Where to Eat Now: SF Peninsula Rising, Pt. 1
Cocktail-centric restaurants and Italian x2… where to eat in San Mateo County now
For 24 years, I’ve been exploring and writing about the Bay Area’s Peninsula — including but not minimized to the moniker Silicon Valley. San Mateo County can suffer from suburban malaise and mediocrity when it comes to restaurant standards, especially compared to the dense, world-class glories of nearby San Francisco.
But this is also one of the most people-diverse regions in the world. Blessedly, the food reflects that with hyper-regional authenticity from across regions of India, Mexico, the Philippines and beyond in this huge county, thanks to dense populations from these countries and beyond.
It takes more digging and research than in SF, but the Peninsula is packed with food gems — and is rising as exciting openings keep rocking the south Bay. Part two here.
Palo Alto Food & Cocktail Gem: Sekoya Lounge and Kitchen, Palo Alto
Restaurateur Steve Ugur (of Pausa Bar & Cookery in San Mateo) opened Sekoya Lounge + Kitchen in August 2023 but it wasn’t until spring 2025 I could finally find time to visit. As with many Peninsula spots, while it may not be destination-worthy for those of us living in the food mecca of SF, it’s a Palo Alto standout and one of the stronger, consistent Peninsula newcomers of recent years, thanks to chef de cuisine Jason Johnson.