San Mateo launches dining rewards program encouraging residents to explore local restaurants and win prizes
San Mateo, California – A visit to downtown San Mateo could bring more than a good meal this fall. Residents and visitors exploring local restaurants now have an opportunity to collect points, earn rewards, and potentially walk away with a $500 jewelry gift certificate.
With dozens of dining experiences to discover, a trip to a familiar restaurant or an entirely new place could become part of a larger downtown adventure.
The Dine & Discover Downtown San Mateo program runs from September 10 through October 25, 2026, encouraging people to explore the city’s dining district while supporting local businesses. Participants can earn points by checking in at restaurants, with prizes available at different participation levels.
The program uses Vibemap, a mobile application that helps users find local destinations and activities. Getting started requires downloading the app, available for both iOS and Android.
Once registered, participants can explore restaurants through the interactive downtown map. They can choose unfamiliar dining spots or return to their longtime favorites. Each qualifying check-in contributes toward earning rewards.
The incentives begin at 50 points, when participants can receive a coupon for 3 Bees Coffee offering 50% off a second drink when purchasing one at regular price.
Reaching 150 points provides an opportunity to enter a drawing for one of 100 Downtown San Mateo fireside mugs. Those who collect 300 points can participate in another drawing, with five local gift certificates valued at $50 or more available.
The largest reward is reserved for the participant who records the most check-ins. That person will receive a $500 gift certificate to Christensen & Rafferty Fine Jewelry.
Beyond the prizes, the initiative connects with downtown San Mateo’s broader fall activities. Organizers have encouraged people attending September Nights on B Street and the September Arts & Culture Fest to explore nearby restaurants as part of their visits.
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The campaign welcomes both residents and visitors, giving participants flexibility to choose where they dine while discovering more of the downtown dining scene.
However, the rewards are limited, and additional terms and conditions may apply. Drawings are scheduled to be finalized in early November, after the October 25 program deadline. Prizes can then be collected in downtown San Mateo or delivered by mail.
Residents interested in participating can find the complete program information, restaurant map, and prize details on the Downtown San Mateo Association’s website.
