. I ended up going with the traditional Marinara Pizza, which naturally has no dairy. Let me tell you, I did not miss the cheese at all, the quality of the ingredients here are so top notch, I had an absolutely mouth watering experience, and would highly recommend this dish! Now on to the dessert, which I'm SO GLAD we stayed for, because while neither of us are big on sorbet, this sorbet, especially the chocolate one, was to die for. Never have I had such a rich, smooth, and flavorful sorbet! All in all, I will definitely be back! Don't miss out on Mario's Place!
I'de been going to Mario's place for years, when in was in a house in a different location. Took my mother every Xmas eve. Haven't been since they moved .. so a long time. I have to say I was terribly disappointed. The menu lacked authentic Italian dishes and more important attentive , warm personal service. I was really looking forward to revisiting a wonderful memory and great food. I received neither one. I won't be visiting again.
What a meal. The chef has a beautiful way of combining flavors, and colors to create a major treat. We were there for a private wine tasting which included a fixed price dinner. The ones we brought.. the best of the best... mouton, lafite, Margaux, haut brion, d'yquem, and more ( totalling 20) each glass numbered by the sommolier etc. Now for the food. Epic. Amuse had the sweetest tomatoes imaginable with burrata. We had 7 courses each paired perfectly. The pasta with rabbit outstanding. I'll make notes under the photos.
What is the difference between polenta and grits? Hint: They both deal with types of corn. And, if I'm being honest, polenta just sounds like boogey grits. But Damn. Just damn. This experience was phenomenal from beginning to end. Delightful specials. Stellar service. Butter that was soft and easy to spread. Like seriously. This is an underrated, but awesome, aspect. I dont eat much lamb, mainly because the times I've had it, it tasted meh. But this was the best lamb I've ever had. Only the 5th or 6th lamb dish I've had. I was slightly disappointed when my scotch old fashioned with Balvenie Double wood arrived with a multitude of ice cubes instead of just one. If you're going for the old fashioned, drink earlier when you're thirsty so the multitude of cubes don't drown out the flavors. But the creation was good, with an aftertaste of scotch and cinnamon. The bar is loud and darkish, with a romantic vibe. The rest of the restaurant quiet, with a mixture of well lit ambient light by the windows and classy/romantic vibes further back. The dessert has a welcome surprise of cheese choices. Very cool. But I went with the tiramisu, and it didn't disappoint.
After a long day soaking at the Glen Ivy we needed something special before heading back to the coast. Yelp said Mario's was the special spot we needed to squeeze in and try. Being Mother's Day it was totally booked. We went anyway and opted for two seats at the bar.... Then the miracle happened! If we were done by 7:30 (6pm) then we could take a main booth specially reserved. We jumped at the chance! First off, every encounter with staff was a pleasure. The food was totally delicious! Coming from old world family recipes by a single family for over 1/2 a century we knew we scored! The pizza sauce was spicy, sweet and tangy. A real treat. I can't say enough about the atmosphere. Vintage California with a long history of great food and jazz performances. A great dinner club from the yesteryear. We are not often in Riverside but we'd love to combo dinner and Jazz on our way out of town! A true legendary spot worth everyone's attention. Thank you Justin for fantastic service and great commentary!
I had the best dinner at this restaurant. The ceaser salad and the steel salmon was outstanding and was perfectly cooked. The ambiance of the place was very fancy and pleasant and our Server was very friendly and engaged my table in conversation! I give them 5 stars ! I would like to have given them 100 stars if that was an option
I was very, very disappointed with the so called spicy chicken breast "diabola" withsome kind of semi dry type of grains,also the acidic sauce(taste like tapatio sauce) on plate(discussting). Dish very simple no presentation and obviously the taste not good at all. Not again to Mario's for a good while.
