We hope you’re hungry because The Peninsula (San Mateo County) restaurants offer some of the best spots for outdoor dining! Our destination is packed to the brim with restaurants specializing in just about every type of cuisine, local and exotic. From craft breweries to eateries, meals always seem better when enjoyed outdoors. Whether you’re exploring Half Moon Bay or Redwood City, here are some top recommendations that offer great outdoor seating!
AMARA
Amara, located in Belmont’s Carlmont Village, is a true hidden gem with beautiful outdoor seating. Ajay Walia and Reena Miglani, Peninsula restauranteurs and owners of Amara (and acclaimed spots Saffron and Rasa) bring a fresh take on Mediterranean cuisine with a standout outdoor garden. With olive trees, soft lighting, and a peaceful setting, it’s one of the most inviting open-air dining spaces on the Peninsula. Whether you’re stopping by for brunch or settling in for dinner, Amara delivers a relaxed, elevated experience that feels miles away from the everyday with a delicious menu to discover.
HURRICA
Situated at 150 Northpoint Court in Redwood City, Hurrica offers a contemporary American dining experience with a live-fire culinary approach. The restaurant's outdoor patio provides guests with a serene view of Westpoint Harbor, creating a tranquil setting for enjoying dishes like the Wagyu steak or the signature Hurrica burger. Whether you're savoring a meal or sipping on a crafted cocktail, the ambiance is both elegant and relaxed, making it a perfect spot for various occasions. For those interested in private events, Hurrica offers versatile spaces, including a private patio and a private dining room, accommodating different group sizes and preference.
7 MILE HOUSE
If you happen to be in Northern San Mateo County, we highly recommend heading to 7 Mile House in Brisbane, CA! Established in 1858, the historic 7 Mile House is a family restaurant serving up a unique mix of homestyle Italian/American/Filipino food. Located in the SF Bay Area for over 160 years, 7 Mile House is the only mile house still standing in its original location! They are open for patio dining, as well as pickup and delivery. Their hours are Wednesday - Monday from 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM.
COCONUT BAY
Meanwhile, in downtown Burlingame, Coconut Bay Restaurant is one of the best Thai food restaurants in San Mateo County. Located on the corner of Howard and Park and only a block away from Burlingame’s shopping district, Coconut Bay now has a beautiful and spacious outdoor patio for dining! Coconut Bay prides itself on serving authentic and delicious Thai cuisine and also offers Happy Hour on weekdays from 5 pm to 7 pm.
TWELVEMONTH
Twelvemonth in Burlingame offers a refreshing plant-based dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and thoughtful sustainability. The standout feature is its inviting outdoor patio, complete with cozy fire pits and lounge seating that create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual meal or evening cocktails, Twelvemonth’s open-air space is the perfect spot to enjoy inventive vegan dishes and unwind under the sky. It’s quickly becoming one of Burlingame’s go-to destinations for stylish and comfortable outdoor dining.
ANGELICA'S
Located in downtown Redwood City, Angelicas is a family-owned restaurant creating vibrant California cuisine dishes with Latin flair, and has been proudly serving the Redwood City area and beyond since 2006. Since then, their mission has been to provide high-quality food for all those that wish to combine fun and enjoyable ambiance with skillful cooking into one magical dining experience. In addition, their beautiful outdoor courtyards are perfect for any special gathering!
SAM'S CHOWDER HOUSE
Also, located in Half Moon Bay, Sam’s Chowder House is a New England–style seafood house with a patio dining area that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. It’s especially well known for its clam chowder and lobster rolls, so don’t leave without ordering one (or both)! Sunset views are pretty spectacular from the patio, so try to plan for a late-afternoon or early-evening meal.
Outdoor Dining at Sam's Chowder House
JETTYWAVE
Just steps from Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay, Jettywave Distillery offers a relaxed coastal retreat with a spacious outdoor patio featuring fire pits and lounge seating. This women-owned, small-batch distillery crafts spirits like their award-winning Coastal Botanical Gin and small-batch bourbon using locally sourced ingredients. The garden lounge is pet-friendly and often hosts live music, making it a perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail in hand. Whether you're enjoying a weekend afternoon or a cozy evening, Jettywave provides a welcoming atmosphere for all.
FLYING FISH & GRILL
The Flying Fish & Grill was established in 1992 in beautiful Half Moon Bay and it has been serving customers for over 25 years! Since the restaurant has been serving the very best-tasting seafood at very reasonable prices. Their pet-friendly patio is also the perfect place to grab something to eat with your BFFs! Flying Fish & Grill offers Happy Hour every Monday-Friday from 2:30-6:00 PM, complete with a special drink and food menu. They also offer a great gluten-free menu with a wide variety of options.
For more restaurant options, check out the restaurant section of our website.
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