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Porterhouse Reviews List
Porterhouse
The renowned art of dry aging finally arrives in San Mateo, as our new dry aging window is now completed. We are proud to be the only restaurant on the Peninsula (In between San Francisco & San Jose) to have an in-house dry aging facility.
Our new menu featuring these marvelous cuts of beef is now available. Tasting menus featuring these exceptional steaks will also be offered.
To accompany your steak, our Wine List celebrates the acclaimed wines of Napa Valley, Willamette Valley, France and Italy. In addition to our steak and chop offerings, our Chef provides for a daily selection of fresh fish and seafood.
Whether you are having a romantic dinner, entertaining some friends and family, having a business meeting, or hosting a private party, we will provide you with the ideal setting for your next outing.
See more Porterhouse details
Our new menu featuring these marvelous cuts of beef is now available. Tasting menus featuring these exceptional steaks will also be offered.
To accompany your steak, our Wine List celebrates the acclaimed wines of Napa Valley, Willamette Valley, France and Italy. In addition to our steak and chop offerings, our Chef provides for a daily selection of fresh fish and seafood.
Whether you are having a romantic dinner, entertaining some friends and family, having a business meeting, or hosting a private party, we will provide you with the ideal setting for your next outing.
58 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4
/
5
Rating Breakdown 58 reviews
5 stars
(23)
4 stars
(21)
3 stars
(8)
2 stars
(4)
1 star
(2)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
3.8
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- neighborhood gem(26)
- special occasion(20)
- good for groups(16)
- romantic(14)
- fit for foodies(13)
- notable wine list(10)
Porterhouse Reviews List
Review 1 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Not as exciting or vibrant as Town Restaurant, but the food is better!"
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 2 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
HORRIBLE SERVICE IMPOLITE RECEPTION
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I made a reservation at 7:30pm and arrive ontime, but the reception told me they are running late, so will have 15 min wait. I just sat down and wait. I checked back after 15 min, and she told me there was no table available and DON'T KNOW HOW LONG TO WAIT! I want to leave but most restaurant around is full on Sat night, and my lit' one enjoyed the iPhone so much. So I stayed.
After 45 mins, I finally got sit down, but story not ended. WE SAT FOR 15 MIN without any server showed up, when we asked where is the server, we only heard "He is coming" ... after 20 mins! For the 2 times I talked to the reception, I did not hear a single apologize. When the owner talked to us when we left, I heard no apologize. I will NEVER GO BACK TO HERE!"
After 45 mins, I finally got sit down, but story not ended. WE SAT FOR 15 MIN without any server showed up, when we asked where is the server, we only heard "He is coming" ... after 20 mins! For the 2 times I talked to the reception, I did not hear a single apologize. When the owner talked to us when we left, I heard no apologize. I will NEVER GO BACK TO HERE!"
Dined on 5/11/2013
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Review 3 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Not good!
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"I would not recommend this restaurant for 10 or more people, they put us in their patio area. We were seating on patio furniture for Mother's days. Service was very very slow and not friendly!"
Dined on 5/12/2013
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Review 4 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Prices are high for so-so food
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The restaurant's prices were high - similar to Ruth's Chris without the quality. Service was odd - too fast at times and too slow at others. Side dishes came out after entrees; dessert took forever to come out. Also the decor was a bit down at the heel. Do not recommend for the money."
Dined on 5/12/2013
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Review 5 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Food OK, but still won't come back
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food was OK, nothing overtly bad, but I just didn't feel like they really cared about their customer. It seemed to be all show with no feeling underneath. Yes the place looks gorgeous, the food is good (not bad, not out standing either). I had the prime rib which was cooked to a perfect medium rare, the mixed vegetables were also good & twiced-stuffed potatoes were fine except it seemed a little gummy to me. My friend had the Cowboy (rib steak) which he thought was too thin & salty. I tried a few slices & felt that the sauce was a bit too over powering & gave the impression of being salty. My friend mentioned this to the waiter & all he said was "Hmmm no one has ever said that before" and moved on, he didn't seem to care."
