Restaurants in San Mateo
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Best Restaurants
“We stopped by and tried the lahmacun and the cheese pizza, and everything was absolutely great! The lahmacun was packed with flavor and baked to perfection, and the cheese pizza was delicious with a fantastic crust. Great food, wonderful quality, and friendly service. Highly recommend checking this place out if you're in the area!”
“Enjoyed omakase 8pcs with some age dashi tofu, nigori sake and the white peach panna cotta!”
“The outdoor patio was perfect for our Sunday brunch and our 18th Anniversary. We’ve celebrated many occasions at All Spice and have always had a stellar experience with the staff and the food. Our table felt intimate — we were sharing a large space with four other tables, appropriately distanced. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable. Again, all Covid-19 compliant. The food, oh the food! The Dutch baby was perfectly cooked and the fruit fillings were gorgeous. The chicken sandwich was out of this world. The Mimosa and hard apple cider beverages were on point. We always love our meals at All Spice and this time was no exception. It’s a total gem!”
“Fast friendly service. But you’ll be taking a to-go bag home for sure!! I was stuffed!!”
“First of all the owners are absolutely delightful. We got take out and it blew our socks off! Hands down the best egg I have ever had in my life....Seriously, I had waited a long while to come here and when I got a reservation for my husband's birthday it was a magical, moment. We were delighted. We traveled through taste and it suspended time. Satiated and joyous. Wakuriya is the best Japanese I have had in my life. I cannot wait to dine inside, but until then I will treat myself to their fare every month. Truly, a delight of sight, smell, texture and taste. I feel lucky to live in the neighborhood, to be so close to this 魔法の場所. Much Love Everyone, may you eat well, be well and visit Wakyuriya.”
Restaurants by Cuisine
“Food was standard American Thai fare. The pad thai was average, although my party enjoyed the spicy eggplant stir fry dish. Everything is pretty okay, and decent enough if you're in the mood for Thai food. I will say it was nice that entrees were $14-15. Pretty affordable meal.
We came on a Sunday afternoon (2pm) on a holiday weekend. We had to sign up on the waitlist, and it was about a 20minute wait until we got a text saying our table was ready. Staff was nice, although never refilled our waters.
The interior gives a casual vibe. The space isn't very big, and all tables were completely filled at all times. Noise volume inside was moderate. Can still hear your tablemates without raising your voice too much, but it wasn't quiet in there by any mean.s There's tv screens, one of which was broadcasting the news channel.”
“This is an old-fashioned coffee shop run by a wonderful Italian man. Great breakfast and lunch and of course great coffee. Nice atmosphere can eat inside or outside dogs welcome.”
Restaurants with Delivery
“We stopped by and tried the lahmacun and the cheese pizza, and everything was absolutely great! The lahmacun was packed with flavor and baked to perfection, and the cheese pizza was delicious with a fantastic crust. Great food, wonderful quality, and friendly service. Highly recommend checking this place out if you're in the area!”
“The outdoor patio was perfect for our Sunday brunch and our 18th Anniversary. We’ve celebrated many occasions at All Spice and have always had a stellar experience with the staff and the food. Our table felt intimate — we were sharing a large space with four other tables, appropriately distanced. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable. Again, all Covid-19 compliant. The food, oh the food! The Dutch baby was perfectly cooked and the fruit fillings were gorgeous. The chicken sandwich was out of this world. The Mimosa and hard apple cider beverages were on point. We always love our meals at All Spice and this time was no exception. It’s a total gem!”
“I found this bakery when I was looking for a place to purchase alfajores and I was so happy to have found it! I was greeted as soon as I walked in and my first visit was nothing but a very nice experience. Two young men behind the counter seemed really friendly and helpful. The other customers in the store at the time seemed very happy. I came for alfajores today, but I will definitely go back for more alfajores and other goodies!”
“After my friend took me here, I came back the very next day and bring my other friends. It's a hidden authentic chinese restaurant. Food is very good. Price is very fair or even on the cheaper side. Dish portion is big.. The parking is a little bit not easy during busy hours. Only one lady serves the tables. She was quite busy.
Very happy knowing this place and will be back.”
“Was able to try the Mocha Crunch Cake which is hard to find in the Bay Area. I've only been able to find one other place in San Francisco. This cake was very tasty and moist. And of course there was a good crunch to it. I think the only thing about the crunch is that some of the pieces are HUGE but overall...can't complain!”
“Food was standard American Thai fare. The pad thai was average, although my party enjoyed the spicy eggplant stir fry dish. Everything is pretty okay, and decent enough if you're in the mood for Thai food. I will say it was nice that entrees were $14-15. Pretty affordable meal.
We came on a Sunday afternoon (2pm) on a holiday weekend. We had to sign up on the waitlist, and it was about a 20minute wait until we got a text saying our table was ready. Staff was nice, although never refilled our waters.
