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- 🛍️ Downtown San Mateo's Local Marketplace Returns this Weekend!
🛍️ Downtown San Mateo's Local Marketplace Returns this Weekend!
Plus more on a new development approved in San Mateo
Greg Kemper
March 19, 2026
Good morning neighbors!
Welcome to this week’s San Mateo Scoop! We have news about San Mateo schools named to California’s distinguished list, the fate of Burlingame’s eucalyptus trees, plus stand up comedy, and more events this weekend!
Let’s dive in!
In this week’s edition:
City Updates: Featured San Mateo schools named to California’s distinguished list, and the fate of many Burlingame’s eucalyptus trees
Business Updates: Peninsula Ballet Theatre to close and train rides in Foster City
Events: HEAD WEST Marketplace returns and local stand up comedy!
HEAD WEST Marketplace returns to downtown San Mateo this weekend!
South B Street in San Mateo
HEAD WEST Marketplace is back in Downtown San Mateo after its winter break, once again transforming South B Street into a lively open-air marketplace filled with Local Makers, Crafters, Artists, Designers and Vintage. With the street closed to cars, it creates a fun, family-friendly atmosphere to shop small, support local and enjoy live music!
HEAD WEST takes place on the 3rd Saturday of each month from March through December, making it a great weekend outing downtown. Learn more here!
Burlingame’s Eucalyptus Tree Removals Stir Strong Emotions
In Burlingame, long known as the “City of Trees”, the removal of hundreds of eucalyptus trees has sparked frustration and sadness among residents. City officials say the trees pose safety risks due to age, disease, and falling limbs, especially along corridors like Eucalyptus Avenue and near Hillside Drive.
Many locals, however, feel the removals are happening too quickly and without enough community input, arguing the trees are part of the city’s identity. The situation highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing public safety with preserving neighborhood character. Residents may see continued tree work in the coming months as the city evaluates other aging groves. Read more here.
San Mateo Faces ‘Tax Shock’ Over Genentech Refund
Officials in San Mateo are grappling with a major financial hit after learning that biotech giant Genentech is set to receive nearly $20 million back due to a tax reassessment. The refund stems from a successful appeal over property valuation, significantly reducing expected city revenue. Leaders warn this could impact budgeting for services and infrastructure if similar appeals follow.
The situation has also raised broader concerns about reliance on large corporate taxpayers. Residents may feel downstream effects if the city adjusts spending or explores alternative revenue sources. Read more here.
San Mateo County Schools Named to Distinguished California Schools List
Just over 400 schools were named to 2026’s California’ Distinguished Schools list, which recognizes exceptional schools that distinguish themselves on the basis of exemplary student outcomes for all students. Of those, 3 were from our local area: Crocker Middle School (Hillsborough), Central Middle School (San Carlos), and Tierra Linda Middle School (San Carlos). Read more here.
Peninsula Ballet Theatre to Close After Almost 60 Years
The Peninsula Ballet Theatre has announced it will shut down, marking the end of a long-standing arts institution on the Peninsula. Based in San Mateo, the company has been a cultural fixture, known for performances like “The Nutcracker” and community programming. Leadership cited financial challenges and shifting arts funding as key reasons for the closure. The loss is significant for local arts lovers and aspiring dancers who relied on its training and performances. Read more here.
Vacant San Mateo Lot Approved for New Development
A long-empty parcel in San Mateo located near North Delaware Street and Monte Diablo Avenue has been approved for a new residential development. Plans call for a multi-unit housing project aimed at helping address the area’s housing shortage. City officials see the project as an opportunity to revitalize an underutilized space while adding much-needed homes. Neighbors have expressed a mix of support and concerns, particularly around traffic and density. For locals, this development signals continued growth and change in the neighborhood landscape. Read more here.
Kiddo’s Chu Chu Train Rides Coming to Foster City Parks
Family-friendly entertainment is rolling into Foster City as Kiddos Chu Chu launches regular train rides in local parks. Starting April 1, the trackless train will appear every Wednesday evening (5–8 PM) during the Off the Grid food truck event at Leo Ryan Park. Beginning in May, expanded weekend operations will run Fridays through Sundays at both Leo Ryan Park and Coyote Point Recreation Area, continuing through the summer and early fall. The trains can carry up to 25 riders and are designed for young families and community events. For locals, this adds a recurring, kid-friendly activity to the Peninsula’s growing lineup of outdoor activities.
