Foodie Finds: Great Places to Eat in Belmont

Farm House

Key Highlights: Easily recognized by its ivy-laden exterior, Farm House offers a New American dining experience with a menu that changes seasonally to highlight fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Exposed brick walls and tasteful artwork, creating a warm and homey feel inside, while a dog-friendly patio equipped with a heated and covered pergola and twinkling string lights overhead.

A Taste of the Menu: The Elk Burger features Durham Ranch ground elk with roasted poblano and charred green onion aioli, while the slow-braised Venison Osso Buco is served with red potato mash and a blackberry cabernet reduction. Popular brunch items include the Crab Cake Eggs Benedict, and the French Toast, made with Firebrand Croissant Loaf and spiced apple compote. Seafood lovers can try the Seared Ahi Tuna Salad. Drinks include French Press Coffee from Verve, Steven Smith Teamaker teas, and refreshing cocktails like the yuzu-ginger Farm House Adult Beverage.

Shalizaar

Restaurant Website / 300 El Camino Real

Key Highlights: Established in 1996 by co-founders Narges and Saeed Ayagh and located in Belmont since 2007, Shalizaar has been serving up incredible cuisine for over 25 years and is also the only Bay Area Persian restaurant recommended by the Michelin Guide. Other accolates includin winning the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for five consecutive years.

A Taste of the Menu: Some of the standout favorites include their tender kebabs, marinated in saffron and citrus for a bold, flavorful kick. If you're into hearty, slow-cooked comfort food, Ghormeh Sabzi is a must-try—a fragrant stew made with a mix of herbs, kidney beans, and tender beef. And of course, Persian cuisine wouldn’t be complete without its signature rice dishes, like Baghali Polo, a fragrant mix of dill and fava beans that pairs perfectly with just about anything on the menu.

Vivace Ristorante

Restaurant Website / 1910 Ralston Ave

Key Highlights: A cornerstone of the local dining scene for over 25 years, this spot is celebrated for its authentic Northern Italian cuisine, with a particular emphasis on dishes from the Piemonte and Toscana regions. The name "Vivace," translating to "lively" in Italian, reflects the vibrant ambiance that patrons have come to cherish. Over the years, Vivace has garnered numerous accolades, including the Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence for its carefully curated wine list.

One of the standout favorites is the Osso Buco, a slow-braised veal shank served with saffron risotto. Seafood lovers rave about the Squid Ink Pasta, which features house-made pasta tossed with fresh shrimp, scallops, and calamari in a light tomato and white wine sauce. Another must-try is the Lobster Ravioli. For those craving a comforting classic, the Pappardelle al Cinghiale—wide ribbons of pasta with a hearty wild boar ragu—is packed with savory notes. And no meal at Vivaceis complete without their signature Chocolate Lava Cake.

Hobee's (Redwood Shores)

Restaurant Website / 1101 Shoreway Rd

Key Highlights: This beloved Bay Area restaurant chain known for its cozy atmosphere, hearty breakfasts, and famous blueberry coffee cake. Founded in 1974 in Mountain View, it quickly became a staple for locals seeking homestyle meals with a California twist. Over the decades, Hobee’s expanded across the region, earning a loyal following. One of the remaining outposts, the Belmont location ontinues the tradition with its welcoming vibe and classic menu.

A Taste of the Menu: Known for its hearty, California-style breakfast and brunch, Hobee's signature item is the famous blueberry coffee cake. Breakfast favorites include scrambles, omelets, and huevos rancheros, while health-conscious options like tofu scrambles and veggie-packed dishes cater to a variety of diets. Lunch offerings feature burgers, sandwiches, and fresh salads, often with a California twist, such as avocado-topped entrees and house-made dressings.

Iberia

Restaurant Website / 955 Ralston Av

Key Highlights: Established in 1984, Iberia has been a cornerstone of Spanish cuisine on the San Francisco Peninsula for over three decades. Originally located in Portola Valley, it relocated to Menlo Park in 2000 before settling into its current Belmont location. It's owned and operated by Chef José Luis Relinque, a native of Seville.

