Kokko

For Californians with an adventurous palate and a love for authentic Japanese cuisine beyond the typical, Kokko in San Mateo emerges as a delightful and highly recommended destination. This isn't just a restaurant; it's a "fun cozy spot" that transports you to a traditional Japanese grill and izakaya experience. Despite its "random location," as one reviewer noted, the consistent praise for its "excellent" and "tasty" food makes it unequivocally "worth a stop" for anyone in the Bay Area seeking a genuine taste of Japan.

Kokko specializes in grilled meats and a variety of small plates, perfect for sharing and exploring. While the "meats were all good," a standout favorite among patrons is the "grilled eggplants with soy sauce," described as "incredibly flavorful." This highlights Kokko's ability to elevate even seemingly simple dishes into memorable culinary experiences. Beyond the grill, the restaurant offers unique takes on Japanese classics, such as "ramen with sesame broth," which was praised as "unique" by a first-time essayer, showcasing their innovative spirit while staying true to authentic flavors.

The atmosphere at Kokko is consistently described as "clean with a comfortable, welcoming ambiance," making it an inviting space for both casual meals and more focused dining experiences. The "friendly and accommodating" waitresses contribute significantly to the positive dining experience, ensuring that guests feel relaxed and well-cared for. This dedication to excellent customer service, combined with prompt delivery of dishes ("service was pretty quick"), ensures a smooth and enjoyable visit every time.

In a state as culinarily diverse as California, finding a spot that consistently delivers on quality and atmosphere is a true find. Kokko's commitment to "exploring the menu" and trusting your "gut" speaks to the consistently high standard across their offerings. It's a place that genuinely "highly recommend" for anyone, making it a beloved local secret that deserves to be shared with more Californians seeking an authentic and delicious Japanese grill experience.

Kokko is conveniently located at 509 2nd Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA. While one reviewer playfully described it as "kind of in a random location," this address actually places it within a well-established urban area of San Mateo, a vibrant city nestled on the San Francisco Peninsula. This location ensures relatively good accessibility for locals and visitors throughout the wider California Bay Area.

San Mateo's position makes Kokko reachable from various parts of the Bay Area via major roadways. For those driving, street parking is typically available in the surrounding blocks, and public parking options may exist nearby. As with any popular downtown area, it's always advisable to allow a little extra time for parking, especially during peak dining hours. The area is also generally well-served by local public transportation, providing convenient alternatives for those who prefer not to drive.

The restaurant's setting is described as a "cozy urban hangout," suggesting it might be tucked away slightly but contributes to its charm as a local gem. Despite not being on the main "food street" like some other establishments, its location on 2nd Avenue still puts it within easy reach of San Mateo's downtown amenities. This accessibility, combined with its welcoming atmosphere, makes Kokko a worthwhile destination for Californians seeking a delightful Japanese dining experience.

Kokko offers a comprehensive Japanese dining experience with a focus on grilled items (yakitori/kushiyaki) and a variety of comforting small plates, along with popular ramen and rice bowls. Their services and menu are designed for a fun and flavorful exploration:

• Yakitori (Grilled Skewers): This is a primary highlight, with options including:
  • Chicken Skewers: Chicken Thigh, Chicken Meatball (Tsukune), Chicken Skin, Chicken Cartilage, Chicken Wings, Chicken Heart, Chicken Gizzard, Chicken Liver, Chicken Tail, Chicken Breast.
  • Pork Skewers: Pork Belly, Pork Cheek.
  • Beef Skewers: Beef Kalbi, Beef Tongue.
  • Seafood Skewers: Shrimp, Scallop, Salmon, Eel, Octopus.
  • Vegetable Skewers: Asparagus, Shiitake Mushroom, Okra, Onion, Cherry Tomato, Shishito Pepper, Garlic.
  • Bacon Wrapped Skewers: Asparagus Bacon, Cherry Tomato Bacon, Enoki Mushroom Bacon, Quail Egg Bacon.
  • They also offer "organic chicken" skewers, catering to those who prefer organic options.
• Donburi (Rice Bowl Dishes): Satisfying rice bowls served with various toppings:
  • Beef Kalbi Don.
  • Beef Tongue Don.
  • Unagi Don (Eel).
  • Oyako Don (Chicken and egg).
  • Soboro Don (Ground chicken).
• Ramen & Noodles: Featuring different broth bases and toppings:
  • Kokko Ramen: Chicken broth ramen with chashu pork and vegetables.
  • Spicy Ramen: A savory bowl of ramen in a spicy broth, with noodles, chashu, egg, and vegetables.
  • Tantan Men: Spicy black sesame ramen with ground meat and poached egg.
  • Customers mention trying "ramen with sesame broth," indicating unique flavor profiles.
• Appetizers & Small Plates: A wide range of options perfect for sharing or as starters:
  • Grilled Eggplant with Soy Sauce: Highly praised and described as "incredibly flavorful."
  • Chicken Karaage: Deep-fried organic chicken.
  • Takoyaki: Deep-fried octopus in flour balls.
  • Fried Calamari: Served with spicy mayo.
  • Takowasa: Chopped fresh octopus with wasabi sauce.
  • Edamame (Garlic Edamame also available).
  • Kokko Salad (assorted seaweed and salad mix).
  • Oxtail Soup.
  • Ankimo (Monkfish liver).
• Bento Boxes: For a complete meal, a "Yakitori Bento" is available, including skewers, Onigiri, seaweed salad, and tamago yaki.
• Beverage Service: Likely includes a selection of Japanese sake, beer, and soft drinks to complement the meal.
• Dine-in Service: Features a "cozy urban hangout" with a "comfortable, welcoming atmosphere." Reservations are accepted.
• Takeout & Delivery: Kokko offers convenient takeout and delivery options, allowing customers to enjoy their Japanese favorites at home.