The interior gives a casual vibe. The space isn't very big, and all tables were completely filled at all times. Noise volume inside was moderate. Can still hear your tablemates without raising your voice too much, but it wasn't quiet in there by any mean.s There's tv screens, one of which was broadcasting the news channel.”
“Manny was the kindest employee I have had have the chance of meeting. He is extremely genuine and builds upon a positive experience to every customer he comes across. He even helped my boyfriend on some tricks to better his Spanish. All in all if I could give my experience more than five stars I would!!!”
“Stopped in for Dinner, only one vegan protein option, but it didn't disappoint, probably the best beyond meat ive ever tasted, great sides, and delicious strawberry mint lemonade as well, great atmosphere and very friendly and informative staff, will definitely return again”
Outdoor Dining
“We did a side by side taste test today vs the semi-famous Victoria cannoli from north beach in San Francisco. Both are good, but Romolo’s really is far better. All three people who tasted both agreed that it wasn’t super close. Romolo’s have a clear and delightful flavor, a better shell, and a hint of citrus in the filling that makes it even better. You can’t go wrong with either, but you can go right.”
“Stopped in for Dinner, only one vegan protein option, but it didn't disappoint, probably the best beyond meat ive ever tasted, great sides, and delicious strawberry mint lemonade as well, great atmosphere and very friendly and informative staff, will definitely return again”
“This cafe is such a little gem on the first floor of a beautiful office building. You can order drinks/food and enjoy them outdoor on the steps by the water and trees or spend the day working inside of the cafe. Indoor and outdoor seating.
Plenty of room and tables to work and study.
No need to break up your work time because they serve hot meals and there is such a beautiful space right outside to get fresh air.”
“We had an absolutely lovely experience here! Came for my boyfriend’s birthday, everyone was friendly and attentive. Fantastic high end ambience. The food was almost too beautiful to eat and every one of us thoroughly enjoyed our entrees. One of our guests said it was the best spaghetti he had ever had! The mushroom risotto was perfection. I had the Chilean sea bass and WOW! The salmon was also amazing. The other two guests had roasted chicken and hangar steak… I didn’t get to try them but they looked amazing and everyone cleaned their plate even though we were full lol! We will absolutely be back. Highly recommend!! 5 stars ⭐️”
“Hole in the wall pizza joint, but you're not going for the ambiance. You go here for the pizza. Its amazing pizza! Service is polite, friendly and expedient.”
“Really enjoyed the BBQ here! The ingredients were fresh and everything we ordered was delicious. The service was friendly and attentive, and they were especially nice and welcoming to our little one. We had a great experience and will definitely come back!”
Online Reservation Available
“A hidden gem of a family-run Italian restaurant—don’t be misled by the humble exterior. Inside, you’re welcomed with genuine hospitality and unforgettable food. My husband and I ordered the filet of sole and the white Provini veal scallopini—both were bursting with flavor and perfectly portioned. This isn’t a place for flashy plating—it’s all about honest, delicious Italian cooking made with care. The host greeted us with a warm smile and made us feel instantly at home. The retro, moody lighting adds a cozy, nostalgic touch. We’ll definitely be back! Tip: Make a reservation—this spot stays busy, and for good reason.”
“If you're in the area or at Hillsdale mall, forget about the mall found and come here instead! Chicken wings crispy and not oily, the green garlic sauce with bread is excellent. And the seafood stew is light but flavorful. A local gem indeed”
“Delicious authentic Brazilian food with amazing service . Fun experience too!”
24 Hour Restaurants
“So glad my friend and I randomly stumbled on this bakery this morning! I don’t live in the area, but it’s seriously worth the drive. The scones were soft and delicious (loved the goat cheese and the plain), and I think I’ve found a new obsession with their I Love You Latte. Finally a specialty drink that isn’t just sugar! The place is super cute and the staff is adorable. Already excited to go back!”
“Went to lunch there today Food very tasty and this looks like it would be a fantastic Happy Hour Meet Up!!!!”
“We had an absolutely lovely experience here! Came for my boyfriend’s birthday, everyone was friendly and attentive. Fantastic high end ambience. The food was almost too beautiful to eat and every one of us thoroughly enjoyed our entrees. One of our guests said it was the best spaghetti he had ever had! The mushroom risotto was perfection. I had the Chilean sea bass and WOW! The salmon was also amazing. The other two guests had roasted chicken and hangar steak… I didn’t get to try them but they looked amazing and everyone cleaned their plate even though we were full lol! We will absolutely be back. Highly recommend!! 5 stars ⭐️”
Takeout Restaurants
“First of all the owners are absolutely delightful. We got take out and it blew our socks off! Hands down the best egg I have ever had in my life....Seriously, I had waited a long while to come here and when I got a reservation for my husband's birthday it was a magical, moment. We were delighted. We traveled through taste and it suspended time. Satiated and joyous. Wakuriya is the best Japanese I have had in my life. I cannot wait to dine inside, but until then I will treat myself to their fare every month. Truly, a delight of sight, smell, texture and taste. I feel lucky to live in the neighborhood, to be so close to this 魔法の場所. Much Love Everyone, may you eat well, be well and visit Wakyuriya.”
