A California cuisine restaurant with mediterranean leaning.

Amara

Amara is where the Mediterranean comes to play! A sun-soaked garden, bold flavors, and a vibe that pulls you in and keeps you there. By day, it’s the place for long, lazy brunches and families sharing plates in the shade. By night, the energy shifts, cocktails flow, music hums, and the garden feels like a secret you’re lucky to know. Every dish is crafted from peak-season ingredients, inspired by coastlines and cultures where life moves a little slower and tastes a little better. One visit won’t be enough and that’s exactly how we like it. Our Philosophy Food &amp; Drink At Amara, the food and drink share the same philosophy start with the best ingredients and let them shine. We work with local farms and the weekly farmers market to source peak-season produce, ensuring every plate is as fresh, vibrant, and nourishing as it is delicious. Cocktails follow the same principle, mixed with market-fresh herbs, citrus, and spices into creations that feel inventive yet effortless. It’s quality without pretension, made for people who truly care about what’s on their plate and in their glass. Space Amara is designed to transport a sunlit garden, airy interiors, and cozy corners are perfect for lingering. Inspired by the Mediterranean’s rugged coastlines and warm hospitality, our space blends natural textures, lush greenery, and flowing water to create an atmosphere that feels both polished and inviting. It’s where you can sink in, slow down, and feel like you’ve stepped into another world. Events at Amara From long, lazy brunches to lively Thursday DJ nights, Amara offers experiences as dynamic as its setting. Our garden and private spaces host everything from intimate celebrations to corporate gatherings, while seasonal events like Diwali dinners or chef’s table tastings make every visit feel unique. Whether you’re here for a glass of wine at golden hour or a full evening under the stars, there’s always something to draw you back. Check Happenings to see current

San Mateo County

Bay Area

Belmont

California

Amara is where the Mediterranean comes to play! A sun-soaked garden, bold flavors, and a vibe that pulls you in and keeps you there. By day, it’s...

Samaritan House

For the security guard sleeping in his car. Or the teacher whose emergency room visit put her a month behind on rent. Or the mom working three jobs to make sure her kids have food and clothes. For all who are struggling to make ends meet, Samaritan House is here to help. For over 50 years, Samaritan House has been leading the fight against poverty in San Mateo County. We are the only organization that delivers essential services and personalized support to connect the people living in poverty among us to the full range of resources and services they need. More than just ensuring our clients are fed, clothed, healthy, and housed, we help them create their own stability and remain an active, successful part of the community. Over recent years, more and more families in San Mateo County have been thrust into poverty. From the COVID-19 pandemic, to increasing wealth inequality, to the impacts of inflation and the housing crisis, the financial pressures on our neighbors have grown. Through it all, Samaritan House has been here to help – keeping pace with the demand and opening up new possibilities for people living in poverty. Though the road ahead is uncertain, we remain steadfast to our commitment to helping over 32,000 of our neighbors living in poverty every year. With each action, each conversation, and each new program we develop, we are Fighting poverty. Lifting lives.

Albert Gregory

San Mateo

For the security guard sleeping in his car. Or the teacher whose emergency room visit put her a month behind on rent. Or the mom working three jobs...

owner

Firstly, we will start you off with a delicious homemade vegan dinner and a beverage. Then we get to leatherwork! Yes, you can make a leather crossbody! We choose cute, but simple designs. The result is a bag which you will love &amp; use! We make sure that the classes and designs are accessible for a first timer . You will learn some basic leather work skills and walk about with your very own handmade crossbody bag. Along the way you get to make some key design decisions - on straps, closures &amp; hardware. So the bag you walk away with is unique and yours. The bag itself has a removable strap (choose between leather or guitar strap), and an inside pocket. A choice of colors of high grade leather be available. 30% of the leather we use was previously disgarded, and we strive hard to keep waste to a minimum.

San Carlos

Firstly, we will start you off with a delicious homemade vegan dinner and a beverage. Then we get to leatherwork! Yes, you can make a leather...

High Quality Custom Couches and Sectionals - Made in the USA

Create A Couch

We are a family-owned and operated custom couch store with 20 years of experience. Our couches and sectionals are high-quality, built to last, and made in the USA.

We are a family-owned and operated custom couch store with 20 years of experience. Our couches and sectionals are high-quality, built to last, and...

