Restaurants in San Mateo
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Best Restaurants
“Very tasty Pad Thai! Delicious food!
The waiter was the worst service i've ever had, he didn't even put in my food order, he didn't even come to give us a check , we had to go back and forth and ask for dessert at the counter. And as we left , he didn't even say thank you.
But I want to say that we had the best busser ever! He filled our waters constantly, he noticed that I wasn't getting my food and checked on me, and he's packed my food up. He actually cared about our family and our food and our experience. So thank you to him, he saved our experience.”
“Enjoyed omakase 8pcs with some age dashi tofu, nigori sake and the white peach panna cotta!”
“BEST Chinese skewer in the Bay Area! We first found out about them at their Hayward location and so thrilled to know they also have one at San Mateo! Highly recommend.”
“First time here. Long line to get in but it moved fairly quickly. Had the Roast beef Aburasoba. Mind-Boggling GOOD! The flavor was out of this world! The service was fantastic!! I can’t wait to go back again!”
Restaurants by Cuisine
“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!”
“Managed to get a last-minute reservation and felt quite lucky! The restaurant even followed up to confirm our arrival. The service was excellent—they even poured the sake for us. I loved the heated tray on the table that kept our skewers warm; it’s such a thoughtful touch. The menu has plenty of options, and though the place is small, it feels very cozy and atmospheric. The upside-down umbrellas hanging from the ceiling are a unique touch. One thing to note: it’s quite dim inside, so it’s a bit hard to take photos. If you're taking a group shot, watch out for blurriness!”
Restaurants with Delivery
“Found this absolute gem while looking for a quick bite! The hand-tossed crust was perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The toppings were incredibly fresh and loaded to the edge. The staff greeted us with smiles, and the service was surprisingly fast for a busy night. Great value for the price—we’ll definitely be back!”
“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!”
“Very tasty Pad Thai! Delicious food!
The waiter was the worst service i've ever had, he didn't even put in my food order, he didn't even come to give us a check , we had to go back and forth and ask for dessert at the counter. And as we left , he didn't even say thank you.
But I want to say that we had the best busser ever! He filled our waters constantly, he noticed that I wasn't getting my food and checked on me, and he's packed my food up. He actually cared about our family and our food and our experience. So thank you to him, he saved our experience.”
“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!”
“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.”
“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.‼️”
Outdoor Dining
“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 ⭐️”
“Love the dry aged porterhouse, juicy and delicious. The service was phenomenal and of course the new location.”
“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 ⭐️”
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.”
“Honestly, this is my favorite speakeasy in the Bay Area. It quietly opened during Covid and quickly became one of those places you almost want to keep secret. Reservations only. Strictly. and getting a prime-time slot isn’t always easy — which says a lot about how popular it is.
The vibe is amazing: old-fashioned leather chairs, bookshelves stretching all the way to the ceiling, and dim, intimate lighting that makes the space feel cozy, sexy and private. It’s the kind of place where you can definitely dress up and enjoy a proper night out.
The drink selection is huge and very creative. Their specialty cocktails come in a deck of tarot cards, which makes choosing a drink part of the fun. My go-to is the Wisewoman, and the French 75 is also beautifully balanced. That said, they update their menu pretty often. They’ve even created custom drinks for special requests before, which was a nice surprise.
Oh, about the “speakeasy” part, you have to figure out the code at the door with the “rabbit” to get in (hint hint), which is so fun! 🤩”
“This is a really fantastic new Korean BBQ restaurant. The service was both warm and incredibly prompt, which really made for a pleasant experience. While the short ribs were a little bit on the sweeter side for my liking, the pork belly and chicken thighs were absolutely perfect. I especially loved the really crispy chicken skin!”
“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!”
24 Hour Restaurants
“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!!”
“This is my fourth time here, and I’ll keep coming. It’s that good!!! Price is decent compared to other malatang places, and the flavour always hits. Go to spot.”
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.”
“Managed to get a last-minute reservation and felt quite lucky! The restaurant even followed up to confirm our arrival. The service was excellent—they even poured the sake for us. I loved the heated tray on the table that kept our skewers warm; it’s such a thoughtful touch. The menu has plenty of options, and though the place is small, it feels very cozy and atmospheric. The upside-down umbrellas hanging from the ceiling are a unique touch. One thing to note: it’s quite dim inside, so it’s a bit hard to take photos. If you're taking a group shot, watch out for blurriness!”