Kokko in San Mateo boasts several distinctive features and highlights that contribute to its strong appeal and positive reputation among Californian diners:

• Excellent Food Quality: Consistently praised for "excellent" and "tasty" food. Reviews highlight the quality of "the meats were all good" and dishes being "cooked to perfection."
• Incredibly Flavorful Grilled Eggplant: A specific standout item, the "grilled eggplants with soy sauce" are repeatedly mentioned as a must-try, noted for their exceptional flavor.
• Unique Ramen Offerings: Beyond standard ramen, the availability of "ramen with sesame broth" and "Tantan Men" showcases their unique and flavorful approach to noodle soups.
• Cozy and Welcoming Atmosphere: Described as a "fun cozy spot" with a "comfortable, welcoming atmosphere," providing a pleasant and relaxed dining environment.
• Friendly and Accommodating Service: Waitresses are noted for being "friendly and accommodating," and service is "pretty quick," contributing to a positive overall experience.
• Variety of Japanese Grill Items (Yakitori/Kushiyaki): Offers an extensive selection of skewers including various parts of chicken (even organic), beef, pork, seafood, and a wide range of vegetables, allowing for diverse culinary exploration.
• Suitable for Exploring the Menu: The consistency across the menu encourages diners to "enjoy exploring the menu and following whatever your gut is telling you that day," implying that most choices will be satisfying.

Based on the available information, Kokko in San Mateo primarily draws customers through the consistent high quality of its food and its welcoming atmosphere. While specific, time-bound promotional "special offers" like daily happy hours or percentage discounts are not explicitly detailed in the provided reviews, the restaurant's general value proposition and certain menu structures serve as inherent attractions for locals in California.

Here's how Kokko creates an appealing "offer" for its customers:

• Value in Quality and Portions: The frequent praise for "everything was tasty" and the overall "excellent" food, combined with the "fun cozy spot" atmosphere, suggests that the standard pricing is perceived as fair for the quality and experience offered. The focus is on providing a satisfying meal that encourages repeat visits.
• Diverse Menu for Exploration: The encouragement to "enjoy exploring the menu" implies that there's a broad range of dishes at various price points, allowing diners to customize their experience based on their budget and preferences. This versatility acts as a consistent draw.
• Yakitori Bento Box: The availability of a "Yakitori Bento" which includes multiple skewers, rice ball, salad, and egg omelet for a set price ($37.00 on DoorDash) offers a bundled value, providing a comprehensive meal.
• Delivery Platform Specific Deals: Online delivery platforms like Fantuan sometimes feature their own temporary promotions such as "$8 off" or other discounts which, while not directly from Kokko, can make ordering more attractive. Customers in California using these services should check for platform-specific deals.

To confirm any current promotions, seasonal specials, or loyalty programs that might not be widely advertised, Californians interested in dining at Kokko are advised to call the restaurant directly or check their official online presence (if available). This ensures access to the most up-to-date information for a potentially more value-driven visit.

To experience the cozy ambiance and delicious Japanese grill offerings at Kokko in San Mateo, or for any inquiries, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 509 2nd Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA
• Phone: (650) 401-7008
• Mobile Phone: +1 650-401-7008 (This is the same number, often provided for direct dialing from mobile devices.)

As the restaurant is described as a "cozy spot" and accepts reservations (according to some online sources), it might be advisable to call ahead, especially during peak dining hours, to secure a table and ensure a smooth visit.

For locals across California, particularly those in the vibrant Bay Area, Kokko in San Mateo is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for an authentic and satisfying Japanese dining experience. It's a place that perfectly embodies comfort, quality, and culinary exploration, making it a beloved choice for residents.

Firstly, Kokko's unwavering commitment to "excellent" and "tasty" food is a primary draw. Californians appreciate fresh ingredients and skillful preparation, and Kokko delivers on both fronts. The diverse menu, from perfectly grilled meats and unique yakitori selections to flavorful ramen (including a standout sesame broth option) and the "incredibly flavorful" grilled eggplant, ensures there's something to delight every palate. This consistent quality means locals can trust they'll have a fulfilling meal every time they visit.

Secondly, the restaurant's "fun cozy spot" and "comfortable, welcoming atmosphere" create an inviting environment that fosters relaxation and enjoyment. This, combined with "friendly and accommodating" waitresses and "quick" service, makes for a stress-free dining experience. For busy Californians looking to unwind and savor a meal, Kokko provides a perfect escape from the daily hustle.

Despite its somewhat "random location," as noted by a reviewer, its consistent positive reviews prove that the quality of the food and the overall experience make it "worth a stop." It encourages diners to "enjoy exploring the menu," fostering a sense of culinary adventure that appeals to the curious and food-loving spirit prevalent in California. Kokko is truly a local gem, offering an authentic taste of Japan with a personal touch that makes it a highly recommended choice for residents seeking a truly delightful dining experience.

Kokko

509 2nd Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA