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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in San Mateo

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14 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Porterhouse restaurant
1. Porterhouse
4.7
Exceptional(1772)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • San Mateo
Booked 19 times today
The renowned art of dry aging finally arrives in San Mateo, as our new dry aging window is now completed. We are proud to be the only restaurant on the Peninsula (In between San Francisco & San Jose) to have an in-house dry aging facility. Our new menu featuring these marvelous cuts of beef is now available.To accompany your steak, our Wine List celebrates the acclaimed wines of Napa Valley, Willamette Valley, France and Italy. In addition to our steak and chop offerings, our Chef provides for a daily selection of fresh fish and seafood.Whether you are having a romantic dinner, entertaining some friends and family, having a business meeting, or hosting a private party, we will provide you with the ideal setting for your next outing.*Please note that we have re-located 2 blocks away to 164 S B Street, San Mateo, CA 94401
A photo of Central Park Bistro restaurant
2. Central Park Bistro
4.7
Exceptional(1749)
Price: Expensive
• American • San Mateo
Booked 8 times today
Central Park Bistro is a 100 seat contemporary restaurant in downtown San Mateo featuring fresh seasonal American cuisine by Chef Ricardo Garcia, in the $15-$45 range. We offer a carefully chosen eclectic Wine Spectator award-winning wine list. Central Park Bistro is an affordable sophisticated, fun dining experience. Relax and unwind with a house specialty cocktail at our wonderful Martini Bar. We also have several intimate private dining rooms perfect for that corporate presentation business meeting, wedding rehearsal dinner, retirement/anniversary dinner, or any special function you may have in mind. Check out our private wine cellar room which seats up to 8 people for that extra special dining experience.For reservations larger than 12 or for private functions please contact the restaurant directly.
A photo of Benihana - Burlingame, CA restaurant
3. Benihana - Burlingame, CA
4.0
Excellent(5192)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Burlingame
Booked 50 times today
Welcome to Benihana, a dining experience unlike any other! Our guests are seated at communal tables in groups, where your personal chef will perform the ancient art of Teppanyaki. Watch as we slice and dice, preparing a meal that will dazzle your eyes as well taste buds, whether you choose mouth-watering steak, tender chicken or succulent seafood. You can also enjoy sushi prepared by a talented sushi chef and indulge in a specialty cocktail.
A photo of Il Fornaio - Burlingame restaurant
4. Il Fornaio - Burlingame
4.6
Exceptional(4535)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Burlingame
Booked 25 times today
Il Fornaio is renowned for its authentic award winning Italian cuisine. Specialties include wood-fired rotisserie and grilled meats, poultry and game; housemade pastas; pizzas from an oak wood burning oven; fresh salads and housemade soups; a wide variety of desserts; and fresh baked bread made daily from scratch. Annual winner of the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.
A photo of Park & Howard Bistro restaurant
5. Park & Howard Bistro
4.7
Exceptional(1388)
Price: Moderate
• Bistro • Burlingame
Booked 19 times today
Park & Howard Bistro located on the corner of Park and Howard Ave in Burlingame CA and featuring fresh seasonal American cuisine. We offer a carefully chosen eclectic world wide wine list. Park & Howard Bistro has a decidedly understated rustic motif, linen tables clothes, hardwood floors, intimate leather booths , & rich mahogany wood accents and is an affordable sophisticated, fun dining experience. Park & Howard Bistro also has intimate private dining rooms perfect for that corporate presentation, business meeting, wedding rehearsal dinner, retirement celebrations ,anniversary dinner, or any special function you may have in mind. Check out our private wine cellar room which seats up to 12 people for that extra special dining experience. The lunch menu is full of wonderful seasonal pairings salads, sandwiches and entrees. Service is approachable, knowledgeable, attentive and friendly, in a comfortable atmosphere
A photo of Trapeze Restaurant - Burlingame restaurant
6. Trapeze Restaurant - Burlingame
4.7
Exceptional(1203)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Burlingame
Booked 2 times today
Welcome back Chef Rodriguez!As Chef Jose Rodriguez puts it aptly: ''When I am not in the kitchen cooking, I am experimenting and reinventing myself continually. I don't know any other way to feel alive.'' After a long hiatus, Chef Rodriguez returns to Trapeze where he always felt at home. Under a new management, Jose is granted the opportunity to express his creativity in his work freely. With years of experience and much amassed recognition in some of the most well known Michelin Star awarded restaurants in the Bay Area, we are all excited to see what wonders he will bring. ''In addition to my regular menu, I'm trying what I call approachable foods - simpler in some cases and more sophisticated creations in other'' said Mr. Rodriguez, who has been working as a private chef and caterer for over 20 years.For reservations larger than 10 or for private functions please contact the restaurant directly.
