Family-owned & -operated landmark serving Italian food in elegant, old-school environs since 1967.
Lauri B
11/28/2025: For a restaurant with “ristorante” in the title, I expected it to have a little bit more of an Italian decor. They could’ve done more with the space. They have regular tables and booths available. A small bar is also available for seating. Upon entering, I used the restroom and washed my hands. No paper towels available and the hand dryer was not working. So far, we were not off to a good start. We ordered a glass of wine while we looked over the menu. We settled on the calamari for an appetizer. It was very chewy and served lukewarm. Even the marinara sauce was lukewarm warm. We ordered a second marinara sauce and it was a good temperature. The batter on the calamari was good, but the calamari itself was very chewy. It is large enough to split. We ordered the Mario’s Special. We wanted to substitute two of the toppings, but they told us it would be $2.25 extra for each. I don’t understand why it would be extra if we’re taking something off and just exchanging it, but they do have a disclaimer on the menu that states they do not substitute. Just one more way customer service is lacking these days. The only reason I’m giving them four stars is because the pizza was absolutely wonderful, even though we couldn’t get the “extra” toppings. I would describe the crust as hand tossed on the thin side. It was flavorful, crispy, and flaky. The toppings were fresh and the marinara sauce was perfect. The pizza saved the day! Wyatt was our server and I know he was just doing his job, but I also know he could have at least compromised with our requests. Maybe give us one “extra” topping? We still tipped him 20%. Our total bill was $60.59 before tip.
I would go back for the pizza or even better, get delivery to the condo. If they want to spruce up the establishment, I would suggest giving it a more Italian feel. At least fix the bulbs on the “M” and the “a” for the exterior sign. We dined at “rio’s” last night.
… moreAimee
Service was fast and excellent! The fried ravioli will have us coming back for more, but we weren’t as jazzed about the pizza. We like a good sauce, but our pie hardly had any. The roasted tomato on the Hawaiian didn’t add anything and if we were to order it again, we’d ask for it without.
… moreJohn David Suayan
It embarrasses me as a BOI who lived in Galveston for 27 years to say that the first time I ever ate at Mario’s Ristorante was a few nights ago. I’ve gone down 61st countless times, but not once have I ever set foot inside this longtime Italian culinary institution. Come to think of it, I don’t think I’ve ordered from here, either.
Mario’s was on my radar for the evening on Wednesday after I toured the new Ball High (Class of 2000). I failed to resist the siren song of the dinner buffet, which takes place every Wednesday from 5 p.m.-9 p.m. For about $17, diners could have their pick of the five or so pizzas in addition to entrees, pasta, salads, and deserts. I decided to have a slice of each pizza — cheese, pepperoni, supreme, meat lovers, etc. — since I was a newbie to the establishment. The slices were the usual hand tossed and not too thick. The cheese-to-toppings ratio was pretty even. Fortunately, I enjoyed each, so much so that I felt stuffed as I worked on my third slice.
After pizza, I assembled a plate consisting of fried fish, potatoes, spaghetti and meatballs, and chicken pasta. My taste buds were continuously treated to straight-up Old World Italian deliciousness. I couldn’t get enough of the fried fish and chicken pasta. It took me a while to finish the spaghetti because I was beyond the point of full. I had no choice but to forego the chicken masala and seafood rice pilaf.
Mario’s, which has existed since 1967, has the undeniable feel of an old school pizzeria. Guests can actually feel the warmth emanating from the kitchen as well as the staff. When dining in, be sure to ask for Wyatt. He’ll make you feel right at home. Whitney is another person you ought to get to know also.
I believe that a lot of my Wednesday evenings will be spent here.
… moreMarisa Bradshaw
We were recommended Mario’s from our Moody Gardens hotel bartender and they did not disappoint! We had a delicious meal with fried ravioli and cheese garlic bread appetizers, pizza and finished it with decadent cheesecake and chocolate cake. Everything was so fresh – we were literally watching them tossing pizza dough! Our waitress was wonderful too! Give this place a try!!
… moreK H
We absolutely love Mario’s! Every time we visit Galveston (a few times a year) we make a special point of eating here!
Wait staff is excellent. Food is fantastic! The food always comes out super quick and piping hot!
… moreMary Ziegelmann
We had a group of 24 adults from all over the US. The service was great, food was perfectly prepared and served hot. Drinks were not watered down. We were set up in an area off to the side which was perfect for our group (we were a bit loud). Definitely be back.
… moreCharles Bradford
There are some restaurants you go to for atmosphere. You may visit others for the food. As a foodie — the food quality here is always awesome! It’s not a fancy place, but there are almost 20 Italian restaurants on Galveston Island. For lunch, this is by far my fav. Yesterday, I got a glorious meatball sub — it’s enough for 2 meals!! If you’re a tourist just visiting — or recently moved to Galveston — read on.
What makes the food so good? They are 3rd generation Italians using quality ingredients (especially olives!) for over 50 years. Their pride shows in their food. Also — a little known fact — they have a wonderful LUNCH BUFFET Monday – Fridays for $14.25. It includes a complete salad bar, numerous hot dishes, and 5 or 6 kinds of pizza. All you can eat (but not take away)!! Super for hungry teenagers. They also do a BUFFET on Wednesdays from 5pm to 9pm. If you haven’t tried these guys, you’re missing one of Galveston’s gems!
… moreChance Bordine
Overall Mario’s was amazing! The combo appetizer was just ok, but the Lobster Ravioli more than made up for it! You can tell that they put love and care into their dishes! Wonderful Italian restaurant and the staff was very friendly. The prices were great as well.
… morePaul Heeg
Mario’s is hands-down one of the best pizza spots in Galveston. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with friendly service and the warm, delicious aroma of fresh-baked pizza. Their crust is perfectly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, and every topping tastes fresh and high-quality.
We tried a couple of their specialty pies and were blown away, each one was packed with flavor and cooked to perfection. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it a great place to grab a meal with family or friends.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting the island, Mario’s is absolutely worth the stop. We’ll definitely be back!
… moreJohn Merrill
My family and I really enjoyed Mario’s Ristorante. We went a bit late for lunch while we were in town (about 1:00 pm) and the place wasn’t too busy so there wasn’t any wait. Our server was friendly and attentive, and even more importantly, all of the food exceeded our expectations, given the fact that it’s a casual, not-too-fancy kind of Italian restaurant. I ordered the Spaghetti Mario (Italian sausage, mushrooms, one meatball, plum tomato marinara), my wife ordered the Eggplant Parmigiana, and my son and daughter ordered a “pizza your way” and the Meat Ravioli. We all agreed that the quality of the sauces and ingredients were memorably tasty and that the portion sizes were quite generous, given the prices (my wife and I both ended up just eating half of our food and bringing the rest home for dinner). I can honestly recommend Mario’s if you’re looking for a not-too-fancy, pleasing, affordable Italian dining experience. I would go back and give them a chance again the next time I’m in Galveston.
… more