Excellent Mexican food in San Mateo. Been coming to this place since some friends talked about it. It definitely hits the spot. The food is delicious. Lots of seating inside. Service is great and fast. Parking is ample. You really can't go wrong here. Like meat or seafood? You can't go wrong here. Got carne asada plate the first time and it was excellent. Flavorful and tender. Got molcajete chicken,steak, shrimp. This was so good. Shared with the table and it was absolutely delicious. Everyone wanted their own the next time we go. Definitely super hot even after 15 minutes. So be careful or you might burn your mouth. Definitely a must get here. read more

El Sinaloense - Seafood Near Me - San Mateo, California

There's so many things to like about this restaurant that I still don't understand why we haven't come more often. Walked up around 6pm on a Friday and couldn't have planned our timing better. This place filled up within a half hour! We were able to sit outdoors with our dog and enjoy a warm, albeit windy San Mateo evening. The service here is great! Everyone was really friendly/patient/helpful and seemed to genuinely help one another out sharing the work of service/cleaning. The staff was attentive and thoughtful and checked up on us several times. The chips/salsa at Sinaloense are dangerous. Chips are sturdy and fresh without being too thick or oily. A perfect salsa delivery vehicle. The salsa had a great subtle smokiness (I thought) that was addictive. So much so that we fell into the typical trap of filling up on chips/salsa before the main event. No regrets. We ordered the fajita quesadilla and the chipotle shrimp plate. I really appreciate how generous their steak portions are and how perfectly the steak was grilled: thick, tender (cut against the grain), nicely charred, with great flavor. As for the shrimp, the chipotle sauce was delicious and creamy. Hard to explain but almost a cross between an Alfredo, chipotle and curry that we couldn't get enough of. Wiped the plate clean! We don't normally order dessert at restaurants but we gave into temptation and made an exception for churros. Great idea. Possibly one of the best churros I've had in the area. They pair the generous churro serving with ice cream and chocolate sauce that complements the fresh fried sweet dough perfectly. Don't sleep on this place! read more

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Who says there is no such thing as a free lunch. Thanks #inkind for a free lunch ( and in this case dinner at this fantastic local Mexican restaurant near downtown San Mateo. I love El Sinaloense for two things , ceviche and molcajete, which is a mixed grill type of Mexican dish named for the three footed volcanic rock vessel that it is cooked in. This was a molcajete day, despite the fact that I had no one to share the dish with. El Sinaloense has a couple of different versions, with a mix of seafood and meats, but the one I ordered today was their special with charred whole green onions, nuggets of tender roasted cactus ( nopals) as well as shrimp, chicken and shrimp. The molcajete sauce is what makes it special and cheese is added to the dish at the end. It is served with homemade corn and flour tortillas and a side ( very small portion relative to size of the main course, which easily feeds two or even three. That is correct, instead of a small portion of quality protein accompanied by a ton of beans and rice, El Sinaloense loads you up with the expensive, flavorful stuff, using the side plate as an accompaniment as it should be.. and BRAVO for that. At $30.95, for a shared entree this is such a cheap eat, especially when given the quality of the meat and shrimp. Today I sat outside and Mr Cesar took such good care of me. As an aside ( which I specialize in, mais of course ) it is worth noting that this lively establishment seems to be a World Cup mecca, for locals, with Happy Hour specials during games. Anyhow my molcajete arrived sizzling ( also worth nothing that this dish finishes cooking table-side due to it's vessel and is optimally consumed immediately because of the risk of overcooking as it sits. I made two gorgeous soft tacos, one steak and shrimp and one chicken and steak, each with a charred onion, lots of cactus and cheese and a small dollop of guacamole. They were filling and each ingredient sung. I will say that the steak had been rendered a tougher texture by the time I got to the second beautifully wrapped package. Taking my cue from this I opted to consume the rest if the shrimp, which were still perfectly cooked, rather than stuff another tortilla. Julius Cesar took care of bringing me a box for my considerable ( 2/3 of the molcajete contents) and an iced tea to go cup. Paying through the InKind app is seamless, just let your server know and in the case if this establishment, note the name of your server specifically. My points covered all but gratuity and my boys can stretch the leftovers with beans and cheese and make some killer nachos to watch World Cup tonight. 10 stars as a bang for buck- this cost me $7, but 4-+ because that 5th star is still elusive. That being said, I have never had anything but a stellar meal here and although today was a solo dining experience, El Sinaloense's atmosphere and drinks lend itself to a large group experience. read more

