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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Half Moon Bay

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21 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Mountain House restaurant
1. Mountain House
4.7
Exceptional(375)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Woodside
Booked 26 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 Park & Howard Bistro restaurant
2. Park & Howard Bistro
4.8
Exceptional(1292)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Burlingame
Booked 16 times today
At the heart of Burlingame, Park & Howard Bistro emerges as a sterling example of authentic Bistro cuisine, delighting patrons with its "beautifully presented" dishes and "fabulous unexpected" dining experiences. This gem, located at the bustling corner of Park and Howard Ave, offers a comforting yet sophisticated atmosphere with its rustic motif and intimate settings, perfect for any special occasion. Reviews consistently praise its "perfectly prepared" meals, ranging from the succulent butternut gnocchi to the tender filet mignon, all enriched by a "knowledgeable and friendly" service. Whether it's a sunny lunch or a cozy dinner, Park & Howard Bistro stands out for its dedication to quality, flavor, and a genuinely welcoming ambiance, making every visit a memorable one.
A photo of Flores - San Mateo restaurant
3. Flores - San Mateo
4.4
Awesome(87)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • San Mateo
Booked 33 times today
Delight in the exquisite flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine at Flores - San Mateo, a gem located in the heart of San Mateo, California. This esteemed restaurant offers a culinary journey from the Gulf to the Pacific, showcasing traditional dishes that celebrate Mexico's rich heritage. Patrons rave about their experience, with comments like "Great place to get good traditional Mexican dishes" and "Everything was delicious." From homemade tortillas to unique dishes like duck enchiladas and sikil pak, Flores ensures each dish is a tribute to authentic Mexican flavors. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service that make Flores a must-visit for anyone seeking a true taste of Mexico.
A photo of Porterhouse restaurant
4. Porterhouse
4.7
Exceptional(1679)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • San Mateo
Booked 10 times today
Porterhouse in San Mateo is a gem for lovers of Contemporary American cuisine, particularly renowned for its expertly dry-aged steaks, a rare find on the Peninsula. Nestled between San Francisco and San Jose, this restaurant offers a menu that beautifully marries classic American steakhouse fare with fresh seafood, creating dishes that are both refined and satisfying. The ambiance, described as having "old school charm with amazing steaks," sets the stage for memorable dining experiences. Glowing reviews consistently praise the "perfectly cooked" meats and "attentive service," with one diner exclaiming it’s the "best steak ever!" Whether it's a casual dinner or a celebratory gathering, Porterhouse promises a standout meal every time, making it a must-visit for those seeking the pinnacle of Contemporary American dining in San Mateo.
A photo of Paul Martin's American Grill - San Mateo restaurant
5. Paul Martin's American Grill - San Mateo
4.3
Awesome(2996)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • San Mateo
Booked 16 times today
Paul Martin's American Grill in San Mateo is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, setting the standard for quality and authenticity. Located in the vibrant Hillsdale Shopping Center, diners rave about the "perfectly grilled" hand-cut ribeye and the "amazing" seasonal specials. The restaurant's atmosphere is described as both "polished" and "welcoming," ideal for any occasion from happy hours to heartfelt celebrations. Reviewers consistently highlight the "excellent service" and the diverse, flavor-packed menu, including standout dishes like the steak Cobb salad and the mesquite grilled elote corn. Paul Martin's commitment to elevating classic American dishes with a modern twist ensures a memorable dining experience every time.
A photo of Pinstripes - San Mateo restaurant
6. Pinstripes - San Mateo
4.4
Awesome(32)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • San Mateo
Booked 3 times today
Pinstripes in San Mateo is the epitome of stellar American cuisine, offering a delightful fusion of Italian-American flavors that will leave your taste buds craving more. With its scratch-made dishes, the restaurant shines with menu favorites like meatballs and polenta, described by one guest as "the star of the night." The ambiance, complemented by engaging activities like bowling and bocce, ensures a dining experience that’s both fun and fulfilling. Guests rave about the "fabulous" food and "superb" service, making it a must-visit for an authentic and enjoyable American dining experience. Whether it's the praised Sunday brunch or the vibrant happy hour, Pinstripes stands out as a local culinary gem in San Mateo.
A photo of Pulpo Tapas & Wine Bar restaurant
7. Pulpo Tapas & Wine Bar
4.6
Exceptional(96)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Burlingame
Booked 4 times today
Pulpo Tapas & Wine Bar in Burlingame, CA, is a vibrant gem that offers an authentic taste of Spanish cuisine with a touch of Latin flair. Diners rave about the "exquisite" food and "warm hospitality" that make every visit memorable. The restaurant specializes in a variety of Spanish tapas and boasts a wine list with "great choices from Spain," ensuring a genuine Iberian experience. Guests particularly love the Pulpo Sample Plater and the seafood specials, describing them as "soooo good!" With its cozy ambiance and praised service, Pulpo is a must-visit for anyone seeking a slice of Spain in Burlingame.
A photo of Central Park Bistro restaurant
8. Central Park Bistro
4.8
Exceptional(1697)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • San Mateo
Booked 17 times today
Central Park Bistro in downtown San Mateo offers a truly delightful comfort food experience that keeps guests coming back for more. Chef Ricardo Garcia masterfully prepares American classics with a fresh, seasonal twist, ensuring every dish not only comforts but also excites the palate. Patrons rave about the "perfectly cooked" lamb chops and the "soft and richly sauced" gnocchi, highlighting the quality and heartiness of the meals. The ambiance of the restaurant adds to the dining experience, with cozy private rooms and a vibrant martini bar, enhancing the warmth and welcoming vibe essential to great comfort food. Visitors often mention the "attentive service" and "delicious food," making Central Park Bistro a standout gem for those seeking a satisfying meal in a pleasant setting. Whether it's a casual dinner or a special occasion, this bistro consistently impresses with its superb culinary delights and charming atmosphere.
A photo of Farm and Vine restaurant
9. Farm and Vine
4.6
Exceptional(962)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Burlingame
Booked 8 times today
At Farm and Vine in Burlingame, the American dining experience is elevated to an art form. This gem, led by Chef Hakan with over 25 years of culinary expertise, showcases a menu that brilliantly reimagines classic American dishes with a personalized touch. Patrons rave about the "best quality ingredients" used, ensuring each dish, from the savory grilled salmon to the innovative ink squid noodles, bursts with freshness and flavor. The atmosphere is consistently praised as "wonderful and friendly," making it a top choice for both locals and visitors. As one reviewer puts it, Farm and Vine "rules all of Burlingame," with its fine foods prepared with finesse and a staff that turns dining into a delightful experience. Whether you're there for a family dinner or a special occasion, Farm and Vine promises a remarkable culinary journey right in the heart of Burlingame.
A photo of Rise Woodfire - San Mateo restaurant
10. Rise Woodfire - San Mateo
4.5
Awesome(629)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • San Mateo
Booked 9 times today
Rise Woodfire in Downtown San Mateo offers an authentic Pizzeria experience that locals and visitors alike rave about. Nestled inside a charming historical train station, this family-owned gem serves up mouth-watering wood-fired pizzas that are a cut above the rest. Guests frequently praise the unique and flavorful combinations, like the Beef back + arugula and Medjool date + chevre pizzas, describing them as "mouth-watering" and a perfect blend of sweet and savory. The robust, homemade crust and fresh ingredients ensure each pizza is a delightful culinary journey. Along with its vibrant atmosphere and excellent service, Rise Woodfire promises an unforgettable dining experience, making it a must-visit for anyone craving top-notch pizza in San Mateo.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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