Silver House

Welcome to Silver House, a cherished Chinese restaurant nestled in the heart of San Mateo, California. For locals seeking an authentic taste of Cantonese cuisine, Silver House has become a reliable and beloved dining destination. Situated conveniently at 2224 S El Camino Real, this established eatery offers a comforting and familiar experience for individuals and families alike.

Finding Silver House is straightforward, located right on the main street. While parking directly in front can sometimes be a matter of luck, additional parking options are available in the back alley, ensuring accessibility for diners. If those spots are occupied, street parking is also an option in the vicinity.

Stepping inside Silver House, you'll find a clean and simply decorated environment, creating a relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere. It's a place where the focus is on the food and the company, making it ideal for casual family gatherings or a satisfying weeknight meal. Even on a Sunday night, when the restaurant tends to be busier, the efficient service ensures a pleasant dining experience.

What truly sets Silver House apart is its dedication to consistently delicious Cantonese dishes. According to enthusiastic customer reviews, the menu boasts a variety of flavorful options that cater to different palates. A standout favorite appears to be the fried eggplant, lauded for its exceptional crispiness and taste, making it a hit with everyone at the table.

For those craving classic noodle dishes, the Chow Fun at Silver House comes highly recommended, described as excellent. Another staple in any Chinese restaurant experience is the Wor Wonton soup, and Silver House delivers a commendable version, brimming with a generous assortment of meats and flavorful wontons. However, some diners have noted that the serving bowls for the soup might be a tad small to comfortably hold all the ingredients.

Younger diners seem to particularly enjoy the shrimp crispy chow mein, which is reported to be quite good. The preparation style results in noodles that aren't uniformly crispy throughout, a characteristic that some appreciate as part of its unique texture.

Seafood lovers will find delight in the salt and pepper shrimps, which are consistently praised for their crispiness and excellent taste. The salt and pepper treatment extends to other items as well, including chicken wings, tofu, and fish, all of which have garnered high praise and often necessitate multiple orders for larger groups.

For those seeking more savory and unique flavors, the Beef with bitter melon is a must-try. Customers rave about its deliciousness, noting that the bitterness of the melon is surprisingly subtle, complemented by a fantastic sauce. The eggplant hot pot is another flavorful option, offering a rich and satisfying taste experience.

A testament to the tastiness of the dishes is the Kung Pow chicken, which reportedly disappears quickly once served. While one reviewer noted the absence of peanuts in their serving, the overall flavor profile clearly leaves a positive impression.

Beyond the delectable food, Silver House is also recognized for its reasonable pricing, making it an accessible option for regular dining. The service consistently receives accolades for being attentive and fast, contributing to a positive and efficient dining experience. One particularly heartwarming anecdote highlights the chef, Mr. Wang, going the extra mile by adding extra meat to a customer's leftover takeout, showcasing a personal touch and commitment to customer satisfaction.

The long-standing patronage of Silver House, with one reviewer mentioning visits spanning over 20 years, speaks volumes about its consistent quality and appeal within the San Mateo community. While some minor changes have occurred over time, such as the discontinuation of soup on a particular day and the absence of dessert, the focus remains firmly on the enjoyable food.

For those looking for specific dishes beyond the mainstays, the steamed tofu is a popular item, often ordered by showing a picture, indicating a willingness to cater to specific preferences. The fact that customers often order multiple servings of favored items like the salt and pepper dishes and steamed tofu underscores their popularity and quality.

Whether you're looking for a reliable spot for a family meal, a satisfying individual craving for Cantonese flavors, or a place where you can enjoy good food and conversation without the hustle and bustle of a crowded venue (especially on a weeknight), Silver House Chinese Restaurant offers a welcoming and consistently enjoyable dining experience in San Mateo. Its combination of delicious food, attentive service, and reasonable prices makes it a local gem worth discovering and revisiting.