Planning a visit to The San Francisco Peninsula? The 2026 Best of San Mateo Area Awards just named the destination's top spots, and a standout group of our partners came out on top. Consider this your shortlist - the places locals already love, now backed by the votes to prove it.
Here's where you should be heading on your next trip:
Art & Culture
Our region's creative spirit shone bright in this category. Art Bias in San Carlos was named Best Art Gallery, offering visitors a vibrant showcase of local and contemporary work. In Foster City, Hillbarn earned the title of Best Live Theatre, continuing its long-standing tradition of bringing compelling performances to Peninsula audiences. And in San Mateo, CuriOdyssey was honored as Best Museum, delighting families and curious minds alike with its hands-on science and wildlife exhibits.
Life & Leisure
When it comes to gathering spaces and hospitality, two partners stood out. Devil's Canyon Brewing in San Carlos took home Best Event Spaces, proving that great beer and great gatherings go hand in hand. Meanwhile, Crowne Plaza, serving the Foster City and San Mateo area, was recognized as Best Hotels & Motels, a well-earned nod to its consistent guest experience.
Food & Drink
The Peninsula's culinary scene swept this category, with our partners claiming an impressive number of wins. In San Mateo, Fogbird took home not one but two titles — Best Bar and Best Cocktails — cementing its reputation as a go-to spot for a night out. Sibby's Cupcakery was named Best Dessert Shops, while Pausa Bar Cookery claimed Best Italian Restaurant, both also based in San Mateo.
Over in Redwood City, MAZRA was honored as Best Mediterranean Restaurant, and San Mateo's Fieldworks Brewing earned Best Outdoor Dining Spot/Drink Beer. In Burlingame, Twelvemonth was recognized as Best Restaurant for Ambiance, while New England Lobster Market claimed Best Seafood.
Rounding out the list, Amici's East Coast Pizzeria in San Mateo was named Best Pizza, and See's Candies in Burlingame took home Best Chocolate Shops — a sweet finish to a stacked category.
Plan Your Visit
Start here, and you'll already be hitting the Peninsula like you've lived here for years. Whether you've got a free afternoon or a full weekend, this list is a head start on a trip that already feels like a local's itinerary.
See the full list of 2026 Best of San Mateo Area Award winners at bestofsanmateo.org.