Hillsdale - San Mateo, CA Area Guide

The Hillsdale neighborhood emerged during the 1940s and 1950s. Much of the credit for its development goes to David Bohannon. As a powerful developer, Bohannon sparked residential, cultural and commercial growth in the area. One of his major accomplishments includes the construction of the Hillsdale Shopping Center, which sits directly in San Mateo. The area boomed in the 1940s, but since then, no major shifts have occurred.

Although no arts scene or museums exist directly in Hillsdale, many surround the area. With the city of San Francisco a mere 35 minutes away, plenty of museums and artistic venues lie within a short distance. Many Hillsdale residents also attend the annual San Mateo County Fair. From food vendors to a petting zoo, there is something available for all ages. Live entertainment rocks the fair, and it's a great way for people from surrounding neighborhoods to come together.

Directly in Hillsdale, residents enjoy the fast-food chain restaurants Jersey Mikes. For those looking for fine dining, the surrounding areas provide several options for every craving.

Known for the best Shanghai food in the peninsula, Little Shanghai attracts return customers. Try the xiao long bao or the Shanghai noodles. The Shanghai fried pork buns make a tasty option as well. If you don't feel like dining in, order a carryout.

Do you have a craving for some seafood? Try The Fish Market, located in San Mateo. The atmosphere, service and food keep locals coming back for more. Order the sea bass with tomato basil and roasted vegetables or the Dungeness crab cocktail, which makes mouths water. The smoked fish platter is an excellent option for those looking to share a meal among four people, and the cheesy garlic bread makes a great side.

Who doesn't love Mexican food? Head to Fernando's Mexican Restaurant for authentic Mexican cuisine. Start off with the tortilla soup, then order the enchiladas for the main course. Wash everything down with a tasty margarita, while enjoying the live music of the mariachi band.

Hillsdale sits close to several nightlife options. Downtown San Francisco's nightlife scene rocks out to the wee hours of the morning, so if you're looking to bar and club hop all night, head to the heart of the city, 30 minutes away. Closer to Hillsdale, those in search of nightlife tend to hit nearby bars and pubs. Many enjoy Ryan's Sports Bar in San Mateo. With a full bar, shuffleboard, pool tables and flat-screen TVs to watch favorite sporting events, locals frequently head to this venue.

Residents also enjoy sipping on a cocktail at Steamies, which lies very close to the Hillsdale Caltrain station. Cheap drink prices and free darts attract locals. Shoot pool for only $1 per game, and munch on some free popcorn while watching your favorite sports team on one of the plasma televisions. On occasion, Steamies provides live musical entertainment.

A variety of transportation options await residents of Hillsdale. One Caltrain Station, which connects to Samtrans bus routes, sits directly in the neighborhood. A free shuttle operates between the Hillsdale Caltrain Station and the Campus Drive vicinity. Hailing a cab to get to the surrounding areas is fairly easy, and Uber also services the area.

Many people prefer to drive their own vehicles, as affordable and free parking lies in the area. Residents also walk or bike when possible. Although few biking paths exist, safety is not a concern if biking on the street.

Some amazing parks lie just outside Hillsdale. West Hillsdale Park in San Mateo offers hours of entertainment for kids and families. The playground provides clean, safe swings and slides. A basketball court also lies on the grounds. Have a picnic in the large open lawn area or at one of the picnic tables. Bring the pooch for the off-leash dog program from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

For those looking for some exercise, head to Laurelwood Park in San Mateo, where hiking trails lead to Sugarloaf Mountain. Hike, run or walk on these beautiful trails. After all of that exercise, enjoy a scenic picnic. Bathrooms and water fountains lie directly on the property. Annually, Laurelwood Park hosts the Dachshund Picnic. Whether or not you own a dachshund doesn't matter, as locals just head out for the family fun. The event also accepts voluntary donations for dachshund rescues. For everyone's safety, leave any aggressive dogs at home as, this is a kid- and family-friendly event.

Hillsdale proves to be an affordable place to live in the San Francisco vicinity. The cost of living is 4 percent less than the San Mateo average and 6 percent less than San Francisco. Compared to the national average, the cost of living is 69 percent greater.

Renters pay around $1800 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. A beer at a local pub costs $9 on average, and gas prices rank 9 percent higher than the national average. In order to get to the city center via public transportation, Caltrain one-way passes cost $3.25, and an all-day unlimited pass costs $6.50.

Named after Hillsdale, but located right outside, in San Mateo, lies the Hillsdale Shopping Center. Nordstrom, Michael Kors and Macy's classify as the higher-end stores. Forever 21, H & M and White House/Black Market provide well-known clothing and accessories.

For boutiques and specialty stores, residents venture out to nearby San Mateo. Sweet As Honey Boutique serves as a local favorite. Find unique, stylish and chic women's clothing for all body types. The boutique also sells beautiful jewelry from San Mateo resident Kimberly Jo Vogel. Her leather and rhinestone cuff bracelets are stunning.

Hourglass Boutique features women's clothing, jewelry and accessories not found in typical chain stores. From cute dresses to dazzling pendants, this boutique offers items to spice up your wardrobe. With friendly service and reasonable prices, you can't go wrong shopping here.

Safeway and Whole Foods Market in San Mateo are the grocery stores closest to Hillsdale. For all of your food, beer and wine needs, both stores have the everyday staples you desire. Although no farmers markets lie directly in Hillsdale, locals enjoy a short drive to San Mateo Farmers Market. Selling the freshest fruits and vegetables, this market does not disappoint. On site, the Brioche Bakery sells a wide variety of pastries and freshly baked bread. Buyers can also purchase flowers, honey and olive oil at various stands. While shopping, enjoy the free musical entertainment provided.