A photo of Farm and Vine restaurant
7. Farm and Vine
4.8
Exceptional(1004)
Price: Moderate
• Farm-to-table • Burlingame
Booked 10 times today
We are open for takeout, thank you for supporting us!Farm & Vine Bistro is the culinary vision of Chef Hakan. We are a new restaurant now opened in Burlingame. Chef Hakan brings the art of food on to your plate. His 25 years of experience in San Francisco and the Bay Area, along with his ambition for food and cooking, make him famous at local neighborhood restaurants. He takes classic dishes and gives them a personalized touch using only the finest foods from local farms and around the world. From our array of starters to our mouth-watering desserts, you're sure to find a new favorite!
A photo of Rocca Ristorante restaurant
8. Rocca Ristorante
4.8
Exceptional(1789)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Burlingame
Booked 13 times today
Inspired by classic Northern Italian cooking with California influences, Rocca Ristorante features delicious veal, chicken, seafood and house made pastas – the signature Osso Bucco is not to be missed! The breathtaking décor boasts a spectacular Florentine copper & bronze high ceiling, whimsical murals and an elaborate Venetian-style balcony, all set in an enchanting Tuscan inspired setting. Wine connoisseurs will be impressed with the extensive collection of Italian and domestic selections. With our winning combination of warm and impeccable service, simple yet creative dishes and a passion for detail, Rocca Ristorante is the perfect place for your next dining experience.
A photo of Farm House restaurant
9. Farm House
4.7
Exceptional(295)
Price: Moderate
• American • Belmont
Booked 9 times today
Farm House is a charming restaurant in Belmont that combines New American cuisine with warm hospitality. This cozy spot has quickly become a local favorite, featuring a menu that changes seasonally to showcase the freshest, locally sourced ingredients. Upon entering, you'll find exposed brick walls and tasteful artwork, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The dog-friendly patio, complete with a heated pergola, is perfect for enjoying meals outdoors. Farm House offers a diverse selection of dishes for every palate. Enjoy mouthwatering chilaquiles and omelets for brunch, or indulge in fried chicken and pasta for dinner. Each dish highlights farm-fresh ingredients, reflecting the chef's commitment to quality and flavor. Whether you're vegetarian, vegan, or simply love good food, there's something for everyone. The restaurant also features an impressive wine list with local and international selections. With exceptional service from a friendly staff, your dining experience at Farm House will be memorable.
A photo of Luceti's on 25th Avenue restaurant
10. Luceti's on 25th Avenue
4.7
Exceptional(958)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • San Mateo
Booked 4 times today
A taste of Tuscany and local treasure that is simply delicious. For over three decades, Luceti's has served Italian cuisine created by world class chef and awarded San Franciscan, Roger Bertola. Founder of the legendary Doro's, Ruggero's and master chef of Fior and the Iron Horse. Mr. Bertola was also the personal chef to generals Eisenhower and Paton. Today, Luceti's owners carry on the same tradition and cuisine that was started by Dr. Ron Luceti in 1984. Luceti's is a great place for private parties and business meetings.

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Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in San Mateo

Explore the hidden culinary treasures of San Mateo in the San Francisco Bay Area Peninsula, where neighborhood gems serve up exceptional dining experiences. These restaurants, cherished by locals and admired by visitors, exemplify the best in regional and international cuisine, each offering a unique ambiance that reflects the charm of their surroundings. From authentic Italian delights to exquisite Filipino dishes, the dining scene in San Mateo is vibrant and diverse, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. The establishments in this area are renowned for their high-quality food, superb service, and the warm, inviting atmospheres that make each visit memorable. Patrons consistently praise these eateries for maintaining a standard of excellence that turns first-time visitors into regulars. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot for a romantic dinner or a lively venue for a family gathering, you'll find that these neighborhood gems in San Mateo provide the perfect setting for any occasion. Discover why the Peninsula's dining scene is a haven for those seeking truly special culinary experiences, where every meal is served with a touch of local flavor and a commitment to satisfaction.

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