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Local picks

Seafood spots in San Mateo

Fresh catches that taste like they came from the water, not a freezer bag.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Colander Kitchens image 1
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Space combines chic and homey design with cool coffee bar in an old pick-up truck and sea green tile bar, creating a warm and inviting lounge vibe. Seating arrangements suit solo diners, families, or groups, with beautiful plants adding calm and comfort. Noise levels stay low, fostering friendly, relaxed conversations.

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.

Plates feature fresh, tender fish with generous portions around $15 to $18. Grilled oysters bring umami and mild heat, while dishes like Black cod with Miso and Hamachi kama stand out for flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully plated."

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

"The seafood here is brilliantly seasoned and tender."

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.

02
Bahche image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with high ceilings and natural light creates a cozy, vibrant atmosphere featuring Greek charm. Space includes a long bar serving wine and beer, plus outdoor seating. Tables sit close together, fostering a welcoming and intimate vibe suitable 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.

Juicy seafood paella features a generous amount of seafood and pairs well with other dishes like falafel, spanakopita, and grilled fish. The quality of the seafood stands out in the menu.

People are saying

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

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The seafood paella was flavorful, but could have had more seafood."

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.

03
Prime BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Interior blends subtle Japanese decor with upside-down umbrellas hanging from the ceiling, creating a cozy and refined atmosphere. Music complements the vibe without overpowering, supporting a chill dining experience. Tables feature heated trays to keep skewers warm, enhancing the relaxed pace of meals.

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

Grilled oysters, abalone, and scallops stand out with a $2 lunch special from Friday to Sunday. The seafood includes scallop skewers, fish tofu, garlic shrimp, and tempura with shrimp and vegetables.

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 grilled oysters with garlic were perfectly seasoned."

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
Izakaya Fusion Grill Keitan image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Japanese-style barbecue restaurant offers intimate izakaya vibe with tabletop grills and live anime-themed music. Interior features open kitchen where chefs grill skewers over charcoal, creating an authentic and lively atmosphere. Space includes a second story with more seating, maintaining a cozy yet energetic environment.

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

Grilled seafood shines here with grilled oysters, shrimp skewers, and scallops topped with uni. Fish jerky offers a chewy, sweet flavor, while garlic shrimp stands out for its seasoning.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and flavorful."

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

"The grilled shrimp and scallops were well cooked and seasoned."

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.

05
MalaTown Express 自选麻辣烫 image 1

Chinese restaurant offers a clean, bright, and modern environment with a self-serve sauce bar that adds a fun, customizable element. The atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, less crowded and chaotic than similar spots. Large bowls and an affordable price point distinguish the experience.

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.

Shrimp paste balls stand out with a fresh, shrimpy flavor that seems made in house. Fish fillets, fish balls with roe, and fried mochi add variety to a selection rich in fresh seafood and customizable options.

People are saying

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

"I thought the food was delicious and fresh."

"The seafood broth here is rich, flavorful, and delicious."

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.

06
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 creates an authentic atmosphere. Seating is limited but allows for relaxed dining without rush. Known for fresh fish and spicy pickled mustard soups, it offers a distinctive, comforting Chinese meal experience.

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.

Fish comes fresh, tender, and cooked perfectly in large portions. Signature dishes include spicy pickled fish, sauerkraut fish soup, and Sichuan boiled fish with tangy pickled cabbage and mustard, all at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The seafood here is so fresh and flavorful."

"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.

07
Suruki Supermarket image 1
Japanese grocery store

Small space with narrow aisles creates a busy, sometimes anxiety-inducing atmosphere. Shelves stay spotless and well stocked with a wide variety of fresh sashimi and sushi-grade fish. Offers a wide selection of Junmai Daiginjo sake alongside Japanese groceries and prepared foods.

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.

Sushi grade fish gets cut fresh daily with a wide selection of imported Japanese seafood. The seafood is consistently fresh and reasonably priced, including sashimi quality fish and shrimp.

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 seafood here is impeccably fresh and beautifully prepared."

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.

08
Yuzu image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small dining room with tables close together creates a cramped yet intimate atmosphere. Energy varies from quiet privacy to moments of lively conversation among nearby groups. Known for authentic, fresh sushi and a notable sake selection, it draws regulars who appreciate consistent quality despite the tight space.

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.

Fish comes super fresh with generous portions that include slabs three times the size of the rice. The 11-piece nigiri platter offers many varieties, all really good, and the shrimp heads are crispy and meaty. Fish bone marrow tastes like a marinated ocean cloud.

People are saying

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

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

"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.

09
Udon Mugizo - San Mateo image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a sleek modern interior with bright, airy spaces and bonsai-accented bar lighting. Atmosphere shifts from chill and welcoming to crowded and lively during peak times. Outdoor seating accommodates dogs, adding to the family-friendly vibe.

