Afternoon Tea, Restaurant Updates, and Local Tax News

Updates on the Bay Meadows developments, Foster City taxes, and restaurants in the area, plus a new learning academy for our kids!

Good morning neighbors!

Welcome to this week’s San Mateo Scoop! Your latest local update is here, packed with news, events, and fresh spots to explore around the local community!

Whether you’re here for the latest events, new restaurants, or community updates, I’m excited to keep you connected and in the know. Let’s dive in! 👇

In this week’s edition:

🏗️ Bay Meadows Development Nears Completion: Residential units, office spaces, parking, and more to come

🎓  New AoPS Academy Opening in San Mateo: Enroll now to help your kids get ahead in advanced math and language arts reasoning!

🌭 Wursthall Closing After 7 Years: What that means for Wunderbar and Backhaus

🌶️ Weekend playbook: events, outdoor movies and concerts, a fire department chili cook-off, and more! 

The Art of Problem Solving is opening a new learning center in San Mateo!

1886 S Norfolk St, San Mateo, CA

Advanced students like yours join AoPS Academy in order to:

 Get ahead and excel in advanced math and language arts during the school year.
 Explore topics with a deeper focus on real-life problem solving, not just formulas and templates.
 Join a local community of advanced problem solvers ready to tackle anything.

To provide the best learning experience at the right level of challenge, enrollment begins with a consultation. This process gives us time to get to know you and figure out the right-fit course for your student(s) based on their learning goals.

Our first school year starts on September 14th. We'd love to see you for the grand opening! To learn more and start the admissions process, click here. 

Click here to feature your business in front of over 10,000 local residents!

The latest in San Mateo local news

🏗️ Bay Meadows Development Nears Completion
The Bay Meadows redevelopment in San Mateo is approaching its final phase, transforming the former racetrack into a vibrant, transit-oriented community. This mixed-use project includes residential units, office spaces, retail areas, and public parks, all designed with sustainability in mind.

The development is expected to enhance local infrastructure and provide new amenities for residents and visitors. Completion is anticipated in the coming months, marking a significant milestone in the area's growth. Read more here.

💰 Foster City Rejects Proposed Tax Hikes
In a recent city council meeting, Foster City officials voted against proposed tax increases aimed at funding various public services. The decision reflects the community's concerns over potential financial burdens.

City leaders are now exploring alternative funding options to support essential services without imposing additional taxes on residents. The council's commitment to balancing fiscal responsibility with community needs remains a priority. Read more here.

Wursthall to Close Its Doors After 7 Years

310 Baldwin Ave, San Mateo

Wursthall, a German-inspired beer hall in downtown San Mateo, is set to close on September 27, 2025, after seven years in operation. Founded in 2018, the restaurant gained acclaim for its house-made bratwursts, sauerkraut, and diverse drink offerings, including local and German beers. Despite early success, the general manager cited declining social drinking habits and challenging business conditions as reasons for not renewing the lease.

The restaurant also housed a basement speakeasy, Wunderbar, since 2021; the owner hopes to keep it running by subleasing the space to new tenants. Wursthall will be replaced by a new Korean restaurant in the near future after their lease expires. Be sure to visit one last time to before Wursthall closes their doors at the end of the month! Read more here. 

Treasure Paws Thrift Grand Opening 

1127 Chula Vista Ave, Burlingame

Treasure Paws Thrift Store opened its doors on September 13 following the transition from the former Pick of the Litter Thrift Store. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Treasure Paws is dedicated to supporting animal welfare in the community. In partnership with the Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA (PHS/SPCA), the store donates 10% of its gross revenue to PHS/SPCA's Hope Program, which assists the most vulnerable animals in San Mateo County . The store offers a variety of gently used clothing, housewares, and other items, with all proceeds benefiting animal care and community programs. For more information or to donate items, visit here.

