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February 23.2026
2 Minutes Read

Discover Crystal Springs Tavern: An Upscale Dining Gem in San Mateo

Two smiling bartenders at Crystal Springs Tavern San Mateo, with a fully stocked bar in the background.

New American Bistro Emerges in the Hills of San Mateo

In an exciting development for food lovers, the Crystal Springs Tavern has opened its doors, promising a unique dining experience in the picturesque Crystal Springs neighborhood of San Mateo. Co-owned by longtime friends Matt Ramirez and Max Sodini, this new establishment offers an innovative twist on tavern fare, attracting both local residents and culinary enthusiasts.

Friendship Meets Culinary Passion

Matt and Max’s journey to opening Crystal Springs Tavern has deep roots. Their friendship began in high school, with Matt hailing from San Mateo and Max from Burlingame. After spending a decade refining his culinary skills in Los Angeles, Matt has returned to his roots, fulfilling their long-standing dream of opening a restaurant together. Max takes charge of managing the front of the house, allowing Matt’s culinary creativity to shine.

A Menu That Tells a Story

The tavern’s menu, which they describe as a New American bistro, breaks free from traditional tavern offerings. Both owners bring unique culinary backgrounds; Ramirez’s Filipino and French influences shine through in dishes like kanpachi kinilaw, a delicious Filipino-style crudo featuring bright citrus flavors from cara cara oranges and coconut calamansi vinegar. Other highlights include oysters served with a hibiscus mignonette, dry-aged burgers, and artisanal pastas all crafted in-house. This eclectic affair delivers both innovation and familiarity.

A Fusion of Drinks

The bar at Crystal Springs Tavern matches the creativity found in the kitchen. Innovative drinks like gin and espresso martinis complement agave-centered cocktails, including the Mezcal Negroni and the Oaxacan Old Fashioned, which range from $15 to $19. These options not only enhance the dining experience but also reflect the dynamic environment that Matt and Max have created.

Local Community Impact

The opening of Crystal Springs Tavern arrives at a pivotal time for the local dining scene, especially as downtown San Mateo has seen multiple establishments close recently. New openings like this one signify resilience and innovation within the community. Restaurants like Crystal Springs Tavern are taking the opportunity to attract diners who seek quality and authenticity in their culinary experiences.

What’s Next for San Mateo Dining?

As the Crystal Springs Tavern settles into its role within the San Mateo community, other new establishments are also set to join the scene, promising a vibrant array of dining options. With places like Whisper—offering Korean fusion brunch—and Johnny’s, a new breakfast spot, the culinary landscape is evolving, making San Mateo a hotspot for food enthusiasts amid the closures.

Visit Crystal Springs Tavern

For those eager to explore this exciting new venue, Crystal Springs Tavern is open from 5 to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday at 742 Polhemus Road, San Mateo. Reservations can be made through their website, crystalspringstavern.com.

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