There is one place San Carlans go to get arguably the best pastrami sandwiches and the most extensive belgian beer selection in the entire Bay Area, and that place is Located on 963 Laurel Street in downtown San Carlos, The Refuge offers sandwiches and beer in a style and at a quality unlike any other restaurant of its kind. Other favorites are the cheeseburger and the cheesesteak, and the Pot de Cream dessert. Beer enthusiasts will cherish this spot as they offer so many different kinds of Belgian beers.   Come check out The Refuge and let us know what you think!

There is one place San Carlans go to get arguably the best pastrami sandwiches and the most extensive belgian beer selection in the entire Bay Area, and that place is

Located on 963 Laurel Street in downtown San Carlos, The Refuge offers sandwiches and beer in a style and at a quality unlike any other restaurant of its kind. Other favorites are the cheeseburger and the cheesesteak, and the Pot de Cream dessert.

Beer enthusiasts will cherish this spot as they offer so many different kinds of Belgian beers.

Come check out The Refuge and let us know what you think!

The Refuge is in this week's restaurant spotlight.

Restaurant Row: The Refuge

Business

Redwood City-Woodside

Foster City

Menlo Park-Atherton

Burlingame-Hillsborough

East Palo Alto

Santa Clara County

Palo Alto

Millbrae

Half Moon Bay

Gilead 357 Lab

What does it mean to stay human in a world shaped by AI?
Join us on May 9 in Foster City for a one-day community event focused on communication, confidence, and connection—skills that matter now more than ever.
Hosted by a local non-profit serving the Bay Area since 1936, this conference brings together speakers and community members for a day of: 
✨ Inspiring talks 
🤝 Meaningful connections 
🧠 Practical takeaways you can use right away
No prior experience needed—open to everyone.
📍 Gilead Sciences, Foster City 
🗓 May 9 | 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
👉 Register here:&nbsp;<a href="https://district4toastmasters.ticketspice.com/district-4-toastmasters-annual-conference" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">district4toastmasters.ticketspice.com/district-4-toastmasters-annual-conference</a>
Bring a friend—this is about growing together.

Local Event: Eras of YOU: Renewing Human Resilience in the Generative AI Era

Eras of YOU: Renewing Human Resilience in the...

What does it mean to stay human in a world shaped by AI?
Join us on May 9 in Foster City for a one-day community event focused...

Eras of YOU: Renewing Human Resilience in the Generative AI Era

SJZ Break Room

Acoustic Sisters is a new duo project of internationally renowned jazz guitarist Mimi Fox and blues/jazz singer Pamela Rose. An intimate evening of duets, steeped in early blues, folk, gospel and original material, the set brings together two long-time collaborators and friends who share unparalleled communication onstage.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Local Event: MImi Fox & Pamela Rose - May 9 San Jose!

San Jose

MImi Fox & Pamela Rose - May 9 San Jose!

Acoustic Sisters is a new duo project of internationally renowned jazz guitarist Mimi Fox and blues/jazz singer Pamela Rose. An...

San Mateo Cars &amp; Coffee will host a special Mother’s Day Edition at AutoVino on Sunday, May 10, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Join the Peninsula car community to admire a lineup of cars, meet local owners, and explore the AutoVino showroom. Lunch will be served in the Wine Garden after the event.
<h2>Bring Mom and the Family</h2>
Celebrate Mother’s Day weekend with more than just cars at AutoVino. Bring Mom or gather friends for coffee and a relaxed stroll among local car displays. Take some photos and enjoy a laid-back morning before your other plans!
<h2>Cars, Coffee, and the AutoVino Experience</h2>
Guests can walk among the cars, watch their arrival, and chat with local owners. The AutoVino showroom and car museum will be open, giving visitors the chance to explore beyond the outdoor event. AutoVino’s resident Labradors, Honey and Daisy, will be there to greet everyone.
<h2>Local Owners and Peninsula Car Culture</h2>
The car lineup varies with each event, showcasing classic cars one morning and modern performance vehicles the next. A highlight is the conversations—owners share their builds, guests ask questions, and families stop for photos, with the cars serving as the main attraction.
<h2>Stay for Lunch in the Wine Garden</h2>
After Cars &amp; Coffee, join us for lunch in the AutoVino Wine Garden. Enjoy wood-fired pizzas from Nate’s 1955 Flxible Bus, charcuterie by Inge, and wine from Woodside Vineyards. Make AutoVino part of your Mother’s Day weekend!
<h2>Plan Your Visit</h2>
Join us for the Mother’s Day Edition of San Mateo Cars &amp; Coffee at AutoVino on Sunday, May 10, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Bring Mom and the family!
After the morning gathering, stay for lunch in the Wine Garden to make AutoVino part of your Mother’s Day weekend.