Preston’s Candy & Ice Cream x Javier Confectionery

1170 Broadway Ave, Burlingame

Preston’s Candy & Ice Cream, a cherished family-owned shop in Burlingame, has been delighting customers since 1946 with its handcrafted chocolates and nostalgic ice cream flavors. The shop's old-school charm is evident in its checkerboard floors and vintage signage, creating a warm, retro atmosphere that locals adore. Signature treats include the bubblegum ice cream filled with chewy pieces, raspberry swirl with a chocolate hard shell, and rich almond barks. The friendly staff offers generous samples, ensuring every visit is a sweet experience. Whether you're in the mood for a classic scoop or a unique candy, Preston’s remains a beloved destination for all ages! Learn more here.

By the Teashore Brings Tea Shop to Half Moon Bay

724 Main St, Half Moon Bay

By the Teashore opened its doors August 26th, bringing traditional British tea and comfort foods with a modern flair. Their soft opening menu will be smaller, but features elevated dessert-inspired dishes like their Custard-Baked French Toast with Vanilla Chai Spice, while their lunch menu features some British-inspired dishes like bangers and mash, and lamb shepherd’s pie, plus vegan options like lentil soup with sage. Their tea menu is traditional, featuring classics like cream cheese and cucumber, curried chicken, and egg salad sandwiches and boasting over 20 loose leaf tea options. 

Set in a 1903 house-turned-restaurant, By the Teashore blends traditional Victorian design with Art Deco decor. Their heated patio is also dog-friendly, making it a year-round destination, no matter the weather. By the Teashore is open from 8am - 3pm, with afternoon tea reservations available from 11-1:30pm. Read more here.

Real Estate Pulse

ASPCA Available Pets of the Week!

Meet Ranger! He’s nearly two, weighs 55lbs, and is a Redbone Hound mix. He’s a sweet boy, with young, athletic energy.

Because he has a bit of energy, he would probably do best in a house with kids 10+ while he learns more manners.

If you’re interested in learning more about him, click here!

Meet Biscoff! She’s a 4yo Pitbull mix that weighs 55lbs. She’s friendly, sweet, and loves to play with both humans and dogs. She loves taking sniffaris and long walks. If you think that might be fun, click here to learn more about Biscoff!

 

🦉 First Friday at CuriOdyssey | at CuriOdyssey | San Mateo | 9/05 | More 
Music, food trucks, animals, and science fun for the whole family.

🎬 Movies in the Park | at Central Park | San Mateo | 9/05 | More 
Outdoor movie screening under the stars with family-friendly vibes.

🎸 Rock the Block | at Hillsdale Shopping Center | San Mateo | 9/05 | More 
Live music and community fun at Hillsdale’s outdoor plaza.

🍺 Hops and Props | at Hiller Aviation Museum | San Carlos | 9/06 | More 
Craft beer tasting set among vintage aircraft displays.

🌶️ San Mateo Fire Department Chili Cookoff | at Central Park | San Mateo | 9/06 | More 
Friendly competition heats up as local fire department teams serve up chili favorites.

🍸 Fogbird’s Cocktail Class | at Fogbird | San Mateo | 9/06 | More 
Learn hands-on mixology skills in a fun, guided class.

🃏 Trading Card & Collectibles Expo | at Crowne Plaza SF Airport | Burlingame, CA | 9/06–9/07 | More 
A weekend celebration of trading card games featuring over 100 vendor tables with Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Funko Pop, anime collectibles, and more

🎵 Harringtunes | at Burton Park | San Carlos | 9/07 | More 
Free Sunday afternoon concert featuring live local music.

🌸 Gardening Class – Begonias | at San Mateo Arboretum | San Mateo | 9/07 | More 
Learn how to grow and care for beautiful begonias.

AoPS Fall Open House Event 9/11/25

🎓 AoPS Academy Fall Open House | AoPS Academy San Mateo | San Mateo | 9/11 | More
Meet the directors and learn about 2025–26 programs in drop-in sessions from 5–7 PM.

🎤 September Nights on B Street | at B Street | San Mateo | 9/11 | More 
Outdoor music, food, and fun in downtown San Mateo.

🍷 Mom's Night Out at Rouge Lounge | at Rouge Lounge | San Carlos | 9/11 | More 
A social evening out for local moms with drinks and mingling.

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