“Still the best kept secret in San Mateo. I’m moving tomorrow and this food is what I’m going to miss the most. The portions are generous, the price is affordable, the service can’t be beat. Cash only. Small parking lot. Family owned and operated. The carne asada is delicious! Actually I haven’t had a bad meal here. Take away is available. You won't be disappointed . Skip the la cumbre and pancho villa. Come get the best!”
“For starters, being a new resident within their second year in San Mateo & now attending CSM for some courses I must say how pleased I am to find a gem of a restaurant such as Shiki. For it's convenience and location being an approximate 12 minute walk from campus I intend on visiting again on special occasion.
The service from staff was direct and accomadating as they allowed my cousin and I to enjoy our dinner over the course of our visit which spanned for almost more than an hour. This alone sets the tone of the atmosphere as the restaurant is moderately quaint with enough space to host a party of 4-6 comfortably according to the layout and tableing I could vaguely go over again in my mind.
Now, for the food commentary. The chirashi was a great choice for the night!A well displayed array of fresh fish placed on top of a balance of light seasoning topped sushi rice & garnish of thin clear noodles that could've been substituted from tamago kinshi. The hamachi was the highlight due to the robust sweetness that was propelled through the natural texture of the fish. The maguro being a typical favorite of mine did not disappoint at all!
Overall, the service was great as well as the atmosphere being perfect for intimate and relaxed occasions with loved ones. Not only was the chirasu fresh but the pork tonkatsu paired with a beautifully chopped sweet citrus fruit on the side among a fresh romaine leaflet embedded underneath was simple and clean. Thinly sliced and fried to a crunch with ease.
Thank you to the wonderful staff employed at Shiki! I most definitely want to thank the chef & kitchen crew for the delicious meals made tonight. Blessings!”
“Do you love going to Flavortown? How about dreaming with your eyes open? Then try these birria tacos. The first time I had it was from leftovers that my daughter brought home for lunch. Then I drove from Oakley to San Mateo to have them fresh. It was AMAZING! They provide extra stuff to add to the tacos, but it honestly didn’t need them. The meat was so tender & flavorful that I had to close my eyes so I could fully appreciate the taste. Then I added the extras one by one & it tasted like a new taco each time. I know it seems like I’m exaggerating, but it’s really that good! My only wish is that they had seating nearby & a second location closer to Oakley.”
“The waiter greeted us right away and sat us down immediately. The food came really fast and there was a lot of options on the menu. The crab roe noodle was creamy. A lot more noodle than the pictures made it seems. The braised beef noodle was flavorful and had a lot of toppings. Portion sizes were good. Would come back again next time. The seating area had plenty of space. Free sides such as pickled radish and tofu skin. Had really good chinese drink options in their fridges as well. I like that they open until 10pm.”
“PLEASE OPEN A LOCATION IN SF!!!!!
When I tell you that I love Prime BBQ, I am 100% serious. I always look forward to eating here and crave it constantly. Everything is always fresh and very well-seasoned and the staff is attentive. My favorites are the ribeye, enoki mushroom, and mochi bacon skewers. Everything is seriously so tasty at this restaurant. I am begging you guys to please open a location in SF!!”
Drive-Thru Restaurants
“Super good restaurants with healthy and tasty thai food. They do accommodate allergies and dietary restrictions. They could make Jain food for me and also adhere to it strictly even when I order from Doordash and call and let them know about my allergies and Jain religious dietary restrictions. The front desk person is so friendly and helpful.”
“Cozy little Japanese restaurant with super friendly servers. The owner works at the counter. I come for Ishiyaki Hitsumamushi (Stone Bowl Seafood Rice) which I don’t think is served anywhere else. I also had tuna bone marrow for appetitzer and black sesame cheesecake for dessert. So many other dishes I want to try so will be back.”
“San Mateos best kept secret. Best sushi I've had in years. Wonderful atmosphere, great service and at a reasonable price. My comment after dinner was , I guess I have had so much grocery store sushi, I forgot what real sushi should taste like.. Best Japanese food like this is rare these days until you try Tokies”
“A little too packed but we went at peak hours. The broths are amazing, unique from other places. Kevin was our server, he was super helpful and tried to find table for us. Good toping selection as well!”
“The waiter greeted us right away and sat us down immediately. The food came really fast and there was a lot of options on the menu. The crab roe noodle was creamy. A lot more noodle than the pictures made it seems. The braised beef noodle was flavorful and had a lot of toppings. Portion sizes were good. Would come back again next time. The seating area had plenty of space. Free sides such as pickled radish and tofu skin. Had really good chinese drink options in their fridges as well. I like that they open until 10pm.”
