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Best Californian Restaurants in San Mateo

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13 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Twelvemonth restaurant
1. Twelvemonth
4.7
Exceptional(573)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Burlingame
Booked 43 times today
At Twelvemonth in Burlingame, the epitome of Californian cuisine is redefined through a 100% plant-based menu that dazzles locals and visitors alike. Celebrated for its bold, vegetable-first creativity, this restaurant sources from local farms, ensuring every dish like the "ROASTED BEETS and CRISPY MAITAKE MUSHROOMS" not only tastes fresh but also supports sustainable practices. Patrons rave about the "amazing ambiance and delicious healthy food," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to both the environment and culinary excellence. Twelvemonth's innovative approach, from its "thoughtful selection of non-alcoholic cocktails" to the "Chef's Choice" dishes, ensures a unique dining experience that's authentically Californian and universally appealing. As one reviewer put it, this place is "a bay area gem."
A photo of All Spice – San Mateo restaurant
2. All Spice – San Mateo
4.6
Exceptional(1104)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • San Mateo
All Spice – San Mateo offers a truly remarkable Contemporary American dining experience that creatively blends Modern Californian Cuisine with global influences. Nestled inside a picturesque 1906 Victorian house, this San Mateo gem, led by the talented husband-and-wife team Sachin Chopra and Shoshana Wolff, serves up an ever-evolving Chef's menu that captivates diners. Guests rave about the "outstanding flavors" and describe dishes like the caramelized onion soup as "other worldly." The intimate setting and "warm, professional service" make each visit memorable, with one diner exclaiming it's the "best in San Mateo" and akin to "Michelin one star level." Whether it's for a special occasion or a delightful evening out, All Spice promises an enchanting culinary journey that stands out in the realm of Contemporary American cuisine.
A photo of Rocca Ristorante restaurant
3. Rocca Ristorante
4.8
Exceptional(1736)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Burlingame
Booked 16 times today
At Rocca Ristorante in Burlingame, every meal is a dive into the heart of Northern Italy, with a delightful Californian twist. Patrons rave about the authenticity and flair of dishes like the Osso Bucco and Veal Saltimbocca, calling them "some of the best on the Peninsula." The restaurant's enchanting Tuscan-inspired decor, complete with a Florentine copper and bronze ceiling, sets a spectacular stage for a dining experience that consistently exceeds expectations. With an "always reliable" reputation, the extensive Italian wine selection perfectly complements each dish, ensuring a meal that is both "delicious and satisfying." Whether it's a casual lunch or a special occasion dinner, Rocca's combination of exquisite food, welcoming atmosphere, and top-notch service makes it a culinary gem in Burlingame.
A photo of 3SIXTY Bar / Bistro / Market restaurant
4. 3SIXTY Bar / Bistro / Market
3.9
Excellent(320)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Burlingame
Booked 2 times today
Join us at 3SIXTY for an all-in-one dining experience! Food Thoughtfully Sourced, Carefully Served is Chef Michael Cantin's philosophy behind our seasonal menu which supports our local purveyors here in Northern California. We are inspired by the culture and diversity the Bay area represents, as well as you, our well-traveled guests. What may be comfort food for some will be new and enticing for others. Sharing this experience with guests from all over the world is our story.We are located on the Atrium level of the Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport - come join us!(Complimentary self parking)
A photo of Mistral Restaurant & Bar - Redwood City restaurant
5. Mistral Restaurant & Bar - Redwood City
4.4
Awesome(1313)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Redwood City
Booked 7 times today
Mistral Restaurant & Bar in Redwood City is a seafood lover’s paradise, celebrated for its exceptional cuisine and stunning waterfront views. Diners rave about the freshness and quality of its seafood dishes, with one guest exclaiming, "The Ahi Tuna is the best I've had." The restaurant’s commitment to using the best local ingredients ensures that each seafood dish, from the scrumptious scallops and shrimp to the heavenly crab cakes, bursts with authentic flavors. Guests also appreciate the outdoor dining experience by the water, describing it as "super nice and relaxing," akin to a "mini vacation." Mistral is highly recommended for its outstanding food, service, and ambiance, making it a top choice for anyone craving exquisite seafood in a captivating setting.
A photo of Cafe Florian restaurant
6. Cafe Florian
4.2
