The home of Mr. Pizza Man, reimagined as Nelci's Kitchen
Dining rooted in tradition in East Palo Alto.

Brazilian Pizzeria and Grill in East Palo Alto, CA

Welcome to Nelci’s Kitchen—where we’re preserving the best of Mr. Pizza Man and bringing a whole new world of homemade comfort to your table near East Palo Alto, CA. If you’re cruising down University Avenue after a long day at work, or you’re grabbing the kids from Cesar Chavez Ravenswood Middle School, we get it—you’re hungry, you’re tired, and you want food that actually tastes like somebody cared. That’s where we come in. We’ve been serving the East Palo Alto community with the kind of pizza that makes you close your eyes on the first bite. It’s not just dinner. It’s a moment.

Our East Palo Alto Story

Tradition in the kitchen, family at the table. Pull up a chair in East Palo Alto, you’re home.

Here in the fast-paced downtown San Mateo, we know East Palo Alto folks are always on the move. Whether you’re commuting along Highway 101 or cutting through to the Dumbarton Bridge, finding time for a real meal? Honestly, it’s tough. So we’re committed to creating dining experiences that are shared, spirited, and always feel like home—for everyone near East Palo Alto.

That’s exactly why Nelci’s Kitchen exists.

Nelci’s Kitchen is the realization of a lifelong dream for Chef Nelci Vieira. Her journey began in the kitchens of Minas Gerais, a region celebrated as the soulful heart of Brazilian home cooking. And when she brought those flavors to California, she made sure East Palo Alto got a front-row seat. From the Four Seasons neighborhood to the Whisper Hills area, folks have been driving over to taste what real food feels like.

Our purpose is to bring the vibrant, welcoming spirit of Brazil to California by sharing authentic homemade food, grilling, artisanal pizzas, pastas, salads and desserts.
—Nelci Vieira, Chef de Cuisine

Our East Palo Alto Menu

Tradition, Carved and Shared in East Palo Alto.

At Nelci’s Kitchen, we honor the slow-cooked traditions of our grandmothers. From the fire of the grill to our hand-stretched, slow-fermented dough, everything is made to be passed around and enjoyed together. And for East Palo Alto families who’ve been burned by chain restaurants that just don’t get it—we hear you. You want pizza that’s not greasy cardboard. You want wings that actually have crunch. You want a calzone that’s stuffed like a proper hug. We’ve got all that and more, just a short drive from East Palo Alto’s Belle Haven neighborhood.

East Palo Alto Artisan Cravings

East Palo Alto Pizzeria
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East Palo Alto Grill Tradition

East Palo Alto Food & Grill
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The East Palo Alto Experience

The Soul of Minas, The Heart of East Palo Alto

From our family kitchen to the table, every dish is a celebration of the traditions that turn guests into family.

Authentic Brazilian Grilled Meats in East Palo Alto

Are you up for a smoky, salty masterpiece that tastes like a Sunday afternoon in Brazil?

East Palo Alto Artisanal Pizzas

Hand-stretched, long-fermented dough paired with organic sauces and premium local ingredients.

East Palo Alto Premium Pastas

Our chef-curated selection of traditional Italian all-time favorites. Served with a side of buttery toasted garlic bread.

East Palo Alto Greens and Grains

Seasonal ingredients and crisp textures, prepared fresh daily to celebrate the lighter side of our kitchen.

East Palo Alto Testimonials

What East Palo Alto Guests Are Saying

— Daniel R.San Mateo
“The moment you walk in, it feels different—warm, welcoming, and genuine. The food isn’t just good… it’s memorable. The grilled meats were perfectly cooked, and the pizza had a flavor you just don’t find anywhere else around here. You can tell everything is made with care.”
— Melissa G.Burlingame
“I’ve tried so many restaurants around the Peninsula, and most feel the same. Nelci’s Kitchen stands out. The flavors are rich, the portions are generous, and the whole experience feels like home. Perfect for sharing with family or friends.”
— Carlos M.Redwood City
“Knowing Chef Nelci has over 50 years of experience makes sense after your first bite. Everything feels intentional—from the seasoning to the presentation. This isn’t fast food—it’s real cooking.”
— Jessica T.San Mateo
“We came in for a casual night out and ended up staying longer than expected. The atmosphere is relaxed, the staff is friendly, and the food keeps you coming back for more. It’s perfect for date nights or just catching up with friends.”
— Andre P.Foster City
“The family-style setup makes it easy to share and experience more of the menu. The picanha was incredible, and the pão de queijo was addictive. This place delivers both quality and experience.”
Shared Experience in East Palo Alto

A Seat For Everyone in East Palo Alto

Whether you crave the sizzle of the grill, the craft of an artisan pizza, or the comfort of premium pasta and fresh salads, there is a place for everyone at our table.

East Palo Alto Shared Moments

East Palo Alto Catering & Corporate Events

Whether you’re hosting a gathering near the Ravenswood Shopping Center or planning a team lunch off Bay Road:

For more information or to inquire about tailored solutions and special packages, please contact us.

East Palo Alto Authentic Edge

Our Promise to the Table in East Palo Alto

50+ Years of Culinary Mastery in East Palo Alto

From Minas Gerais with Love. Rooted in Tradition, Crafted for You.

Authentic Grandma-Style Brazilian Homemade Food in East Palo Alto

A collection of family recipes preserved through generations, served for the way we eat today.

East Palo Alto Handcraft Approach

Honest flavors from the heart of Minas Gerais, prepared with high-quality, locally-sourced seasonal ingredients, love, patience and a grandmother’s steady hand.

A Place That Feels Like Home in East Palo Alto

Our food is made by hand, and served with the same heart you’d find at our own family table.

We’re saving a seat at the table for you in East Palo Alto.

Whether you’re joining us in East Palo Alto for a quick slice or a long family feast, we’re ready to welcome you home.

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