Epicurious eats in Belmont, California
# **A Foodie’s Guide to Belmont, California: 10 Must-Try Dining Experiences**
Belmont, California, may be a small city nestled between San Mateo and Redwood City, but its culinary scene packs a mighty punch. From hearty Italian sandwiches to authentic dim sum, sizzling Mexican street food, and refined Persian cuisine, this charming town offers a diverse array of flavors that cater to every palate. Whether you're a local or just passing through, here’s your ultimate guide to the best dining experiences in Belmont—complete with what to order at each spot.
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## **1. Lorenzo’s Sandwich Shop**
? **911 Villa Ave, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
Lorenzo’s Sandwich Shop is a Belmont institution, serving up massive, overstuffed Italian deli sandwiches that rival those found in New York or Boston. This no-frills spot is perfect for a quick, satisfying lunch that will keep you full for hours.
### **What to Order:**
- **The Lorenzo’s Special** – A monster sandwich loaded with Genoa salami, capicola, mortadella, ham, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onions, and Italian dressing on a freshly baked roll.
- **Meatball Sub** – Juicy, garlicky meatballs smothered in marinara and melted mozzarella.
- **Chicken Pesto Sandwich** – Grilled chicken breast with fresh pesto, mozzarella, and roasted red peppers.
**Pro Tip:** Their sandwiches are enormous—consider splitting one or saving half for later!
---
## **2. Taqueria El Metate**
? **120 Harbor Blvd, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
For authentic, no-nonsense Mexican street food, Taqueria El Metate is the place. The vibrant flavors, generous portions, and affordable prices make this a local favorite.
### **What to Order:**
- **Carne Asada Super Burrito** – Packed with tender grilled steak, rice, beans, cheese, guacamole, and salsa.
- **Al Pastor Tacos** – Marinated pork with pineapple, cilantro, and onions on soft corn tortillas.
- **Chile Verde Plate** – Slow-cooked pork in a tangy green tomatillo sauce, served with rice, beans, and warm tortillas.
**Pro Tip:** Don’t skip their homemade salsas—the fiery red one is a must for spice lovers.
---
## **3. Cheung Hing Seafood & Dim Sum**
? **600 Ralston Ave, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
If you’re craving Cantonese-style dim sum and fresh seafood, Cheung Hing delivers with an extensive menu of dumplings, noodles, and live seafood dishes.
### **What to Order:**
- **Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings)** – Delicate, translucent wrappers filled with plump shrimp.
- **BBQ Pork Buns** – Fluffy steamed buns stuffed with sweet and savory char siu.
- **Salt & Pepper Dungeness Crab** – Crispy, garlicky, and loaded with flavor.
- **Beef Chow Fun** – Wide rice noodles stir-fried with tender beef and bean sprouts.
**Pro Tip:** Go for weekend dim sum service for the full experience with rolling carts.
---
## **4. Coyotes Mexican Cafe**
? **1003 Alameda De Las Pulgas, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
A step up from your average taqueria, Coyotes offers a more refined take on Mexican cuisine with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
### **What to Order:**
- **Carnitas Plate** – Slow-braised pork with crispy edges, served with handmade tortillas.
- **Chile Relleno** – A roasted poblano pepper stuffed with cheese, battered, and fried.
- **Mango Habanero Shrimp Tacos** – Sweet, spicy, and perfectly balanced.
**Pro Tip:** Their margaritas are fantastic—try the spicy jalapeño version.
---
## **5. Little Belmont Cafe**
? **232 Harbor Blvd, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
This cozy diner-style cafe serves up hearty American breakfast and lunch classics with a friendly neighborhood vibe.
### **What to Order:**
- **Belmont Omelette** – Stuffed with bacon, avocado, cheese, and salsa.
- **Chicken & Waffles** – Crispy fried chicken atop fluffy Belgian waffles.
- **Pastrami Reuben Sandwich** – A classic done right with Swiss cheese and sauerkraut.
**Pro Tip:** Weekends get busy—arrive early to avoid the wait.
---
## **6. Jiro Cafe & Bakery**
? **1094 Alameda De Las Pulgas, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
A hidden gem for Japanese comfort food, Jiro Cafe offers everything from ramen to katsu sandwiches and fresh pastries.
### **What to Order:**
- **Tonkotsu Ramen** – Rich pork broth with tender chashu pork.
- **Katsu Sando** – Crispy breaded pork cutlet between soft milk bread.
- **Matcha Croissant** – A buttery, flaky pastry with a sweet green tea filling.
**Pro Tip:** Their Japanese cheesecake is a must-try dessert.
---
## **7. Ella’s Cafe & BBQ**
? **1000 6th Ave, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
A fusion of American comfort food and BBQ, Ella’s serves up smoky, tender meats and hearty breakfast plates.