Awesome(337)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Foster City
Booked 7 times today
Cafe Florian in Foster City epitomizes the vibrant spirit of Californian cuisine with its dynamic and weekly changing Sunday brunch menu. Diners are treated to an exquisite array of fresh, local ingredients that celebrate the rich agricultural bounty of California. Guests rave about the "fabulous service and variety of food," making every meal a delightful experience. Highlights include an "amazing selection of fresh crab and shrimp" and a dessert area that is "filled with lovely and delicious desserts." Whether it's the fresh seafood or the variety of stations from waffles to prime rib, Cafe Florian offers an authentic taste of California that keeps patrons coming back for more.
A photo of Mountain House restaurant
7. Mountain House
4.7
Exceptional(370)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Woodside
Booked 23 times today
Nestled in the scenic Santa Cruz Mountains, Mountain House offers a unique dining experience that celebrates the rich flavors of Wild Game cuisine. Diners rave about the "exceptional" quality of dishes like venison and quail, noting that each bite is a testament to the chef's skill and creativity. The Wild Game menu is enhanced by locally sourced ingredients and a thoughtful selection of wines, providing a truly "magical culinary experience" as one diner put it. The restaurant's ambiance, set amidst majestic redwoods, adds to the allure, making every meal not just dinner but a memorable event. Whether you're seated in the cozy glass room or the enchanting Forest Room, Mountain House promises an exquisite exploration of Wild Game that is both "impeccable" and "consistently excellent."
A photo of West Park Bistro restaurant
8. West Park Bistro
4.7
Exceptional(699)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • San Carlos
Booked 6 times today
West Park Bistro in San Carlos is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine that consistently impresses with its dedication to fresh, local ingredients and a menu that embodies the sophistication of modern dining. Chef James’s vision brings to life dishes that are both innovative and deeply satisfying, using only the best hand cuts of meat and seafood. The ambiance is warm and inviting, perfect for any meal from brunch to dinner. Glowing reviews often highlight the "fantastic and pleasing" menu options and the exceptional service, making it clear why diners keep returning. Whether it’s the praised mussels or the delightful airline chicken, West Park Bistro delivers a culinary experience that celebrates the best of American creativity and quality.
A photo of Alhambra Irish House restaurant
9. Alhambra Irish House
4.4
Awesome(547)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Redwood City
Booked 2 times today
At Alhambra Irish House in Redwood City, the fusion of traditional Irish fare with Californian cuisine creates a unique dining experience that is both authentic and innovative. Known for its "outstanding" fish and chips and the "amazingly delicious" shepherd's pie, the restaurant skillfully integrates local flavors, ensuring every dish sings with Californian freshness and creativity. Guests rave about the "crispy, flavorful" fish and chips and how each meal feels like a "taste of home." The warm, inviting atmosphere, combined with the vibrant local scene, makes Alhambra a standout destination for anyone seeking the best of Californian dining in a historic Irish setting.
A photo of AC Waterfront Lounge restaurant
10. AC Waterfront Lounge
4.1
Excellent(24)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • South San Francisco
Enjoy Spanish-inspired tapas and entrees with wine, beer, and handcrafted signature cocktails.

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Discover best Californian restaurants in San Mateo

Discover the vibrant Californian culinary scene in the San Francisco Bay Area, specifically in the Peninsula and San Mateo region. This area boasts an array of restaurants that excel in serving innovative dishes inspired by the diverse flavors and high-quality ingredients typical of Californian cuisine. Diners can expect a delightful mix of contemporary and traditional cooking techniques, often highlighting local, sustainably sourced produce and seafood. The dining scene here is characterized by its commitment to freshness and creativity, making it a true foodie's paradise. Each establishment offers a unique dining experience, from casual, laid-back atmospheres to upscale, refined settings, catering to a variety of tastes and occasions. The focus on excellence and innovative culinary practices in these restaurants not only attracts locals but also visitors seeking authentic and memorable dining experiences. Whether you're in the mood for a light, health-conscious meal or a lavish feast, the San Mateo area on the Peninsula provides an excellent backdrop for exploring the best of Californian cuisine.

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