“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!”
“I’ve had donuts from all over the country and hands down this is my fave place. Soft, fresh, warm and fluffy donuts. Glazed, powdered, frosted, jam filled, krullers, old fashioned you name it they got it. My daughter adores their chocolate muffin and their breakfast sandwiches are really good to if you want a more savory start to the day. You can see the parents in the back and the 2 sons working the front and they somehow seem to know everyone in line and remember their favorites! Definitely a local gem. There are a few tiny tables (about 6 people can sit down at any time). Parking is tough - if lucky enough to get one of the parking spots go you but might want to street park or at the plaza down the block instead. Oh, and a little kid dropped their muffin and started crying, and one of the sons promptly went and gave a fresh new one to her free of charge. So sweet both literally and figuratively!”
“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!”
“Chai Yo is a must visit for anyone in San Mateo craving authentic Thai flavors in a warm and inviting setting. The atmosphere is cozy and beautifully decorated, often described by guests as a hidden gem that offers a much more upscale interior than one might expect from the outside. Service is consistently praised for being friendly, attentive and welcoming, making it a fantastic spot for families or a quiet dinner with friends. The food is the true highlight, featuring large portions of expertly prepared dishes like the vibrant Pineapple Fried Rice, the flavorful Tom Kha Soup and the perfectly balanced Pad Thai. Other standout items include the succulent Chicken Satay with peanut sauce, the crispy and unique Spicy Catfish, and their impressive selection of vegetarian and vegan options, such as the Fried Mock Fish with garlic sauce. Whether you're enjoying a spicy curry or a refreshing Thai iced tea, Chai Yo delivers a high quality, 5-star dining experience with deep, authentic flavors that keep the local community coming back.”
“Like most brunch places, it's overpriced. You don't get that much value, but it is a good brunch regardless. There is something very special about eating out with family in the morning at a nice place, not having to worry about cooking, even if you can easily make most of the things on the menu. Brothers Cafe offers just that. Atmosphere is good, though they could use some more decoration. Service is attentive. Overall, 4/5.”
“Amazing service. Great food. Awesome staff! Can’t recommend it more highly.”
“Love the pizza! We live in the East Bay but we stop by whenever we pass by San Mateo. We always get a Meat Lovers & the Chicken Pesto!”
“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.”
Drive-Thru Restaurants
“Purchased a Claire’s mocha crunch cake today and it’s absolutely delicious. The cake was moist, mocha was delicious but not too sweet but the crunch is so amazingly delicious. 10/10 for the cake. It was very nice meeting Ms. Claire as well. She seems like a very nice lady. Definitely will back for another cake. Maybe the pineapple upside down or the coconut?”
“Such a homey spot! The service, atmosphere, and food haven’t changed in the almost 20 years I’ve been coming here. Their flavors are authentic and there’s a lot of variety on their menu. It gets very crowded and loud during dinner rush so would recommend going around 5pm!”
“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.”
“OMG, what a wonderful experience. Sam was really good behind the counter, and helped us to some amazing vegan options, such as the Vegan Sub with Meatballs marinara, and another Vegan Philly Steak Sub. Both just wow amazing with high quality vegan organic products (like the organic salad greens from Costco) and vegan meat and cheese from the Butchers Son. Absolutely wonderful!”
“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 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍”
“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.”
“Chai Yo is a must visit for anyone in San Mateo craving authentic Thai flavors in a warm and inviting setting. The atmosphere is cozy and beautifully decorated, often described by guests as a hidden gem that offers a much more upscale interior than one might expect from the outside. Service is consistently praised for being friendly, attentive and welcoming, making it a fantastic spot for families or a quiet dinner with friends. The food is the true highlight, featuring large portions of expertly prepared dishes like the vibrant Pineapple Fried Rice, the flavorful Tom Kha Soup and the perfectly balanced Pad Thai. Other standout items include the succulent Chicken Satay with peanut sauce, the crispy and unique Spicy Catfish, and their impressive selection of vegetarian and vegan options, such as the Fried Mock Fish with garlic sauce. Whether you're enjoying a spicy curry or a refreshing Thai iced tea, Chai Yo delivers a high quality, 5-star dining experience with deep, authentic flavors that keep the local community coming back.”
“Like most brunch places, it's overpriced. You don't get that much value, but it is a good brunch regardless. There is something very special about eating out with family in the morning at a nice place, not having to worry about cooking, even if you can easily make most of the things on the menu. Brothers Cafe offers just that. Atmosphere is good, though they could use some more decoration. Service is attentive. Overall, 4/5.”
Cheap Eats
“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.”
“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”
“I make a point to come here everytime my work travels bring me to the Bay area. The staff is so friendly and welcoming, you feel right at home. The food is beyond delicious, and the portion sizes are more than generous. I can't wait until the next time I'm back for more!”
“My son and I are truly grateful for your kindness, Nicole. Thank you for taking the time to charge his phone, wait for a call to come through, and help arrange for us to reconnect with him. You didn’t have to do any of that, yet you did it with such care. The world needs more people with your spirit. Wishing you success and blessings in everything you pursue.”
“One of the best Taquerias around, hands down. Charlie’s does it right.
If you are in the mood for Mexican food, look no further. This is the spot you should come check out. They have fantastic tacos and burritos. If you come on the weekend you might be able to get specials like menudo.
Along with exceptional food they also provide very friendly and welcoming service. A true San Mateo staple well worth checking out if you haven’t already. Keep it up Charlie’s!”
“Love the indoor/patio ambience Menu selection,,,food ,,,,especially variety of bruschettas Drink selection as well,,,, mimosas,,,sangria Would like more live music”
“All their yakitoris were seasoned well and I loved both the salted and soy options. You order through a QR code using your phone so you won't have any issues with flagging down a waitress whether you're seated on the first or second floors.”
“They have their operation down, pat. Good place for ramen. Prices are what you expect for San Mateo.
Update 2026: still the king in the area. They got this super ramen now that is huge! Think large bowl of Pho but with ramen. And it's filling. Delicious!”
“Honestly, this is my favorite speakeasy in the Bay Area. It quietly opened during Covid and quickly became one of those places you almost want to keep secret. Reservations only. Strictly. and getting a prime-time slot isn’t always easy — which says a lot about how popular it is.
The vibe is amazing: old-fashioned leather chairs, bookshelves stretching all the way to the ceiling, and dim, intimate lighting that makes the space feel cozy, sexy and private. It’s the kind of place where you can definitely dress up and enjoy a proper night out.
The drink selection is huge and very creative. Their specialty cocktails come in a deck of tarot cards, which makes choosing a drink part of the fun. My go-to is the Wisewoman, and the French 75 is also beautifully balanced. That said, they update their menu pretty often. They’ve even created custom drinks for special requests before, which was a nice surprise.
Oh, about the “speakeasy” part, you have to figure out the code at the door with the “rabbit” to get in (hint hint), which is so fun! 🤩”
“Went to lunch there today Food very tasty and this looks like it would be a fantastic Happy Hour Meet Up!!!!”
“Me encanto les pedí un pastelito para mi niño y ellos le cantaron las mañanitas .no lo esperaba me gustó mucho!!!”
“Delicious authentic Brazilian food with amazing service . Fun experience too!”
“Probably the best fish I’ve had around the Bay Area so far at this price point. The Gyu Nabe felt like being back in Japan. A bit pricy but definitely a place we’d take visiting friends and family.”
“Love the food n the people who works there. ❤️papaya salad, pad thai. Fried pompano and ground chicken with basil Aroy mak mak 👍👍👍❤️❤️❤️”
“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 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍”
“Saigon Butter Tofu Wine sauce Ox Tail Noodle Soup Crab & Pork Meatball & Tomato Vermicelli And to drink: Taro w/Coconut Slush”
“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!”
“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.”
“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!”
“Tokie’s Sushi in San Mateo is an absolute gem. The food is consistently fresh, beautifully prepared, and full of flavor...from the sushi to the cooked dishes, everything is done with care and attention to detail. You can truly taste the quality in every bite.
And don’t skip the craft cocktails—they’re just as impressive as the food. Creative, well-balanced, and perfectly made, they pair incredibly well with the menu and really elevate the whole dining experience.
What truly sets Tokie’s apart, though, is the people. The owners are incredibly kind, welcoming, and genuinely passionate about what they do. The staff is just as amazing, friendly, attentive, and always making you feel like a regular, even on your first visit. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, which makes the experience even better.
If you’re looking for outstanding sushi, excellent craft cocktails, and top-notch service, Tokie’s Sushi is a must. Highly recommend and can’t wait to keep coming back.”
“Each meal I’ve had here has been consistently fresh and well-prepared. Did I mention delicious? The staff is friendly and attentive.”
“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.”
“Was greeted & seated promptly. Welcomed by Manager Hung. Brittany was our waitress & we received the 20th Anniversary Sacks. Happy Anniversary.”
“I go here for fettuccine aglio e olio - the easiest pasta dish to make at home - because Sapore's fresh pastas are that good and the dishes are so consistent. I can just pop in and get the platonic ideal of pasta aglio e olio here whenever I want. Love this place!”
“BJ's is consistently good and the service today with Aja T. was outstanding. Our only complaint was that our eyes were bigger than our stomachs, so we brought home a LOT of food. And that's really NOT a problem! Good food, good atmosphere, reasonable prices, a great place for a group, and great service. Love having BJ's in the neighborhood.”
“Such a homey spot! The service, atmosphere, and food haven’t changed in the almost 20 years I’ve been coming here. Their flavors are authentic and there’s a lot of variety on their menu. It gets very crowded and loud during dinner rush so would recommend going around 5pm!”
“Easily one of the top 5 pho bowls I’ve had an I’m Vietnamese. I had a lot of doubts about so many different Asian ethnicities represented as dishes here but from the few we samples (Japanese, viet, Thai), it did not disappoint. Also the craft beer selection is *chefs kiss*
Bonus points: 👧🏻 tolerant restaurant”
“Tried the downtown SJ location a long time ago and remembered liking it. Ordered takeout by phone and order was ready in 20 mins. We got the Jhol momo $14, tandoori chicken momo $16, chicken curry $14, lamb tikka masala $16.50, and garlic naan $5. Food is all high quality and pretty good overall. Asked for no added salt or butter and they were able to accommodate. Tandoori chicken momo was my favorite followed by the Jhol momo and lamb tikka masala. Lamb tikka had really good flavor, but the lamb wasn't very tender, although not tough or dry either. Chicken curry wasn't anything special. Garlic naan was decent. Generous portions for the price, it's nice that the curries include rice. Small restaurant with some tables inside and a lot more outside on the patio deck. I recommend it, but like Himali just a bit better (sister restaurant in Burlingame)”
“This place is delightful in everything - hospitality, attention to details… checking if everythibv is to patrons’ liking… - we were offered to move to a larger table to feel more comfortable. Food is AMAZING. Just that. Ok, our group was probably hungry after a walk in cold weather. But the first drink of the Greek IPA, first bite of calamaris or octopus prepped to perfection, the delightful ceviche… - all felt heavenly.
Our whole group asked for second servings of aromatic beer (new to us), all souvlakis kinds were delightful. At the end, an amazing desert miraculously appeared, and I don’t even do deserts usually - ate it all and scraped the plate.
Highly recommended place to come for dinner or to stop for a drink + appetisers, and I am certainly hoping to be back soon.”
“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.”
“Udon Mugizo is still a trustworthy place for udon. The tonkotsu one is still the best with perfectly cooked eggs and all the assortments on top. Somehow the appetizers like chicken karaage is not as good as before/ other branches. What I like about this branch compared to others is more relaxing vibe around the bar area. It would be really cool to serve the food across the bar rather than on the side though lol. Despite comments here and there, it is still a good place that I would come for udon over other chains.”
“Fun, friendly, non-pretentious place. And the burgers are all that you want and nothing you don’t.”
“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!!”
“THE BEST!!! My husband and I have been coming to Happy Lamb San Mateo for probably a year now, so this review is much overdue! They have some of the best hot pot broths and their meat/seafood/veggies are always such high quality. The service is always so friendly (shout out to Alvin!) and the sauce bar is well stocked. Even with all the hot pot places near us in San Francisco, we keep coming back to Happy Lamb in San Mateo. Thank you for all that you do!!”
“Ramen was incredible! Got the soft shell crab ramen and it was to die for honestly. Service was excellent and so kind, lovely spot with great food and atmosphere, will definitely come back :))”
“Regular american diner, with expected breakfast menu. Not bad but nothing outstanding either . Friendly staff. Overall it was good choice for a breakfast place for us”
“If you want good authentic Japanese food, this is the place to go. It's no frills so don't go if you are looking for a fine dining experience. Food is plentiful, service is good and they have an outside / tent seating area that is good for larger groups and kids.”
“We love it! This is party tray. Fresh, tasty, thick fish.
Love it every time we order to go, or eat in the restaurant.
There's plenty of parking next street, so that's not a problem at all.
Love their friendly and fast service!”
“Thank you for the fresh Uni, and very awesome customer service. Highly recommend!!!”
“Our good friend took a bunch of us here and we have great time with delicious prime rib cooked perfectly (with a nice bone to take home), excellent service and a fun atmosphere.”
“This is a good old Cantonese place. It has been my family go to back in the days. Now a day, they don't have that much business. We do stop by ever so often to get our OG food fixes in. Some of their servers is a bit rude, but don't mind them. This is just how they work.”
“Me encanta yo trabaje ahi y que delicia y cuando sos cliente más rica”
“Excellent Cadillac margaritas!! Service and food is always great.”
“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”
“Always love all their pies and we go there whenever we are visiting the area.”
“Everything so tasty. Chicken karage and butakakuni tasked so good.”
“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.”
“Ok, this is great food! Awesome Barbecue and Fried Chicken. Menu is on the website. Don’t forget to tip!”
“Surprisingly tasty fusion cuisine. The gelato is my favorite. The only downside is the kitchen closes at 8pm and some of the signature dishes take a longer time so I didn’t get to order them. Arrive early to able to order the full menu! Highly recommend it if you are looking for something that sparks joy.”
“Just got takeout here and it was really tasty. Green curry, Pad Thai, spring rolls and fresh rolls. 👌”
“Great food and great people. I always have excellent service and great food when I eat there.”
“Great Pupusas and excellent selection of other Salvadorean and Guatemalan food. I'll miss this place, but will visit whenever I am back in San Mateo!”
“Ah, we are unfortunately disapponted. Came here early enough that we didn't need to wait in line. We ordered all the expensive items to try it out. We really wanted to like it but was left disappointed. The Otsumami bix is essentially presented in a way that makes it look unique but it's essentially sashimi in decorative cups. Too many white fish options like snapper, sea bass and amberjack which were all mediocre. One of the slots were used on picked wasabi. The tamago was way too sweet (too much sugar on top). At thes prices they should at least explained what each item was. Overpriced for what it's worth and in retrospect, the Otsumami box looked more beautiful than it tasted. The premium beef katsu was really tough. This will definitely not melt in your mouth. The cuts are too thick and tough, 1 out of 5. Your really need to gnarl it with your teeth. Kasien Don was probably the best item we ordered. Huge bed of rice but the uni, toro, crab, scallops, etc in top were good. It's best to share this. Lastly both the Salmon crunchy and Ginza roll were both okay. I liked the salmon crunchy more. Service was good; water and tea cups were always filled. Parking is ample. Overall, we had high hopes but spending $360+ for 4 people was an honest try. They made our money but not our hearts. Try for yourself, I hope it works out but for us, we were left disappointed.”
“I’m happy to support The Backhouse. I’ve ordered from them twice now, the $450 deluxe platter, and both times were excellent. You can tell the owner takes pride in her preparation, selects high quality fish, and the rice is cooked and proportioned perfectly. Most importantly, you get to enjoy delicious meal in the comforts of your own home.
Ordering through their website may seem daunting, but it’s actually pretty straight forward. They are also accommodating as I selected the wrong date and corrected with a link they provided. I didn’t have to call or speak to anyone. Their ordering website is intuitive and well designed.”
“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.”
“Great restaurant, the dishes are rich, the taste is great, the restaurant atmosphere is great, it is worth recommending”
“Exceptional service and very good food (quality, presentation, taste)!!!”
“Located in downtown San Mateo pretty close to the movie theater parking structure. And it is close to ritual tea, Molly Tea and other bubble tea places, very convenient. I like to come here to get my Malatang fix. The traditional pork bone soup is pretty good and it is not as expensive as the other place in downtown San Mateo. Still offers pretty good variety.”
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
“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”
“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 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!”
New Restaurants
“This is a really fantastic new Korean BBQ restaurant. The service was both warm and incredibly prompt, which really made for a pleasant experience. While the short ribs were a little bit on the sweeter side for my liking, the pork belly and chicken thighs were absolutely perfect. I especially loved the really crispy chicken skin!”
“Found this cafe after searching “coffee” on Google Maps and was not disappointed! The iced latte was delicious and well balanced - actually tasted like coffee and not just milk! - and the avocado toast was fresh and generous with the toppings on delicious bread. The best part was how friendly and welcoming both employees were. Will certainly be returning to try some baked goods - they all looked delicious!”
“This place is delightful in everything - hospitality, attention to details… checking if everythibv is to patrons’ liking… - we were offered to move to a larger table to feel more comfortable. Food is AMAZING. Just that. Ok, our group was probably hungry after a walk in cold weather. But the first drink of the Greek IPA, first bite of calamaris or octopus prepped to perfection, the delightful ceviche… - all felt heavenly.
Our whole group asked for second servings of aromatic beer (new to us), all souvlakis kinds were delightful. At the end, an amazing desert miraculously appeared, and I don’t even do deserts usually - ate it all and scraped the plate.
Highly recommended place to come for dinner or to stop for a drink + appetisers, and I am certainly hoping to be back soon.”
“Udon Mugizo is still a trustworthy place for udon. The tonkotsu one is still the best with perfectly cooked eggs and all the assortments on top. Somehow the appetizers like chicken karaage is not as good as before/ other branches. What I like about this branch compared to others is more relaxing vibe around the bar area. It would be really cool to serve the food across the bar rather than on the side though lol. Despite comments here and there, it is still a good place that I would come for udon over other chains.”
“They're doing a good job, being small local stores - a nice diversion from Starbucks junk. I'm a latte guy and find their coffee to my taste (well, maybe not as good as I make myself 🤔). The pastry selection is fresh, not shipped in plastic wrappers them warmed like SB. And the place is pleasant and open with sitting inside and out.”
“Very busy store even at night time. I finally stopped by to order after couple months since it opened eve though I pass by it so often. It is just because most of the drink have milk and I don't like tea with milk.
The store is small with 2 touch screen ordering kiosk but it was not organized nicely as I can see people just cut the line when ordering even though they came after us.
Ordering is simple as the menu is clear. As it was very busy, it took a while for the order to be ready.
The pistachio white Champacca coconut was good. This one has no dairy.”
“Ah, we are unfortunately disapponted. Came here early enough that we didn't need to wait in line. We ordered all the expensive items to try it out. We really wanted to like it but was left disappointed. The Otsumami bix is essentially presented in a way that makes it look unique but it's essentially sashimi in decorative cups. Too many white fish options like snapper, sea bass and amberjack which were all mediocre. One of the slots were used on picked wasabi. The tamago was way too sweet (too much sugar on top). At thes prices they should at least explained what each item was. Overpriced for what it's worth and in retrospect, the Otsumami box looked more beautiful than it tasted. The premium beef katsu was really tough. This will definitely not melt in your mouth. The cuts are too thick and tough, 1 out of 5. Your really need to gnarl it with your teeth. Kasien Don was probably the best item we ordered. Huge bed of rice but the uni, toro, crab, scallops, etc in top were good. It's best to share this. Lastly both the Salmon crunchy and Ginza roll were both okay. I liked the salmon crunchy more. Service was good; water and tea cups were always filled. Parking is ample. Overall, we had high hopes but spending $360+ for 4 people was an honest try. They made our money but not our hearts. Try for yourself, I hope it works out but for us, we were left disappointed.”
“Wanted to like this place more. Dosa Box is one of the ghost kitchens in San Mateo Food Mall. Ordered from the website for pick up. You get a text when it's ready, go inside and check in with the worker who is at the desk. They open the locker for you where the food is placed.
Our dosas were completely soggy. Would have been very good if it was still crispy. Although it makes sense that dosa would not be a good take out item. They could've poked holes in the box or put the masala potatoes separate instead of inside the dosa to maintain crispiness.
Also just a note if anyone was wondering, the masala dosa comes with sambar (since the menu is not clear about that).”
“Absolutely delicious! Wonderful ambiance, excellent service and attention to detail, and savory, warm Guatemalan food! We are delighted and can’t wait to come back and try more! They kindly made the Pepian vegetarian for me, the atole was so yummy, the Caldo de Gallina was a hit, and the tostadas — delicious!
Deliciosa comida, muy amable el servicio, un ambiente bien agradable — ¡una experiencia excelente en todo sentido!”
“Found this absolute gem while looking for a quick bite! The hand-tossed crust was perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The toppings were incredibly fresh and loaded to the edge. The staff greeted us with smiles, and the service was surprisingly fast for a busy night. Great value for the price—we’ll definitely be back!”