Proposal for Housing Above Safeway Grocery Stores
A new housing concept could bring apartments to an unexpected place: above grocery stores. Safeway and housing developer Align Real Estate are exploring mixed-use projects that would add residential units on top of existing supermarket properties across the Bay Area. The idea is to make better use of large retail parcels while keeping the stores open at street level. Supporters say this approach could help address the region’s housing shortage without requiring entirely new development sites. If projects move forward on the Peninsula, familiar neighborhood shopping centers could gradually transform into mixed-use hubs where people live and shop in the same location. Read more here.
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Cajun Bowl in San Mateo
168 E 4th Ave, San Mateo
Cajun Bowl brings bold Louisiana-inspired flavors to the Peninsula with a fast-casual, customizable approach. The menu centers on seafood boils, where diners can choose from shrimp, crawfish, crab, and more, paired with house sauces and spice levels. Popular options include garlic butter shrimp and Cajun fries, alongside hearty combo platters. The restaurant leans into Southern influences while keeping things approachable and quick. It’s a casual spot that highlights the growing popularity of seafood boil concepts in the area.
Johnny’s - San Mateo
7 North B Street, San Mateo
Johnny’s, a well-known Half Moon Bay favorite, is expanding its presence into San Mateo. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and comfort-driven menu, Johnny’s serves dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and fresh seafood with a beach-town influence. The expansion brings a taste of Half Moon Bay inland, maintaining its casual, community-focused vibe. Regulars often associate the restaurant with hearty portions and approachable classics. Its arrival adds another familiar, locally rooted option to San Mateo’s dining scene.
🛍️ HEAD WEST Marketplace | San Mateo | South B Street | 3/21 | more
Shop local makers, vintage finds, art, and food in an outdoor market in downtown San Mateo with sections of B Street closed off for a family-friendly atmosphere!
Bay Area eTc Summer Camp Registration is Open | more
Love to sing, dance, and act? Join the Bay Area eTc this summer in an exciting performance experience where theater professionals teach young actors. Starting 6/22
😂 Stand Up at the Lounge | San Mateo | Sky Lounge | 3/20 | more
Enjoy a night of laughs with live stand-up comedy in a relaxed lounge setting—perfect for an easygoing evening out.
🚂 Bay Area Garden Railroad | San Carlos | Hiller Aviation Museum | 3/21 | more
Explore intricate model trains running through detailed landscapes in this engaging exhibit that delights visitors of all ages.
🌌 Starlab Planetarium | San Carlos | Hiller Aviation Museum | 3/21 | more
Step inside a portable planetarium for an immersive journey through the stars, perfect for curious kids and adults alike.
🐾 Animal Field Day | Burlingame | Crystal Springs Farm | 3/21 | more
Spend the day outdoors meeting animals, enjoying activities, and experiencing hands-on farm fun for the whole family.
🎶 Music at Kohl – WindSync | Burlingame | Kohl Mansion | 3/22 | more
Experience a live performance by WindSync in an elegant setting, featuring a dynamic blend of classical and contemporary chamber music.
🎉 Teen Fair | Foster City | The ViBE | 3/22 | more
Teens can explore new ways and opportunities to volunteer at this engaging community fair.
🍕 Pizza with a Purpose | San Mateo | California Pizza Kitchen | 3/23 | more
Dine for a cause at this special event where proceeds support the Peninsula Humane Society. Mention the Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA during your visit.
🏃 Airport Runway Run (2K/5K/10K) | Hiller Aviation Museum | San Carlos | 4/12 | More
Run, walk, or stroll on the actual San Carlos Airport runway in this unique family-friendly race—and register early, because it sells out every year.
🛍️ Swap Meet | San Mateo | Laurel Elementary | 4/12 | more
See flyer above for details for a local Swap Meet at Laurel Elementary. Register by 4/6!
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