1 month ago
What a memorable experience, by far one of the best and most remarkable dining experiences of my life. Let me start off by saying that our server Justin was the highlight of our experience (the food was equally phenomenal). Justin was knowledgeable, insightful, and funny. By the end of the evening I felt like I had reconnected with my long lost pal. We listened intently as from the start Justin offered an assortment of meal suggestions that were actually not on the menu, and items that I would never think would go well together, but they actually did! Such as scallops appetizer with sweet rhubarb, herbs, and an Italian sweet and sour sauce. That was superb. There were sooo many food choices, you'll definitely want to make a second and third visit to keep trying new dishes. We were also in awe with Justin's wine pairing recommendations as well. Wine prices are very reasonable too, so don't be afraid to indulge a bit! For dessert we had cumquat ice cream, which was also not on the menu, and it was pretty wild for an ice cream flavor. Also ordered an espresso. What can I say except "wow!" All in all, the food was spectacular and was equally matched by our server. Will be back again soon to try their constantly revolving menu! read more
Excellent service today. Started off with a classic Caesar salad, which was tastier than usual. Main course was salmon, which was amazing. Dessert was berry sorbet which was also great. There is one young gentleman I always forget to get his name, but he's always so kind and polite with service. read more
1 month ago
Conveniently located across the street from the Mission Inn...we walked to Mario's from our hotel stay. We didn't have a reservation and luckily we got in with out one. We were greeted warmly and our server was super nice and attentive. We ordered: a tomato and burrata salad, lamb chops, mushroom ravioli with chicken, some drinks and a kumquat ice cream for dessert. Everything was enjoyable and we really loved the kumquat ice cream! Overall a good experience! read more
First time at Mario's Place and had a great meal. Each of my 3 courses were delicious. The white corn soup was so flavorful and naturally sweet. The beef tenderloin was cooked perfectly and so tender. The dessert, some kind of caramel with cream topping, was decadent yet not heavy. The sourdough bread was crusty on the outside and pillow soft on the inside. Service was attentive and personal. Overall a great evening. read more
Classic Italian restaurant in the heart of Downtown Riverside. Came here to celebrate my wife's birthday and it didn't disappoint! We got a few specials that weren't on the menu: lobster bisque soup and clam pizza, as well as a mushroom risotto dish. All of the dishes were amazing and the highlight was the clam pizza for me. The cheese and clams were perfect and the seasoning was great. The risotto was really good as well, with strong mushrooms and cheese flavor. You also get complimentary bread and butter! The food was really good, the dishes came out to about $30 each which isn't too bad for an upscale Italian restaurant. Service was outstanding throughout! The staff took really good care of us and checked in on us often. Restaurant was clean with a classic Italian feel, nice decor and a good ambiance. Will definitely be back to try more dishes! read more
It's been about 8 years since I last dined at Mario's. I remember it being a lovely Italian restaurant in downtown Riverside with amazing bread. The interior is totally what one expects an Italian restaurant to look like. Upon arrival, the restaurant is as authentic and traditional as the last time I was here. It was about half full on a Friday night but bustling and busy. Our server was a bit slow throughout our entire meal and even told us they were getting over a cold (not something one wants to hear from the person breathing on and touching our food and drinks). We had the calamari fritti and yellowtail to share. Our table also got the diavola pizza, spaghetti bolognese, a couple orders of the mushroom ravioli that came with a runny egg, and sides of fingerling potatoes and broccolini. The food is as delicious as I remembered. Service was a bit off this particular night, but overall it was a good experience. read more
We sat in the back outdoor space which was decorated very nicely for the holidays. But what was out of place was the music playing fromZZ top to Michael Jackson Thriller. It made us laugh and thought we're probably listening to the early day setup music that never changed. Staff didn't even notice. Staff was very on top of things from refill of water glasses to bread. Always felt very taken care of. I ordered a salad with arugula and beets. For dinner a margarita pizza with glass of wine. He ordered the steak frites with caramelized onions and a Caesar salad. Very good and we will be back. read more
Grant provided great recommendations from the Penne Rigate, to the wine, and espresso martini. It was a great experience, The crew works so well together, and I truly felt appreciated for coming here. The Penne pasta was amazing with the oxtails that were seasoned very well. That was a nice combination. The ambience is very romantic, and I really enjoyed myself. They do have live music check. The schedule is towards the end of the month. Yes that was great. Everything Grant this is delicious. read more
Location is right across Mission Inn hotel. We had the window seat and it was very quiet and comforting. The staff were friendly and the service was quick. The pasta was our favorite dish and the sauce was delicious 9/10. The diavola pizza was good, however it was too burnt on the bottom, which unfortunately overpowered the flavors of the rest of the pizza 5/10. The angus beef tenderloin was flavorful however nothing too special 6/10. Overall, great service, however not order the same food items. Thank you read more
9 days ago
4 months ago
Mario's Place was highly recommended to me through word of mouth, especially for special occasions/ a romantic date night, and it lived up to the hype! First off, it's located in the heart of lovely downtown Riverside, which already creates an enjoyable ambiance. Secondly, I knew we had picked a winner when we walked in and saw that they had printed a "Happy Anniversary" placard for the table! I was very impressed by that above and beyond effort. All the staff were so friendly, sweet, and attentive and helped me choose the right dish for my dietary requirements. I ended up going with the traditional Marinara Pizza, which naturally has no dairy. Let me tell you, I did not miss the cheese at all, the quality of the ingredients here are so top notch, I had an absolutely mouth watering experience, and would highly recommend this dish! Now on to the dessert, which I'm SO GLAD we stayed for, because while neither of us are big on sorbet, this sorbet, especially the chocolate one, was to die for. Never have I had such a rich, smooth, and flavorful sorbet! All in all, I will definitely be back! Don't miss out on Mario's Place! read more
10 months ago
I'de been going to Mario's place for years, when in was in a house in a different location. Took my mother every Xmas eve. Haven't been since they moved .. so a long time. I have to say I was terribly disappointed. The menu lacked authentic Italian dishes and more important attentive , warm personal service. I was really looking forward to revisiting a wonderful memory and great food. I received neither one. I won't be visiting again. read more
What a meal. The chef has a beautiful way of combining flavors, and colors to create a major treat. We were there for a private wine tasting which included a fixed price dinner. The ones we brought.. the best of the best... mouton, lafite, Margaux, haut brion, d'yquem, and more ( totalling 20) each glass numbered by the sommolier etc. Now for the food. Epic. Amuse had the sweetest tomatoes imaginable with burrata. We had 7 courses each paired perfectly. The pasta with rabbit outstanding. I'll make notes under the photos. read more
What is the difference between polenta and grits? Hint: They both deal with types of corn. And, if I'm being honest, polenta just sounds like boogey grits. But Damn. Just damn. This experience was phenomenal from beginning to end. Delightful specials. Stellar service. Butter that was soft and easy to spread. Like seriously. This is an underrated, but awesome, aspect. I dont eat much lamb, mainly because the times I've had it, it tasted meh. But this was the best lamb I've ever had. Only the 5th or 6th lamb dish I've had. I was slightly disappointed when my scotch old fashioned with Balvenie Double wood arrived with a multitude of ice cubes instead of just one. If you're going for the old fashioned, drink earlier when you're thirsty so the multitude of cubes don't drown out the flavors. But the creation was good, with an aftertaste of scotch and cinnamon. The bar is loud and darkish, with a romantic vibe. The rest of the restaurant quiet, with a mixture of well lit ambient light by the windows and classy/romantic vibes further back. The dessert has a welcome surprise of cheese choices. Very cool. But I went with the tiramisu, and it didn't disappoint. read more
5 months ago
