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- ⛸️ Outdoor Ice Skating, a New Tavern, and Reducing Natural Gas Use
⛸️ Outdoor Ice Skating, a New Tavern, and Reducing Natural Gas Use
Plus tasty San Mateo Restaurants and events in November
Greg Kemper
November 13, 2025
In partnership with
Good morning neighbors!
Welcome to this week’s San Mateo Scoop! We have exciting updates for you this weekend including an update on applicants for San Mateo Sheriff, a new tavern in Crystal Springs, plus events throughout November to check out!
Let’s dive in!
In this week’s edition:
🚔 San Mateo County Sheriff Updates: The applicants and timeline
🏯 Hillsborough Estate Listing
🛍️ Weekend playbook: Holiday Lights, Head West Market, and more
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⛽️ Initiative launched to curb natural gas use
Cities across San Mateo County and the greater Bay Area are renewing efforts to reduce reliance on natural gas in buildings after previous programs were paused due to legal challenges. Local officials are considering new building codes and incentives to encourage the use of electric appliances and renewable energy systems.
The initiative aligns with statewide goals to cut greenhouse gas emissions and promote cleaner energy sources. Supporters say the plan could lower long-term costs and improve air quality, while critics are calling for flexibility to address infrastructure and affordability concerns. Read more here.
🚔 Seven applicants step forward for San Mateo County sheriff role
Seven people have applied to fill the vacant San Mateo County sheriff position following the removal of Christina Corpus amid misconduct allegations. Among the candidates is the brother of Palo Alto Police Chief Andrew Binder, along with several experienced law enforcement officials. The county’s Board of Supervisors will decide whether to appoint a new sheriff or hold a special election to fill the post. The process is drawing significant public attention as the county seeks to restore trust and stability in the department. Read more here.
Crystal Springs Tavern Opens
Tucked near the heart of San Mateo at 742 Polhemus Rd, Crystal Springs Tavern offers a welcoming New American bistro experience where you’ll find everything from house-made pastas to gourmet takes on comfort fare. The menu highlights items like a dry-aged tavern burger with Havarti and burnt-onion aioli and a house-made bucatini cacio e pepe. With its well-crafted cocktails and inviting ambiance, it makes for a smart choice whether you’re heading out for dinner or drinks after work. If you’re planning a special night, the steak-frites and dessert lineup look especially appealing.
Palette Tea Garden
Palette Tea Garden in San Mateo serves contemporary Cantonese cuisine in a sleek, colorful space that feels lively and modern. The menu features standout dim sum, live-seafood dishes, and signature Cantonese roast meats, along with inventive drinks. Guests appreciate the high-energy atmosphere and detailed presentation that make each visit memorable. The restaurant is part of the acclaimed Koi Palace restaurant group and carries its reputation for quality into a more modern setting. It’s a go-to destination for gatherings, celebrations, and casual family meals alike.
Taste & Glory
Taste & Glory in San Mateo is a cheerful brunch spot that blends Asian-inspired flavors with classic American breakfast favorites. Diners can enjoy creative options such as croffles, crab cake Benedict, and mascarpone pancakes with berries. The bright, airy interior and friendly service make it a welcoming place to start the day. With vegan and vegetarian selections available, it caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. It’s especially popular on weekends, so early arrivals are recommended for the best experience.
⛸️ San Mateo On Ice – Holiday Ice Rink | Central Park | San Mateo | 11/14–1/11 | More
Outdoor skating season runs Nov 14, 2025–Jan 11, 2026—check the calendar for themed nights and daily session times.
🎰 Bingo! | Elks Lodge | San Mateo | 11/14 | More
Enjoy bingo, snacks, coffee and good company at the Elks Lodge.
🛍️ Head West Marketplace | South B Street | San Mateo | 11/16 | More
Shop from local artisans and makers at this open-air marketplace celebrating creativity, community, and craftsmanship.
🎁 Holiday Marketplace | Mission Trails Regional Park Visitor Center | San Diego | 11/15–11/16 | More
Shop local makers in a scenic park setting—free admission, cashless purchases, 9 AM–3 PM both days.
✨ Merry & Bright Preview Night | Filoli | Woodside | 11/21 | More
Be among the first to experience Filoli’s magical holiday lights and festive displays during this special evening preview.
🚂 Gilded, Thistlewyck, and Holiday Lights | Filoli | Woodside | 11/22 -1/11| More
Tiny trains, big cheer, and endless wonder await at Filoli’s holiday light display, running through Jan 11.
🎄 Tree Lighting Ceremony | Hillsdale Shopping Center | San Mateo | 11/21
Ring in the holiday season with live music, family fun, and the lighting of the grand holiday tree at Hillsdale.
🎁 Holiday Craft Faire | Twin Pines Park | Belmont | 11/22 | More
Find handmade gifts and seasonal treasures from local crafters in a cozy park setting perfect for holiday browsing.
🚁 Helicopter Turkey Toss & Hunt | Hiller Aviation Museum | San Carlos | 11/26 | More
Kick off Thanksgiving with an aviation twist—watch turkeys drop from a helicopter and join the family-friendly turkey hunt.
💎 International Gem & Jewelry Show | San Mateo County Event Center | San Mateo | 11/28–11/30 | More
Discover stunning gems, fine jewelry, and unique pieces from exhibitors around the world during this three-day event.
🛒 Small Business Saturday | San Mateo | 11/29 | More
Support local businesses while enjoying special promotions and giveaways throughout downtown San Mateo.
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