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Food spots in San Mateo

Finding a meal that actually satisfies without having to settle for the usual chains.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mateo Pizza Restaurant image 1
Mateo Pizza Restaurant image 2
Mateo Pizza Restaurant image 3
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Pizza restaurant

Small pizza spot shines with authentic Mediterranean flavors and quick, fresh options. Cozy indoor and outdoor seating creates a warm, inviting atmosphere filled with traditional Turkish hospitality. Affordable prices make it a great choice for tasty Turkish dishes and New York style pizza.

Food offers amazing, quick, and fresh options with many varieties. Turkish dishes and pizza stand out as delicious and affordable choices.

People are saying

"I've never had pizza this delicious before."

"I loved the amazing Halal pizza here."

"The food here is amazing, especially the pizza."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers only HALAL food with no pork.

2

The restaurant remains open late for dinner.

3

It is just a few steps from downtown, making it easily accessible.

02
MalaTown Express 自选麻辣烫 image 1

Chinese spot shines with fresh food and a self-serve sauce bar for custom flavors. Cozy, clean environment feels less chaotic than others. Large bowls and affordable prices make it a smart, tasty choice.

Food here is consistently fresh and served in a clean environment. The dishes offer good flavor without overwhelming spice, making it a solid choice for varied tastes.

People are saying

"I loved building my own hot pot with fresh ingredients."

"The soup ingredients are super fresh."

"I thought the food was delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

The price is $9.99 per pound, but it may be higher than advertised.

2

A 20% discount is available for two people and 30% for three or more.

3

They offer a 2-pound challenge where you can eat for free if you finish.

03
Prime BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Cozy spot with upside-down umbrellas and subtle Japanese decor sets a refined mood. Food shows clear improvement and is consistently great, matched by excellent service. Heated trays keep skewers warm, enhancing a relaxed, chill dining experience.

Food here is consistently great and shows clear improvement over time. Service matches the food quality, making the overall experience excellent.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and tasty."

"It's a great late night spot that's open really late."

"The interior is really cute and cozy, with a stylish vibe that's both stylish and upbeat."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 9:30 to 11:30pm, offering buy-one-get-one-free beer.

2

An 18% tip is automatically added to all bills.

3

Parking is available, but it may require a short walk.

04
Colander Kitchens image 1

Space blends chic and homey design with a cool coffee bar in an old pick-up truck, creating a warm lounge vibe. Hawaiian dishes feature fresh, beautifully plated food with excellent cod, offering great value. Seating suits all groups, with plants adding calm and noise kept low for relaxed chats.

Hawaiian cuisine shines with fresh, beautifully plated dishes and excellent cod. Great attention to detail shows in table settings and food presentation, offering outstanding value for the price.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully plated."

"The Black cod with Miso for lunch was brilliantly seasoned and delicious."

"The atmosphere here is so cozy and welcoming."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cashless and uses QR code ordering.

2

The bar is not yet open due to pending permits.

3

Portion sizes are generous and prices are reasonable.

05
Bahche image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with Greek charm offers a cozy vibe with natural light and close tables. Seafood paella stands out with high quality ingredients. Long bar serves wine and beer, perfect for families or nights out.

Seafood shines in the paella with a generous amount and high quality. Dishes like falafel, spanakopita, and grilled fish come well prepared and delicious.

People are saying

"The Greek Food, especially the grilled octopus and lamb chops, was amazing."

"The calamari here is prepared to perfection."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service.

2

Expect a minimum 18% gratuity for parties of 6 or more.

3

Parking is plentiful in the surrounding neighborhood.

06
Curry Pizza House San Mateo image 1

Small pizza spot shines with creative curry-flavored pizzas and a vibrant purple mural. Food arrives fresh and hot, bursting with flavorful spices. Cozy, clean space keeps music low for easy conversation.

Food comes out fresh and hot with an amazing taste and flavorful spices. Dishes consistently deliver delicious and satisfying flavors.

People are saying

"I found the pizza to be really flavorful and delicious."

