Tastiest Breakfasts in San Mateo for a Yummy Time

106 S El Camino Real, San Mateo

(650) 685-8210

Fiero Caffe in San Mateo has quickly become one of my favorite spots for breakfast. The omelette I had was one of the best I've ever tasted, and the idea of having pasta for breakfast is a unique and delightful option—something my friend tried this time, but I'd love to explore on my return visit. The coffee is a standout as well. I thoroughly enjoyed my macchiato, while my friend was equally impressed with her latte. We were curious about the coffee beans and, although they weren't available for sale, a staff member kindly took us to the storage room and let us photograph the packaging. Such a thoughtful gesture! We opted to sit outside, enjoying the pleasant atmosphere. Fiero Caffe truly feels like a hidden gem, offering authentic homemade Italian food with great service. The Sicilian omelette and bruschetta come highly recommended, and I was impressed by the perfectly cooked salmon risotto. I've heard their desserts are top-notch, even though they're not on the menu, so I'm eager to try them next time. On a second visit, I tried a croissant, cannoli, and iced latte. The cannoli was excellent, though the croissant was a bit dry and the iced latte was watery. Nonetheless, the variety of food options makes this an ideal spot for brunch or lunch with friends or family. The service is consistently friendly and creates a welcoming, cozy environment. Parking can be tricky since it's on a busy street, so I'd recommend walking if you're nearby or using a parking structure downtown. Fiero Caffe is definitely worth the effort to visit, and I'll be back soon!

32 E 3rd Ave, San Mateo

(650) 200-9493

Backhaus in San Mateo is hands down the best patisserie and bakery in the Bay Area. I've compared it to some of the big names in San Francisco and beyond, and it truly showcases French baking at its finest. Just a heads-up: make sure to get there early because the best items often sell out by 10 AM. The pastries are not just visually stunning but also delicious. The ham and cheese croissant had great texture and flavor, though it would be nice to have the option to warm it up before enjoying it. Another standout was the raspberry pistachio croissant—it reminded me of a luxurious PB&J, and coming from Texas where we have a blackberry version, I can say it was amazing. The pumpkin cake was also a delightful treat that I definitely recommend. The strawberry kouign amann is one of the best pastries I've ever had. It boasts a crispy pastry with a crunchy glaze and a flavorful, creamy filling with strawberry jam. It's perfectly sweetened, achieving an outstanding texture. The apricot and pistachio galettes offer a less sweet, slightly sour option with fantastic crispiness. For those with a sweet tooth, the banana chocolate pastry is wonderfully indulgent. A personal favorite of mine is the blackberry scone, which strikes a perfect balance of flavor, making it impossible not to finish it all. The everything croissant is a fantastic savory choice, filled with cottage cheese and other ingredients, and pairs wonderfully with avocados and prosciutto. Although the coffee could use a lid upgrade to prevent spills, it complements the pastries nicely. While the line can be long in the morning, arriving early is worth it for the incredible pastries and lovely back garden area, which is a perfect spot to relax with a cup of coffee. The pastries and coffee might be a bit pricey, but they're definitely worth a try.

1338 W Hillsdale Blvd, San Mateo

(650) 389-7263

I visited Brothers Cafe for breakfast with friends, and it was a pleasant experience. The staff were very friendly and helpful, which made a great first impression. The menu offered a variety of options, so everyone in our group found something they liked. We enjoyed the country fried steak and the delicious fried plantains, although the eggs could have used a bit more flavor. The atmosphere was calm and relaxing, making it a nice spot for a morning meal. The portions were generous, which somewhat made up for the slightly high prices. The highlight for me was definitely the tasty plantains and the welcoming service. Overall, it was a good visit, and I'd consider returning for the friendly staff and hearty portions. It seems like a great spot for a laid-back breakfast with friends or family. Parking was easy, and they had plenty of seating both inside and outside.