After a long day soaking at the Glen Ivy we needed something special before heading back to the coast. Yelp said Mario's was the special spot we needed to squeeze in and try. Being Mother's Day it was totally booked. We went anyway and opted for two seats at the bar.... Then the miracle happened! If we were done by 7:30 (6pm) then we could take a main booth specially reserved. We jumped at the chance! First off, every encounter with staff was a pleasure. The food was totally delicious! Coming from old world family recipes by a single family for over 1/2 a century we knew we scored! The pizza sauce was spicy, sweet and tangy. A real treat. I can't say enough about the atmosphere. Vintage California with a long history of great food and jazz performances. A great dinner club from the yesteryear. We are not often in Riverside but we'd love to combo dinner and Jazz on our way out of town! A true legendary spot worth everyone's attention. Thank you Justin for fantastic service and great commentary! read more
I had the best dinner at this restaurant. The ceaser salad and the steel salmon was outstanding and was perfectly cooked. The ambiance of the place was very fancy and pleasant and our Server was very friendly and engaged my table in conversation! I give them 5 stars ! I would like to have given them 100 stars if that was an option read more
7 months ago
I was very, very disappointed with the so called spicy chicken breast "diabola" withsome kind of semi dry type of grains,also the acidic sauce(taste like tapatio sauce) on plate(discussting). Dish very simple no presentation and obviously the taste not good at all. Not again to Mario's for a good while. read more
1 year ago
Food 4/5 Service 4/5 Ambiance 5/5 Higher end Italian restaurant located across the mission inn. I've been here a couple of times and it's good, but never blows me away. Dimly lit, mature and older vibe. Indoor seating only. Have to find street parking or parking structure next door. Pricier dishes, probably $50-$70 a head. Does come with complimentary bread and butter which was delish. Ordered wine but my wine had a piece of the wine bottle paper in it. Ordered a Cesar salad but as you can tell from the picture, way too much dressing. 2/5 for this dish Oxtail pasta was very good. Flavorful, al dente and a good amount of protein. Cheese stuffed zuchinni was okay, was a special of the day but too much cheese. Steak and frites was good. Meat cooked well, tender and juicy. Overall not bad and would still be back. read more
19 days ago
I'll be honest and start with the not so good and end with the gooood. Our reservation was for 8pm but we were seat at 8:40pm. The goood, our server KAT was very friendly, personable along with very professional. She made excellent yummy dishes for us. Gareth one of the busboy explained the specials in detail! We all thought he would be our server. Alejandro one of the waiter told us abut the Chef Dinner( you have to call ahead for this. All in all we will be back. The Jazz Band was great. The band starts at 9pm-11:30pm. The music was not loud or disturbing. We all enjoyed the live music. The drummer has an excellent voice. Remember as for KAT !!!! read more
Took my BF for his birthday, this is luxurious Italian restaurant, perfect for a special occasion. They have a full bar, dirty martinis and blue cheese stuffed olives, red wine, and other cocktails. We had lamb chops, swordfish, wild mushroom ravioli, exotic and unique dishes not available anywhere else. And conveniently located across from mission inn. read more
Fast service. Very attentive. Someone in our group dropped their napkin and immediately someone showed up with a new one. Food was delicious. We tried both pizza and ravioli. Their apps were also really great! Our server was quite entertaining with his Italian accent when he told us the specials. Price cant be beat for the service and food quality. Great view from across the street was also a plus. Will be back! read more
3 months ago
7 months ago
I love the ambiance of this place. The bar area is always my favorite and right now they have a Venison special that is truly out of this world and one of the best pieces of meat I've had read more
1 month ago
8 months ago
4 months ago
7 months ago
A cozy, almost club like vibe. Our favorite Arincini w/saffron risotto (rice balls)....don't miss. Delicious pasta (Bucatini Amarruciana). Bread service is worthy of special mention. The dessert may be the best sweet we have ever had...Caramel Budino. Those crystals of salt running through the creamy caramel (mousse/pudding). Unbelievable. Would drive from Scottsdale to Riverside for that alone. Professional, knowledgeable and friendly service (Jeremiah). Real passion for quality food. Wine list is interesting, reasonable with a number of hard to find selections. Looking forward to returning when our travels take us back to the area. read more
