Top Brunch Spots Near Redwood Shores, CA

By Carmen Miranda, San Mateo County Real Estate Expert

One of the many lifestyle perks of living in Redwood Shores, CA is how effortlessly you can transition from peaceful waterfront mornings to a vibrant brunch scene just minutes away. Whether you’re meeting friends after a walk along the Bay Trail, hosting visiting family, or exploring the neighborhood before an afternoon open house, the Peninsula offers exceptional brunch destinations within a short drive.

As a San Mateo County real estate expert, I always tell my clients that real estate is about more than square footage—it’s about lifestyle. And when you live in Redwood Shores, that lifestyle includes access to some of the most highly rated brunch spots in Redwood City, San Carlos, Belmont, and Foster City.

Here are some of the top brunch destinations currently in business and beloved by locals.

Located in downtown San Carlos, Town is a consistently highly rated restaurant known for its elevated American cuisine and lively weekend brunch. Just about 10 minutes from Redwood Shores, it offers a refined yet welcoming setting perfect for a relaxed Saturday or Sunday meal.

Brunch favorites include brioche French toast, house-made pastries, and expertly prepared egg dishes. Town also features craft cocktails and an inviting patio space, making it a popular gathering place for Peninsula residents. For homeowners in Redwood Shores who appreciate walkable downtown charm nearby, Town is a standout choice.

A long-standing favorite in downtown Redwood City, Stacks is known for generous portions and creative pancake flavors. It’s a go-to brunch destination for families and groups who want classic breakfast comfort food done well.

Menu highlights include ube pancakes, banana macadamia nut pancakes, and hearty breakfast burritos. The casual, upbeat atmosphere makes it a reliable weekend option for Redwood Shores residents looking for a laid-back brunch experience close to home.

Johnston’s Saltbox has earned strong reviews for its warm hospitality and thoughtfully crafted brunch menu. Located in downtown San Carlos, this spot blends modern California flavors with comfort-food classics.

Guests rave about the avocado toast, smoked salmon dishes, and seasonal specials. With its polished yet relaxed interior and attentive service, it’s an excellent choice for a slightly more elevated brunch outing without venturing far from Redwood Shores.

While widely known for its signature pastrami sandwiches, The Refuge also offers a popular weekend brunch menu that draws diners from across San Mateo County. Situated conveniently in San Carlos, it provides both indoor seating and a lively atmosphere.

Brunch options include hearty egg plates, house-made sausages, and indulgent sides. For those who enjoy bold flavors and generous portions, this is a dependable and highly rated destination near Redwood Shores.

Angelicas in downtown Redwood City is well regarded for its Latin-inspired cuisine and vibrant ambiance. Its weekend brunch features dishes like chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, and flavorful brunch cocktails.

Housed in a historic building, Angelicas adds architectural charm to your dining experience. For Redwood Shores homeowners who enjoy combining culture, cuisine, and a lively downtown setting, this is an excellent brunch option.

For those who prefer to stay within the Redwood Shores community, Waterfront Pizza offers a relaxed weekend brunch menu in a scenic setting. Overlooking the water, this neighborhood favorite provides a casual atmosphere ideal for residents who want to enjoy brunch close to home.

With egg dishes, breakfast plates, and outdoor seating, it’s a convenient and enjoyable option that reflects the laid-back elegance of Redwood Shores living.

Located in nearby Belmont, Iron Gate is a highly rated restaurant known for its inviting patio and well-executed brunch selections. Diners appreciate its fresh ingredients and balanced menu, which includes omelets, pancakes, and savory brunch plates.

Belmont’s proximity to Redwood Shores makes Iron Gate a natural extension of the local dining scene, offering variety without a long commute.

Access to exceptional dining is a meaningful part of lifestyle-driven home buying. When I work with buyers considering Redwood Shores real estate, we often talk about the surrounding amenities—waterfront trails, top-rated schools in the Belmont-Redwood Shores School District, proximity to Highway 101, and vibrant downtown districts just minutes away.

Being able to enjoy a scenic morning walk along the lagoons and then head to brunch in San Carlos or Redwood City adds to the community’s appeal. These lifestyle conveniences strengthen long-term desirability and contribute to the sustained value of homes in Redwood Shores.

For sellers, proximity to beloved local restaurants and entertainment districts is also a powerful marketing advantage. Highlighting nearby dining hotspots helps potential buyers envision daily life in the neighborhood.

Most of these restaurants are within a 10- to 15-minute drive, making them easily accessible for residents.

For popular spots like Town and Johnston’s Saltbox, weekend reservations are highly recommended due to strong demand.

While Redwood Shores itself is primarily residential, it offers local dining like Waterfront Pizza. Nearby downtown areas in San Carlos and Redwood City provide more extensive brunch options.

Many, including Town and Iron Gate, offer patio seating—ideal for enjoying the Peninsula’s mild climate.

Lifestyle amenities, including highly rated restaurants and vibrant downtown areas, enhance a community’s overall appeal and can positively influence long-term real estate value.

Living in Redwood Shores, CA means enjoying waterfront tranquility while staying connected to the energy of the Peninsula’s best dining and entertainment. From casual pancake houses to elevated California cuisine, brunch near Redwood Shores reflects the diversity and vibrancy of San Mateo County.

If you’re considering buying or selling in Redwood Shores, I would love to help you explore not only the homes, but the lifestyle that makes this community so desirable. Connect with me, Carmen Miranda, and discover how Redwood Shores real estate can align with the way you truly want to live.