01
Best overall pick
Twelvemonth
Downtown Burlingame • Inventive Plant-Based Restaurant And Bar • Destination For Creative Dining
A stylish plant-based spot where seasonal California produce turns into colorful, surprising plates and cocktails.
Twelvemonth feels more like a buzzy city restaurant than a suburban find, with a long bar, open kitchen, and a menu that changes with the seasons. Dishes are fully plant-based but composed with enough richness and texture that even committed carnivores rarely miss the meat. It’s a smart choice for mixed groups, with everything from shareable small plates to full tasting-style dinners.
02
Best bayfront classic
Kincaid's Fish, Chop & Steakhouse
Burlingame Waterfront • Upscale Steak And Seafood House • Go-To For Special Occasions
A polished dining room perched over the Bay, known for big steaks, seafood platters, and sunset views.
Set right on the water, Kincaid’s is the spot locals book when they want a view to match the occasion. The menu leans into generous cuts of beef, fresh fish, and classic sides, with a long wine list to back it up. It works as well for a lingering celebration dinner as it does for impressing out-of-town guests between airport runs.
03
Top Italian favorite
Stella Burlingame
Downtown Burlingame • Refined Northern Italian Trattoria • Romantic Date-Night Choice
A warmly lit Italian dining room where handmade pastas, slow-cooked sauces, and attentive service set the tone.
Tucked just off the main drag, Stella feels intimate without being fussy, with closely spaced tables and the low hum of conversation. The cooking leans Northern Italian: think silky tagliatelle, braised meats, and thoughtful antipasti. It’s especially strong for dates and small celebrations, when you want something polished but still relaxed.
04
Best for groups
Saltyard
Downtown Burlingame • Lively Mediterranean-Inspired Bistro • Social Spot For Sharing Plates
A bustling bistro built for grazing, with shareable plates, a serious bar program, and plenty of energy.
Saltyard is the kind of place where the table quickly fills with small plates, from charcuterie and dips to grilled skewers and seasonal specials. The room has an easy buzz, helped along by a strong wine list and cocktails that reward a second round. It’s a natural fit for groups, pre-event meetups, or any night when you’d rather share a spread than commit to a single entrée.
05
Flexible everyday pick
Urban Kitchen
Burlingame Avenue • Casual Modern Eatery • Easy Choice For Quick, Satisfying Meals
A relaxed counter-service spot serving hearty bowls, sandwiches, and burgers with a fresh, modern twist.
Urban Kitchen is built for everyday eating, with a menu that runs from grain bowls and salads to comfort-heavy burgers and fried chicken. Portions are generous, the room is bright and unfussy, and it’s easy to pop in whether you’re on a lunch break or grabbing a low-key dinner. It’s especially handy if your group wants something fast but a step up from typical fast food.