As a San Mateo local, I’ve spent years exploring the city’s vibrant dining scene. One thing that never fails to excite me is the prospect of a great happy hour. There’s something special about unwinding after a long day with discounted drinks and appetizers in a lively atmosphere.
San Mateo boasts a diverse array of restaurants offering enticing happy hour specials. From trendy gastropubs to upscale eateries, there’s no shortage of options for those looking to socialize and save a few bucks. Whether you’re craving craft cocktails, local brews, or delectable small plates, you’ll find plenty to satisfy your palate without breaking the bank.
Key Takeaways
- San Mateo offers diverse happy hour options, from trendy gastropubs to upscale eateries
- Popular spots like Paul Martin’s American Grill, Kingfish Restaurant, and Mortar & Pestle offer great deals
- Happy hour typically runs between 3 PM and 7 PM, with some restaurants offering extended hours
- Discounts include $4 draft beers, cocktails starting at $8, and half-price appetizers
- Planning ahead, arriving early, and trying new places can enhance your happy hour experience
- Standout dishes include smoked paprika bacon, grilled sustainable steelhead salmon, and Korean BBQ wings
What Is Happy Hour?
Happy hour is a magical time when restaurants and bars offer special deals on food and drinks. It’s like a mini-celebration that happens almost every day! As a San Mateo local, I’ve discovered some fantastic happy hour spots that’ll make your wallet and taste buds equally happy.
Ever wondered why it’s called “happy hour” when it usually lasts longer than 60 minutes? I once jokingly asked a bartender if they had a special clock that slowed down time during these deals. He laughed and said, “If we did, we’d all be a lot happier!”
Typically, happy hour falls between 3 PM and 7 PM, but timing can vary. For instance, Paul Martin’s American Grill runs their happy hour from 3 PM to 6 PM Sunday through Thursday, and 2 PM to 5 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. Kingfish Restaurant keeps it simple with a 4 PM to 6 PM window, while BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse extends the fun from 3 PM to 7 PM.
During these golden hours, you’ll find tempting offers on both food and drinks. Fancy a cold beer? Kingfish Restaurant serves up draft beers for just $4. Craving a fancy cocktail? They’ve got specialty drinks ranging from $8 to $10. And let’s not forget about the food! Many places offer half-price appetizers or discounted small plates.
Have you ever tried to plan a night out with friends where everyone agrees on where to go? It’s like herding cats, right? Well, happy hour in San Mateo solves that problem. With so many options and great deals, there’s something for everyone.
Best Happy Hour Restaurants in San Mateo
San Mateo boasts several excellent happy hour spots, each offering unique specials and atmospheres. I’ve explored the city’s top happy hour destinations, and here are my top picks:
Mortar & Pestle
Mortar & Pestle serves up creative cocktails and delicious bites during their happy hour. Their bartenders mix up innovative drinks using fresh, local ingredients. Happy hour specials include $2 off signature cocktails and half-price appetizers. Don’t miss their truffle fries – they’re addictive!
Paul Martin’s American Grill
Paul Martin’s American Grill is a local favorite for happy hour. Their specials run Sunday to Thursday from 3-6 PM and Friday to Saturday from 2-5 PM. During these times, you can snag a tasty burger and drink combo for just $18. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere makes it perfect for unwinding after work or catching up with friends.
Top Happy Hour Deals in San Mateo
San Mateo boasts several restaurants with enticing happy hour deals. These spots offer a perfect blend of delicious food and discounted drinks, making them ideal for after-work gatherings or casual meet-ups with friends.
Food Specials
Happy hour in San Mateo isn’t just about drinks – it’s a food lover’s paradise too! Paul Martin’s American Grill serves up small plates starting at $8, featuring mouthwatering options like smoked paprika bacon and grilled sustainable steelhead salmon. I’ve tried their Danish blue cheese dressing, and let me tell you, it’s to die for!
At Kingfish Restaurant, you can snag $2 off appetizers (except for the oyster bar items). It’s a great chance to sample their menu without breaking the bank. Ever found yourself torn between ordering an appetizer or saving room for the main course? With these deals, you don’t have to choose!
