In the quest for San Mateo’s ultimate burger, debates rage as fiercely as a grill at peak service. Juicy or charred? Classic or gourmet? Topped with avocado or strictly traditional? And the possibilities for creative twists abound: truffle aioli, kimchi slaw, even foie gras. Let’s settle the score with these 12 definitive destinations.
Maverick Jack’s San Mateo
$ | (650) 458-0020 | WEBSITE
When it comes to a classic, solid burger in San Mateo, Maverick Jack’s serves the best we tried. And actually, they do two—the Prime burger and a chicken Caesar that would make a great alternative. Other than the protein difference, both feature fresh, quality ingredients. They’re both satisfyingly big and flavorful throughout, with enough juiciness for a nice, hearty bite. The shoestring fries are crispy and hot, especially with the new beef tallow they’re trialing.
The vanilla and berry berry milkshakes are also rich and tasty. The casual dining setting, while part of the Villa Hotel and somewhat dated, still feels friendly and energetic thanks to the staff. Even with the small parking area, the food and atmosphere make it a recommended stop.
Super Duper Burger
$ | (650) 677-6274 | WEBSITE
The veggie burger from this family-friendly spot in San Mateo is a masterclass in Not Too Bland (they’ve perfected that balance). The patty’s flavorful profile, slightly crispy texture, and quality ingredients are truly special, and it pairs very well with their vanilla soft-serve ice cream. The attentive staff, convenient underground parking, and comfortable outdoor patio make the experience complete.
Roam Artisan Burgers
$ | (650) 931-4668 | WEBSITE
At first glance, this clean, well-maintained space didn’t promise anything extraordinary. But we do love the generous ratio of juicy, flavorful patty to fresh, soft bun. It must be approaching perfection. And we hear the bison burger is just as good.
Roadtrip Bowls Made by Lazy Dog
Roadtrip Bowls Made by Lazy Dog brings to mind a backyard barbecue with friends on a sunny afternoon. That’s probably because this Foster City restaurant uses comfort food classics in their satisfyingly hearty bowls, which have teriyaki noodles peeking through the steam of their generous lunch portions.
The Refuge (San Mateo)
$$ | (650) 458-3044 | WEBSITE
If you crave tender smoked beef, The Refuge might be the spot for you. It’s piled high with flavorful pastrami, sauerkraut or coleslaw, and toasted rye. There are also interesting, unexpectedly bitter notes to their craft beer selection, allowing you to sample before choosing. It’s definitely one of the more satisfying options in town.
Apple Fritter
$ | (650) 525-9125 | WEBSITE
Outside of classic diners, fast-food chains, and trendy brunch spots, Apple Fritter makes the most iconic breakfast burrito in San Mateo. This was one of few we could identify on sight during our visit. Think of this polarizing but fiercely beloved burrito as you would a loaded omelet: a genre all its own. It looks like a hefty wrap, with a golden-brown tortilla and a borderline overstuffed, flavor-packed interior.
For most of us, this style simply isn’t our ideal breakfast, but there’s no denying Apple Fritter’s influence and the many imitators they’ve inspired, including a few on this list. We have to give them their flowers for that. (Flours? Sorry.)
Sal’s Burgers
$ | (650) 437-2140 | WEBSITE
This San Mateo burger joint is primarily a patty paradise, but they also make a great grilled chicken sandwich. It’s one of those juicy versions, with toppings that somehow stay fresh even hours after grilling, and lots of crispy garlic fries on the side.
Aldo’s Pizza
$ | (650) 344-5051 | WEBSITE
With whole wheat and regular flour dough, the pizza at this local pizzeria in San Mateo is both delicious and unique, featuring a fusion of Indian star and pepperoni. It comes with a cold beverage, guaranteed to make you feel relaxed after a long day.
Shake Shack Hillsdale
$ | (650) 398-1756 | WEBSITE
Greasy, saucy, and slick as a fast-food wrapper, the Golden State Double from Shake Shack Hillsdale looks and tastes like it was made by someone who’s never actually seen a burger. It’s a non-traditional, glistening tour de force, with a secret sauce that imparts just a whisper of umami flavor. One is never sufficient. Thankfully, they’re sold with fries.
San Mateo Onigilly
$ | (650) 315-2317 | WEBSITE
This onigiri tastes like fast food. But it sort of makes us want all our future Japanese meals to taste like fast food too. There’s a freshness and convenience to this San Mateo spot that we haven’t found anywhere else. Plus, we don’t know of any other restaurant where you can grab some spicy bacon rice balls along with your udon noodles.
Bizza (San Mateo)
$ | (650) 389-2160 | WEBSITE
This vegan-friendly pizza joint with its 80s theme and the coziness of a neighborhood rec room is a very easy recommendation. We recognize this, but we still feel compelled to point out that Bizza’s Planet Earth pizza is divine. No ordinary kitchen could have crafted this. It’s too fresh and wonderfully flavorful.
Jeffrey’s Hamburgers
$ | (650) 348-8698 | WEBSITE
The undisputed champion of our burger quest sits in San Mateo, where they pile their patties onto perfectly toasted French rolls with an almost magical touch. That freshness, plus the option of fantastic gluten-free buns, elevates the juicy, flavorful meat spectacularly. The only drawback to this burger is that once you’ve had one, you’ll measure every future burger against it.
