NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDES

san carlos

Nestled in the heart of the San Francisco Peninsula, Downtown San Carlos beckons visitors with its charming blend of small-town allure and contemporary vibrancy. As you stroll through its welcoming streets, you'll discover a dynamic community that seamlessly fuses historic charm with modern amenities. Lined with a diverse array of shops, cafes, and boutiques, the downtown area offers a delightful shopping and dining experience. Cafes with sidewalk seating invite you to savor a leisurely coffee while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

San Carlos Avenue serves as the central artery, pulsating with the energy of locals and visitors alike. The iconic Clock Tower, a local landmark, has stood sentinel since the early 20th century. The city played host to the renowned Mural Project in the 1980s, adorning its walls with vibrant and eclectic street art. With a rich community spirit,

Downtown San Carlos stands as a testament to the region's unique blend of history and innovation, inviting all to revel in its warm ambiance and discover the hidden gems that make this downtown a beloved destination.

LoCAL SHOPS

The San Carlos’s local shops embody a friendly charm with a mix of boutiques, creating a welcoming community atmosphere and a delightful shopping experience in this vibrant town.

local recommendations

Groovy Goose Coffee Roasters

Freshly roasted coffee, amazing pastries, high quality milks and syrups, fresh smoothies, açaí bowls and paninis are in this newer San Carlos gem. Roxy loves that the staff beams with happiness and it has become a place to start your day or your whole weekend!

1221 San Carlos Ave, San Carlos
@groovygoosecoffee

Shelby's Garden

Shelby’s Garden is a family owned gift shop located in the heart of downtown San Carlos. Established in 1996, this woman owned & operated business is a one of a kind gift shop specializing in unique style, creative inspiration and the perfect gift for every girl on your list. For nearly 30 years, they have been providing the community with cards, stationery & gift wrap, novelty, and souvenirs. Roxy loves their seasonal items for every occasion.

629 Laurel St, San Carlos
@shelbysgarden

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Lark

Lark San Carlos brings together a unique selection of home décor and accessories, gifts, art, and jewelry made by artisans locally, in the United States and around the world. It features one-of-a-kind products thoughtfully curated to catch the eye and adorn your home with style and a sense of spirit. Roxy likes their glassware & other fine home goods.

641 Laurel St, San Carlos
@larksancarlos

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COFFEE & Tea shops

San Carlos’ local coffee shops provide a cozy atmosphere, serving artisanal brews and creating a friendly space for residents to enjoy delightful coffee experiences in this charming town.

local recommendations

Mints and Honey

Mints & Honey is a neighborhood gathering space for families and friends to unplug, connect, and celebrate. Known for their seasonal coffee and tea creations and scrumptious waffles, along with their delicious toasts - this place is a mid day or brunch dream destination.

524 El Camino Real, San Carlos
@mintsandhoneycafe

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LoCAL Restaurants

The local restaurants offer a diverse culinary experience with a friendly ambiance, providing a delightful dining atmosphere in this vibrant and welcoming town.

local recommendations

Cuisinett Bistro & Market

Back in 2008, Cuisinett Bistro had the vision to bring a new style of French Restaurant. Forget about your typical stereotype about French Restaurant, they wanted to bring back the neighborhood café that Geoffrey Rabey grew up with. A place where you can enjoy great food and wine in a casual atmosphere. The restaurant has evolved from a fast casual café to a beautiful Bistro & Market. The Market (Épicerie) brought a new experience to guests and they were able to buy Wine, Cheese, Charcuterie, Sweets and other products from France to take with them after their meal was complete.

1105 San Carlos Ave, San Carlos
@cuisinett

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PRANZI

PRANZI specializes in warm neighborhood Northern Italian dishes. Offering a diverse menu that caters to all palates since 2015, they are masters of their craft, using only the freshest and finest ingredients to create dishes that are both flavorful and visually appealing. Whether you're craving traditional Italian classics or contemporary creations, their menu has something for everyone.

777 Laurel St, San Carlos
@pranzisc

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Noelani’s Island Grill

Noelani's Island Grill is a Hawaiian-Asian fusion restaurant located in beautiful San Carlos. They offer that Hawaii experience through tasty food, tropical cocktails, island ambiance, and aloha-spirited service. Known for their fun brunches and Aloha entertainment, it's a fun San Carlos destination to visit.

1037 Laurel St, San Carlos
@noelanisislandgrill

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Refuge

The Refuge hand-carved, ultra tender, boldly flavored navel pastrami sends shockwaves throughout the gastronomic consciousness of patrons who call it “the greatest this planet will see in some time.” If that wasn’t enough, the REFUGE boasts the world’s best Belgian and Craft Beer on draught (18 in San Carlos and 24 in San Mateo) and tons of bottles to boot! Philly-style cheesesteaks, house-ground burgers, and if a sandwich is not for you, their pastrami chopped salad is legendary.

963 Laurel St, San Carlos
@refuge_pastrami

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