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Not bad. I had carne asada, pollo, and el pastor. My favorite probably the el pastor. It was crispy. read more

El Sinaloense - Seafood Near Me - San Mateo, California

This special restaurant is not on the main streets of San Mateo. A bit hidden behind Safeway off El Camino, you'll find this gem. It's a neighborhood "go to" for authentic Mexican food, fun vibe, great margaritas (a bit pricey but worth it!) and great service! I didn't get it today, but my favorite dish to order and share is the ceviche. They have a nice bar, indoor seating and outdoor seating as well! Kid friendly. Try this place out. They won't disappoint! read more

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It was hubby's turn to pick the restaurant for dinner, and he chose this spot. I had grabbed a burrito to-go from here about two years ago and honestly wasn't impressed. Hubby said they're known for their seafood, so I figured I'd give it another shot. We went on Sunday night around 6:30 pm. The restaurant was pretty busy, which is always a good sign. We were seated immediately, and all the servers were nice and friendly. Hubby ordered a bunch of dishes, and here are DS's and my ratings versus hubby's: * Molcajete - 3.5/5 (us) and 5/5 (hubby). It looks great, but the meats were a bit subpar. * Mariscada (seafood platter) - 1/5 (us) and 3/5 (hubby). A bunch of fried frozen seafood. Hard pass. * Ceviche de Pulpo - 4/5 (us) and 5/5 (hubby). Pretty good and something I'd order again. * Costillas en Chile (pork ribs) - 1/5 (us) and 2/5 (hubby). Underwhelming all around. Overall, I'd give this meal a 2/5, plus one extra star for the awesome, friendly service. Their chips and salsa are still very good. It's free which is pretty much unheard of in the Bay Area. They're also happy to refill if you ask, and that earns them another bonus star. Hubby really enjoyed this dinner and is already planning to come back with his friends. As for me, this is probably it. read more

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Food was ok , the service was very good the server was very knowledgeable, but they play the happy birthday music so loud I turned my earring aids off and was still too loud to bad,, read more

El Sinaloense - Grilled fish salad - Seafood Near Me - San Mateo, California

First time coming here and had no expectations but I was happily surprised. Every dish was packed with flavor just how I like it. It got pretty busy I kept seeing people coming in and the vibe and energy was fun. The service was good, workers seemed happy got checked in on a few times. Definitely want to try their other dishes once my lent is over. read more

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They have such an amazing team! And their food is quality!! Highly recommend!! I love the skinny margaritas! read more

We gathered here last night to celebrate our friends birthday and the margaritas were free flowing and the food was absolutely yummy! My first time there and brought my tacos home my son ate them up and said they were the best he's had in forever! So I will bring my family over soon! Also, the service we had was amazing. I can't remember his name, but he was on point with everything. read more

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Been coming here for ages. Have had birthday parties here. Have brought home anniversary dinners as take out. These people are always friendly. They're always polite and the food is ALWAYS GOOD !! I don't know the secret to happiness but I tell you what - I've never been sad at El Sinaloense !! read more

El Sinaloense - Hehe. - Seafood Near Me - San Mateo, California

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I have eaten here before but this last time I was very disappointed. I ordered the quesadilla for lunch and was given a choice of beef or chicken. Asked if the beef was tender and was assured it was. It was tough and was cooked with red bell peppers.and onions. If there was cheese it was hardly evudebt, I have never had a quesadilla like this before at any other Mexican restaurant so never thought of asking what the fillings were. It was awful read more

They have very good burritos and I love their molcajete. It is so delicious and filling for 2. I usually need more warm tortillas they have yummy chips/salsa and great margaritas! I love how close it is and the food is always consistent. read more

Got a fajita super burrito here and it was delicious! I ordered take out and had a glass of water at the bar while I waited. I declined the chips amd salsa but they looked delicious and next time I am going to try it. The inside was small but cozy. Service was fantastic and super friendly staff. To quote Arnold, "I will be back!" read more