Dined on 5/10/2013
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Review 6 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The Food was excellent and the service was fantastic. Wine list very good and the dry aged steaks were well prepared. Their fixed price 3 course dinner is an outstanding value. We will go again and again."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, romantic, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 7 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I set this up a a business dinner for a large group. The food was outstanding and the service was great. I will definitely have a large group go again or even just a small business meeting"
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: good for groups, special occasion
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Review 8 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Fantastic steakhouse
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Steaks were fantastic. I prefer my steak well done which can dry out the meat and make a chef cringe. The steak was tender and still juicy. The twice baked potato was amazing."
Dined on 04/25/2013
2011
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 9 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Very good steaks - probably
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Very good steaks - probably the best in San Mateo."
Dined on 03/31/2013
2010
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 10 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We were a party of 6 and we
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We were a party of 6 and we were seated in a large comfortable table and had excellent service! The food was good too. When we take our family of 6 (adults) out, more than not, we are crammed into a small table which really distracts from the enjoyment. Porterhouse was very accomodating! Also, the sound level was low so we were able to have a great conversation during dinner."
Dined on 04/18/2013
2011
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 11 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great cocktails and wine list.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great cocktails and wine list. Dry aged steaks are awesome. Cowboy steak also a winner. Missed out on the prime rib. They were out by 7:30 so get there early. Nice that steaks come with sides which is great for a steakhouse. Bread is warm and yummy. Started with Beet salad and onion soup which were both good. Bread pudding was yummy. Service was great and friendly. Definitely a place to hang and not rush through dinner."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2005
Special Features: good for groups, kid-friendly, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 12 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We went for a business dinner;
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We went for a business dinner; had a reservation for 6 people but they were able to accommodate a larger group upon arrival. The food was outstanding. We loved the choice of the Pre-fix menu."
Dined on 04/02/2013
2006
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 13 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We really liked that it was
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We really liked that it was tucked away off the street. The ambiance was very nice; very relaxing. The wait staff was friendly and helpful as well. The pace of the evening was perfect, and our pre-dinner drinks were well made and strong.
My wife and I both had the prime rib which was very good, shared a side of creamed spinach which was delicious, and even the sides of vegetables and potatoes that come with the steak were all very good.
The wait staff was friendly and helpful as well."
Dined on 03/29/2013
2012
Special Features: romantic
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Review 14 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great food, wine, and service!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Looked like a great menu, but they have a 3 course fixed price special (incentive really) that I couldn't pass up. Romaine heart salad was great, nice simple portion. Medium rare, 8oz filet mignon was perfect (I held the bordelaise sauce and simply asked for crumbled blue cheese which was delicious). The included side was a twice baked potato in a clever presentation I've never seen on end before. Chocolate mousse with raspberry ended a perfect meal. Really liked the 2008 bottle of cab from Justin vineyard. Girlfriend had a feast too with the bacon wrapped porkchop - neither of us have ever seen one so large before. She enjoyed the creme brûlée, along with a fresh white peach sorbet (presented as a birthday treat). We'll return!"
Dined on 03/29/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 15 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Everyone in our party of 4
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Everyone in our party of 4 were very pleased!"
Dined on 03/28/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 16 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great for meat lovers-not
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Great for meat lovers-not too much, not too little--just right for satisfying meal--and deliciously prepared."
Dined on 03/23/2013
2005
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Review 17 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The service and food are always
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The service and food are always fantastic!"
Dined on 03/21/2013
2007
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
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Review 18 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Best rack of lamb on the peninsula
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Best rack of lamb on the peninsula without question. Service is attentive, and this is actually a restaurant where you can hear those in your party without having to raise your voice during dinner!!!"
Dined on 03/17/2013
2003
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 19 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
They need a make over. They
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"They need a make over. They also need not to train new young waiters when we pre-requested a two person birthday party through Open TAble, in advance.
Good steaks, just o.k. atmosphere."
Dined on 03/10/2013
2009
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Review 20 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We have been at Porterhouse
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We have been at Porterhouse several times in the last couple of years. Food has been consistently good and service very good. Have introduced it to friends who shared the same experience."
Dined on 03/09/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 21 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Best for Prime rib, Chocolate
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Best for Prime rib, Chocolate Mousse and Creme Brulee. Service is excellent."
