How Many Michelin Star Restaurants in San Mateo: Key Takeaways
- As of August 2025, San Mateo has one Michelin-starred restaurant: Wakuriya.
- Wakuriya offers a Japanese kaiseki dining experience with a monthly changing menu focused on fresh California ingredients.
- Previously Michelin-starred restaurants like Sushi Yoshizumi and All Spice no longer retain their stars.
San Mateo, California, boasts a rich culinary scene with the prestigious Michelin Guide recognizing only one current establishment with a Michelin star.
This article explores the Michelin-starred dining options in San Mateo and highlights the city's gastronomic prestige.
For restaurant owners aiming to elevate their establishment, understanding restaurant Michelin stars statistics can provide valuable insights.
Current Michelin Star Restaurant in San Mateo
As of August 2025, Wakuriya stands as the sole Michelin-starred restaurant in San Mateo.
Located at 115 De Anza Boulevard, Wakuriya is an exclusive Japanese restaurant operated by Chef Katsuhiro Yamasaki and his wife, Mayumi Yamasaki.
The restaurant specializes in kaiseki-style cuisine, which is a traditional multi-course Japanese dining experience emphasizing seasonality and fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Employers looking to retain top culinary talent might find useful tips on retaining a Chef to maintain their kitchen quality.
Unique Dining Experience at Wakuriya
Wakuriya's menu evolves monthly to reflect fresh California produce and the finest seafood.
This dedication to seasonal ingredients results in a dynamic offering that changes with the calendar, assuring guests always experience something new and authentic.
Reservations are essential and typically need to be made about one month in advance, reflecting the restaurant's popularity and intimate setting.
Previously Michelin-Starred Restaurants in San Mateo
San Mateo has seen other restaurants with Michelin recognition in the past, although they no longer hold their stars.
Two notable former Michelin-starred establishments are Sushi Yoshizumi and All Spice.
Sushi Yoshizumi
Sushi Yoshizumi was known for its exceptional traditional omakase sushi experience, located at 325 4th Avenue.
In the 2024 Michelin Guide, Sushi Yoshizumi lost its star and was instead designated Michelin Recommended, which still recognizes quality but is a step below a Michelin star.
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All Spice
All Spice at 1602 South El Camino Real previously held a Michelin star but is no longer among the starred establishments.
Despite the loss of the star, both restaurants continue to contribute to San Mateo's diverse and vibrant culinary landscape.
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What Does the Michelin Star Mean for San Mateo Dining?
A Michelin star is one of the highest accolades a restaurant can receive, signifying exceptional culinary skill, quality ingredients, creativity, and dining experience standards.
Having a Michelin-starred restaurant like Wakuriya in San Mateo elevates the city's profile as a destination for food enthusiasts and supports the local economy through culinary tourism.
It encourages other chefs and restaurateurs to pursue excellence, fostering a thriving and competitive restaurant scene.
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How To Experience Michelin Star Dining in San Mateo
Given that Wakuriya is currently the only Michelin-starred restaurant, diners seeking this top-tier culinary experience should plan accordingly.
Consider making reservations well in advance, usually at least one month prior, to secure a table.
Prepare for a multi-course meal rich in seasonal and local ingredients, offered in a refined, intimate setting showcasing traditional Japanese kaiseki cuisine.
Exploring San Mateo's Wider Culinary Scene
While Michelin stars highlight the very best, San Mateo's dining options extend far beyond this distinction.
The city features a diverse range of restaurants offering everything from casual eats to innovative fine dining.
Exploring local favorites, neighborhood bistros, and ethnic food establishments can provide a rich and fulfilling culinary experience complementary to Michelin-starred dining.
Employers and managers can find resources for recruiting and managing staff across multiple hospitality roles, including servers and kitchen staff, to ensure smooth restaurant operations. Learn more by visiting how to hire Server or Waiter.
Official Resources for San Mateo Dining and Restaurant Information
For guests wanting further information on Michelin-starred restaurants or local dining regulations, the following resources offer reliable and up-to-date guidance:
How Many Michelin Star Restaurants in San Mateo: Conclusion
In 2025, San Mateo is home to one Michelin-starred restaurant, Wakuriya, known for its exquisite Japanese kaiseki cuisine and seasonal menus.
Previous Michelin-starred establishments like Sushi Yoshizumi and All Spice no longer hold stars but remain part of the city's culinary fabric.
Wakuriya’s presence underscores San Mateo’s growing reputation as a destination for sophisticated dining experiences within the Bay Area.
For hospitality managers interested in best practices, exploring insights on restaurant management styles can be highly beneficial.
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