1214 S El Camino Real, San Mateo

(650) 393-4787

I wanted us to try somewhere new for breakfast, so we headed to Johnny’s in San Mateo. The place had a homey vibe, and I was pleasantly surprised to find it had an upstairs area. The gentleman who greeted us was very nice, and it seemed like he was handling most of the service by himself. Despite that, the service was quick and attentive. They offered affordable specials that even included coffee, which was a nice bonus. We ordered a variety of dishes: 1. The Pancake Special was a classic choice but very tasty. 2. Joe's Scramble was a hit with my mom—she enjoyed it so much she devoured it. 3. The Corn Beef Hash didn’t look great but tasted delicious; it might have been even better with a side of rice. 4. My niece had the Breakfast Burger and found it flavorful and satisfying. 5. I ordered the Steak and Eggs cooked medium. It started juicy and flavorful, though it dried out a bit as I ate. The onions and mushrooms were a nice addition. 6. The Cornflakes French Toast looked beautiful but lacked the crunch I was hoping for. Overall, the experience at Johnny’s was quite positive. The portions were generous, and everything seemed to be high quality. The atmosphere was clean and friendly, with a real mom-and-pop feel. The menu was larger than I expected, and everything came out quickly. Despite a few minor hiccups, like flat soda and unseasoned potatoes, it was an excellent breakfast spot. If you enjoy burgers, especially the Johnny’s Burger, you’re in for a treat—the freshness and flavors were on point. Prices were very affordable, and the servers were jovial and efficient. I left happy and satisfied, and I’ll definitely be going back to try more!

224 E 3rd Ave, San Mateo

(650) 344-2339

Visiting 3 Bees Coffee for breakfast in San Mateo was such a delightful experience. The latte prepared by the owner was fantastic, and I truly appreciated the laid-back vibe of the place. It felt like life slowed down when I stepped inside. There was no rush to order, the owner took his time preparing my coffee, and I savored every wonderful sip alongside other relaxed patrons. The location is perfect, right in downtown. Even though I was just visiting, it made me wish I lived in San Mateo so I could visit regularly. If you're in the area, don’t miss out on this gem. Whether you're commuting and have a few minutes to spare or just passing through, it’s definitely worth the stop. It’s such a cute local café! I’ve ordered through DoorDash from them before and I've never been disappointed. Whenever I have time, I love popping in with friends for a coffee chat or grabbing a cup on my way to work. Seriously, skip Starbucks when this place is just a couple streets away. One morning, I treated myself to an iced mocha and enjoyed every sip. The staff was friendly and provided quick service. I loved the al fresco seating, which is enhanced by the recent pedestrian mall activity on B Street. The ambiance is fantastic, both inside and out. There's paid street parking nearby, making it convenient. This cozy mom-and-pop coffee shop not only serves excellent coffee, including a delicious latte and espresso shot I tried, but also offers a variety of breakfast items and treats at reasonable prices with great service. If the weather is nice, their outdoor seating is a wonderful option.