Local Event: San Mateo Cars & Coffee | Mother’s Day Edition @ AutoVino

San Mateo Cars & Coffee | Mother’s Day Edition...

San Mateo Cars & Coffee will host a special Mother’s Day Edition at AutoVino on Sunday, May 10, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Join...

San Mateo Cars & Coffee | Mother’s Day Edition @ AutoVino

🌸 MOTHER’S DAY IN THE WINE GARDEN

Join us this Mother's Day afternoon at AutoVino for mimosas in the Wine Garden. Enjoy outdoor seating, collectible cars nearby, and food served from our restored 1955 diner bus kitchen.
🥂 MIMOSAS, WOODSIDE WINE, AND FOOD FROM THE BUS DINER
Mimosas will be featured for Mother’s Day, with Woodside Vineyards wines also available throughout the afternoon.
Nate will be preparing wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza from the restored 1955 Flxible Bus kitchen, while Inge serves charcuterie boards, salmon salad, tri-tip sandwiches, and cheeseburgers throughout the afternoon.
🚗 THE AUTOVINO EXPERIENCE
Guests can enjoy the Wine Garden, explore the showroom and car museum, and spend the afternoon in a family- and dog-friendly setting. AutoVino’s resident Labradors, Honey and Daisy, are often nearby to greet guests.
📍 JOIN US THIS SUNDAY
Join us for mimosas, wood-fired pizza, and lunch in the Wine Garden with Woodside Vineyards wine this Mother’s Day at AutoVino.
AUTOVINO WINE GARDEN I 380 INDUSTRIAL ROAD I SAN CARLOS, CA

Local Event: Mother’s Day Mimosas in the Wine Garden at AutoVino

Mother’s Day Mimosas in the Wine Garden at...

 🌸 MOTHER’S DAY IN THE WINE GARDEN

Join us this Mother's Day afternoon at AutoVino for mimosas in the Wine Garden. Enjoy...

Mother’s Day Mimosas in the Wine Garden at AutoVino

San Francisco County

San Francisco

Outbreaks Of Highly Contagious Disease Reach...

The rate of infections in California continues to outpace national trends, affecting more native-born residents than in the past.

Outbreaks Of Highly Contagious Disease Reach Record High In CA

Health & Fitness

Cupertino

How To Get $95 In $250M Phone Settlement: What...

Millions could be eligible for payments following a lawsuit accusing the nation's top cell phone maker of deceptive marketing. 

How To Get $95 In $250M Phone Settlement: What To Know In CA

🌱 Patch AM: Comedy Night with Spice Trade and...

Happening soon: Eras of YOU: Renewing Human Resilience in the Generative AI Era on the San Carlos Patch calendar

🌱 Patch AM: Comedy Night with Spice Trade and 11 more events

Community Corner

San Diego County

San Diego

Visas Canceled For 27 Cruise Ship Workers In...

Authorities boarded eight cruise ships and said they determined that 27 people were involved in the spread of child sexual abuse images.

Visas Canceled For 27 Cruise Ship Workers In Child Sexual Abuse Images Investigation 

Crime & Safety

Across America

What Do You Do If You Find A Lost Dog Or Cat?...

Do you help find the owner or call the pound? Your instinct may be to help, but that’s not always the safest way to proceed.

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Business & Tech

Restaurant Row: The Refuge

The Refuge is in this week's restaurant spotlight.

Kenny Porpora, Patch Staff

Find out what's happening in San Carlosfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Find out what's happening in San Carlosfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

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3 San Carlos Residents Among SMC Death Notices

Eras of YOU: Renewing Human Resilience in the Generative AI Era

MImi Fox & Pamela Rose - May 9 San Jose!

San Mateo Cars & Coffee | Mother’s Day Edition @ AutoVino

Mother’s Day Mimosas in the Wine Garden at AutoVino

Samaritan House

owner

Create A Couch

Amara

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Restaurant Row: The Refuge

The Refuge is in this week's restaurant spotlight.

Kenny Porpora, Patch Staff<img alt="Verified Patch Staff Badge" class="styles_Badge__np_hU" src="https://patch.com/img/cdn/assets/layout/badges/verified-patch-staff.svg"/>

Find out what's happening in San Carlosfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Find out what's happening in San Carlosfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Kenny Porpora, Patch Staff