San Mateo, California, may not shout from the rooftops about its discreet dining champions, but for those in the know, it’s a treasure trove of quaint eateries. Nestled in unassuming nooks, three hidden gems serve up an unexpected mosaic of flavors that defy their modest facades. Join us on a palatable adventure as we uncover these local secrets, proving that the best experiences often come in the most unanticipated packages.
Takahashi Market
Takahashi Market in San Mateo is a vibrant splash of Hawaiian spirit nestled just a hop from downtown. This cheerful nook not only promises a treat for the taste buds but also a quick island getaway vibe, minus the flight. Early birds catch the worm, or in this case, the musubi, as their signature items tend to fly off the shelves faster than a surfer catching waves.
Food Highlights:
- Giant Musubis: Nearly burrito-sized and boasting a variety of flavors:
- Regular Eel
- Eel with Crawfish
- Salmon
- Mochiko Chicken: A crispy delight, even post a 20-minute drive.
- Loco Moco: The sauce is the crowning glory atop this island favorite.
- Poke: Fresh Salmon Poke rivaling the authenticity of Hawaiian flavors.
Atmosphere:
No need to squint for tropical horizons here; the local atmosphere is laid-back with a mom-and-pop charm. With a few tables sprinkled outside, patrons can soak up the Cali sun. Inside, the market bursts with Hawaiian products from guava jellies to floral print lunch bags, all summoning the Aloha spirit. The friendly staff add to the welcoming ambiance, making every visit feel like a stroll on the beach.
Takahashi Market is more than a pit stop; it’s a mini vacation where every bite is a postcard from Hawaii. Don’t just take our word for it; swing by and let your palate do the hula!
221 S Claremont St San Mateo, CA 94401
Curry & Kabab
In the heart of San Mateo, California, there’s a spot where flavor bursts and spices sing: Curry & Kabab. This eatery has become a haven for those eager to indulge in Indian cuisine with a twist, including a unique Paneer pizza that has locals talking. As delightful as the fare is the option to personalize with fresh cilantro, showcasing their commitment to customer satisfaction.
Food Highlights:
- Paneer Pizza: A fusion delight, topped with fresh Paneer and an option for zesty cilantro.
- Chicken Tikka Masala: A mild and creamy wonder, boasting succulent thigh meat pieces.
- Palak Paneer: Cheese cubes with gusto, nestled in a savory spinach sauce, desiring a bit more heat.
- Plain Naan Bread: An oversized, fluffy companion, crunchy on the edges and chewy in the middle, staying delectable even after a journey home.
Atmosphere:
Curry & Kabab may play hard-to-get with its tricky parking along El Camino Real, but the dance to secure a spot is a small prelude to the symphony of flavors inside. The parking challenge is but a triviality, shrugged off by the satisfied smiles of those exiting, bellies full of biryani that’s turned rice skeptics into aficionados with its crisply fresh zest.
Beyond the pizza, the traditional dishes like Curry and Butter Chicken beckon for a next visit. While parking may play a game of hide-and-seek, the authentic, punchy flavors are a winning find, proving that sometimes the best tastes come with a little adventure. Curry & Kabab stands as a jewel in San Mateo, proving that the north of Palo Alto’s peninsula can indeed rival the culinary hotspots of the Bay Area.
1923 South El Camino Real San Mateo, CA 94403
Suavecito Birria & Tacos
At Suavecito Birria & Tacos in San Mateo, California, a gem is hidden in plain sight, delighting those who discover its zesty treasures. This eatery’s charm is as much about the vibrant food as it is about the quest to savor it, perhaps perched on a nearby curb or in the cozy confines of one’s car. The promise of a flavorful fiesta pulls fans from as far as South San Francisco, all in pursuit of Suavecito’s savory bites.
Food Highlights:
- Quesabirrias: Crispy corn tortillas, oozing with braised beef and melted cheese, deliver a 5-star crunch.
- Al Pastor Taco: Packed with marinated pork and crowned with pineapple pico.
- 24K California Burrito: A hefty roll of flavors with tater tots and avocado, best enjoyed fresh and unmicrowaved.
- House-Made Horchata: A creamy concoction that whispers cinnamon sweet nothings.
- Strawberry-Lime Agua Fresca: A swig of summer, fresh and sprightly with real strawberries.
- The 3 Amigos: A trio of dips that dance together with hand-cut chips in a flavorful fiesta.
Atmosphere:
First – a heads up – this is a walk-up/to-go spot – no dine in options.
No matter however, the atmosphere still buzzes with eager foodies ready for a feast. Remember to bring wet naps for this joyfully messy affair, where each bite is a celebration of taste.
The food’s warmth endures the journey home, arriving as a reminder that sometimes the best experiences come wrapped in foil and paper bags. It’s a hands-on experience—literally—with Suavecito’s menu turning your car into a banquet hall on wheels. A tad pricey, sure, but welllll, well worth the coin.