Welcome to Al Carbon
At Al Carbon, we celebrate the rich culinary heritage of Peru, renowned for its vibrant flavors and warm hospitality. Located in San Mateo, our restaurant specializes in perfectly marinated, free-range rotisserie chicken, painstakingly roasted over mesquite charcoal for a smoky, tender delight. Our revamped menu features popular dishes such as pollo a la brasa and creative combinations that resonate with both traditional and modern palates. Showcasing many vegetarian options, our casual dining atmosphere is perfect for families and friends. Enjoy a unique selection of Peruvian drinks and desserts, while our attentive service ensures a memorable dining experience. Join us for a taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine.
Al Carbon: Reviews & Ratings
They've revamped their menu! I love pollo a la brasa here! I'm Peruvian so I know my Peruvian food very well lol Years ago they had bad quality food. Making fries that were fried with old oil. I could tell because the fries were dark dark. And they would overcook their chickens too. Once in a wild it was a hit. With their revamp menu they offer a dish that is half salchichapapa and half pollo a la brasa which I love! It's the best of both worlds. I stick with chicken because it's their specialty. Their drink offers are also great: sebada and chicha are good options. My mom really likes their gelatin pastry with two different jello flavors and flan, if I'm not mistaken. Parking is a little hard because they always have people but I have still always been able to find parking. The place is small so preferably if you leave close take it home. If you don't live close by, eat there because chicken tastes good when just made and it's hot/warm and not as good as it gets colder- if you know you know.
Best Pollo A la brasa ! We have been customers here for a lot of years , they have amazing great chicken ! Aaron took our order he was very helpful. We have been coming here for years and they chicken is always the same and consistent, very delicious! Love the sauces they have here . They serve real French Fries , freshly made ! This place is a must try!
Great food and service. The Ambiance was nice, and the sauces they gave really complemented the food. Is a good thing I don't live close by or I would be there more often.
Great food I love the taste I will be back again for sure . Service was great nothing to complain about . Chill spot small but good is great that's what counts.
Ive eaten there almost all my life my family likes to go there and theyve really grown with adding more peruvian dishes and even boba peruvian style the owner is nice very talkative but very down to earth.
Peruvian cuisine reflects local practices and ingredients including influences mainly from the indigenous population. Al Carbon which literally translates to "to cook over coal" offers authentic Peruvian cuisine in Downtown San Mateo. They are not a fancy restaurant but a hole in the wall style casual eatery. They are famous for their roast chicken and it has won several awards. We ordered: Drinks: Marucaya Aguas Fresca - Passion Fruit drink Chicha Morada Aguas Fresca - Purple Corn drink. Food: Pollos a la Brasa - Peruvian Rotisserie Chicken - so yummy so juicy. Even the breast meat was soft & tender. Salchipapas - Traditional Peruvian dish with thin cut sausage, potatoes and eggs. This was really good. Empanadas - the meat inside had so much flavor and the pastry was flaky. They didn't have ceviche or tamales so those will be for another time. We also ordered traditional fries, sweet potato fries, yucca fries and fried plantain on the side. All the fried stuff was so good. The fried plantain was the best. Dessert: Alfajores - Shortbread sandwich cookies with Dulce de Leche - we have had these before, they are so yummy we got a box Arroz Con Leche - rice pudding with raisins - wasn't my favorite, maybe we were expecting something better. Overall Peruvian food is good. We still have to try a few other dishes so will definitely give this place another try.
Location
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602 E 4th Ave Ste C San Mateo, CA 94401 United States Hotline: (650) 544-4687
Welcome to Al Carbon, a gem of Peruvian cuisine nestled in San Mateo, California. This vibrant restaurant combines traditional flavors with a contemporary feel, offering an exceptional dining experience for both locals and visitors alike.
At Al Carbon, the heart of the menu is the celebrated Pollo a la Brasa. This marinated, free-range rotisserie chicken is slowly roasted over mesquite charcoal, imparting a unique smoky flavor that will transport you straight to the streets of Peru. The options range from a whole chicken served with two sides to tantalizing combos like A Lo Pobre—a quarter chicken paired with crispy French fries, fried plantains, and a fried egg, all for just $21.25. Each dish is thoughtfully accompanied by aji sauces, a signature element of Peruvian cuisine.
But Al Carbon is more than just its famous chicken; it's a true celebration of Peruvian culinary heritage. The Peruvian Breakfast selections, such as the savory pork or chicken bread rolls, bring a taste of home for those familiar with the cuisine. For families and groups, the ambiance is casual and inviting, making it a perfect spot for dining in or taking advantage of their delivery and takeout options.
The reviews from patrons echo the restaurant’s growth and dedication to quality. Customers rave about the consistency and deliciousness of the chicken, praising the careful preparation and the fresh, real French fries served alongside. One regular mentioned, “They've revamped their menu!” highlighting the continuous efforts to improve and expand the offerings. This commitment is evident as they now provide a variety of vegetarian options, catering to diverse dietary preferences.
Al Carbon doesn’t just stop at food; it also fosters a welcoming environment. With features like outdoor seating, heated patios, and a dog-friendly policy, it's a relaxed place to enjoy a meal. The staff, often noted for their courtesy and attentiveness, enhance the dining experience, ensuring every visit is memorable. Happy hour specials and diverse drink offerings, including refreshing chicha and decadent desserts, keep both the food and the spirits high.
In summary, whether you're craving the best Pollo a la Brasa in town or looking to explore the rich flavors of Peruvian cuisine, Al Carbon is definitely a must-visit. With their passion for excellence and community, this restaurant thrives on creating delightful culinary experiences.
For those ready to take a culinary journey, visit them at 602 E 4th Ave Ste C, San Mateo, CA 94401, or give them a call at (650) 544-4687 to place an order. Experience the essence of Peru right in your neighborhood!