Elephant Bar Restaurant joins the party with select appetizers starting at just $3. Talk about a steal! Who else is picturing themselves munching on tasty bites while catching up with friends?
Drink Discounts
Let’s talk about what we’re all really here for – the drinks! Paul Martin’s American Grill offers cocktails starting at $8, draft beers for $6, and wine options from $8. I’ve got to say, sipping on a craft cocktail for less than $10 feels like hitting the jackpot!
Kingfish Restaurant keeps it simple with $4 draft beers and specialty cocktails ranging from $8 to $10. Ever had one of those days where you just need a cold beer without the fancy price tag? Kingfish has got you covered!
Remember that time you splurged on a fancy cocktail and regretted it the next day? With these happy hour deals, you can treat yourself without the guilt. So, which spot are you hitting up first? And more importantly, who’s joining you?
When to Find the Best Happy Hours in San Mateo
San Mateo’s happy hour scene is like a treasure hunt, and I’m here to share the map! Ever wondered when you can snag the best deals? Let’s dive in and explore the prime times to enjoy discounted drinks and bites around town.
Paul Martin’s American Grill is a happy hour hotspot. They offer their specials Sunday through Thursday from 3-6 PM. But here’s a little secret: on Fridays and Saturdays, they start early at 2 PM and run until 5 PM. It’s perfect for those weekend warriors looking to kick off their evenings with a bang!
For the spritz lovers out there, Pausa Bar & Cookery has got you covered. Their “Spritz Hour” runs Tuesday to Thursday from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM. On weekends, they extend the fun, starting at 4 PM and going until 5:30 PM. Who’s up for a refreshing spritz on their patio?
Craving tacos? Pancho Villa Taqueria’s “Taconomics” Happy Hour is a dream come true. From Monday through Friday, 2 PM to 5 PM, you can munch on $1 tacos. And don’t forget to wash them down with a $1 agua fresca. It’s like a fiesta in your mouth!
If you’re looking for an all-day happy hour experience, O’Neill’s Irish Pub is your go-to spot. They keep the good times rolling daily from 11:30 AM to 6 PM. Imagine sipping on discounted drafts, wine, and well drinks while catching up with friends. It’s like finding a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow!
So, when’s the best time for happy hour in San Mateo? It depends on your schedule and cravings. But with these options, you’re bound to find a deal that fits your fancy. Have you tried any of these happy hours yet? What’s your favorite spot to unwind after a long day?
Tips for Enjoying Happy Hour in San Mateo
I’ve discovered some fantastic ways to make the most of happy hour in San Mateo. Ever feel like you’re on a treasure hunt for the best deals? That’s what exploring happy hour can be like! Here are some tips to help you strike gold:
- Plan ahead: Check restaurant websites or call ahead for happy hour times. They’re as changeable as Bay Area weather!
- Arrive early: Popular spots fill up fast. Getting there when happy hour starts is like snagging front-row seats at a concert.
- Try new places: Don’t just stick to your usual haunts. San Mateo’s happy hour scene is a buffet of options!
- Share plates: Small bites are perfect for splitting. It’s like a taste test of the menu without breaking the bank.
- Pace yourself: Happy hour drinks can sneak up on you. Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint!
- Use rideshare apps: Enjoy responsibly and leave the car at home. It’s cheaper than a DUI, trust me!
- Make friends with the bartenders: They’re like your personal guides to the best deals and hidden menu gems.
- Join loyalty programs: Many restaurants offer extra perks for regulars. It’s like being part of a secret club!
- Follow social media: Restaurants often post last-minute specials. It’s like getting insider trading tips, but legal!
- Bring cash: Some places offer cash-only deals. It’s old school, but it can save you a few bucks.
Remember that time I thought I’d found the cheapest happy hour in town, only to realize I was reading last year’s menu? Don’t be like me – always double-check those prices!
Popular Happy Hour Dishes in San Mateo Restaurants
I’ve got the scoop on some mouthwatering happy hour dishes in San Mateo that’ll make your taste buds dance! Let’s dive into the delicious offerings at Paul Martin’s American Grill, a local hotspot that’s serving up some serious flavor.