A Taste of the Menu: The menu showcases the rich flavors of Spanish and Portuguese cuisine, with a strong emphasis on traditional tapas, raciones, and paellas. Signature dishes include classic patatas bravas, gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), and jamón ibérico, alongside heartier entrees like braised oxtail and grilled lamb chops. Their paellas are a highlight, featuring authentic saffron-infused rice prepared with seafood, chicken, or a mix of meats. They also offer Spanish cheeses, cured meats, and house-made desserts like flan and tarta de Santiago.

Sushi Monster

Restaurant Website / 955 Ralson Avenue

Key Highlights: Sushi Monster has been a local favorite in Belmont since 2003, serving up fresh sushi and classic Japanese dishes in a laid-back, no-frills setting.

A Taste of the Menu: A mix of classic Japanese staples and creative sushi rolls. They serve fresh nigiri and sashimi, along with a variety of specialty rolls that range from simple and traditional to over-the-top and packed with flavor. Beyond sushi, they offer bento boxes, teriyaki plates, udon noodles, and tempura, giving non-sushi eaters plenty of options.

Blue Sky Cafe

Restaurant Website / 1625 El Camino Real

Key Highlights: This bustling and homey restaurant been a popular spot for fresh and authentic, Hong Kong style and Cantonese dishes cuisine for over a decade.

A Taste of the Menu: The clay pot rice is a standout, with options like chicken and shiitake mushrooms, Chinese sausage, and salted fish, all served with a crispy, flavorful rice crust. They also offer a variety of stir-fried noodles, wok-fried vegetables, and seafood dishes, along with hearty soups and congee for a more traditional touch. Also offers dim sum-style appetizers like turnip cake and steamed pork ribs.

Thai Tamarind

Restaurant Website / 1316 El Camino Real

Key Highlights: Originally known as Chez Saigon, the restaurant rebranded to Thai Tamarind, reflecting its dedication to traditional Thai flavors. Owned and operated by Chala and Kenneth, the restaurant has been serving the Belmont community for over 17 years.

A Taste of the Menu: Staples like Pad Thai, Drunken Noodles, and Green Curry are customer favorites, while dishes like crispy snapper with tamarind sauce and spicy basil chicken add a unique touch. Their Tom Yum soup and Papaya Salad bring fresh, zesty flavors, while comforting options like Massaman Curry and Pineapple Fried Rice round out the selection.

Sumac Mediterranean Grill

Restaurant Website / 1397 El Camino Real

Key Highlights: Eablished in 2015 by two brothers as a family-run business., the restaurant is named after the sumac spice, native to the Middle East, known for its tangy, lemony flavor.

A Taste of the Menu: Offerings include gyro wraps, shawarma plates, and grilled kebabs, all served with fluffy rice, fresh pita, and house-made sauces like tzatziki and garlic toum. Vegetarian options like falafel wraps, hummus plates, and stuffed grape leaves. Mezze platters, featuring spreads like baba ganoush, labneh, and Muhammara, provide great options for sharing

Dog Haus Biergarten

Restaurant Website / 1000 El Camino Real

Key Highlights: Opened in 2017, the Dog Haus Biergarden is a popular gathering spot with handcrafted hot dogs, burgers, and a welcoming, 100-seat dog-friendly patio. With 24 rotating beers on tap, patrons can enjoy a diverse selection of craft brews while watching big games on the venue's TVs.

A Taste of the Menu: Enjoy creative, gourmet takes on hot dogs, sausages, burgers, and chicken sandwiches, all served on King’s Hawaiian rolls. Fan-favorite items include the Holy Aioli Burger and the Bacon Wrapped Dog. The Das Brat features bratwurst with sauerkraut and spicy brown mustard, while the Chili Idol comes loaded with Haus chili and cheddar cheese sauce. For sides, check out the Love Boat—tater tots or fries covered in Haus chili, slaw, and cheese sauce.