The ambience is your classic authentic Mexican restaurant style with decor from various regions of Mexico. The service is amicable, attentive and quick. The cocktails are mediocre but the food has a quality taste! I love getting their fish fillet in salsa verde and cheese. It comes with this amazing flavorful Mexican white rice with vegetables. They even replace your entrée if they brought you the wrong item and you insist on it bring ok. My bf ordered a cold shrimp cocktail dish and they accidentally brought him a hot version and he insisted it was ok since it's literally the same dish just a different temperature. Well they humbly insisted on making it right, which I loved and appreciated. My bf definitely enjoyed his meal more when they corrected it. We've actually even gotten their chips and salsa in large quantities for parties since their salsa is sooooo delicious. There's street parking here so sometimes when it's busy it's gets difficult because you have to look for a while but every time we've come we've found parking within 10 minutes! read more

Lovely people, friendly service, Great food. I had the Chile rellenos but all the dishes ordered by my family were great.

The food had a home made style cooking. It's also a treat to be able to have delicious margarita. Thank you. read more

I had a bad impression of the burrito. The tortilla was wrapped extremely loose, which made the burrito basically fall apart half way through. The flavor of the meat was good and the beans were good as well but looseness of the tortilla made it difficult to grab hold of without breaking apart. I may try again down the road and hopefully it'll be better. read more

El Sinaloense - Carne asada Super Burrito - Seafood Near Me - San Mateo, California

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Wonderful dinner yesterday at El Sinaloense. The owner provided personal service, the atmosphere was fun with World Cup soccer on the TV, and we had four delicious plates of food such as my fajita quesadilla. Our most favorite item just might have been the salsa that comes free with chips. This salsa is smoky and delicious and has NO CILANTRO (which I don't like). All in all it was a very nice meal. read more

Friendly servers and fabulous food! The best birthday celebration place! Our go to Mexican restaurant.

I've been here four times to give them a fair chance since friends recommended it. I HATE when servers don't write the orders down. It doesn't impress me, even when you get the order correct, but especially when you get the order wrong. Two out of four of my orders were wrong. One time they tried to gaslight me by telling me I'd ordered something else and I definitely did not. The food has been mostly good, except for the chalupa, which was truly awful. The prices are pretty expensive. Time to try somewhere else. read more

Good food and great service. The seafood is excellent as is any non-seafood dish, they also have a good happy hour with drink specials.

I want recognize Julio, for his great service and great food here. The presentation here are awesome and over the top. Highly recommend this place. Look for Julio! read more

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A hidden gem in san mateo!! I ordered the Molcajete and the Fajita Sinaloense and the waiter complimented me both times by saying "goodness amazing orders". Which was hilarious because he didn't say that to the rest of my coworkers. The service is quick, the portions are big, food is delicious. If you enjoy seafood I highly recommend! Pro tip: They celebrate birthdays hard, they will dim the lights and sing happy birthday for a few mins I swear. read more

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They have a very unique menu. The civiche and molcajete are incredible. The queso fundido with sausage is amazing. The atmosphere is festive and the staff are incredible. I love coming here. read more

The absolute best mariscos in CA. Always fresh & clocked to perfection. The staff is always friendly including the owner Mario. read more

El Sinaloense - Ceviche mix with - Seafood Near Me - San Mateo, California

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My wife and I came to El Sinaloense for a quick meal, and although the staff was mostly nice, the owner's behavior completely changed the experience for us. While I stepped out to move our car, Mario Perez approached my wife in a way she felt was inappropriate. To make matters worse, I overheard employees making comments about Mario hitting on beautiful women and saying they wondered what his wife Sonfeti would think. That kind of behavior is sleazy, unprofessional, and unacceptable from someone running a business. Because of this, we will not be coming back. read more

I'm disappointed in my order. I've been ordering from this place for years now. The past couple of times I've ordered, they have been a disappointment. I only order again hoping for a better result. I ordered super burrito, al pastor. Super burrito comes with meat, rice, beans, guac and sour cream. I cut my burrito in half and all I see is rice and beans. I understand the guac has onion and tomatoes in it, but these onions are so big, that's all I taste in a bite. I don't taste the sour cream and WHERE IS THE MEAT??? It seems like they added only a PINCH of meat. I remember when their burritos were equally portioned. read more

El Sinaloense - Super Burrito - Seafood Near Me - San Mateo, California

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Best Mexican restaurant we have tried in a long time. Prices are not cheap but good quality is good. Highly recommend this restaurant!

I ordered food online through one of its options, ChowNow. After 5 minutes of not receiving an email confirmation but being charged for the food I walked over to the restaurant to ask. Appearantly they no longer accept orders from ChowNow, they are unsure what happened. Offered no apology or explanation on why I got charged from that system if they no longer work with them. Employee asks what would I like to order?!!! I don't know how about my money fo the other order. I walked out angry. If there website leads me to order from ChowNow it is on them to update their site. It was going to be my first time trying there food, looked forward to a mole burrito but went elsewhere instead. I work 2 blocks away but don't plan to return. read more

We came here for lunch on a Wednesday. The server gave us chips and salsa right away. We ordered shrimp burrito and super burrito. Both of them were delicious . Definitely will come back to try other food on the menu. read more

Great food! I go there very often! Chipotle lime tacos are amazing and the vampire burritos!

We reserved a table for 11 of us. We were celebrating our mother's 75th birthday. We had a great experience at this place. It's nothing fancy but the food was very good. We all enjoyed the food. The service was also good. Julio made us feel welcomed and was very attentive. if you're having a Birthday there, they sing Happy Birthday to you in a special way. Prices are also reasonable. I highly recommend this place for a great time and hearty Mexican food. read more

This place is popular! Even at 5pm on a weekday, there are a lot of people here. Plenty of Hispanics here enjoying the food and drinks so you know it's good! We ordered the taco plate with asada, the super burrito, and the churro desert. All were good! The asada tastes barbecued so it has a little bit of a smoky flavor you may enjoy. The churro dessert was enough for 2 people and it came with chocolate sauce and ice cream. I'm picky about salsa, rice and beans, but I do like their salsa and beans here. I've had better rice. The soda here is fantastic; just the right amount of syrup and fizz! They also made sure to quickly refill my empty cup. All in all, the food has good, rich flavor. read more

El Sinaloense - Super burrito - Seafood Near Me - San Mateo, California

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We just finished eating an amazing tuna dish at El Sinaloense. We give it 5 stars! They just recently added the dish to the menu. read more

El Sinaloense - Brand new delicious tuna special dish which we give 5 stars. - Seafood Near Me - San Mateo, California

I got the combination plate with 3 items Chile relleno, chalupa and taco dorado ‍10/10 read more

El Sinaloense - Menu - Seafood Near Me - San Mateo, California

Super friendly and always do accommodating! We've been coming here for years and Mario is always the best host. Truly makes you feel like family. We came here after work with a group of 24 people. Mario took everyone's order without writing it down. Then did a loop and confirmed everyone's order without missing a beat. We all evolved exactly what we ordered. I was very impressed. I order the molcajete. It was delicious. The doctor margaritas were very good too. Great place to celebrate a birthday! Very festive. read more

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I had the opportunity to visit this restaurant last week as it came highly recommended from a good friend. I ordered the super Carne Asada burrito to my amazement it was the best burrito I've ever had. In particular, the steak was so tender and flavorful you can even taste the flame broil of the meat. The rice and beans were food quality as it didn't taste like cheap old rice and beans. It seemed that everything was fresh. The tortilla was nice and soft. Every bite of my burrito was flavorful and juicy. The super burrito came with fresh guacamole and sour cream in the burrito. It made it extra tasty. I will definitely be back here again soon! read more

El Sinaloense - Chips and Salasa - Seafood Near Me - San Mateo, California

The food is usually delicious. We order from the restaurant many times. Tonight we got the wrong order. It was completely wrong. Very disappointed. read more

I've only ever gotten take out but their chips and salsa are the best. The seafood selection of ceviches, aqua chiles, etc are off the chart. But my favorite is their chimichanga, which you can customize by type (pollo asado, chili Colorado, etc). and their chili relleno. If I'm ordering Mexican food in San Mateo (especially seafood), it's from here. read more