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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in San Mateo

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48 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Porterhouse restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1898)
$$$$
• Contemporary American • San Mateo
Booked 22 times today
My 4th visit to Porterhouse and it never disappoints. From the delicious, well-prepared food, to the great and friendly service, to the ambiance...it hits all the marks. What I appreciate from this steakhouse centers on need being "a-la-carted" to death...each steak comes with the right amount of sides. I also like the fact that they aren't heavy handed with the salt...they let the food speak for itself. Small things that matter.
A photo of The Old Post Office restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(77)
$$$$
• Contemporary American • Burlingame
Booked 88 times today
Finally a high end restaurant in our area. Most beautiful restaurant on the peninsula
A photo of The Village Pub restaurant
Icon
4.9
Exceptional(4418)
$$$$
• Contemporary American • Woodside
Booked 43 times today
We celebrated my husband’s 77th birthday at The Village Pub. We’d always heard how outstanding the food is. In essence, it was absolutely perfect, a delightful experience! The cuisine was delicious and gorgeously presented, the wine recommendation was spot on, the service was outstanding, and the ambiance was romantic and beautiful. We can’t wait to return! No wonder The Village Pub has earned a Michelin star! Can’t recommend it highly enough.
A photo of Amara restaurant
4.5
Awesome(148)
$$$$
• Contemporary American • Belmont
Booked 5 times today
Beautiful restaurant that still manages to make the huge space feel very cozy and inviting. Ambiance pairs well with the delicious seasonal food and creative cocktails. Service was exceptional and accommodating throughout the entire dinner. I’d recommend this place to anyone looking for great Mediterranean food or celebrating a birthday.
A photo of Quail & Crane - SFO Hyatt restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(171)
$$$$
• Contemporary American • Millbrae
Booked 20 times today
Outstanding food and service. The seafood fra diavolo pasta was one of the best I've ever had. I often arrange my trips to SFO so I can stay here overnight and enjoy a meal at quail&Crane.
A photo of Flea Street restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2775)
$$$$
• Contemporary American • Menlo Park
Booked 11 times today
A great dining experience. Great food, tastefully served by attentive wait staff.
A photo of Firefly Restaurant restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(3164)
$$$$
• Contemporary American • Noe Valley
Booked 26 times today
Always a fabulous experience at Firefly. Outstanding menu, great service.
A photo of The Village Bakery and Cafe restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2366)
$$$$
• Contemporary American • Woodside
Booked 57 times today
Good food, including yummy gluten free cornbread muffins. Good service. Love the outdoor patio.
A photo of Miller & Lux restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1557)
$$$$
• Contemporary American • Mission Bay / South Beach
Booked 48 times today
Amazing food. Amazing experience. The the staff were very friendly and attentive. Great Service overall.
A photo of Cafe Vivant restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(197)
$$$$
• Contemporary American • Menlo Park
Booked 23 times today
The owners and Chef of Cafe Vivant have truly identified and fulfilled a culinary need in the area with their "Sunday All Day" concept. This style of menu and exceptional service have been a wonderful addition to the community. The offerings are outstanding, particularly the dressed chicories Caesar, horseradish, as well as the chicken sausage, egg, and white cheddar sandwich served on a homemade English muffin with romesco. The duck sausage 'bangers and mash' with quince mustard is another highlight. I highly recommend experiencing the delectable menu and hospitality that Cafe Vivant has to offer.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Peter
    San Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Finally a high end restaurant in our area. Most beautiful restaurant on the peninsula
    More info
    The Old Post Office$$$$• Contemporary American• Burlingame
    •
    4.7
  • James
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Oct 29, 2026
    Beautiful restaurant that still manages to make the huge space feel very cozy and inviting. Ambiance pairs well with the delicious seasonal food and creative cocktails. Service was exceptional and accommodating throughout the entire dinner. I’d recommend this place to anyone looking for great Mediterranean food or celebrating a birthday.
    More info
    Amara$$$$• Californian• Belmont
    •
    4.5
  • HelaineGold
    San Francisco Bay Area •56 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Oct 27, 2026
    We celebrated my husband’s 77th birthday at The Village Pub. We’d always heard how outstanding the food is. In essence, it was absolutely perfect, a delightful experience! The cuisine was delicious and gorgeously presented, the wine recommendation was spot on, the service was outstanding, and the ambiance was romantic and beautiful. We can’t wait to return! No wonder The Village Pub has earned a Michelin star! Can’t recommend it highly enough.
    More info
    The Village Pub$$$$• Contemporary American• Woodside
    •
    4.9
  • JamesGold
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •15 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Oct 21, 2026
    My 4th visit to Porterhouse and it never disappoints. From the delicious, well-prepared food, to the great and friendly service, to the ambiance...it hits all the marks. What I appreciate from this steakhouse centers on need being "a-la-carted" to death...each steak comes with the right amount of sides. I also like the fact that they aren't heavy handed with the salt...they let the food speak for itself. Small things that matter.
    More info
    Porterhouse$$$$• Steakhouse• San Mateo
    •
    4.6
  • Craig
    Wisconsin •25 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Oct 21, 2026
    Outstanding food and service. The seafood fra diavolo pasta was one of the best I've ever had. I often arrange my trips to SFO so I can stay here overnight and enjoy a meal at quail&Crane.
    More info
    Quail & Crane - SFO Hyatt$$$$• Contemporary Asian• Millbrae
    •
    4.7

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in San Mateo

Discover the essence of Contemporary American cuisine in the vibrant San Mateo area of the San Francisco Bay Area, Peninsula. Embrace a diverse range of dining experiences, where each restaurant offers unique interpretations of American classics, infused with local and seasonal ingredients. San Mateo's dining scene is characterized by a blend of historical charm and modern innovation, providing an inviting ambiance for both casual diners and gourmet enthusiasts. Restaurants in this area are celebrated for their commitment to quality, showcasing expertly crafted dishes that highlight the culinary prowess of their chefs. From intimate settings in restored Victorian houses to modern establishments within bustling shopping centers, each venue provides a backdrop that enhances the dining experience. Patrons can expect attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere, making each meal a memorable occasion. Whether you're a local or a visitor, San Mateo's Contemporary American dining options are sure to satisfy your culinary cravings with their delightful flavors and creative presentations.

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