Classic bruschetta at Pizzeria Cardamomo.

The fastest way to a person’s heart is through their stomach. We wholeheartedly agree. Being ardent foodies, our team agreed to stop gatekeeping Silicon Valley’s best kept epicurean secrets. These recommendations will be exclusively available in Siliconeer and we will keep it 100% real with you.

In this edition of “Bytes of Bites,” we are highlighting elegant hotel bistros in San Francisco to cozy pizzerias on the Peninsula. Each outing has been a chance to unwind, bond, and discover incredible food. Here are two of our most memorable stops along the 101, from San Francisco down to Redwood City.

Fine Dining On A Budget: Campton Bar and Bistro; San Francisco

The Chicken Kathi Roll — spiced chicken roll with cilantro and mint spread, served with crispy fries.

Tucked inside the Taj in San Francisco, Campton Bar and Bistro delivers an elevated Western take on Indian cuisine. Next to the highly rated Bombay Brasserie, Campton Bar and Bistro provides a trailer for the main feature. The atmosphere is unmistakably elegant—think bright lighting, cool and inviting colors, elegant tables, and attentive service.

Veggie Panini

While the menu leans westernized rather than strictly authentic, the flavors are well-executed. We enjoyed delectable and thoughtfully crafted grilled paninis, Kathi Rolls, salads, and coffee. Oh, the fries and chutney were also great pairings.

From Lake Como, With Love: Pizzeria Cardamomo; Redwood City

A vibrant spinach salad with crumbled goat cheese, blackberries, and a delicate herb vinaigrette.

Pizzeria Cardamomo in Redwood City was, quite simply, a revelation. Tucked in the streets of Redwood City, which is known for… well, nothing, Pizzeria Cardamomo may very well be one of the best restaurants we have ever set foot in. 

A delicate pear and herb white pizza.

From the moment we walked in, the warmth of the space, happy servers, “candlelit” tables, and the aroma of fresh Italian fare set the stage. Chef Momo and owner Sarika visited every table and shared their love and passion for food with diners. They ensured every visit was special and left a lasting impression. The culture instilled could be seen as the staff went above and beyond. Kirti, our server, gets special mention for making us feel right at home. 

The Sarika Pizza, loaded with mushrooms, roasted peppers, and bubbling cheese on a crust that’s crispy yet impossibly soft.

Now to the food. Divine. It is the only word that does justice. Our recommendation is to try anything on the menu. It is bound to be delicious. Feeling a Cannoli? Go for it! Which Bruschetta to choose? Go for one of each! A salad, pasta or pizzas? Yes, please! Our top recommendation is the Sarika Pizza. Carefully curated toppings on a crispy crust that simply melts and releases an explosion of flavors. 

Every item on the menu is meticulously crafted and it is served in the most generous and relaxing manner.

 

All photos: Janam A. Gupta/Siliconeer