Rand McNally announced the winners of the 2013 Best of the Road competition naming San Mateo as the BEST Small Town for Food.  The diversity of food establishments combined with the ongoing amount of community support set San Mateo apart from other participating towns and impressed Rand McNally’s panel of judges – thus securing us the win!

Here’s what the judges had to say, “San Mateo won us over with the diversity of its culinary options and with all its online activity, which showed strong community support for the restaurateurs. The town clearly has ‘something for everyone’ and is dedicated to providing its patrons with the best.”

Building community support was a key factor in winning the competition.  During the finalist round from September 9th through September 27th, Facebook likes increased by 114% totaling 651 and 63 community members posted reviews about their favorite dining experiences and restaurants at www.bestoftheroad.com throughout the duration of the competition. The San Mateo community was in full support of the Best Food initiative and demonstrated an unparalleled level of enthusiasm for all San Mateo has to offer.

Food is embedded in the DNA of San Mateo.  The town boasts an amazing 350 food establishments, featuring Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin, European, Classic American and dynamic fusion cuisines.  There’s something for everyone in San Mateo. Whether you’re an adventurous eater or prefer traditional cuisine – you’ll find that restaurants and specialty food stores consistently deliver on service, taste, and value.  Your appetite as well as your appreciation for warm, friendly service will be satisfied.

With this win comes the opportunity to promote San Mateo as a food destination nationwide.  The prize package provided by Rand McNally is valued at $45,000 and includes a variety of online, digital, mobile and editorial features in Rand McNally’s travel and trip planning products.  This along with potential spinoff opportunities can provide an additional marketing value of $300,000.  A video tour featuring San Mateo’s food industry produced by the City in partnership with Cameron Washington of Russian Hill Projects jump starts the promotion of San Mateo as a food destination. http://www.bestoftheroad.com/contest#best-for-food.

San Mateo has every reason to be proud of this accomplishment and the City looks forward to celebrating this victory together. "I can't describe how proud I am of our city," says Marcus Clarke, Economic Development Manager, "the hard work of City staff, quality businesses, and support from the community is what makes San Mateo such a great place to live, work, and play.  Our collective efforts are now highlighted on a national level.  Congratulations San Mateo!  Thank you all so much!"