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Best Comfort Food Restaurants in San Carlos

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7 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Alhambra Irish House restaurant
1. Alhambra Irish House
4.2
Awesome(547)
Price: Moderate
• Comfort food • Redwood City
Booked 1 time today
At Alhambra Irish House in Redwood City, the fusion of traditional Irish fare with Californian cuisine creates a unique dining experience that is both authentic and innovative. Known for its "outstanding" fish and chips and the "amazingly delicious" shepherd's pie, the restaurant skillfully integrates local flavors, ensuring every dish sings with Californian freshness and creativity. Guests rave about the "crispy, flavorful" fish and chips and how each meal feels like a "taste of home." The warm, inviting atmosphere, combined with the vibrant local scene, makes Alhambra a standout destination for anyone seeking the best of Californian dining in a historic Irish setting.
A photo of St. Michael's Alley restaurant
2. St. Michael's Alley
4.8
Exceptional(789)
Price: Expensive
• Comfort food • Palo Alto
Booked 13 times today
At St. Michael's Alley in Palo Alto, the essence of American cuisine is elevated to an art form. Established in 1959 and reinvented in 2009, this restaurant has been a cornerstone of culinary excellence, blending traditional American flavors with innovative presentations. Diners rave about standout dishes like the mushroom cake and the perfectly cooked Branzino, with one patron noting, "The food, the service, and the atmosphere were all top notch." The restaurant's ability to maintain high standards over the years is evident from the glowing reviews, such as, "Always impeccable. We've been coming here for years...You won't be disappointed." The cozy yet sophisticated ambiance, combined with a menu that captures the diversity and richness of American cuisine, makes St. Michael's Alley a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional dining experience in Palo Alto.
A photo of Central Park Bistro restaurant
3. Central Park Bistro
4.8
Exceptional(1696)
Price: Expensive
• Comfort food • San Mateo
Booked 18 times today
Central Park Bistro in downtown San Mateo offers a truly delightful comfort food experience that keeps guests coming back for more. Chef Ricardo Garcia masterfully prepares American classics with a fresh, seasonal twist, ensuring every dish not only comforts but also excites the palate. Patrons rave about the "perfectly cooked" lamb chops and the "soft and richly sauced" gnocchi, highlighting the quality and heartiness of the meals. The ambiance of the restaurant adds to the dining experience, with cozy private rooms and a vibrant martini bar, enhancing the warmth and welcoming vibe essential to great comfort food. Visitors often mention the "attentive service" and "delicious food," making Central Park Bistro a standout gem for those seeking a satisfying meal in a pleasant setting. Whether it's a casual dinner or a special occasion, this bistro consistently impresses with its superb culinary delights and charming atmosphere.
A photo of 3SIXTY Bar / Bistro / Market restaurant
4. 3SIXTY Bar / Bistro / Market
3.9
Excellent(319)
Price: Expensive
• Comfort food • Burlingame
Join us at 3SIXTY for an all-in-one dining experience! Food Thoughtfully Sourced, Carefully Served is Chef Michael Cantin's philosophy behind our seasonal menu which supports our local purveyors here in Northern California. We are inspired by the culture and diversity the Bay area represents, as well as you, our well-traveled guests. What may be comfort food for some will be new and enticing for others. Sharing this experience with guests from all over the world is our story.We are located on the Atrium level of the Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport - come join us!(Complimentary self parking)
A photo of Swing Shift restaurant
5. Swing Shift
new
3.0
Good(0)
Price: Moderate
• Comfort food • San Mateo
Swing Shift is a vibrant, casual dining restaurant that offers urban comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere. Located in the heart of the community, it serves up the dishes that we crave crossing cultures and cuisines - from burgers to noodles to tacos to rice. The intentionally inclusive menu is over half gluten-free, and with a large selection of vegetarian and completely plant-based items, making this a restaurant that truly has something for everyone. The drinks list offers a variety of craft low-ABV cocktails and mocktails, an all organic, sustainable and/or biodynamic wine list, and a selection of traditional beers and non-alcoholic beers to suit every taste. With its friendly service, upbeat vibe, and creative dishes, Swing Shift is the perfect destination for anyone looking to enjoy a fun dining experience without compromise.
A photo of MacArthur Park - Palo Alto restaurant
6. MacArthur Park - Palo Alto
4.0
Excellent(1658)
Price: Moderate
• Comfort food • Palo Alto
Booked 5 times today
