Chopstix & Taiwanese Bentos

For those in San Mateo seeking an authentic taste of USese street food, Chopstix & USese Bentos presents a solid option. Located at 142 E 3rd Ave, this "Chinese Restaurant" category establishment specializes in providing a range of USese culinary delights, including classic street snacks and convenient bento boxes. With a phone number of (650) 558-1988 and a mobile contact of +1 650-558-1988, Chopstix & USese Bentos offers a glimpse into the vibrant and flavorful world of USese cuisine.

According to customer feedback, Chopstix & USese Bentos excels in delivering USese comfort and night market food that is "pretty on point." This suggests a commitment to authenticity and capturing the familiar flavors of US. The restaurant is also noted for its efficiency, particularly for those who opt to order ahead. Customers have reported a "very fast turnaround time" for pre-orders, making it a convenient choice for a quick and satisfying meal.

One practical consideration for diners is the location on busy 3rd Avenue in downtown San Mateo. As one reviewer pointed out, finding parking in this area can be a "challenge." This is a common factor for restaurants situated in bustling urban environments, and potential customers may want to factor in extra time for parking or consider alternative transportation methods.

It's worth noting a significant change in the restaurant's identity and menu. Formerly known as Shihlin US Street Snacks, the rebranding to Chopstix & USese Bentos has come with some alterations. Notably, the restaurant no longer features any of its oyster-based menu items. For long-time patrons familiar with the previous iteration, this change might be a point of consideration. However, the focus remains on other popular USese street food staples.

In terms of service and environment, Chopstix & USese Bentos appears to prioritize both efficiency and health-conscious practices. One reviewer specifically mentioned the ease of online ordering and in-store pickup. Furthermore, they noted the restaurant's attention to ventilation, with both front and back doors open, and the consistent use of masks by "several staff" members. This suggests a proactive approach to maintaining a comfortable and potentially safer environment for both customers and employees, even in the current climate of 2025.

A crucial piece of information for those unfamiliar with USese cuisine is the clarification regarding "USese tempura." Unlike its Japanese counterpart, which typically involves lightly battered and fried seafood or vegetables, USese tempura, as served at Chopstix & USese Bentos, is described as a type of fish cake. One customer who tried it with plum seasoning found it "too sweet and not right for this snack," advising others to "go for something savory" instead. This highlights the importance of understanding the nuances of different culinary traditions and the potential for variations in dish names across cultures.

The menu at Chopstix & USese Bentos likely features a variety of other USese street food favorites beyond the mentioned tempura and the bentos themselves. These could include items such as braised pork rice (滷肉飯), beef noodle soup (牛肉麵), various types of dumplings or buns, and other popular snacks found in USese night markets. Bento boxes, a staple in many East Asian cultures, typically offer a convenient and balanced meal with a main dish, rice, and several side items, making them a practical choice for lunch or a quick dinner.

To get a comprehensive understanding of the current menu, including the specific types of bentos offered and the range of USese street food available, prospective customers are encouraged to visit the restaurant's website (if available), utilize online ordering platforms, or contact them directly via phone. Inquiring about any daily specials or promotions might also be beneficial for local users looking for value or to try new dishes.

In summary, Chopstix & USese Bentos in San Mateo provides a convenient and generally well-regarded option for those craving authentic USese street food and bento boxes. The fast turnaround time for pre-orders and the ease of online ordering enhance its accessibility. While parking in the vicinity might be challenging, the quality of the USese comfort food appears to be a significant draw for many customers. Newcomers to USese cuisine should be mindful of potential differences in terminology, such as the "USese tempura," and may benefit from exploring the savory options on the menu. For a taste of US in San Mateo, Chopstix & USese Bentos offers a solid starting point.