Absolutely amazing service, very friendly staff all around. Boschetto salas - large portion, tasty Beef tenderloin - very soft cut and well cooked, the caramelized onions and balsamico were a little strong, overall enjoyable but would've preferred less balsamic Caramel budino - unique clashing of flavors served in a coffee mug that did not blend the best - the salt on top, the stark caramel flavoring, and the tart of the creme fraiche; was a little too much happening at once read more
10 months ago
7 months ago
Most people don't like a prix fixe menu, but when it comes to holidays when you want to move people in and out, a prix fixe becomes mandatory. Which then goes to question the quality of the menu and the ability to make it special. Valentines 2026 was no exception at Mario's Place. The food was served quickly under friendly staff, cooked to perfection. It would have been nice for the restaurant to add a little "love is in the air" flare (rose pedals, roses decor, soft music, etc.) but missing the component did not change the love in every bite. read more
1 year ago
One of the best meals of my life! Each thing was unique, delicious, and perfectly prepared. Service was attentive, fun, and helpful. The setting is elegant but comfortable (we were in jeans and tshirts, though I would have preferred to dress up a bit.) The citrus risotto with prawns was unlike anything I've ever tasted; perfection! And it was a huge portion. The ravioli was the best I've ever had. Even the broccolini and the Child's Play Pinot noir were memorable, and the bread and butter! And the orange water and strawberry panna cotta literally brought tears to my eyes! I will gladly drive 50+ miles to come back here. Absolutely exceptional in every way. :D read more
10 months ago
Mario's place was amazing! I went there for my birthday and the food and service were phenomenal! They gave us a great table with a beautiful view of the Mission Inn Festival of Lights. Highly recommend the mushroom ravioli and the calamari. Their chocolate polenta cake is delicious as well! read more
It's a him, Mario. Marios Place is a nice Italian restaurant out in Riverside where you can stuff yourself full if your wallet is willing. I loved their bread, I kept wanting more, so fluffy and warm and umph. Everything was great, the beef tenderloin was so nice and juicy and properly cooked to medium when asked. Can't say anything bad about that! Otherwise, the mushroom ravioli was surprising. It was quite literally a giant ravioli (singular) that was smothered in flavor. Never had ravioli that big before. The caramel budani was an amazing dessert at the end. Couldn't resist but get a cappuccino to go with it. It was a great way to finish off the night. I kinda ate too much, bloating myself, but successfully food coma-ing after too. Anyhow, what I'm saying is.... It's good Italian food in good quantity too. read more
Our waiter was very knowledgeable and attentive. Great service! The atmosphere was romantic but social, the lighting was very dim. The food was delicious, from the appetizer to the entree's! This is a great option for a date and Italian cuisine. read more
9 months ago
10 months ago
Marios place is a true in Riverside. My favorite restaurant in the area hands down. I have eaten here many times over the years and the food is always spectacular. Great for date night, special occasions, or just because you want a great meal! read more
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More info about Marios Place
3646 Mission Inn Ave
Riverside, CA 92501
Directions
(951) 684-7755
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http://www.mariosplace.com
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Ask the Community - Marios Place
What days/time is happy hour? And what are the happy hour specials?
Half off drinks 4-6pm Tuesday-Friday But not in December
I've called to make a reservation and leave a message since nobody answers. Haven't received a call back to confirm. How else can I make a reservation?
They only take reservations by phone
What is the best way to make a reservation? Also is there a band playing on Mondays?
Best way to make reservations is via phone... not sure about band post Covid...
What is the corkage charge if you bring your own bottle from your cellar?
$25. 2 bottles max
Is it a family friendly place?
Do they require formal wear or business casual wear or are jeans and t shirt appropriate?
I've seen a variety but mostly casual. I've worn jeans, but I've also seen women in cocktail dresses. I think anything goes in true SoCal style.
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86 reviews that are not currently recommended
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