Looking for a neighborhood-style dining experience with a warm but polished feel? Look no further than Farm House, 1301 Sixth Ave, located in Belmont. This small business is the perfect combination of local sourcing and intimate atmosphere, making it quite the hidden gem.
Farm House has a rich history and a story full of ups and downs. Originally, this quaint restaurant was a sandwich shop named “Beli Deli.” This shop closed in 2015, and in its place, many years later, a different restaurant opened, named Farm House in 2018. The original owners, Allan and Katie Chong, founded this place in hope of bringing the Belmont community together with food and company. Later in 2024, ownership changed when Katie decided to sell the restaurant to new ownership; however, the new owners, Edgar Bonilla, Diana Rodriguez and Martha Rodriguez, are still maintaining the integrity of the food through seasonal menus and dishes.
The ambiance at Farm House is one of its most unique features. The venue feels like a renovated building, including exposed brick walls and casual seating arrangements with low-level lighting. Another seating option is the outdoor patio with a heated pergola and string lights, both pet-friendly and inviting. This vibe invites a variety of customers from casual business dinners to brunch with friends. Additionally, the walls are covered with local artwork made by other small businesses and individual artists, further promoting the community feel of the restaurant.
Bonilla stated that his favorite part about operating a business in Belmont was the community. “I believe that the community here in Belmont is a very tight-knit community. I used to be in San Mateo . . . but it’s grown so much in the past 10 years. I think Belmont still has that neighborhood vibe almost everywhere. We’re surrounded by big streets, but having [our restaurant] here on this corner makes it special for me.”
One highlight of the menu was the Parmesan Truffle Fries with Green Herbs, which is a great starter to share with others while also being gluten-free and vegan. A generous portion for $14.00, this appetizer is sure to please the whole family.
Another great bite was the Pistachio Arugula Pesto Pasta, which was a warm, nutty and inviting dish that was nicely complemented by the manchego and parmesan cheese. At $26.00, this is a full plate that practically guarantees a satisfying meal and leftovers to take home.
The best meal of the evening was the special: Beef Stroganoff over Gnocchi for $35.00. This dish was packed full of flavors that embody richness and comfort. The portion size was perfect, and it was nicely complemented by an array of mushrooms and other vegetables. Overall, this plate was delicious, and we would definitely recommend it when it’s on the menu.
One of the most inspiring parts of this establishment is the fact that they get all of their ingredients from sustainable farms that focus on organic and fresh produce. Most of their vendors are from the Bay Area, including Belmont, San Carlos, Redwood City and San Mateo.
Another aspect that is inspirational is that the restaurant’s menu rotates depending on the season. It brings in comfort food in the colder months and seasons and focuses on more fresh and lighter ingredients in the spring and summer. Personally, I have never experienced a restaurant that does something like this, and I think it is an amazing idea to highlight the seasonal and impressive dishes that the Farm House menus have to offer.
The only nearby parking available is street parking, and reservations are likely needed on weekends.
Located within walking distance of NDB, be sure to check out Farm House for a tasty bite to eat and a comfortable yet refined setting perfect for practically any occasion.
