Reservation
(760) 345-8900
Visit Us
78152 Varner Rd Ste G-H Palm Desert, CA 92211 United States
Hello dear
Welcome To Mario’s Italian Cafe
Welcome to Mario’s Italian Cafe, where passion for authentic Italian cuisine meets a vibrant community atmosphere. Nestled in Palm Desert, this inviting eatery offers a diverse menu filled with delectable dishes, from stuffed pasta entrees to satisfying calzones and flavorful hot sandwiches. With a strong emphasis on quality ingredients and generous portions, Mario’s prides itself on catering to all dietary preferences, including many vegetarian options. Whether you’re dining in, taking out, or enjoying the outdoor space, the attentive staff ensures a memorable experience. Join us at Mario’s, where each meal is a taste of Italy, bringing joy and comfort to every table.
Today's Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
CIOPPINO
Steamed Clams SHELL
Veal N Peppers
Veal Saltimbocca
About
Mario’s Italian Cafe
Welcome to Mario’s Italian Cafe, your go-to destination for authentic Italian cuisine nestled in the heart of Palm Desert, California. Located on Varner Road, this charming cafe is not just a place to eat; it’s a culinary experience that transports you straight to Italy with every bite. Whether you are craving a delicious pizza topped with the freshest ingredients or yearning for classic pasta dishes, Mario’s has something to satisfy all palates.
At Mario’s, we take pride in offering a diverse menu that caters to all, including numerous vegetarian options. With outdoor seating available, you can enjoy your meal in a laid-back and dog-friendly atmosphere. The ambiance here is casual yet vibrant, making it an ideal spot for lunch with friends, a cozy family dinner, or even a lively night out. You can always expect moderate noise levels that foster a welcoming environment perfect for groups of any size.
- Convenience: Mario's Italian Cafe offers a plethora of services to enhance your dining experience. For those on the go, take advantage of our delivery and takeout options. If you're planning a special event, we also provide catering services to bring the taste of Italy to your gatherings.
- Lunch Specials: Customers rave about our lunch specials, with dishes like the Antipasto Salad lunch special and NY Style Pizza on offer for just $10.99. Enjoy great flavors at a fair price!
- Hearty Portions: Our stuffed noodle entrees, such as Baked Mostaccioli and Cannelloni, are both generous in portion and rich in flavor—ideal for those who truly appreciate authentic Italian cooking.
But don’t just take it from us—hear from our delighted customers! From Beckie L.’s enthusiasm for the lunch specials to Douglas O.’s proclamation of finding his culinary haven, the rave reviews speak volumes about the quality and dedication that goes into each dish. The meticulous preparation and welcoming service ensure that every visit to Mario’s is memorable.
So whether you prefer to dine in, take out, or kick back on our heated outdoor patio with a cold drink from the full bar during happy hour, Mario’s Italian Cafe is your perfect choice. Come and join us for a taste of Italy, right here in Palm Desert. We promise you’ll leave with a satisfied palate and a smile!
Visit us today at 78152 Varner Rd Ste G-H, Palm Desert, CA 92211 or give us a call at (760) 345-8900 for reservations. Experience the flavors, warmth, and hospitality that only Mario’s can offer!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ Great lunch specials I've tried all of them good prices I go to the one by stater bros ”
“ I revisited Mario's today because I love good Italian. I wanted to update my review to Five stars. But, after arriving home and checking my order I did not receive an extra order of 2 pieces of garlic bread that I paid extra for. I did receive the pieces that came with the two dinners . The staff was polite and helpful l, attentive and the place was packed on Sunday night at 5:00. Just check your order before leaving. ”
“ I love love love this place I lived on the west coast for long time and searched for a good Italian restaurant Well I am here to say I found it there are more than one place all the same menu and delicious food the service spectacular come one come all enjoy a night in Italy See you there or just have a great night out ”
“ Everything is great at Mario's. We eat there often. Great menu. You can always find something to eat. Prices are very fair, especially for the amount of food one gets. ”
“ We recently moved to Sun City in Palm Desert and were attending a district meeting and party last night at the Lakeview clubhouse. About 70 seniors attended and thoroughly enjoyed the dinner which was catered by Mario's. I have friends exclaiming they would call the restaurant to thank them for the very nice meal. While I did not eat meat, there was a beautifully seasoned chicken which got lots of attention from many. I generally don't veer toward Italian restaurants, having had so much Italian food in my youth in Massachusetts, but the rigatoni with very fresh vegetables and a tangy sauce with a salad gave me such pleasure that I must congratulate Mario's. They had me at mushrooms and broccoli. Those are my favorite healthy additions to any meal and they were not overcooked. The garlic bread was on point and the presentation made a lot of seniors very happy. Right now we are having some new solar construction hogging the already challenged parking lot and with all these seniors chowing down for seconds, we skedaddled early to avoid the red wine sippers & white-haired golf cart drivers who can be sketchy even when zooming about during the day. Thank you, Mario's, for all your work and for being just around the corner in our new home! See you soon! ”
“ The Medjool Napolitano pasta is absolutely AMAZING! Imagine a bowl of bowtie pasta tossed with cooked greens, vegetables, and Medjool dates, with an indescribly delicious sauce. Mario's knocked it out of the ball park with this dish. It is a must try dish. On my next trip out, I plan to get this dish again and add the Medjool Date salad and take both home to share. ”
“ 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! ”
“ 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! ”
