The Nancarrow family has made their chain of Elephant Bar restaurants a mammoth success story throughout California and the Southwest with a simple formula. They rely on excellent, innovative food, cooked well, at great prices – it's as simple as that. By offering a dynamic menu of American food tinged with fusion influences from all over the world, Elephant Bar has become a popular hangout for locals and visitors alike. The menu is astoundingly vast, with regulars recommending the sweet potato fries, baby back pork ribs, as well as the Ahi tuna appetizer. In addition, there are plenty of options available for vegetarian diners too. Those looking for a deal flock to the bar area during happy hour for price-reduced appetizers, which are very easy to fill up on. The service is competent, and overall, Elephant Bar is a dependable place to go for a quick bite and a tasty drink any day of the week.
Elephant Bar
75 Serramonte Center
Daly City, CA 94015
(650) 985-5665
www.elephantbar.com
Head to Joe's of Westlake for exceptional Italian comfort food served at moderate prices. Since 1956, this family-owned restaurant has been preparing dishes with both heart and skill. Highlights of their menu include succulent charcoal broiled steaks, richly flavored seafood entrees, and pasta dishes made from the finest ingredients. Joe's top-notch wine list offers many tasty options for complementing any meal – no matter you wind up ordering from their delicious selection. This little gem has earned a national reputation for its delectable cuisine, which ranges from perfectly-prepared classics like Chicken Parmigiana to innovative twists on traditional Italian fare, like the restaurant’s delicately sautéed Sweetbreads with Mushrooms. If you don’t have time to sit and savor, they also offer to-go service for both lunch and dinner. Stop in Wednesday through Sunday, and enjoy live evening entertainment in their cocktail lounge. Before you venture out, check the website to learn more about Joe’s of Westlake, and its many notable features.
Joe’s of Westlake
11 Glenwood Avenue
Daly City, CA 94015
650-755-7400
http://joesofwestlake.com/
If it's authentic, they will come – and Banana Island knows that. Crowds regularly pack into Banana Island for lunch and dinner daily, happily waiting for top-notch food. With influences fromThailand, Malaysia and Singapore, Banana Island does not disappoint. Try the roti canal, a fried, flat-grilled flour pancake served with curry, and the pineapple fried rice and mango chicken are famous across the Tri-Valley area. Be sure not to miss the Sarang Chicken, the mango prawns, or the pad thai – all three dishes nail the difficult balance between tangy and spicy. The service is attentive, if a bit slow during the rush, and the faux-tropical motif is fun without being too tacky. Banana Island is a great place for a casual business meeting or date. Also, takeout is available, and parking is free. Check their website for hours and specials.
Banana Island
416 Westlake Ctr
Daly City, CA 94015
(650) 756-6868
www.bananaislanddalycity.com