Ever tried smoked paprika and applewood bacon together? It’s a match made in heaven, and you can snag this tasty treat for just $8 during happy hour. If you’re a cheese lover like me, you’ll flip for their Danish blue cheese dressing option – also a steal at $8.
Let’s talk about comfort food with a twist. Paul Martin’s serves up a cozy marinara and mozzarella dish with toasted crostini for $10. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds! And for seafood fans, there’s a grilled sustainable steelhead salmon plate that’ll knock your socks off.
But wait, there’s more! Have you ever had Gochujang BBQ sauce? It’s a Korean condiment that’s taking the culinary world by storm, and Paul Martin’s pairs it with chicken wings for a spicy-sweet kick. Served with celery sticks and ranch, it’s a $10 flavor explosion.
For those with a sweet tooth (guilty as charged!), don’t miss out on their dessert offering. Picture this: warm churros with housemade caramel and chocolate dipping sauces. At $12, it’s the perfect way to end your happy hour adventure.
Here’s a funny story – I once tried to recreate Paul Martin’s St. Louis Style ribs at home. Let’s just say my smoke alarm got more action than my taste buds that day! Save yourself the trouble and grab their ribs with housemade slaw for $12 during happy hour instead.
What’s your go-to happy hour dish? Are you a wings person, or do you lean towards seafood? Drop a comment and let’s chat about our favorite bites!
Conclusion
San Mateo’s happy hour scene truly has something for everyone. From creative cocktails to mouthwatering bites, the options are endless. I’ve shared my favorite spots and insider tips to help you make the most of your experience. Whether you’re looking to unwind after work or catch up with friends, these happy hour deals offer the perfect opportunity to indulge without breaking the bank. So grab your friends, explore the diverse offerings, and discover your own favorite happy hour spot in San Mateo. Cheers to great food, drinks, and memories!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is happy hour in San Mateo?
Happy hour in San Mateo is a special time when restaurants and bars offer discounted food and drinks. It typically occurs between 3 PM and 7 PM, though times vary by establishment. During happy hour, patrons can enjoy reduced prices on drinks like draft beers and cocktails, as well as discounted appetizers and small plates.
Which restaurants in San Mateo offer the best happy hour deals?
Some of the best happy hour spots in San Mateo include Mortar & Pestle, known for creative cocktails and half-price appetizers, and Paul Martin’s American Grill, offering a burger and drink combo for $18. Kingfish Restaurant and Elephant Bar Restaurant also provide excellent deals on food and drinks during their happy hours.
What are some popular happy hour dishes in San Mateo?
Popular happy hour dishes in San Mateo include truffle fries at Mortar & Pestle, smoked paprika and applewood bacon at Paul Martin’s American Grill, and $1 tacos at Pancho Villa Taqueria during their “Taconomics” Happy Hour. Other favorites include small plates, seafood options, and comfort foods like marinara and mozzarella with toasted crostini.
When are the best times to find happy hour deals in San Mateo?
The best times for happy hour in San Mateo vary by restaurant. Paul Martin’s American Grill offers specials from 3-6 PM on weekdays and 2-5 PM on weekends. Pausa Bar & Cookery has a “Spritz Hour” from 4:30-5:30 PM on weekdays. O’Neill’s Irish Pub provides an all-day happy hour from 11:30 AM to 6 PM daily.
How can I maximize my happy hour experience in San Mateo?
To maximize your happy hour experience, plan ahead by checking restaurant websites for times, arrive early for good seating, and try new places. Share plates to sample more dishes, pace yourself with drinks, use rideshare apps for safe travel, and consider joining loyalty programs for extra perks. Follow restaurants on social media for last-minute specials.
Are happy hour prices always clearly marked?
While most establishments clearly mark their happy hour prices, it’s always a good idea to double-check with your server or bartender. Some places may have special conditions or exclusions for their happy hour deals. Being informed will help you avoid any surprises when the bill arrives.
Can I find vegetarian or vegan options during happy hour in San Mateo?
Many restaurants in San Mateo offer vegetarian and vegan options during happy hour. While specific offerings may vary, you can often find plant-based small plates, appetizers, and sometimes even specialty cocktails. It’s best to check with individual restaurants or their menus for specific vegetarian and vegan happy hour options.