Cheap Eats
“Has been the dumpling spot for us going on two years now. We come here about one a month-ish but LOVE this place. One time my boyfriend and I ate 50 soup dumplings between the two of us. It was amazing.
Another time, we were coming back from half Moon Bay and decided to give the frozen dumplings a try. The guy who’s always there (don’t know his name sorry!) gave us directions on how to do it and even gave us some paper to line the pan with so they wouldn’t stick. We super enjoyed them at home! On our visit to go pick up the frozen dumplings, we met a man there who says that he’s from Napa and stops by whenever he’s in the area. (Wow!)
Our faves are: Pork Soup dumplings, Pork chive, and Chicken Corn dumplings 🥟
Thank you for all the yummy dumplings!
-Nina & Camden”
“Came in for the first time and ordered two sandwiches. One, the Pastrami, the other roast beef, both with cheddar and everything on it. The habanero sauce is fire. The ravioli plates. All looked amazing. I gotta go back for some of that action. This might be my new favorite spot.”
“This was the absolute best mixture of healthy and flavor I’ve ever had from any take out spot. Yes, it’s a ghost kitchen, but the portion size, nutrients, protein, and flavor all left me very satisfied, allowing me to get all the healthy macros and nutrients needed for the day. The smoothie option is great too, amazing balance of healthy and sweet. This is at the quality where you can buy multiple of the meals boxes and use it for meal prep. Couldn’t recommend this place any more! No ingredients tastes processed and only very fresh.”
“Having enjoyed their dishes many times for months, It’s beyond “Very Satisfying”! Excellent, delicious food! Quality well maintained although it is a hard time under C-19. Hygiene suggestions n requests well followed! Thanks 🙏 Customer Service outstanding! Highly recommended 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍”
“A most beautiful Black & White birthday cake, delicious and moist, gorgeously decorated with balloons and written script, and thoughtfully packaged on a sturdy gold foiled tray. Very friendly and patient on the phone with my questions and on time with the order. Can’t wait to come back and try the pastries. Thank you Dianda’s!”
“Me and my friend were both in the area where we were hungry and I asked what should we get to eat. My friend was craving for a Banh mi, so I did some research where I discovered this place and we both agreed to give it a try. Upon arrival, this place is basically a hole in the wall that has one table outside for anyone that chooses to eat there. There was just one customer ahead of us, but that was not a problem since we needed time to browse their menu and decide what to have. After a couple of minutes we knew what we wanted and a friendly staff greeted us and took our order. Everything here is made to order which is always a plus for me since it is quality over quantity and I never mind the wait since I am a very patient person. Their menu consists of a variety of Banh mi to choose from, salads, spring rolls, bowls, vermicelli items, refrigerated/house made drinks, pho is also an option and much more to choose from. As time went by the place quickly got busy with many customers coming by to place their orders. Finally our items arrived and each Banh mi comes with a small bag of chips which is just the perfect pair. Overall the food and experience was a satisfying one thanks to their professional, well trained and understanding staffs. I highly recommend this place to all Banh Mi enthusiasts, if you are in need of a quick bite just like me, to anyone willing to try something new or if you just so happen to be in the area to check them out. I definitely will be back to tryout the other delicious options they have to offer.”
“Came on a Friday around 7:30 and it wasn't busy. Order at the counter, seat yourself, and they will bring your food to you. Self serve chips and salsa bar. Fresh chips. Well stocked. Wish they had pico de gallo though. We ordered an al pastor super burrito $15.29. Huge burrito. I eat a lot of burritos and this one surprised me with it's size lol. I asked for less rice and sour cream and they accommodated. Well balanced burrito. Al pastor was crispy and flavorful. Best al pastor I've had in years and best super burrito I've had so far in San Mateo and Burlingame area. Staff are really nice. Clean, medium sized restaurant. I would go back. Only wish they had lengua and cabeza meats”
“Owner is very nice service is great! 7 hours later I’m not sick. I love tacos and I am in a mission finding good tacos in San Mateo county but this is not it. I’m so sorry. I think the reason most people like it and this has good reviews is just because they’re so starving waiting at DMV I am a very honest reviewer. Here are my reasons why…
- the salsa is not spicy
- the salsa is very thick
- the salsa was slimy
- the meat taste spoiled
- my daughter didn’t like it lol
Positive the tortilla was good owner was nice and didn’t get sick
:/ I’m hungry still”
“Nick the Greek Laurelwood is one of the best ran restaurants in the region. Litza, Dimitri, Wesley, and the team provide exceptional service every time I visit this restaurant. They are so focused on amazing experiences. They keep the restaurant spotless and clean at all times. They have amazing attitudes and lift up my spirits on every visit. The food is exceptional and always tastes delicious. Thank you Litza, Dimitri, Wesley, and team for the outstanding work you do for Nick the Greek Laurelwood!”
“PLEASE OPEN A LOCATION IN SF!!!!!
When I tell you that I love Prime BBQ, I am 100% serious. I always look forward to eating here and crave it constantly. Everything is always fresh and very well-seasoned and the staff is attentive. My favorites are the ribeye, enoki mushroom, and mochi bacon skewers. Everything is seriously so tasty at this restaurant. I am begging you guys to please open a location in SF!!”
“Great food an Service. Friendly staff and generous portions.”
“Amazing service. Great food. Awesome staff! Can’t recommend it more highly.”
“ONE word "EXCELLENT". Great menu, love the murals, quick service, clean and they even serve beer and wine. parking is tricky so have patience. Garlic Fries, Hummus, Combo Gyro Plate!”
“Sushi was delicious and service was great! Not a romantic spot though because it’s loud but fun if your going with family and friends. Music is good!!”
“Super good restaurants with healthy and tasty thai food. They do accommodate allergies and dietary restrictions. They could make Jain food for me and also adhere to it strictly even when I order from Doordash and call and let them know about my allergies and Jain religious dietary restrictions. The front desk person is so friendly and helpful.”
“Service was great and the food was awesome. The saba was delicious and perfectly seared. The otoro was a bit thin for the price but flavorful. All in all, I'll be back to explore the menu.”
“Was greeted & seated promptly. Welcomed by Manager Hung. Brittany was our waitress & we received the 20th Anniversary Sacks. Happy Anniversary.”
“Really enjoyed our dinner here! We skipped the famous sampler platter since we weren’t super hungry and just ordered a few things that sounded good.
- The beef tongue was a bit chewier than I expected - definitely had to work at it.
- Oxtail stew was tasty but they went a little heavy on the green onions.
- Pork jowl had great flavor and that nice fatty richness, though I wish it had been a touch more tender.
- Whole marinated short rib was absolutely incredible. So tender and juicy, honestly the star of the show.
Worth coming back for that alone. Good meal overall with one dish that really knocked it out of the park!”
“A hidden gem of a family-run Italian restaurant—don’t be misled by the humble exterior. Inside, you’re welcomed with genuine hospitality and unforgettable food. My husband and I ordered the filet of sole and the white Provini veal scallopini—both were bursting with flavor and perfectly portioned. This isn’t a place for flashy plating—it’s all about honest, delicious Italian cooking made with care. The host greeted us with a warm smile and made us feel instantly at home. The retro, moody lighting adds a cozy, nostalgic touch. We’ll definitely be back! Tip: Make a reservation—this spot stays busy, and for good reason.”
“I ordered the smoked salmon Benedict. It was good. Hashbrowns a little burnt. You order then sit down and they'll bring your food to you. Friendly service. Very busy place. The line was going out the door on a Saturday brunch time but they quickly took care of it. It can get pretty noisy.”
“Amazing experience.
Great staff. Great drinks. Great atmosphere.
I feel at home.
The drinks are delicious. We had 3 rounds and wish we had more time!
The bartenders actually have personalities!
Go and enjoy! You’re welcome.”
“The best bar / restaurant in San Mateo! The place is really well designed, good vibes, and has a reasonably priced wine menu and food. Service was amazing as well. 11/10 recommend”
“Cozy little Japanese restaurant with super friendly servers. The owner works at the counter. I come for Ishiyaki Hitsumamushi (Stone Bowl Seafood Rice) which I don’t think is served anywhere else. I also had tuna bone marrow for appetitzer and black sesame cheesecake for dessert. So many other dishes I want to try so will be back.”
“San Mateos best kept secret. Best sushi I've had in years. Wonderful atmosphere, great service and at a reasonable price. My comment after dinner was , I guess I have had so much grocery store sushi, I forgot what real sushi should taste like.. Best Japanese food like this is rare these days until you try Tokies”
“Saigon Butter Tofu Wine sauce Ox Tail Noodle Soup Crab & Pork Meatball & Tomato Vermicelli And to drink: Taro w/Coconut Slush”
“Fun, friendly, non-pretentious place. And the burgers are all that you want and nothing you don’t.”
“For starters, being a new resident within their second year in San Mateo & now attending CSM for some courses I must say how pleased I am to find a gem of a restaurant such as Shiki. For it's convenience and location being an approximate 12 minute walk from campus I intend on visiting again on special occasion.
The service from staff was direct and accomadating as they allowed my cousin and I to enjoy our dinner over the course of our visit which spanned for almost more than an hour. This alone sets the tone of the atmosphere as the restaurant is moderately quaint with enough space to host a party of 4-6 comfortably according to the layout and tableing I could vaguely go over again in my mind.
Now, for the food commentary. The chirashi was a great choice for the night!A well displayed array of fresh fish placed on top of a balance of light seasoning topped sushi rice & garnish of thin clear noodles that could've been substituted from tamago kinshi. The hamachi was the highlight due to the robust sweetness that was propelled through the natural texture of the fish. The maguro being a typical favorite of mine did not disappoint at all!
Overall, the service was great as well as the atmosphere being perfect for intimate and relaxed occasions with loved ones. Not only was the chirasu fresh but the pork tonkatsu paired with a beautifully chopped sweet citrus fruit on the side among a fresh romaine leaflet embedded underneath was simple and clean. Thinly sliced and fried to a crunch with ease.
Thank you to the wonderful staff employed at Shiki! I most definitely want to thank the chef & kitchen crew for the delicious meals made tonight. Blessings!”
“Me encanto les pedí un pastelito para mi niño y ellos le cantaron las mañanitas .no lo esperaba me gustó mucho!!!”
“Fantastic ramen full of flavor and rich umami. The garlic tonkatsu broth is my favorite, but you really can't go wrong here. If you're feeling extra hungry, get their combo option that adds a healthy healing of chicken on top of your ramen. For less than $20, it's a fantastic deal.
The restaurant is small, so be prepared to wait during peak hours. The service is fantastic and always friendly.”
“Love the food n the people who works there. ❤️papaya salad, pad thai. Fried pompano and ground chicken with basil Aroy mak mak 👍👍👍❤️❤️❤️”
“Thank you for the fresh Uni, and very awesome customer service. Highly recommend!!!”
“La sopa súper deliciosa, sin embargo no ofrecen bebidas al momento de tomar la orden. Aunque si hay bebidas gaseosas y demás no nos ofrecieron nada de eso, las raciones son algo pequeñas.”
“1st time food was very good along with service. We had the tangy beef soup, generous noodle portion, broth ;deep, rich flavorful. Only minor criticism is that there may be too much lemongrass (?) or aromatic herb for my liking but very minor. We also had the pork belly rice plate, also very delicious good portion and I like that the pork belly was chopped into smaller pieces. Very nice meal. Service was excellent. My major complaint is that they added 18% service charge automatically and it is not stated anywhere. You can tell from review we enjoyed very much and it should be up to customer to decide on gratuity. We may have tipped 20% so they may have hurt themselves. I don’t like this policy and with so many other restaurants to go to, it may be a while before I come back.”
“The do called "inclusive" atmosphere is really just an owner who hates everyone who has different views. If your social or political views are woke, you aren't welcome. Spend your money elsewhere. This guy is an idiot.”
“We had vegan pizza here today. It was ready pretty quickly. The added liberal portions of veggies and cheese. The pizza was just baked perfectly. The staff were very helpful and accomodative.”
“Hadn’t been here in nearly 30 years, we moved to Seattle, but back for vacation. Had to have the Cancun platter. Just like I remembered!!”
“I cannot stress enough how good the food is here. New favorite spot! The city roll is their favorite item on their menu and was so good I went two days in a row just to eat this roll. Absolutely going to be first on my list next time I am in town. Also very friendly staff and great atmosphere but the food is the superstar here. Wish there was a six star ranking for this place.”
“Such a lovely bespoke atmosphere and the cocktails and bar bites are so artfully crafted. My only disappointment was that I only had time to visit once during my time in San Mateo but I hope to return. Cheers!”
“Each meal I’ve had here has been consistently fresh and well-prepared. Did I mention delicious? The staff is friendly and attentive.”
“Went for a Monday night date-night. Food was very tasty and the owner was lovely and made us feel very welcome and special. The complimentary bread and dip were amazing!”
“Our waitress was wonderful. She offered wonderful suggestions on both food and drinks. The evening got chilly and she brought over the heater and provided us blankets. First time coming here and will definitely return.”
“The portions are generous, and the staff are friendly, helpful, and attentive. However, the cuisine is not really my personal favorite, so the food didn't quite suit my taste.
Overall, it's a decent place if you're looking for generous portions and good service.”
“Everything so tasty. Chicken karage and butakakuni tasked so good.”
“Me encanta yo trabaje ahi y que delicia y cuando sos cliente más rica”
“Been going here since my 14 year old was a little. Best ramen in the bay area. The unique ramens combined with thier soft shell crab puts them way ahead of other ramen spots.”
“I had quite a nice time. Their hi's were very good.
Standout yakitori for me were the scallops and chicken thighs. Sapporo on tap. Takowas was very crisp. No complaints all around and service was attentive and the kitchen was quick.
Looking forward to my next visit when I am in the area again.”
“Just got takeout here and it was really tasty. Green curry, Pad Thai, spring rolls and fresh rolls. 👌”
“The food was incredibly delicious. Almost all of their dishes are roasted, including vegetables. The okra and green beans were particularly tasty. They also offer vegetarian and keto-friendly options. The atmosphere, however, wasn’t particularly great, but the rest of the experience was enjoyable.”
“Great food and great people. I always have excellent service and great food when I eat there.”
“We were looking for something open late after arriving to SFO. Rin-Tei was a great choice: we had the cold tan tan pho and creamy soy milk pho. Both were flavorful and filling.”
“This restaurant has been here since 2007 and I really should have gone in sooner, since they have perfected the art of steak. I believe they can give House of Prime Rib a run for their money, especially with their larger portion sizes for about the same price.
Their dinner menu has a few options, but their steaks are really well cooked with just enough red without being bloody. Their jus is divine and each bite of steak tastes heavenly with enough flavor and fat that melts in your mouth. They do offer two types of horseradish, as well as salt and pepper on the table.
All their entrees come with 2 sides (we really enjoyed the mashed potatoes and cream spinach), a popover (which is good but not as good as their complementary, freshly baked bread), and a house salad which had a lovely dressing that I can't name.
We also had two glasses of wine, both bursting with flavor. I'd recommend the Unshackled wine if you want a blended red wine with a fruitier taste or a Merlot for a drier one.
While we were too full for dessert, they had delicuous sounding options in creme brulee, tiramisu, and cheesecake.
The staff were very friendly, easy to make reservations through a phone call, and we certainly will be dining here again in the future.”
“Shout out to this wonderful neighborhood spot serving up some great homestyle cuisine. I stopped in for breakfast and ordered chorizo with eggs. Everything was delicious and well seasoned. Fresh salsas and homemade tortillas rounded out the meal. The staff was very friendly and welcoming. If I lived in the neighborhood I would return again and again.”
“The bay has no shortage of sushi restaurants, San Mateo least of all. Against this competitive backdrop, The Backhouse still claims a spot at the top. Jui's selection of garnishes and sauces are simply a level above others making this sort of modern style sushi - so delicious and, importantly, unique. And on top of excellent and highly consistent flavor, the business maintains its genuine local charm.
Useful info:
- Responsive to Instagram DMs
- IG story has alternate pickup locations a few times per week
- Parking usually isn't too hard if you're coming to the San Mateo location
If you're looking at the order form and are concerned about getting your money's worth, just go for it. You won't be disappointed.”
“I’m not usually in the San Mateo area, but I happened to be nearby with a friend for some tech-related work and decided to place an online order from Udon Mugizo for the first time. It was a Saturday and the restaurant was clearly very busy, so I expected the pickup to take a while, but everything was ready smoothly and the person who helped me, possibly the manager, was genuinely kind and attentive even with so much going on. I was honestly impressed by the quality of the food too. Everything tasted fresh, carefully prepared, and much better than I normally expect from an online order. The whole experience, from the pickup service to the food itself, was excellent. I don’t come to this area often, but I would definitely order from here again the next time I’m nearby”
“More of a restaurant for individual meals than for family style. Prices are quite high for some more simple dishes like $20 for string beans is a little steep. I also found it weird that their Dandan noodles were hot.
Their bento boxes and beef noodle soup look good though, and I'll definitely try those in the future.”
“Excellent Cadillac margaritas!! Service and food is always great.”
“Great restaurant, the dishes are rich, the taste is great, the restaurant atmosphere is great, it is worth recommending”
“Shoutout to our server Adin for making our first visit so awesome. My girlfriend and I loved everything he recommended and his energy made the experience even better. He made everything look so effortless and management is lucky to have him. Top tier service all around and we will definitely be back as regulars”
“Ok, this is great food! Awesome Barbecue and Fried Chicken. Menu is on the website. Don’t forget to tip!”
“The food was super-good and homey! The staff was smiling and courteous. Atmosphere was friendly, in retro style/older location. Very highly recommended. We return again when visiting from So. Cal.”
“These are the best most authentic pupusas in the area. Great prices as well. I’m glad I found them. Delicious. A little small , just a few tables so best for take out.”
“Came with 5 friends to have dinner here on a Thursday night. Great food, great service, and all the staff were super friendly. Thank you for an amazing hotpot meal. Highly recommended!”
“Waited approximately one hour to be seated. Spoiker: it was well worth that wait. I ordered the tonkatsu ramen and pork buns. I can't decide which part was better, the noodles or the broth! The pork buns were priced just right at $8 for 2. Some of the best I've had. You are all so lucky to have such a wonderful ramen bar in your community. I am from Maine and will be sure to stop by this establishment every chance I get once I am in town.”
“I had a fantastic dinner at Curry and Kabab in San Mateo tonight! The **Soya Chaap** was incredibly flavorful and well-textured, and the **Aloo Gobi** was cooked to perfection with just the right balance of spices. Pairing them with their fresh, warm **Naan** made for a truly satisfying meal.
If you're looking for authentic flavors and great service in San Mateo, this spot is a must-visit. Five stars all the way!
Really liked their wall paintings though”
“Rolled into town on a Wednesday, looking to book a late night party on the upcoming Saturday. Monica behind the bar grabbed the owner Malhi from next door. They were both super helpful and made it easy. Had a great time with good drinks. Even pumped our own music through their sound system. Nice looking place with chill vibe.”
Latest Reviews
“Still the best kept secret in San Mateo. I’m moving tomorrow and this food is what I’m going to miss the most. The portions are generous, the price is affordable, the service can’t be beat. Cash only. Small parking lot. Family owned and operated. The carne asada is delicious! Actually I haven’t had a bad meal here. Take away is available. You won't be disappointed . Skip the la cumbre and pancho villa. Come get the best!”
Most Popular Restaurants
“We went there for Thanksgiving for the first time. As a vegetarian, I can say I had many options, and what I chose was outstanding. My wife and daughter enjoyed their fish and meat dishes and I can honestly say there wasn’t one dish that wasn’t outstanding. I heartily recommend this place and I’m considering going back for Christmas if they’re open.”
“I deliver custom cabinets in Silicon Valley from Bend Oregon and when I’m in North Bay I always eat here. Always fabulous food for me and my German Shorthair Pointer. Room to park for my huge delivery van. I have never got anything bad for last 6 yrs it’s always been great”
“I wish I took a picture on how little food you get on a 1 item lunch plate with a side. We got the brisket + side + drink for $28 each after TT. I chalk it up to all the joy that is inflation and huge cost increases post covid. They should include a cornbread muffin like back in the day then the small handful of meat would be less an issue. I know it's tough for restaurants in the bay with all the costs of operating going up, but if the owner reads these...corn muffin those lunches before the yelpers come out! I've always loved AW!”
New Restaurants
“Really enjoyed our dinner here! We skipped the famous sampler platter since we weren’t super hungry and just ordered a few things that sounded good.
- The beef tongue was a bit chewier than I expected - definitely had to work at it.
- Oxtail stew was tasty but they went a little heavy on the green onions.
- Pork jowl had great flavor and that nice fatty richness, though I wish it had been a touch more tender.
- Whole marinated short rib was absolutely incredible. So tender and juicy, honestly the star of the show.
Worth coming back for that alone. Good meal overall with one dish that really knocked it out of the park!”
“We enjoyed the green peppercorn fish. It was pretty sour. If you order large they let you pick four additional side items like tofu, cabbage, mushrooms, or noodles. I wouldn't recommend that you get the barbecue as the barbecue meat didn't look the same as in the photos. I think Tai-Er, which is down the street, is better quality but this is a good place for a quick bite.”
“Our family liked this place so much we are reviewing on every platform to ensure they stay in business and feeding our tummies.
We just had two burgers (double smash with bacon and pineapple), the bacon cheese fries, and the mousse with maracuja. We thought it was all absolutely phenomenal. First, the service super nice young man who helped us quickly, kindly, and efficiently. Now for the food...OMG. The burger was quite hefty and filled with flavor the balance of cheese, onion, burger, bun, pineapple and bacon. The bacon cheese fries were perfectly cooked, but what was most impressive were the sauces. I love the smoked mayo? I have no idea how they made it but it tastes divine. The boys loved the bacon sauce. Either way, fabulous. And for me the icing on the cake, or the mousse to top off the meal was the mousse with maracuja. The perfect light airy texture and anything with maracuja aka lilikoi aka passion fruit is always worth trying and this did not disappoint. We will most definitely be return visitors.”
“I was just looking for a place with quick service and a really good latte, and Atlas Bakery & More completely delivered. It’s inside a corporate building, which honestly made the whole thing feel even more unexpected. I grabbed my coffee and sat outside in their sunny courtyard with the fountains, little benches, and umbrellas, and it ended up being such a peaceful part of my morning. A very charming little hidden gem.”
“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House was an amazing dining experience! The wagyu was tender, flavorful, and cooked perfectly in the delicious shabu-shabu broth. The ingredients tasted fresh, the atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the service was friendly and attentive. A fantastic spot for a special meal—I’d definitely come back again!”
“Shoutout to our server Adin for making our first visit so awesome. My girlfriend and I loved everything he recommended and his energy made the experience even better. He made everything look so effortless and management is lucky to have him. Top tier service all around and we will definitely be back as regulars”
“In the heart of downtown San Mateo, MY Dumpling has emerged as my preferred destination for exceptional culinary experiences at an affordable price. Having visited this establishment on three separate occasions, I can confidently assert that every aspect of the dining experience is exceptional.
The restaurant exudes a sense of cleanliness and orderliness. The food is served promptly, and the staff is exceptionally courteous and attentive. The original and spicy dumplings are particularly noteworthy, while the spicy wonton is a must-try. The salt and pepper fish is an exceptional dish that stands out as one of the best I have ever tasted. The garlic string beans complement the garlic noodles perfectly. The beef rolls are exquisite, and I find that the menu offers a wide variety of delectable options.
In conclusion, MY Dumpling consistently delivers on all fronts, making it a highly recommended establishment for food enthusiasts seeking quality and value.”
“I think it must take a lot of effort to source the ingredients to be able to serve sushi of this caliber in San Francisco. It's a great honor to be a fishmonger.‼️”