### **What to Order:**
- **Brisket Breakfast Burrito** – Smoked brisket, eggs, cheese, and potatoes.
- **Pulled Pork Sandwich** – Juicy, slow-cooked pork with tangy BBQ sauce.
- **Pancake Stack** – Fluffy buttermilk pancakes with maple syrup.
**Pro Tip:** Their homemade BBQ sauce is available for purchase—grab a bottle!
---
## **8. Aji Limo Peruvian (Ella’s Cafe & BBQ Location)**
? **1000 6th Ave, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
Peruvian flavors shine here with ceviche, lomo saltado, and other vibrant dishes.
### **What to Order:**
- **Ceviche Mixto** – Fresh seafood marinated in citrus and aji peppers.
- **Lomo Saltado** – Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries over rice.
- **Aji de Gallina** – Shredded chicken in a creamy yellow pepper sauce.
**Pro Tip:** Pair your meal with a **chicha morada** (purple corn drink).
---
## **9. The Tavern at Waterdog Landing**
? **1015 Alameda de las Pulgas, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
An upscale yet relaxed gastropub with craft cocktails and elevated comfort food.
### **What to Order:**
- **Tavern Burger** – Grass-fed beef with aged cheddar and garlic aioli.
- **Fish & Chips** – Beer-battered cod with house tartar sauce.
- **Wild Mushroom Flatbread** – Truffle oil, goat cheese, and caramelized onions.
**Pro Tip:** Happy hour (3-6 PM) offers great deals on drinks and bites.
---
## **10. Shalizaar**
? **300 El Camino Real, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
For an elegant Persian dining experience, Shalizaar offers flavorful kebabs, stews, and saffron-infused rice dishes.
### **What to Order:**
- **Koobideh Kabob** – Ground beef and lamb skewers, juicy and charred.
- **Ghormeh Sabzi** – A fragrant herb stew with tender beef and kidney beans.
- **Zereshk Polo** – Basmati rice with barberries and saffron, often paired with chicken.
**Pro Tip:** End your meal with **Persian tea and baklava**.
---
### **Final Thoughts**
Belmont’s dining scene is a delightful mix of global flavors and local charm. Whether you're in the mood for a towering Italian sub, fresh dim sum, smoky BBQ, or refined Persian cuisine, this town has something to satisfy every craving. So grab your fork (or taco, or chopsticks) and start exploring!
**Which spot will you try first?** ?️
Belmont, California, may be a small city nestled between San Mateo and Redwood City, but its culinary scene packs a mighty punch. From hearty Italian sandwiches to authentic dim sum, sizzling Mexican street food, and refined Persian cuisine, this charming town offers a diverse array of flavors that cater to every palate. Whether you're a local or just passing through, here’s your ultimate guide to the best dining experiences in Belmont—complete with what to order at each spot.
---
## **1. Lorenzo’s Sandwich Shop**
? **911 Villa Ave, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
Lorenzo’s Sandwich Shop is a Belmont institution, serving up massive, overstuffed Italian deli sandwiches that rival those found in New York or Boston. This no-frills spot is perfect for a quick, satisfying lunch that will keep you full for hours.
### **What to Order:**
- **The Lorenzo’s Special** – A monster sandwich loaded with Genoa salami, capicola, mortadella, ham, provolone, lettuce, tomato, onions, and Italian dressing on a freshly baked roll.
- **Meatball Sub** – Juicy, garlicky meatballs smothered in marinara and melted mozzarella.
- **Chicken Pesto Sandwich** – Grilled chicken breast with fresh pesto, mozzarella, and roasted red peppers.
**Pro Tip:** Their sandwiches are enormous—consider splitting one or saving half for later!
---
## **2. Taqueria El Metate**
? **120 Harbor Blvd, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
For authentic, no-nonsense Mexican street food, Taqueria El Metate is the place. The vibrant flavors, generous portions, and affordable prices make this a local favorite.
### **What to Order:**
- **Carne Asada Super Burrito** – Packed with tender grilled steak, rice, beans, cheese, guacamole, and salsa.
- **Al Pastor Tacos** – Marinated pork with pineapple, cilantro, and onions on soft corn tortillas.
- **Chile Verde Plate** – Slow-cooked pork in a tangy green tomatillo sauce, served with rice, beans, and warm tortillas.
**Pro Tip:** Don’t skip their homemade salsas—the fiery red one is a must for spice lovers.
---
## **3. Cheung Hing Seafood & Dim Sum**
? **600 Ralston Ave, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
If you’re craving Cantonese-style dim sum and fresh seafood, Cheung Hing delivers with an extensive menu of dumplings, noodles, and live seafood dishes.
### **What to Order:**
- **Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings)** – Delicate, translucent wrappers filled with plump shrimp.
- **BBQ Pork Buns** – Fluffy steamed buns stuffed with sweet and savory char siu.
