Burlingame Avenue: The Heart of Downtown

Burlingame Avenue is the walkable, tree-lined main street that gives this city its charm. You browse beloved boutiques, linger over coffee, and dine remarkably well, all on a few graceful blocks just steps from the Caltrain station. Here is how to make the most of it.

What is there to do on Burlingame Avenue?

Burlingame Avenue offers a mix of independent boutiques, gift shops, and standout restaurants across about five blocks between El Camino Real and California Drive. Shop at longtime favorites like Morning Glory and Therapy, then dine on Peruvian seafood at Limón, Northern Italian at Stella, or soup dumplings at Dumpling Kitchen & Bar. It is flat, walkable, and easy to reach by Caltrain.

Where to Shop

The Avenue rewards browsers. These independent shops keep locals coming back.

Morning Glory

1436 Burlingame Ave · Women’s fashion

A woman-owned institution that has dressed the Peninsula for more than five decades, with curated, slightly-edgy pieces and famously warm, no-pressure service.

Therapy

1348 Burlingame Ave · Gifts & apparel

A joyful, browse-for-hours shop packed with one-of-a-kind gifts, home goods, and a clothing section in back. The perfect stop when you need a present, or a little something for yourself.

Sam Malouf Authentic Luxury

1460 Burlingame Ave · Luxury fashion

An exquisite collection of top-tier Italian tailoring and designer pieces you will not find anywhere else on the Peninsula, with attentive, personal fittings.

francesca’s

1235 Burlingame Ave · Boutique

A small, well-edited boutique for cute, stylish clothing, accessories, and gift-friendly jewelry, easy to pop into mid-stroll.

Where to Eat

From a quick counter lunch to a special-occasion dinner, the Avenue and its side streets deliver.

Limón

1101 Burlingame Ave · Peruvian · $$

Vibrant Peruvian seafood, rotisserie chicken, and a celebrated pisco sour. Reserve ahead, the dining room fills fast.

Stella

1448 Burlingame Ave · Italian · $$$

A cozy, refined Northern Italian room beloved for special occasions, with memorable short ribs over buttery polenta and a standout chocolate crunch cake.

Dumpling Kitchen & Bar

1125 Burlingame Ave · Chinese · $$

A downtown gem for soup dumplings, scallion oil noodles, and pan-fried buns, with a surprisingly full bar and a lively corner view.

Urban Kitchen

1152 Burlingame Ave · Fast-casual · $$

A bright, healthy-leaning counter spot for bowls, salads, sandwiches, and burgers, right next to the Caltrain station and great for groups.

Insider Tips

Arrive by Caltrain and skip the parking hunt entirely. The Burlingame station sits right at the foot of the Avenue.
Street and garage parking fills by midday on weekends. Come before 11am for the easiest experience.
Pair shopping with an early dinner reservation, since the best tables book up on Friday and Saturday nights.
Many side streets like Lorton and Primrose hide additional shops and restaurants worth a detour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there parking on Burlingame Avenue?

Yes. There is metered street parking plus several public lots and garages a block off the Avenue. Spaces fill quickly on weekends, so arriving before late morning helps, or take Caltrain to skip parking altogether.

How do I get to Burlingame Avenue by train?

Caltrain’s Burlingame station sits right at the foot of the Avenue, making it an easy car-free trip from San Francisco or the South Bay. The shopping district begins steps from the platform.

What is Burlingame Avenue known for?

It is known for its walkable, tree-lined blocks of independent boutiques, gift shops, and well-regarded restaurants, anchored by longtime local businesses and an easy, small-town atmosphere.

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