1901 S Norfolk St, San Mateo

(650) 525-9125

Driving by, you'll notice a line stretching from the door to the parking lot, and finding a parking spot can be a challenge – Apple Fritter is just that good. What truly sets this place apart is its extensive drink menu, especially the frozen lemonades, which are incredible. I often find myself craving them mid-week, wishing I lived closer! The breakfast burrito is fantastic, and I like to order mine "bowl style" with the tortilla on the side – they're always happy to accommodate. If you order donuts before closing, they often throw in an extra one for free. This spot is amazing and always worth the wait. It's become our favorite breakfast and brunch spot in town. There's always a line, but it moves fast. They have two seating areas, both indoor and outdoor, and both are nice. The service is quick, with food and drinks arriving in about 10 minutes. We usually visit by noon on weekends, so there are always vacant tables. We tried a few items from their extensive menu, and everything was delicious. We had the Lulu scramble, a classic breakfast plate, churros & cream French toast, and a side of sweet potato fries. For drinks, we had a strawberry milkshake, an iced latte, an iced lavender vanilla latte, and iced chocolate milk. Honestly, both lattes tasted similar, but the other drinks were great. Donuts, breakfast plates, and drinks were all fantastic. This place is a home run. The food was flavorful, and the hash browns were crunchy, which I loved. Most breakfast places feel the same, but this place has its own unique charm and really stands out. We were visiting the area for a couple of days and needed a spot to meet friends in Redwood City. After searching online and seeing so many positive reviews, we decided on this place, and I'm glad we did. The cafe has a cute and creatively designed interior. We ordered the Lulu Scramble and Nutella Banana Pancakes. The scramble, served with sour cream and hash browns, was one of the best I've ever had. The pancakes were soft, warm, and fluffy. I also had a salted caramel latte, which was great. I highly recommend visiting this cafe if you're near Foster City or Redwood City.

1208 S El Camino Real, San Mateo

(650) 393-4951

Taste and Glory is a delightful spot for breakfast in San Mateo. I arrived at 8:20 am on a Sunday, and there were only three people in line ahead of me. We were seated promptly when they opened at 8:30, and the service was quick and efficient. The food was not only prepared promptly but also looked fantastic. The staff were attentive and friendly, adding to the overall positive experience. I particularly enjoyed the vegan scramble, which was one of the best I've had. The atmosphere is charming, making it a great place for brunch. While the tables are a bit close to each other, the vibrant vibe more than makes up for it. I'll definitely be returning to this spot—it’s a gem for anyone searching for a tasty and pleasant breakfast outing.

66 31st Ave, San Mateo

(650) 458-3044

During my visit to The Refuge in San Mateo for breakfast, I was thoroughly impressed by the comfort food with a gourmet twist. The atmosphere is casual, making it an ideal spot for relaxed gatherings with family and friends. The pastrami here is incredibly tender and flavorful, with a perfect balance of spices and herbs. The sandwich is generously meaty and comes with a side of pickled onions, which adds a nice tangy contrast. We also tried the mac and cheese; while it was a bit watery, it was still enjoyable. The fries accompanied by cubed pastrami were delicious, albeit in a smaller portion than expected. In contrast, the ribeye nachos were a generous and tasty portion, providing a satisfying crunch to complement the other dishes. The beer menu is impressive, and my family's consensus was that the food was fantastic. The service was adequate, and the outdoor seating was pleasant and spacious. I also appreciated the quick, friendly service we received. Overall, The Refuge is a highly recommended spot for hearty, flavorful meals in a laid-back setting.

60 E 3rd Ave Ste 108, San Mateo

(650) 620-1888

Foreigner Cafe in San Mateo is a gem for breakfast. The vibe is cool with options for both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a great spot to unwind with a meal. I went for takeout, and although there was a bit of a wait to order at the counter, the life-sized fake food displays offered a fun distraction and helped with deciding what to order. Once I placed my order, the food was ready in about 10 minutes, which was a nice surprise. I had the salmon eggs Benedict, complete with a side salad and home fries. The portion was generous, with perfectly cooked chunky potatoes that could have used a touch more seasoning. The smoked salmon stood out as fresh and delicious, complemented by a rich hollandaise sauce. The bread was slightly tough but did its job of holding everything together. Overall, Foreigner Cafe gets a solid 4 stars from me. The food was tasty, and the atmosphere seemed inviting. The unique food displays added a creative twist to the experience. While the takeout wait time and home fries' seasoning could improve, these were minor issues in an otherwise delightful visit. It's a fantastic spot if you're into working in cafes, with plenty of seating options, from indoor tables to outdoor spots. The quiche was fluffy and balanced, leaving me wanting more. The croffle was a delightful surprise, especially for someone with a sweet tooth. Although it can be a bit pricey, typical of the Bay Area, the experience is worth it. The house coffee was good, and the sexy French toast was delicious. I also enjoyed the banana nutella croffle. The place was bustling on a Saturday morning. We paid for parking, and after ordering a Denver Omelet and Mushroom Toast with cappuccinos and lattes, we spent around $50. Easy to find a table, the food looked appealing with nice presentations. Service was quick, and I appreciated the refreshing lemon and mint water available. Despite a slight delay in getting our dishes at the same time, the cleanliness of the space was commendable. The wooden tables and seating added a warm touch. I highly recommend Foreigner Cafe and look forward to returning.

1750 S El Camino Real, San Mateo

(650) 350-1077

Great experience! It was my first time at Jack's in San Mateo and everything from the food to the service and ambience was spot on. We were celebrating my mother-in-law's birthday, and the staff couldn't have been more accommodating. They even let us bring our own dessert and surprised us with a happy birthday song! I went for the Double Chicken breast entree, which came with vegetables and a choice of either mashed potatoes or rice pilaf. I opted for the mashed potatoes, and the chicken was cooked perfectly—tasty and moist. My wife ordered the Gyro with garlic fries, and it was excellent! The fresh garlic was strong, and the fries were hot and crispy. The prices are very reasonable for a casual dining spot. The atmosphere is lively yet laid-back, and the music and TVs aren't overwhelming. The servers were fantastic, especially Riccardo, who was fast and attentive. We will definitely return for future celebrations. The vibe is very relaxed without being too loud, and the waitstaff gave us great recommendations. The bathroom is small but clean, fitting only two people at a time. The restaurant itself is nice, with a calm atmosphere, and all the food we tried was delicious. We arrived at 7 pm on a Sunday evening, and it wasn't too crowded. Parking was easy to find and free, thanks to the big commercial area. Overall, I would definitely go back, despite one small complaint: $8.50 for a biscuit and gravy seemed a bit much, but the service more than made up for it. Great atmosphere and decent food—Jack's is a win for me!

181 E 4th Ave, San Mateo

(650) 558-8401

Central Park Bistro in San Mateo is a delightful spot for breakfast. From the moment I walked in, the ambiance was inviting, and the service was top-notch. The staff was friendly and attentive, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. The food was fresh and artfully presented, showcasing the skill of the chefs. The menu offered a variety of flavorful options, and the portions were just right, leaving room to indulge in a starter or a sweet treat afterwards. The wait time between courses was perfect for a relaxed meal, allowing me to enjoy the morning and a good conversation without feeling rushed. While I've had a couple of minor disappointments with the dinner menu in the past, breakfast was a completely satisfying experience. The restaurant's charm and commitment to quality ingredients make it a place I’m eager to visit again. Whether you're looking to start your day with a solo treat or a leisurely morning with friends, Central Park Bistro is a great choice.

201 2nd Ave, San Mateo

(650) 342-2356

My first visit to Bay Watch San Mateo for breakfast was a pleasant surprise. Upon entering, the hostess greeted me promptly and was very polite and helpful with my order. The place feels modern and newly renovated, and it was pretty busy during my visit. For my takeout, I got the NY Steak and eggs, which, although well done instead of medium, was still tasty with the grilled onions and mushrooms. The bay potatoes, unfortunately, didn't impress me—they tasted like reheated leftovers. The Basic Omelette with bacon, sausage, and cheese was enormous and cheesy, filled with bits of bacon and sausage. The French Toast was delicious, even without syrup, and the orange juice seemed freshly squeezed, cold, and refreshing. The food and prices were reasonable, and the menu offers a wide variety of options. I appreciate the pitcher for coffee refills, and the Spanish omelette and blueberry pancake were nice low-calorie options. The atmosphere gave off American diner vibes, making it a quiet place to stop by in the morning. Despite a few downsides, like the country potatoes, Bay Watch San Mateo is a solid traditional breakfast spot, with great portion sizes and quick service. The staff is kind, and the service is efficient. It's definitely the best breakfast spot I've tried in San Mateo, and I look forward to returning for more.

226 E 3rd Ave, San Mateo

(650) 343-3844

I had the chance to try out Avocado Toast in San Mateo for breakfast, and overall, it was a pleasant experience. We were on the hunt for an early breakfast and came across this spot on Yelp. The ordering process was straightforward, using their large iPad system in front of the counter, and the service was friendly, which added to a positive start to the morning. The food came out fairly quickly since there weren’t many people ahead of us. We tried the avocado toast with smoked salmon and a breakfast sandwich with sausage. Although it was a bit on the pricey side (over $26 for the two items), the taste was satisfying. The ingredients were all there, and while nothing stand-out in terms of quality, it made for a decent breakfast. The place has a cute vibe, which made our visits enjoyable each morning during our stay nearby. It left such a good impression that I wish they’d open a location in Toronto so I can enjoy it more often. Overall, Avocado Toast is a nice spot for a quick and tasty breakfast with friendly service.

114 De Anza Blvd, San Mateo

(650) 581-1754

Neal's Coffee Shop offers a traditional, classic diner experience that feels like a step back in time. It's the kind of place where you can enjoy a hearty breakfast or lunch without any frills. They stick to the basics when it comes to coffee, offering regular brews with a hint of vanilla if you're not into black coffee. During my visit, I had the Berry Waffle, Neal’s Cheese Burger, and an iced vanilla coffee. The waffle had a delightful aroma, although the berries weren't the freshest. The cheese burger was decent, and my turkey melt sandwich hit the spot with its buttery, grilled bread. The fries reminded me of McDonald's—thin and crispy. The dining area is open and spacious, perfect for soaking in the community vibe, though sometimes you catch conversations from nearby tables. The service was friendly, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. While the prices were slightly higher than expected, the overall experience was pleasant. It's a solid stop for a basic breakfast on a drive down 280, especially if you appreciate a nostalgic diner ambiance. Despite some minor hiccups with certain menu items and coffee, Neal's has a charm that caters well to those who enjoy a traditional setting.

150 E 4th Ave, San Mateo

(650) 401-6903

Hummus Mediterranean Kitchen in San Mateo is a fantastic spot for breakfast. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a perfect place to start the day with family or friends. The food, highlighted by authentic Turkish halal dishes, is delicious and well-prepared. I enjoyed the beef wrap, although it was on the smaller side. The falafel was different from what I'm used to, but the flavors were unique and satisfying. The waitress noticed that my daughter and I weren't eating much and kindly offered us an extra wrap, which was a thoughtful gesture. Additionally, the sangria, wine, cheese, and mushrooms pide, along with the appetizer sampler platter, were delightful. It's a great idea to pair the appetizers with something to dip into for added enjoyment. The portions are generous, and I left with a box of leftovers. The staff was friendly and attentive, adding to the positive dining experience. If you're nearby and craving Mediterranean cuisine, I highly recommend visiting Hummus Mediterranean Kitchen. It's a great place with good food and excellent service.

1941 S El Camino Real, San Mateo

(650) 574-0505

When I decided to give Heidi's Pies Restaurant a try for breakfast in San Mateo, I wasn't disappointed. The food was decent, though the potato pancakes with my Western scramble plate didn't have much flavor and left me a bit confused with their texture. However, sampling my friend's sunrise melt was a pleasant experience. The service was top-notch and attentive, adding to the overall welcoming atmosphere. It felt like a charming small-town diner, and the presence of regulars was evident. I loved the fluffy butter and English muffins, which were my favorites, and appreciated that all the condiments, like jam, were accessible right at the table. It made the experience more relaxed, as you seat yourself, and the staff is always friendly. Portion sizes were generous, and the hashbrowns were delicious, seasoned just right without needing extra salt. Eggs were cooked to perfection, and the Southern comfort style of the restaurant added to the cozy vibe. Sitting at the bar-style table, watching the cooks in action, enriched the dining experience. The place isn't pristine, but that only adds to its homey diner feel. Despite being busy at lunchtime, the small staff kept everything running smoothly without making it feel rushed. The décor is a bit old-school, but it fits the cozy setting just right. And the pie? Simply delicious – flaky, juicy, and reminiscent of homemade goodness. I can’t wait to return for more. The restaurant gives off a small-town café diner vibe. We tried the shrimp louie and fish and chips, and they were on point. The fish and chips reminded me of something you’d find at Gordon Ramsay's in Las Vegas, with just the right batter thickness and plenty of tartar sauce and malt vinegar. The shrimp louie was fresh, as was the salad beneath it. The waitresses were genuinely friendly, but in a straightforward way, which I appreciated. We sat near the entrance, which gets a lot of foot traffic from people picking up pies. If you’d prefer a quieter spot, it’s best to sit deeper inside. We’ve returned multiple times for the pies. They stand out, tasting different from what you’d find at Nation's. For instance, their pumpkin pie leans more towards a sweeter brown sugar flavor, while Nation's has a more pronounced pumpkin taste. My top pick is the banana pie – fresh and not overly sweet. If I ever see Heidi's booth at a farmers market, I'd definitely buy a whole pie. The service is commendable, with tip options starting at 15%. Unfortunately, I can't give a perfect score because the soup that came with the fish and chips caused my wife to get food poisoning; we both shared all the dishes, but I skipped the soup. So, overall, Heidi’s Pies is a great little spot known best for their incredible pies.

50 E 4th Ave, San Mateo

(650) 347-2364

I stopped by Noah's NY Bagels in San Mateo for a quick breakfast and, as always, the experience was great. I've been coming here for years and it's a solid spot in my neighborhood that somehow I had forgotten to review. I ordered the Farmhouse bagel sandwich. While the bacon wasn't as thick as I expected, the bagels themselves were delicious, which made up for it. The service was speedy, which is always a plus during the morning rush. Although I didn't interact much with the staff this time, they're usually friendly. My usual go-to is the toasted Jalapeño Cheese bagel with Hazelnut coffee, which never disappoints. However, this time around, the bagel was a bit chewy instead of perfectly toasted. It seemed like it might have been warmed up from the previous day, which was a letdown. I also tried the Avocado Toast Bagel, but unfortunately, the avocado wasn't ripe, making it hard to enjoy. Despite these hiccups, Noah's usually delivers great bagels and coffee, and I will definitely be back for my regular favorites.

2920 S Norfolk St, San Mateo

(866) 985-3704

I visited the Denny's in San Mateo for breakfast and was really pleased with the experience. Initially, I was a bit skeptical since it's a big chain, but the food was surprisingly good. We ordered the Berry Stuffed French Toast Slam and Country-fried Steak & Eggs. While the steak was a bit of a letdown, the French toast combo was absolutely delicious. I also tried their Sweet Cream Cold Brew, which was quite good. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, thanks to the friendly host. We arrived a little after 12:30 pm, and with plenty of vacant tables, the service was quick. Years ago, I had a bad experience at this location with raw bacon and undercooked pancakes, so I was hesitant to return. But I'm glad I gave it another shot. The waitress was friendly, and while I did have a tiny hiccup with a smaller-than-usual apple crisp dessert, it didn’t overshadow the overall positive experience. Denny's is a great option for a late-night meal, especially when you're hungry at odd hours. They serve delicious multi-grained pancakes and a flavorful T-Bone steak & eggs, along with freshly brewed coffee and excellent service. It’s not Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, but for what it is, it's pretty close in terms of satisfaction. I even ended up choosing Denny's over a promised steak dinner elsewhere, and I didn't mind at all. The chicken dinner was amazing, and I left thoroughly satisfied. Five stars from me!