With over a decade of culinary experience in international cuisine, restaurant owner Anthony Awad has discoverd a new sensation and placed it in the heart of Belmont. With a theme rooted in Italian concepts, Caprino's has added an International, American twist.
Since the grand opening on August 31, 1998, an increasing number of people have already discovered the unique flavor and ambiance of Caprino's. Whether it be a candle-lit dinner for two or a family affair, we invite you to our warm atmosphere to enjoy our friendly service and sensational cuisine.
Now taking reservations online!
caprino's restaurant review
by the Basement Critic
Having reviewed Caprino's several times since their opening, I can state with confidence that owner Anthony Awad has definitely hit his stride. Nestled in the quaint town of Belmont (between San Mateo and Redwood City), the recent remodel is complete with hand painted frescoes on the ceiling and dark mahogany wood throughout the restaurant. "Hawthorne Lane" style comfortable and spacious booths line a cozy dining room with more than adequate separation between you and your dining neighbors. The most significant change however, is the addition of a full bar which is rapidly becoming a Peninsula favorite hot spot - especially given the eclectic music "after hours" on most Friday and Saturday nights.
The service and cuisine at Caprino's are better than ever. While I almost never crave eating Italian food outside my own home, I often find myself craving Awad's specialties. Let's start with the basics - not all pastas are created equally. The Spaghetti Bolognese is an outstanding example of how owner Awad takes a very simple, traditional Italian dish and turns it into something you will find difficult to resist upon future visits to his restaurant. The rich and hearty Seafood Cioppino will make your knees weak as it surpasses many of those served for decades at the more traditional establishment up north. The Veal Osso Bucco will inspire you to roll up your sleeves and literally suck the last drop of marrow from the bone at the end of your meal. And, I'm not the only one who feels this way. On several recent visits, I spoke with several Patrons who had driven across bridges for the Cioppino and Osso Bucco. Where's the Pizza you ask? Not forgotten - the Prosciutto and Caramelized Onion pizza is one of the top 5 pizzas I've ever tasted, period. Awad is using a secret family recipe and it needs no work - you will not find half eaten crust on your plate at the end of your meal.
And, let's not forget the starters. The stuffed Artichoke and popcorn shrimp are an excellent way to start off your meal. Actually, you could make a great meal off popcorn shrimp, a Belmont Salad, and a glass of wine while watching the Giants game on the Plasma TV at the bar. The salads are well dressed, not oily (a huge personal pet peeve of mine), and contain lettuce that does not make you feel like you are eating freshly pulled weeds from your garden.
The wine selection is more than adequate - even the most discriminating connoisseur will find something they like.
Finish off your evening with a very aggressive Tiramisu, Caramel Apple Granny, or my personal favorite, the Italian Beauty Chocolate cake with a side car of Vanilla Gelato. Oh, and don't forget your glass of Rancho Zabaco Port / Zinfandel blend. Anyone have a feather, I'm ready to go again!