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.

Shrimp tempura stands out with its crispy, light batter and comes with grated daikon. Nabeyaki udon features fried tofu, shrimp tempura, and shoyu broth, while dishes often include salty red mentaiko fish eggs that balance creamy sauces.

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.

10
Kodawari Japanese Cuisine image 1
Japanese restaurant

Space resembles mini Kyoto with modern, refined Japanese décor and a zen atmosphere marked by thoughtful design. Noise levels rise due to small space and large tables, making conversation challenging. Busy evenings require planning, with a partitioned area for groups and a lively, inviting vibe.

Food features excellent quality and fresh ingredients with generous portions. Presentation is top notch and sushi stands out as a highlight.

High-quality seafood comes at reasonable prices here. The seafood bowl features bluefin tuna and Hokkaido uni that taste incredibly fresh and sweet. Fried oysters arrive lightly fried and topped with bonito flakes, making a tasty starter.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is outstanding and everything I tried tasted amazing."

"The seafood here is super fresh and thoughtfully prepared."

"The food here is super fresh and flavorful, especially the Kaisendon."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner, due to high demand.

2

The restaurant is very busy; expect wait times during peak hours.

3

Limited seating is available for walk-ins, so arrive early.

11
OLHSO Korean BBQ House image 1

Modern Korean BBQ restaurant blends sleek, stylish design with authentic flavors and live fire grilling. Atmosphere feels cozy and lively, suitable for groups with no small tables and a welcoming vibe enhanced by K-pop music and art deco elements. Side-sucking fans keep air clear, and a bar area offers drinks like creative soju cocktails and craft beers.

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

Seafood boil offers a fresh and tasty option. Fish cakes and seafood pancake stand out as flavorful dishes among the menu.

People are saying

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

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

"The seafood pancake is genuinely excellent and generously portioned."

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.

12
No.5 House image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Small space with in-house dumpling making and clean, tasteful décor creates a chill, relaxing vibe reminiscent of a Taipei street market. The menu leans toward Northern Chinese flavors despite Taiwanese labeling, featuring standout dishes like pan-fried bao and authentic beef noodle soup. Seating is limited, and ordering happens via QR code at the table.

Authentic Taiwanese and Chinese food offers delicious flavors that are not too salty or oily. Meals come at an affordable price with consistently great service.

Shrimp dishes include shrimp dumplings and spicy shrimp wonton. Broth in the shrimp wonton and rice noodle soup tastes very plain and flavorless.

People are saying

"The dumplings here are so tasty and juicy."

"The braised beef noodles here are perfectly braised with flavorful broth."

"The shrimp dumplings were excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking may be hard to find during peak dining hours.

2

The restaurant is very small with limited seating.

3

They had to turn away customers because there was no seating.

13
Taste of Shaxian image 1
Chinese restaurant

Bright, spacious interior with an orange theme and cozy vibe creates a peaceful atmosphere. The place offers authentic Chinese cuisine with a fast casual energy and is kid friendly. Background music and natural lighting add to the homey feel.

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.

Boiled fish fillet with lemon offers a refreshing and delicious taste. The marinated seafood mix stands out and the spicy fish dish adds a bold kick.

People are saying

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

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

"The seafood wonton soup here is the best I've had."

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.

14
Piazza's Fine Foods image 1
Gourmet grocery store

Gourmet grocery store with wide bakery and cheese selection and an excellent butcher counter. Bright, clean, and organized space with high-quality produce and meats. Prices tend to be on the expensive side, but the store remains less crowded and cozier than similar markets.

Offers a wide variety of gourmet foods with many locally sourced items. Food quality is consistently high and prices are reasonable. Staff are knowledgeable and helpful, enhancing the shopping experience.

Seafood here shows excellent quality and freshness. The selection includes a variety of fish alongside other high-quality meats and produce.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be high quality and well-priced."

"This grocery store has incredible quality meat, fish, and produce."

"I found the seafood here to be of excellent quality."

Good to know

1

Piazza's Fine Foods offers a senior discount on Tuesdays.

2

Expect high prices, especially for produce and specialty items.

3

The store features a wide selection of gourmet foods and local products.

15
TAI ER SICHUAN CUISINE 太二川菜 (SAN MATEO) image 1

Restaurant offers authentic Sichuan dishes with a lively, modern vibe and clean, stylish interior. It features generous portions of signature fish dishes amid a bustling atmosphere that can be loud. Seating includes bar options, and the menu is limited but focused on bold flavors.

Food offers bold, vibrant flavors with authentic Sichuan spices. Dishes deliver deeply satisfying and excellent quality at reasonable prices.

Sauerkraut fish stands out with its tender texture, generous portions, and a flavor that balances sour and spicy perfectly. Fresh fish cooks openly in the kitchen, and dishes like shrimp with vermicelli arrive sizzling hot with large shrimp.

People are saying

"This Chinese food is bold, vibrant, and deeply satisfying."

"The sauerkraut fish seafood is exceptionally fresh and well-balanced."

"The food, especially the sauerkraut fish, is exceptionally fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during dinner hours.

2

Expect a wait of 90+ minutes if you don't call ahead to put your name on the list.

3

Portion sizes are smaller, encouraging guests to try multiple dishes.

16
Benihana - San Mateo image 1
Japanese restaurant

Spacious Japanese restaurant with teppanyaki grills where chefs perform entertaining cooking shows featuring impressive tricks. Atmosphere varies from lively and fun to occasionally crowded and smoky, with some areas isolated and noisy. Offers a unique dining experience combining food preparation and social interaction.

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.

Crunchy shrimp rolls feature perfectly cooked shrimp. Staff perform shrimp tricks, tossing them into mouths from a distance.

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 shrimp here is sometimes small and overcooked."

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
Rin-Tei image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Small Asian fusion restaurant offers intimate, cozy atmosphere with modern, minimalist wooden decor and strong Japanese style. Space includes table and counter seating, creating a calming dining experience. Vibe feels like a blend of Tokyo and Southeast Asia, with a relaxed, homey energy.

Fusion of Southeast Asian and Japanese cuisine offers well-made dishes with excellent presentation. Food consistently delivers great flavors alongside attentive service.

People are saying

"The soy milk pho at this Lunch Spot is uniquely flavorful and creamy."

"The food here, especially the soy milk pho, is so unique and flavorful."

"The seafood here is fresh and tastes amazing."

Good to know

1

You order at the front and pay first at Rin-Tei.

2

A parking garage is close by, making it easy to get to Rin-Tei.

3

Metered street parking is available right in front of the restaurant.

18
Marina Plaza Shopping Center image 1

Shopping center centers on an Asian supermarket with a wide variety of ethnic restaurants including Korean, Japanese, and Taiwanese options. Atmosphere feels exotic with well-stocked fresh produce and seafood. Parking is generally available but can be messy during peak hours.

Varied Asian food options include Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Vietnamese cuisines. The oriental food variety covers many tastes, with a strong presence of Vietnamese dishes.

A very nice fish market offers a wide selection of fish and other seafood. Some seafood smells can be unpleasant, but the variety and quality stand out.

People are saying

"I found a great Asian grocery store with lots of unusual items."

"I found a variety of Asian food options here."

"I found the seafood selection here to be the best I have encountered."

Good to know

1

Parking can be messy at peak hours, but free parking is available.

2

The shopping center has a wide variety of shops, including salons and grocery stores.

3

Expect a good selection of Asian restaurants and markets in the area.

19
Nijiya Market San Mateo Store image 1
Japanese grocery store

Small Japanese grocery store offers fresh sushi and sashimi alongside a variety of niche soy sauces and authentic snacks. The atmosphere is clean and efficient, with products often selling out early. Prices tend to be higher than average, reflecting the specialty nature of the items.

Prepared foods include a variety of bento boxes, sushi sets, and onigiri rice balls. The deli offers fresh, well-stocked Japanese specialties and snacks at reasonable prices, perfect for a quick, filling lunch.

Freshness stands out with incredibly fresh sushi fish and packed sushi selections. The seafood section lacks a fish counter and is smaller compared to some other Asian markets.

People are saying

"I found the grab-and-go Japanese food options to be excellent and varied."

"I love grabbing their pre-made Japanese food for a quick lunch."

"I found the seafood here to be incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, especially when the restaurant next door is busy.

2

Sashimi often sells out by noon, so arrive early for the best selection.

3

Gyudon packets are priced at $6, cheaper than many other places.

20
Mariscos El Ajoyano image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with loud music and fun decorations creates a lively, bar-like atmosphere. Plenty of tables accommodate a family-friendly crowd, especially busy after church on Sundays. Known for fresh seafood and large portions, it offers traditional Sinaloan dishes in a clean setting.

Food comes fresh and tastes just like home. Every dish is amazingly delicious and keeps impressing with its excellent quality.

Seafood here is consistently fresh and well prepared, with dishes like fish tacos and fried fish standing out. Fresh oysters also feature on the menu alongside traditional Sinaloan breakfast options.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"I found the seafood here to be so fresh."

"I considered their ceviche the best in the Bay Area."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekend afternoons, especially Sundays.

2

Expect the restaurant to get busy after church on Sundays.

3

Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes offered.

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San Mateo, California

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