The Iron Gate

Restaurant Website / 1360 El Camino Real

Key Highlights: Originally established as Bondy's, this legendary fine dining venue was known for its distinctive redwood and flagstone interior, complete with raised hearth fireplaces. In the 1960s, it operated as Ed's Chuck Wagon before transitioning into The Iron Gate, one of the Peninsula's oldest fine dining establishments. For over 30 years, the restaurant has been under the ownership of Dimitrios and Kaveh, who have elevated its reputation by offering exceptional French Continental cuisine and old-world elegance. It's renowned in particular for its tableside and flambé service, a rarity in the Bay Area.

A Taste of the Menu: One of the standout experiences here is the tableside service, where dishes like Steak Diane and Châteaubriand are expertly prepared right in front of diners. Seafood lovers can indulge in the decadent Lobster Thermidor, with tender lobster meat baked in a creamy brandy-infused sauce. The French Onion Soup, topped with perfectly melted Gruyère, is a also comforting must-try. For dessert, the Grand Marnier Soufflé is a house favorite, offering a light, airy texture with a citrusy, boozy kick.

Godfather's Burger Lounge

Restaurant Website / 100 El Camino Real

Key Highlights: Established in December 2009 by owners Mike and Aleks Tosun, this popular spot blends perfectly crafted gourmet burgers with décor that pays homage to classic cinema and iconic movie figures. Accolates include everything from appearances on "Best of the Bay" TV show to the "Best American Restaurant in Northern California" viewers' choice award.

A Taste of the Menu: Their half-pound, fire-grilled burgers are served on "Le Boulanger" sesame seed, whole wheat, or gluten-free buns, with options to substitute turkey patties, organic vegetarian patties, or free-range chicken breast. Each burger comes with French fries or a house salad, with upgrades like beer-battered onion rings, sweet potato fries, or garlicky truffle fries available. Notable burgers include the Soprano's Ultimate Burger and the Untouchables' Burger. The Crispy BLT Wedge Salad is also a favorite.

St. James Gate

Restaurant Website / 1410 Old County Rd

Key Highlights: This lively Irish-American bar is known for its lively atmosphere, extensive drink selection, and engaging entertainment offerings. Patrons can enjoy a variety of beverages, including over 400 bourbons, 40 beers, and a range of handcrafted cocktails. The venue also hosts live entertainment, featuring open mic nights, live bands, pub quizzes, and more.

A Taste of the Menu: The lunch and dinner menu includes everything from starters like Angus Slider and Bacon Wrapped Tots, to main courses like the Cowboy Burger (a ⅓ lb certified Angus beef patty topped with bacon, cheddar cheese, onion rings, and BBQ sauce) or some classic Fish & Chips. Their brunch menu, available exclusively on Sundays, has everything from steak and eggs to vegetarian omelettes and bottomless mimosas. Beer aficionados can choose from a variety of draft options, from local brews like Devils Canyon Deadicated Amber Ale to classics like Guinness Stout. The bar also offers a huge array of bottled beers, wines, and handcrafted cocktails.

Victoria's Kitchen

Restaurant Website / 390 El Camino Real

Key Highlights: Recently opened in 2024 and located in Belmont Plaza, Victoria's Kitchen is a cozy, charming spot with a diverse menu of New American and global favorites that includes everything from breakfast and brunch favorites to delicious dinner entrees, including its popular Mexican sushi. Seating includes an outdoor patio area with umbrellas.

A Taste of the Menu:
The restaurant is known for its unique Mexican sushi, a fusion of Japanese sushi techniques with bold Mexican flavors, featuring rolls filled with fresh seafood, spicy sauces, and vibrant toppings. Their seafood dishes are another highlight, with options like ceviche made from fresh fish, shrimp, and citrus flavors. For those craving heartier options, the menu also includes hearty steaks, creative pastas, salads, classic breakfast and brunch dishes, and more.

Category:

Belmont, CA