Johnston's Saltbox

1696 Laurel St, San Carlos
(650) 592-7258

Recent Reviews

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Miranda Hunter

Love this place

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Shane

pass.

Ordered takeout. Got the chicken sandwich. They gave me day-old fries and a dry chicken sandwich, it was overcooked chicken and too little sauce. I had to put my own sauce on at home.

Were I dining in, I would have sent it back.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 1

Service: 4

Angela Cesena

We were completely obsessed with every flavor we were presented with - savory chicken sandwich, sweet French toast, alcoholic beverage - everything had strong flavors that complimented each other while also taking some risks and not just doing basic recipes. Service was also lovely - just so thrilled we found this place and will definitely be back and probably with friends!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Sarah Londer

Ordering is now done at the counter for lunch. Not sure about dinner

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 4

Mario B

Tucked away in sleepy San Carlos on the corner of Laurel and St. Francis, Johnston’s Saltbox delivers on a cozy atmosphere, great service, and good New American food.

The neighborhood restaurant offers very limited and seasonal New American style cuisine with only a handful of options. The ingredients are local, the options are quite healthy, and the presentation is lovely. The price reflects that. While New American isn’t something I’d naturally gravitate to, the food was quite good. That being said, the scones are the only item that would make me want to go back.

The restaurant itself is lovely with a large back patio, the perfect hang out on a warm California day. That being said, becusss it’s not the biggest place and the area doesn’t have much, don’t be surprised if there is a wait. Doesn’t help that many people seem to just come here to lounge and enjoy themselves.

The service was good and timely. We felt well looked after.

Overall, Johnston’s Saltbox provides something new and different and is a standout for San Carlos but perhaps not as mind blowing as you may have hoped based on the concept and price. 4 stars.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 4

Emma Tulla

An amazing place.
Food is innovative, fresh, and delicious.
Service is top-notch and the outdoor terrace spot is great for an outdoor shady spot in the summer.
They change their menus every few weeks but you are guaranteed to be pleasantly surprised by their eclectic offerings.
Love their vegetarian options specifically the strata rustica.
Their French toast is amazingly delicious with seasonal variations they are very crispy outside and moist inside.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

B Si

Food is aways great, service is friendly. Their outdoor seating area has such a nice chill vibe during the summer.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Laveille Voss

Does not disappoint every time I come.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

George Drastal

Fresh and creative offerings that change often. Staff is fast and friendly. Good wine selections by the glass. On my third visit so far, and I have never been disappointed.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Mingfei Huang

I love they have new menu every few weeks, always a good surprise!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

David Carrillo

Good place for fusion brunch.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

S F

First time dining here and we will return again and again. The food was fantastic - fresh high-quality ingredients, innovative dishes with high flavor. The service was spot on, knowledgeable and friendly. We sat on their leafy shaded patio for dinner tonight. It was very easy to talk with one another. The inside has multiple tables, including tables on front patio where large glass doors open to the street. Everything about this restaurant stands out. What a gem ♥️

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Isabel Guan (yolieeee)

Amazing food, relaxing atmosphere, beautiful site. About 30 min wait in Saturday morning but totally worth it!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Michaela O'Hara

I’ve been here a handful of times and am always pleased. Highly recommend on a beautiful day, especially to enjoy the outdoor seating, but honestly great experience no matter what. It’s a relaxing environment and the service is always quick, with very friendly staff. Fantastic drinks & unique/seasonal dishes.

Crystal Wai

The seasonal menu is amazing. Everything is so fresh and tasty. Their home made sodas are delicous too. They have a lovely patio that is very relaxing and great for catching up with friends.

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