Dined on 03/08/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 22 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Monday night was empty with
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Monday night was empty with one other couple there. We were both in the mood for Prime Rib and ordered the only size available - 12 oz. When it arrived, we were surprised and doubted it was anything over 8oz's. When we asked, we were told it is weighed in the kitchen. Well, the scale in the kitchen is way off. Otherwise, food was okay, service was very attentive due to so few diners. Hard to say much else but wonder if the steaks are true to weights listed, we will probably never find out as we have no plans to return."
Dined on 03/04/2013
2003
Special Features: good for groups, special occasion
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Review 23 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
first time here and very much
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"first time here and very much enjoyed it even though I am not a "Beef" person, I truly enjoyed my filet steak. However, it was advertised as 8 oz and it was too small to be 8 oz, more like 6 which is perfect for me anyway. Cooked just how I like it. I ordered it Medium and it came out pink and juicy. Great twice baked potato and a small (very small) amount of sauteed veggies. Could have used a few more of those. Set price of $35.00 included salad, entree and dessert. Good price. Will definitely go back. Service was excellent, they were very attentive but not overly so."
Dined on 03/02/2013
2004
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 24 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Wonderful food and exceptional
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Wonderful food and exceptional service"
Dined on 03/02/2013
2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 25 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Give your review a title (optional)
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Excellent choice for steaks, and dinning atmosphere. Close to S.F. airport yet away from the tourist/hotel experience."
Dined on 02/28/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 26 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We highly recommend Steve
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We highly recommend Steve as your Professional Server - he knows the food, wine list, etc. He is also the epitome of professional yet warm and welcoming. We will be back again soon! Those 1800 degree Sirloin Mushrooms are on the list!"
Dined on 02/13/2013
2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 27 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Made reservations for two
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Made reservations for two and were seated almost immediately after arriving. Being a first time customer, it was a delight to find a quaint and elegant little dining spot, tucked away in the alcoves of San Mateo. Our server with the menus dropped in shortly after we were seated. We chose the Prim Fixe (3-course meal for $35 per person). For appetizers, we ordered the duck spring rolls and the smoked salmon. For entrees, we had the New York steak and Filet Mignon. I had originally ordered the Prime Rib but unfortunately so did everyone else. For dessert, we ordered the Creme Brulee and the bread pudding. Even though our entire meal was awesome, the desserts were the best part! Great service as well."
Dined on 02/16/2013
2010
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
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Review 28 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Lovely looking resturant,
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Lovely looking resturant, quite small and intimate with a full bar...
The steaks are amazing! juicy and tender perfectly cooked, love the Prix Fixe meal,$35.00 for 3 courses, (1 of which is a choice of 2 steaks, primerib, pork chops or Daily fish)is a terrific bargin and every part of it is delicious!
Service we had a young server who was excellent knew when to be at the table and when to leave you alone...
You couldn't do much better at any steak recipe in the area..."
Service we had a young server who was excellent knew when to be at the table and when to leave you alone...
You couldn't do much better at any steak recipe in the area..."
Dined on 02/10/2013
2009
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 29 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
OpenTable First Timer
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"I chose this place bc my wife and I were in the mood for some red meat, and a quiet atmosphere, as compared to most of the loud, close packed table places these days. We first visited this restaurant prior to our marriage, over 15 years ago. The place has changed, but the ambiance is still nice. The prime rib wasn't too bad, cream spinach=salty; my wife enjoyed her filet mignon. For the # of tables, there were more than enough waiters and busboys, yet their service was slow. We always had to wait for or ask for service. However, when asked, they would obliged promptly. The fresh bake bread was a nice touch. The prefixed menu (includes starter appetizer/soup/salad, main entree, and dessert for $35) was appropriate. Total+tip=$130 for two"
Dined on 02/08/2013
2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic
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Review 30 for Porterhouse
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great food! Can't wait to
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great food! Can't wait to return. The premier seating is the way to go. $35 per person for appetizer, main course and dessert."
Dined on 01/19/2013
2012
Special Features: romantic
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Ratings-Only Reviews for Porterhouse
Based on the average of (28) ratings-only reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4
/
5
0 out of 1 recommend this product
Food
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
3.9
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate