Straddling the edge of Silicon Valley and the old Peninsula coast, San Mateo is a culinary playground, fusing innovation, deep immigrant heritage, and California’s love of everything fresh, local, and a little bit fun.
1. Ramen Dojo
The undisputed king of Bay Area ramen, Dojo is a pilgrimage for noodle lovers: rich, spicy pork broth; chewy, springy noodles; molten egg and tender slices of chashu pork; plus garlic chips and must-try extras like corn or crispy chicken.
Lines form before the doors open, loyal to the blackboard specials. The tiny space is half ramen laboratory, half international hangout.
2. Town
An upscale take on the American steakhouse—rustic walls, a big central bar, and a menu that spans aged ribeyes and smoked salmon to towering salads and creative cocktails.
It’s the go-to for celebrations and business meals, packed on weekends with families who linger over key lime pie and espresso martinis.
Prime rib nights draw a devoted following, and kids are genuinely welcomed.
3. Sapore Italiano
Set in a cozy, muraled storefront, Sapore delivers Southern Italy by the bay—housemade pastas with porcini mushrooms, gnocchi al pesto, veal saltimbocca, and seafood risotto.
The wine list is heavy on California and Italian reds, and service moves at a pace that lets you unwind. Dessert tiramisu is required.
4. Backhaus
This German-inspired bakery is San Mateo’s lunch and breakfast capital: naturally leavened breads, flaky croissants, seed-studded pretzels, hearty sourdough sandwiches, and linzer cookies.
Coffee is locally roasted, crowds line up early on weekends for the famous cardamom buns, and the staff makes everyone feel part of the neighborhood.
5. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
Gather friends around a smokeless grill for an experience: marinated beef, chicken, pork belly, veggies, and even pineapple, sizzle at the table.
Sides of garlic fried rice and Japanese pickles raise the meal to feast level.
Gyu-Kaku is fun—a favorite for birthdays, group hangs, and anyone craving a taste of Tokyo nightlife.
Get the All-American Travel Secrets!
Don't miss out on America's hidden gems!