- **Salt & Pepper Dungeness Crab** – Crispy, garlicky, and loaded with flavor.
- **Beef Chow Fun** – Wide rice noodles stir-fried with tender beef and bean sprouts.
**Pro Tip:** Go for weekend dim sum service for the full experience with rolling carts.
---
## **4. Coyotes Mexican Cafe**
? **1003 Alameda De Las Pulgas, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
A step up from your average taqueria, Coyotes offers a more refined take on Mexican cuisine with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
### **What to Order:**
- **Carnitas Plate** – Slow-braised pork with crispy edges, served with handmade tortillas.
- **Chile Relleno** – A roasted poblano pepper stuffed with cheese, battered, and fried.
- **Mango Habanero Shrimp Tacos** – Sweet, spicy, and perfectly balanced.
**Pro Tip:** Their margaritas are fantastic—try the spicy jalapeño version.
---
## **5. Little Belmont Cafe**
? **232 Harbor Blvd, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
This cozy diner-style cafe serves up hearty American breakfast and lunch classics with a friendly neighborhood vibe.
### **What to Order:**
- **Belmont Omelette** – Stuffed with bacon, avocado, cheese, and salsa.
- **Chicken & Waffles** – Crispy fried chicken atop fluffy Belgian waffles.
- **Pastrami Reuben Sandwich** – A classic done right with Swiss cheese and sauerkraut.
**Pro Tip:** Weekends get busy—arrive early to avoid the wait.
---
## **6. Jiro Cafe & Bakery**
? **1094 Alameda De Las Pulgas, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
A hidden gem for Japanese comfort food, Jiro Cafe offers everything from ramen to katsu sandwiches and fresh pastries.
### **What to Order:**
- **Tonkotsu Ramen** – Rich pork broth with tender chashu pork.
- **Katsu Sando** – Crispy breaded pork cutlet between soft milk bread.
- **Matcha Croissant** – A buttery, flaky pastry with a sweet green tea filling.
**Pro Tip:** Their Japanese cheesecake is a must-try dessert.
---
## **7. Ella’s Cafe & BBQ**
? **1000 6th Ave, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
A fusion of American comfort food and BBQ, Ella’s serves up smoky, tender meats and hearty breakfast plates.
### **What to Order:**
- **Brisket Breakfast Burrito** – Smoked brisket, eggs, cheese, and potatoes.
- **Pulled Pork Sandwich** – Juicy, slow-cooked pork with tangy BBQ sauce.
- **Pancake Stack** – Fluffy buttermilk pancakes with maple syrup.
**Pro Tip:** Their homemade BBQ sauce is available for purchase—grab a bottle!
---
## **8. Aji Limo Peruvian (Ella’s Cafe & BBQ Location)**
? **1000 6th Ave, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
Peruvian flavors shine here with ceviche, lomo saltado, and other vibrant dishes.
### **What to Order:**
- **Ceviche Mixto** – Fresh seafood marinated in citrus and aji peppers.
- **Lomo Saltado** – Stir-fried beef with onions, tomatoes, and fries over rice.
- **Aji de Gallina** – Shredded chicken in a creamy yellow pepper sauce.
**Pro Tip:** Pair your meal with a **chicha morada** (purple corn drink).
---
## **9. The Tavern at Waterdog Landing**
? **1015 Alameda de las Pulgas, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
An upscale yet relaxed gastropub with craft cocktails and elevated comfort food.
### **What to Order:**
- **Tavern Burger** – Grass-fed beef with aged cheddar and garlic aioli.
- **Fish & Chips** – Beer-battered cod with house tartar sauce.
- **Wild Mushroom Flatbread** – Truffle oil, goat cheese, and caramelized onions.
**Pro Tip:** Happy hour (3-6 PM) offers great deals on drinks and bites.
---
## **10. Shalizaar**
? **300 El Camino Real, Belmont, CA 94002**
? [Menu](
)
### **Why You Should Go:**
For an elegant Persian dining experience, Shalizaar offers flavorful kebabs, stews, and saffron-infused rice dishes.
### **What to Order:**
- **Koobideh Kabob** – Ground beef and lamb skewers, juicy and charred.
- **Ghormeh Sabzi** – A fragrant herb stew with tender beef and kidney beans.
- **Zereshk Polo** – Basmati rice with barberries and saffron, often paired with chicken.
**Pro Tip:** End your meal with **Persian tea and baklava**.
---
### **Final Thoughts**
Belmont’s dining scene is a delightful mix of global flavors and local charm. Whether you're in the mood for a towering Italian sub, fresh dim sum, smoky BBQ, or refined Persian cuisine, this town has something to satisfy every craving. So grab your fork (or taco, or chopsticks) and start exploring!
**Which spot will you try first?** ?️
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