Johnston's Saltbox

Appearances are deceiving: a killer restaurant with a unassuming outside appearance but opens up to a truly special experience with an abundant indoor and outdoor backyard space. This is absolutely worth the trip to San Carlos to try this tucked away gem of a restaurant near downtown San Carlos. What’s truly special about this place is that it feels like a luxury experience but is surrounded by homes in a peaceful little neighborhood. This restaurant has a high quality rotating selection of breakfast and lunch styled American dishes with a limited selection of craft cocktails to pair with. What really benefits this restaurant is its vibe. The food was great, but on a warm summer or spring day - this place is unbeatable. The restaurant is hidden within in a beautiful San Carlos neighborhood within steps of downtown. The restaurant looks small from the outside, but once you walk in it opens up to a sprawling backyard with plenty of covered tables and dining space. We felt right at home. The food was excellent here. Everything tasted like it was carefully prepared by hand and the flavor was indicative of of restaurant manager who cares about the quality of their food. The menu is seasonal, so I’ll avoid recommending certain dishes. However, we tried 4 separate plates and each was impressive. Highly recommended as one of the best places to eat in San Carlos.

Found a slug in my dish this morning. Didn't even notice until I started eating but I realized after you can actually see it in the photo I took here (zoom into the middle). Staff were friendly enough and let me order something else but it was a little disappointing no discount or comp was offered considering I almost put a slug in my mouth. Pretty hard to regain your appetite after that, or even enjoy the experience. Otherwise I'll say the spot does have good ambience. Food was fine but on the pricey side.

Cute backyard garden seating and fresh rooftop garden-to-table ingredients with a rotating menu based on what ingredients are in season in their rooftop garden. Delicious food, great service, and cute/modern atmosphere. I got the Asian Brisket Bowl, as shown in the picture, and it was very fresh tasting and full of flavor in every bite. I couldn't help but finish every part of the plate.