"The pizzas here offer a unique blend of Indian flavors and traditional pizza."

"The food here is really tasty and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking may be difficult to find, but several parking lots are within a 5-10 minute walk.

2

The restaurant opens late, which is convenient for late-night diners.

3

They offer a tremendous variety of toppings, including vegan cheese options.

07
Izakaya Fusion Grill Keitan image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Japanese-style barbecue shines with juicy marinated dishes grilled over charcoal. Intimate izakaya vibe blends with live anime-themed music for a lively feel. Open kitchen and cozy second story add to the authentic atmosphere.

Food features marinated, juicy dishes with a variety of options. The flavors are amazing and tasty, rivaling those found in Japan.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

"The yakitori here is great, and the service is so attentive."

"The atmosphere here is so cozy and inviting."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day after 9pm with half-off chicken skewers and buy one get one free beers.

2

After 10 PM, all chicken dishes are half off, making it a great deal.

3

The restaurant stays open until 12 am, perfect for late-night dining.

08
San Mateo Food Mall image 1

Offers phenomenally tasty meals from various cuisines with quick, easy ordering and food delivered to pickup lockers. Atmosphere is minimal with no lobby ambiance, focusing on healthy fast food and efficient service.

Food comes out super fresh and phenomenally tasty from a variety of restaurants. Ordering is quick and easy, with food delivered to lockers for simple pickup.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"I loved the healthy, delicious, and beautiful food."

Good to know

1

The food mall offers a variety of cuisines, including Chinese, Korean, and Mexican.

2

Food is typically ready within 10 minutes after ordering.

3

Ordering at the food mall is straightforward and user-friendly.

09
人间烟火小酒馆(Dynasty BBQ) image 1

Enjoy authentic Chinese BBQ with juicy beef and mutton skewers that burst with flavor. Elegant dynasty-style decor and live traditional music create an immersive vibe. Sip on house-made fruit alcohol while relaxing in cozy booth seating.

Food features fresh, juicy beef and mutton skewers that taste authentic and not dry. The Chinese barbecue dishes deliver delicious and exceptional flavors consistently.

People are saying

"This is the best Chinese BBQ I've had in the Bay."

"It's got such a cozy and traditional vibe."

"The food here is flavorful and perfectly cooked, just like authentic Chinese BBQ."

Good to know

1

They do not accept reservations, so expect a wait during peak hours.

2

Five of us waited around 20 minutes to get seated on a Thursday night.

3

Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially on weekends.

10
Anatolian Cafe & Market image 1

Cozy market blends authentic Turkish products with a warm, inviting vibe. Fresh pastries and traditional breakfast offer generous portions and simple, quality flavors. Shelves showcase rare Mediterranean goods, creating a true taste of home.

Authentic Turkish food offers generous portions with beautiful presentation and simple, quality flavors. The dishes feel filling and bring a true taste of home, especially in breakfast options.

People are saying

"This market's Turkish breakfast is a delicious variety of fresh, authentic flavors."

"I thought the baklava was the freshest and most flavorful I've ever had."

"The Turkish breakfast food here is so authentic, it feels like home."

Good to know

1

The market offers a wide variety of products, including spices, olives, fresh cheeses, teas, and sweets.

2

They will soon be offering breakfast and sandwiches.

3

The products are fresh, clean, and organized.

11
Little Late Bird image 1

Cozy cafe boasts lake views and soft jazz for a calm vibe. Enjoy authentic Korean food and Hawaiian treats like spam musubi with excellent coffee. Friendly service and comfy seating make it perfect for work or relaxing outdoors.

Authentic Korean food and Hawaiian dishes like spam musubi and loco-moco offer delicious flavors with great value. Coffee pairs well with the food, and the service is consistently amazing.

People are saying

"I found the Bulgogi here to be my new go-to."

"I loved the delicious bubble tea and great milk tea."

"The food here was simple, fresh, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

There is ample free parking available near the cafe.

2

The cafe is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

3

Expect a relaxed atmosphere suitable for light work and socializing.

12
Enara Health image 1
Weight loss service

Weight loss service offers personalized plans with medical and nutrition experts. Focus on real food and healthy eating habits guides clients step by step. Supportive team and counseling help tackle emotional eating and lifestyle changes.

Guidance comes step by step with a focus on healthy modifications and real food instead of frozen or liquid options. The approach encourages exploration of food preferences while improving eating habits.

People are saying

"They provide personalized tools and a supportive team for your health journey."

"I lost over 30 pounds with Personal Training here."

"I learned to eat better with real food I liked."

Good to know

1

Enara Health offers a comprehensive weight loss program with personalized care from day one.

2

The program is covered by insurance, making it accessible and sustainable.

3

Patients receive support from a team including doctors, dietitians, and exercise coaches.

13
The Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Juicy Brazilian-style burgers shine with unique sauces and generous portions. Casual food truck vibe keeps prices great and meals complete. Staff speak Brazilian Portuguese, adding authentic preparation and care.

Food stands out for its excellent quality and tasty, complete meals. Prices stay great, making it a solid choice among Brazilian food trucks.

People are saying

"I thought this was the best burger I’ve had in the Bay Area."

"The food here is huge, flavorful, and fresh."

"I experienced the best sandwich I've ever had in my life."

Good to know

1

Vaping inside the food truck is a huge no.

2

The burgers range from 9 to 15 currency units.

3

They offer midnight service on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

14
San Mateo Elks Lodge #1112 image 1
Fraternal organization

Large venue offers ample parking and sports like tennis courts and bowling. Food is fantastic and fits the club vibe. Bright banquet room suits parties, creating a community-focused atmosphere.

Food here is consistently good and often described as fantastic. The menu fits well with the full service club atmosphere.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious."

Good to know

1

The lodge has ample parking available both in its lot and on the street.

2

The banquet room is suitable for parties and wedding receptions.

3

The venue offers a full-service club atmosphere with great food.

15
Chick-fil-A image 1
Fast food restaurant

Dining area features modern design and fresh flowers, creating a clean and welcoming space. Food is consistently crispy and juicy, served hot with attentive service. Accessibility is strong, supporting mobility aids and smooth pickup through a separate entrance.

Food arrives fresh and hot, brought directly to the table with attentive service. The menu offers great quality fast food with consistently excellent customer relations.

People are saying

"The fast food here has the kindest, nicest workers I've ever met."

"These waffle fries are crispy and flavorful, a must-try."

"The food service here felt sincere and went above and beyond."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and available near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant is very clean and well-organized.

3

Food is prepared and served within 5-10 minutes.

16
Benihana - San Mateo image 1
Japanese restaurant

Spacious Japanese spot features 17 teppanyaki grills where chefs perform entertaining cooking shows. Food is excellent and service is quick, creating a lively dining experience. Atmosphere shifts from fun to smoky and noisy in some areas.

Excellent food comes with a cooking show at 17 teppanyaki grills. Service is quick and friendly, making it easy to try new dishes and enjoy a lively dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and prepared perfectly."

"The bar staff, especially Parker, were so attentive and made us feel welcomed."

"The staff's upbeat energy and thoughtful service made it feel so lively."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs weekdays from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM with sushi rolls and drinks.

2

Reservations are accepted, but walk-ins may face long wait times.

3

The restaurant has a 90-minute time limit for meals during busy hours.

17
Fish With You 鱼你在一起下饭酸菜鱼 image 1

Small, clean space with a cozy vibe and open kitchen offers an authentic dining experience. Fresh fish and spicy pickled mustard soups highlight the menu with strong suancai flavor. Seating is limited but allows for relaxed, unrushed meals.

Food features a strong suancai flavor that stands out. The dishes arrive quickly in a clean, comfortable setting with an open kitchen that adds to the authentic vibe.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh and flavorful."

"This sour soup tastes just like what I had in China."

"I found the food to be fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended for larger groups.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours on weekends.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

18
Udon Mugizo - San Mateo image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese spot shines with chicken karaage and tonkotsu udon deluxe served with toddler-safe utensils. Sleek, bright space features bonsai-accented bar lighting and outdoor seating welcomes dogs. Atmosphere flows from chill to lively, perfect for families.

Food features chicken karaage and tonkotsu udon deluxe with toddler-safe utensils and gacha tokens for kids. Service matches the delicious quality of the dishes.

People are saying

"The udon noodles here are thick and soft."

"The shrimp tempura is so crispy and satisfying."

"The udon here is so good, I'd recommend it."

Good to know

1

There is a large paid parking lot behind the restaurant.

2

Expect wait times of 40+ minutes during peak hours.

3

Reservations are not accepted; it's first come, first serve.

19
Suruki Supermarket image 1
Japanese grocery store

Small space with narrow aisles creates a busy vibe but shelves stay spotless and stocked with fresh sashimi and sushi-grade fish. Offers Junmai Daiginjo sake and a wide range of Asian groceries. Fresh hot food and ready-made meals add to the variety.

Fresh hot food made daily includes Japanese food trays and a variety of ready-made meals. The store offers a wide range of Asian groceries and sashimi grade fish with high quality and freshness.

People are saying

"This grocery store's sushi and bento bar is a go-to lunch stop."

"The ready-to-go food here is fresh, delicious, and affordable."

"The sashimi here is impeccably fresh and high-quality."

Good to know

1

Sashimi discount starts at 4PM; arrive early to avoid long lines.

2

Cooked food and sashimi available from 4PM in the deli area.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider visiting on weekends for easier access.

20
Mosaic Market image 1
Grocery store

Small Middle Eastern grocery store offers fresh Lebanese bread and tahini alongside pickles and olives. Friendly, neighborhood vibe with reasonable prices and extended hours. Produce is limited and freshness varies.

Wide assortment of Mediterranean food includes snacks and bakery items. Selection features international foods with Eastern European specialties and pantry staples like pickles, olives, and tahini.

People are saying

"I found the food selection here to be amazing and so international."

"I found the quality at this market to be top-notch."

"This grocery store is significantly cheaper than others."

Good to know

1

Mosaic Market offers a diverse selection of Middle Eastern pantry foods.

2

Prices are generally lower than other Middle Eastern markets.

3

The store specializes in unique items not found in other halal markets.

21
OLHSO Korean BBQ House image 1

Modern Korean BBQ shines with live fire grilling and unique meat textures. Cozy, lively vibe blends K-pop music and art deco design. Creative soju cocktails and craft beers complement the phenomenal food quality.

Meat stands out with unique texture and flavor, prepared expertly right before you. Presentation is beautiful, matching the phenomenal quality of the food.

People are saying

"The staff cooked the Korean Bbq right in front of us!"

"The service here is phenomenal, with constant refills."

"The food here is delicious and the meat quality is superb."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends to secure a table.

2

The restaurant requires ordering a set menu to get galbi.

3

Parking is available in a nearby garage with ample space.

22
Super Duper Burgers image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Modern industrial space offers open seating and a buzzy vibe with nostalgic music. Food is fresh and vegetarian-friendly, served on real plates for dine-in. Outdoor tables with market umbrellas add to the casual, comfortable atmosphere.

Food features fresh ingredients and high quality across all dishes. Options include vegetarian-friendly choices served with real plates and silverware when dining in.

People are saying

"The burgers here are so juicy and flavorful."

"I loved the Super Duper Burger; it's a double patty with quality ingredients."

"I thought the food was incredible, especially the juicy burgers."

Good to know

1

Ordering can be done at the kiosk or counter, with no reservations needed.

2

The menu is a la carte, allowing for personalized meal choices.

3

All food packaging is compostable, making it environmentally friendly.

23
San Mateo Farmers' Market image 1

Market offers spectacular bay views and a friendly atmosphere with fresh produce and food trucks. Visitors enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables alongside bakery goods and cooked meals. Plenty of parking makes for a relaxed visit.

Fresh fruits and vegetables stand out alongside a wide selection of bakery goods and food trucks offering cooked meals. Meat, fish, cheeses, flowers, and plants add to the variety available.

People are saying

"I found so many great food trucks and fresh produce here."

"The bay views from the market are spectacular."

"I considered this farmers market one of the best I had ever visited."

Good to know

1

The market features a wide variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and prepared foods.

2

Parking is available, but can be tough at peak times.

3

Bring cash, as some vendors may not accept cards.

24
Taste of Shaxian image 1
Chinese restaurant

Bright, spacious interior with an orange theme creates a cozy vibe. Food is fresh and authentic, served quickly in a family-friendly setting. Natural lighting and soft background music add to the peaceful atmosphere.

Food comes out fresh and delicious with a focus on authentic Chinese cuisine. Service is quick and the dining environment stays clean and family-friendly.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese food here to be really authentic."

"The dumplings have tender skins and juicy, well-balanced filling."

"I found the food here to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking is available west of El Camino Real, making it easy to find a spot.

2

A QR code ordering system is in place for customers to place their orders.

3

The restaurant offers vegetarian options on the menu.

25
李面请 大碗刀削面 Li's Knife Cut Noodle image 1

Small, brightly lit spot offers authentic Chinese noodles with free refills and chewy texture. Expect waits over 30 minutes due to popularity. Clean, tight seating adds to the genuine noodle shop feel.

Food features fresh ingredients and chewy noodles with rich, authentic flavors. Meals offer good quality at a decent price and deliver a truly delicious experience.

People are saying

"The broth is rich, well-simmered, and flavorful."

"You have to try the freshly wrapped dumplings; they're phenomenal."

"The hand-cut noodles are chewy and a must-try food."

Good to know

1

Wait times can exceed 30 minutes during peak hours, especially around 6pm.

2

Parking can be difficult to find, but there is plenty of free street parking available.

3

The restaurant offers free noodle refills, which is a great perk.

26
Yuzu image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small dining room offers an intimate atmosphere with tables close together. Food is fresh sushi served quickly with exquisite Japanese preparation. Notable sake selection complements the meal, drawing regulars who value consistent quality.

Food arrives quickly and tastes fresh with consistently high quality and exquisite Japanese preparation. The small dining room creates a private feel at each table.

People are saying

"The fish here is super fresh and really good."

"I found the sushi here to be authentic and the real deal."

"I thought the sushi here was the best in San Mateo."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours to avoid long waits.

2

Expect to pay around $150 for two people, including tips and tax.

3

Seating is limited, so arrive early or be prepared to wait.

27
Hampton Inn & Suites San Mateo-San Francisco Airport image 1

Hotel boasts soundproof windows for quiet rooms and a well-equipped gym for fitness. Guests enjoy Asian and Latin cuisine nearby and free parking with Tesla Supercharger for convenience. Shared spaces stay clean and inviting.

Food options include Asian and Latin cuisine within walking distance. Breakfast features delicious meals prepared daily. Nearby amenities offer a variety of restaurants and stores for diverse choices.

People are saying

"The hotel staff here is so friendly and helpful."

"The breakfast here had a lovely selection of hot and sweet staples."

"The breakfast food had so much variety and was delicious."

Good to know

1

The hotel offers complimentary breakfast every morning.

2

There is plenty of parking available for guests.

3

Tesla chargers are available for electric vehicle charging.

28
Taqueria El Chacho image 1
Taco restaurant

Makeshift stand in a parking lot serves authentic tacos al pastor with self-serve condiments. Loud music creates a lively atmosphere while a quick-moving line keeps things efficient. Cash and Zelle only, with limited outdoor bench seating.

Authentic Mexican street food shines with excellent flavor and exquisitely tasty options. It serves as a reliable late-night spot with terrific tacos and no food safety concerns.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food, especially the tacos, was fantastic."

"The Al pastor food here is thinly shaved, fresh, hot, and juicy."

"I thought these were the best tacos I ever ate."

Good to know

1

The tacos cost $4 each.

2

They only accept Zelle or cash for payment.

3

The basic burritos are around $14.

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San Mateo, California

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