San Mateo, California has more than enough to offer to make you feel like a local, but with the hustle and bustle of San Francisco only 30 minutes away, the city can sometimes seem like a foreign land to newcomers. Luckily, if you want to feel like a local, there are plenty of gems in San Mateo that can help give you an insider’s perspective on this beautiful city. Here are 5 hidden gems in San Mateo that’ll make you feel like a local.
The best new restaurants
If you’re looking for the best new restaurants in San Mateo, look no further than these five hidden gems. From farm-to-table fare to inventive Asian cuisine, there’s something for everyone here. And trust us, these places are worth seeking out.
The best bars for locals
O’Neill’s Irish Pub & Restaurant-With its warm and inviting atmosphere, O’Neill’s is the perfect place to enjoy a pint and some traditional Irish fare. The Brick Yard-This cozy bar is perfect for meeting new friends or enjoying a night out with old ones. The Redwood Room-Featuring an extensive wine list and a relaxed vibe, the Redwood Room is ideal for unwinding after a long day. The Office-A favorite among locals, this bar has something for everyone, from pool and darts to live music and Karaoke. Kelly’s Mission Rock-A San Francisco institution, Kelly’s Mission Rock is always packed with locals looking to have a good time.
The best coffee shops
Blue Bottle Coffee is a must-try for any coffee lover. The shop roasts its own beans on-site, so you know they’re fresh. Caffe Acri is another excellent choice, especially if you’re looking for an Italian-style espresso. The Hub is perfect if you want to work or study while enjoying a cup of joe. 4. For something different, check out Philz Coffee. The shop specializes in custom blends, so you can find the perfect flavor for your taste buds. If you’re looking for a place to relax and chat with friends, try Café Zoetrope. The cozy atmosphere is perfect for catching up over coffee.
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The most beautiful parks
Central Park is one of the most beautiful parks in San Mateo. It’s huge-180 acres to be exact-and has something for everyone. The park has a playground, tennis courts, a basketball court, a softball field, and picnic areas. If you’re looking for a place to take a stroll or just relax, Central Park is the perfect spot. But if you want some exercise there are also plenty of trails for running, walking, cycling and even horseback riding.
There are plenty of benches throughout the park where you can sit and watch children play or grab a book from the library while enjoying the scenery. The views are absolutely stunning with hills all around covered in green grass (no pollution here!).
If that doesn’t sound like your cup of tea then head over to East Bay Regional Park where you can go kayaking on Lake Merced or explore old-growth redwood trees at Big Basin Redwoods State Park, which was named Most Beautiful Place in America by Good Morning America.
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The best vintage stores
There are some great vintage stores in San Mateo that are definitely worth checking out. For example, Dolly’s is a great place to find vintage clothes and furniture. Another hidden gem is Fox & Hound, which is a great place to find vintage jewelry and collectibles. Finally, if you’re looking for something unique, be sure to check out Moonbeams, which specializes in vintage items from the 60s and 70s.
