From exceptional places to stay and shop to new cocktail and craft brew venues, the coastal community offers plenty of winter thrills.
The new Ritz-Carlton features unforgettable views of the water.
NEW DINING
Cioppino at The Conservatory.
Chef de cuisine Juan Pablo Dominguez arrives with more than 10 years of kitchen cred from top resorts and restaurants in Dubai and Los Cabos. Expect elevated global cuisine, as Dominguez puts his stamp on Mexican, European and Middle Eastern-inspired dishes. 1 Miramontes Point Road, 650.712.7000
By-the-sea Peruvian characterizes the fine dining spot that has relocated and set up shop in a two-story glass pavilion. With one Michelin star under his belt, founder and chef Carlos Altamirano helms the restaurant on Pillar Point Harbor. 260 Capistrano Road, 650.728.1600
Hankering for great dishes like squid ink risotto or pappardelle with wild mushrooms? Point a culinary compass toward this northern Italian eatery. Owner and chef Pablo Estrada brings experience gleaned from San Francisco’s prestigious restaurants, including Campton Place and Restaurant Lulu. 315 Main St., 650.342.4922
Get a Hawaiian fix with a rice bowl of kalua pork and barbecue chicken musubi. Save room for a coconut cream cupcake and shave ice. 523 Main St., 650.726.2182
Barterra Winery, a new downtown venue, features Italian varietals and outstanding food—including Bubbles and Scones on Sundays.
NEW SIPS
The recently opened distillery will soon produce a variety of spirits, including gin, vodka, whiskey and a moonshine dubbed Half Moon Shine. In the meantime, its Swell Lounge—a metal bar cart created from an abandoned coffee trailer— serves delicious drinks. Citrus trees and pots of herbs serve double duty: decorating the outdoor area and becoming ingredients in creative cocktails—we love the Beach Trail Bingo. 155 Broadway, 650.291.8835
Order a wine flight at this new downtown salon, where the owners specialize in Italian varietals, including Barterra’s award-winning pinot noir. Listen to guitar ballads on Fridays, and enjoy Sundays’ Bubbles and Scones. 315 Main St., 650.712.1635
A rotating slate of craft beers and Latin-inspired cuisine from partnering Lamas Restaurant are the recipe for a perfect date on Hop Dogma’s patio. The microbrewery’s cozy tap room features standup comedy the second Thursday of every month. 270 Capistrano Road, 650.560.8729
Hop Dogma Brewing Co. is a fine choice any night of the week, especially for comedy on the second Thursday of the month.
Unwind inside this rustic winery with a glass of cabernet or imbibe outside in the garden. Sample the new crop of cheeses, meats, spreads and breads from neighboring purveyors. 12341 San Mateo Road, 650.726.9463
Burlingame’s new mercantile shop, Jupiter & Main, offers a world to explore.
WINTER STAYS
What can be more romantic than being serenaded by a bagpiper while gazing into the sea? When guests book the Cozy Coastal Getaway, they get the bagpiper, figuratively speaking, plus a terrace room with outdoor fire pit, a Nipomo blanket and a s’mores kit to share with your sweetheart. 1 Miramontes Point Road, 650.712.7000
Bagpipers salute another day at the Ritz-Carlton.
Perched on the water’s edge, the elegant, all-suite hotel sizzles with fireplaces in every room. This winter, reserve the Coastal Romance Enhancement package where the Beach House Cupids will stock your abode with Champagne on ice, Champagne flutes and chocolates. 4100 Cabrillo Highway N., 650.712.0220
NEW SHOPS
All the women’s clothing and accessories come from eco-ethical vendors, and the thoughtful space is curated with care. Think vegan handbags, sustainable togs and cruelty-free skincare and bath products. 345 Main St., 650.729.3100
The Signature Suite at the Ritz-Carlton.
Garden Apothecary Corner Garden
Patrons will discover a flora paradise, as this spot sells plants, earth-laden gifts and even local teas. Take note: Botanist-formulated skincare goods are created in-house. 601 Main St.
Duck into this new mercantile shop honoring local artisans and smallbatch makers. Discover wood-wick soy candles, shaving sets, recipe books, photography and more. 432-B Main St., 650.889.3001
Photography by: Photography by: FROM TOP: PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BRANDS; PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BRANDS; PHOTO BY KARSTEN WINEGEART/UNSPLASH; PHOTO BY KARSTEN WINEGEART/UNSPLASH; PHOTO: COURTESY OF JUPITER & MAIN; PHOTO: COURTESY OF THE RITZ-CARLTON; PHOTO: COURTESY OF THE RITZ-CARLTON.
