Things To Do
in San Mateo

Local restaurants and markets serve bay and Pacific-caught fish and shellfish—look for clam chowder, grilled fish plates, and seasonal specials at waterfront spots.

Must-Try!

San Mateo has many sushi bars and Japanese-style pubs offering nigiri, sashimi and shareable hot plates—perfect for tasting a variety of flavors.

Expect avocado toast, farm-egg dishes, grain bowls and inventive vegetable-forward plates at neighborhood cafés.

Authentic tacos, burritos and tortas from taquerias and food trucks are plentiful and affordable.

A seasonal market (check local schedule) offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, baked goods and prepared items—great for picnic supplies and local specialties.

Look for occasional food truck events or lunch-time vendors around business districts offering tacos, sandwiches, and fusion street eats.

People are generally informal and polite—smiles and small talk are common, especially in cafés and shops.

Queueing and respecting personal space is expected in public transit and shops.

Bring reusable bags and cups when possible; recycling and composting are widely practiced and encouraged.

Being on time for business meetings or tours is important; social gatherings are more relaxed about start times.

Standard tipping in restaurants is 15–20% of the pre-tax bill for good service; tip bartenders $1–2 per drink or 15–20% on the tab. Tip taxi/rideshare drivers around 10–15% and hotel staff a few dollars for bellhop or housekeeping services.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Carry some cash for small vendors, farmers’ markets or tips, but many establishments prefer card or mobile payment.

Mild temperatures and blossoming parks make spring great for hiking and outdoor dining; occasional rain persists early in the season but days are often sunny and pleasant.

Warm inland but often cooler along the bay with frequent morning and evening fog (June Gloom). Daytime highs are comfortable; bring layers for cool evenings and foggy mornings.

Often the sunniest, driest and warmest period on the Peninsula with clear skies—excellent for outdoor activities and scenic drives.

Cooler and wetter with periodic storms; snow is extremely rare locally but the hills can be muddy—good time for lower tourist crowds and deals.

San Mateo has a significant Asian population (Chinese, Filipino, Indian and others), reflected in local businesses, restaurants and cultural events.

Long-term Bay Area residents and professionals living in suburban neighborhoods contribute to a mix of ages and backgrounds.

Hispanic and Latino residents add to the city’s cultural diversity, visible in food, shops and neighborhood life.

Because of proximity to Silicon Valley and easy transit, many professionals and families live here and commute to tech jobs or nearby cities.

The San Francisco Giants are the region’s Major League Baseball team and a popular draw; local youth and adult baseball leagues are common.

The San Francisco 49ers (NFL) are widely followed by residents, and high school football is popular locally.

Soccer is popular at youth and amateur levels, along with community leagues for many sports (softball, ultimate frisbee).

Along the nearby coast (Half Moon Bay), surfing and other beach sports draw enthusiasts—conditions vary seasonally.

Vegetarian and plant-forward options are widely available across cafés and restaurants; many menus clearly mark vegetarian dishes or offer customizable bowls and salads.

Vegan choices are common in the Bay Area—look for dedicated vegan bakeries, dairy-free milk alternatives and plant-based entrées at casual and midrange restaurants.

Most restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests, but communicate allergies clearly. Some bakeries and cafés offer gluten-free pastries.

There are limited dedicated halal or kosher restaurants in the immediate city; larger nearby cities and shopping areas have more options—plan ahead if strict observance is required.