Design Dish: Izzy’s on the Peninsula

Author:Lindsey Shook

After an extensive renovation, the design is as much a draw as the dishes at Izzy’s on the Peninsula

Izzy’s on the Peninsula is not the kind of place you accidentally stumble across. The restaurant is situated across the road from the San Carlos Airport. There is practically no foot traffic, and it can take a bit of effort to get here. But once you do, the rewards are wonderful food and service, in equally impressive environs recently redesigned by GACHOT.  

According to the New York-based firm, “It’s the perfect San Carlos spot for an intimate dinner with family, a festive gathering with friends, a cozy cocktail in a booth by the bar, or a refreshing cocktail under the setting sun in the garden.”

Passing through the restaurant’s double doors is akin to entering another world—where the main dining room’s banquette and booth seating beckon diners to settle in. A material palette of green velvet, white oak, unlacquered brass, cognac-hued leather, honed marble and ribbed glass feels at once fresh and familiar. Vintage mirrors and artwork, along with cafe curtains, add to the nostalgic charm. 

The late restaurateur Sam DuVall founded Izzy’s Steaks & Chops in San Francisco in 1987. (That outpost is currently closed for a restoration and slated to reopen early next year.) Izzy’s on the Peninsula has been a local favorite since debuting nearly two decades ago. Now, under the leadership of a second generation of the family, the easeful yet elevated interiors were inspired by elements in the original location.

The menu demonstrates creativity as well as deftness with flavors and textures. A panko crust gives the deviled eggs a crunchy update, while Fresno chili slices impart extra heat. Legendary San Francisco bartender Izzy Gomez is the namesake of the restaurant and “The Gomez” dish: 8 ounces of prime rib, accompanied by creamed spinach and scalloped potatoes. Dessert stars made-to-order crullers—glazed, with a hint of lemon zest, and served warm. Adjacent to the dining room is the bar and lounge, whose black granite and creamy marble checkered flooring contributes to the timeless scene. Pull up a leather stool and imbibe, amid the bar’s antique mirror back, vintage opaline glass pendants and handpainted mural by San Francisco artist Rafael Arana.

The lounge features private wood-paneled booths—echoing those in the original Izzy’s—and sumptuous sofas and slipper chairs. Doors flanking the bar lead to an all-new garden patio, complete with tall hedges and potted trees. Tables—some topped with green ceramic tiles, others with limestone or teak—are paired with black-and-white woven bistro chairs. Inside and out, Izzy’s offers diners a transportive experience, year-round.

Izzy’s on the Peninsula is located at 525 Skyway Road, San Carlos, CA. Visit their site, izzysonthepeninsula.com, to make a reservation, or call: (650) 654-2822.