Tucked away in the heart of Palo Alto, MacArthur Park stands as a beacon of superb barbecue, offering a delectable array of dishes that showcase the rich flavors of California BBQ. Celebrated for its "famous bbq ribs" and a variety of smoked meats, this historic eatery, designed by Julia Morgan in 1918, promises an authentic American dining experience. Patrons rave about the generous portions and the high-quality, farm-fresh ingredients, with one noting, "The ribs are great and you can have any combination of sides with them at the same price." Whether it's dining in the elegantly simple interior or enjoying a meal on the garden patio, MacArthur Park delivers not only on taste but also on ambiance and service, making every visit a memorable one. Come for the food, stay for the experience, and relish in what many call a "perfect meal" in a truly unique setting.
A photo of Max's of Burlingame restaurant
7. Max's of Burlingame
4.0
Excellent(754)
Price: Moderate
• Comfort food • Burlingame
Booked 6 times today
Max's of Burlingame is a gem in the Burlingame neighborhood, offering a delightful array of America's favorite comfort foods. Guests rave about the "huge and so good" chicken pot pie and the "sinful" desserts like the chocolate cake, which are just a few highlights of their diverse and mouth-watering menu. One patron exclaimed, "the food is still NYC deli-cious California-style," praising the authentic and satisfying flavors. Whether it's the tender BBQ ribs, the classic Reuben, or the unique portabello mushroom pasta, Max’s ensures every dish is crafted to comfort and satisfy. Their commitment to quality and the cozy, upbeat atmosphere makes Max's of Burlingame a must-visit for anyone craving heartwarming, delicious comfort food.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Keith
    New York City •49 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Never had anything less than a wonderful meal here. Service is always attentive without being intrusive. And the noise level allows for conversation! Portions are good -- we both took some of our entrees home, although we did order apps and extra sides (highly recommend the Brussels sprouts chips).
    More info
    Central Park BistroPrice: Expensive• American• San Mateo
    •
    4.8
  • Joel
    California Central Coast •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Our server, Ella, was fantastic as always. The seasonal menu hit the spot with some new items that were different from when we ate last time. The stick toffee pudding for dessert was delicious. Can’t wait to go back again and try more items on the menu.
    More info
    St. Michael's AlleyPrice: Expensive• American• Palo Alto
    •
    4.8
  • Lindsay
    Palm Springs / Palm Desert Cities •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 20, 2024
    There’s still hope for cozy, warm, restaurants with fabulous food in San Francisco! The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, not in a rush to get you out. The food is mind blowing, with seasonal dishes, but keeping some favorites around for the long haul. The cheesy bread, tostones, radish cakes, and fish are all my favorite. You can’t go wrong with food and drinks here. If you’re looking for a homey place with 5 star food, Firefly is it!
    More info
    Firefly RestaurantPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Noe Valley
    •
    4.9
  • Irene
    Los Angeles •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 15, 2024
    Unique and flavorful dish! I had the king Trumpet mushroom dish.
    More info
    CurioPrice: Moderate• Comfort Food• Mission District
    •
    4.4
  • Craig
    New York City •18 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Nov 13, 2024
    Good selection of beer. Overall good pub food. Nothing crazy. It started to get noisy when some of the local fans came in to watch a game. Good spot. Would return.
    More info
    Alhambra Irish HousePrice: Moderate• Californian• Redwood City
    •
    4.2

Discover best Comfort Food restaurants in San Carlos

Experience the heartwarming allure of comfort food in the scenic San Carlos area of the San Francisco Bay Peninsula. This region is renowned for its diverse dining scene that beautifully melds local charm with culinary innovation, offering an array of restaurants that specialize in comforting, homestyle dishes. Each establishment in this locale prides itself on creating an inviting atmosphere where diners can enjoy both classic and inventive takes on comfort food. These restaurants emphasize high-quality ingredients, often sourced locally, to craft dishes that satisfy the soul and palate alike. Patrons can expect not only delicious food but also exceptional service that makes every meal memorable. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty, traditional meal or a modern twist on old favorites, San Carlos's comfort food spots are sure to delight. This area is a perfect destination for anyone looking to indulge in flavors that feel like home, all set against the backdrop of one of the most dynamic regions in the Bay Area.

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