Jack’s Grill

It’s a shame Jack’s Grille closed. The phone is disconnected. The food was great, but the food business is a very difficult one.

It’s a shame I can’t give this place zero stars.
I went to Jack’s a few weeks ago and discovered that they had changed ownership again. I don’t know who the new owners are, but they have changed suppliers since the takeover. I ordered a plain burger, which is something that I rarely do, and was served a grey, mushy, slimy looking patty that tasted the way a sewer smells. Whatever was in that burger did not taste like beef — and it sure didn’t taste like anything I’ve ever seen on any menu. I wasn’t sure if it was just undercooked, because when burgers are undercooked they’re generally red or pink, right? I don’t know what kind of meat turns grey when it’s cooked, but it’s what’s on the menu at Jack’s. Here’s a hint though: it’s not beef.
I was in a hurry to get to my movie, so I didn’t have time to get something else and when I politely mentioned it to the guy behind the counter, he defensively answered that the owners had changed and the suppliers had gone with them. So, it seems, has any respectability, semblance to beef flavor and real meat.
If you’re looking for a real hamburger made of genuine beef and not some mysterious filler substitute, go down the street to Jeffrey’s.

a very convenient spot, which is located across from the entrance of century theatre in downtown san mateo to have a feast on some gourmet sausages (with limited selection), mediocre hamburgers and delicious tropical smoothies!!! the exposed brick wall, wood floor, stainless counter-​top made this joint casual looking with a fun-​friendly atmosphere to the moviegoers, as well as to the people that works around main st. or downtown san mateo.
i had my first taste of their CHICKEN LEMON SAUSAGE before watching the flick grindhouse. it was savory, full of flavor and you can see bits of lemon incorporated to the chicken meat. however, the size was pretty small, that one order cannot suffice my starving stomach. the sesame bun which they grilled were also petite. the GERMAN FRANK was bursting with garlicky spices and it was also delish!
moreover, prices are reasonable.

A quick, fun and tasty meal. (without being greasy fast food) I love the chicken apple sausage. We haven’t tried the burgers yet. Can’t beat the location while you are out shopping or seeing a movie.
We usually get three and share one of them. Not much more to say, if you like dogs give it a try.

If you’re looking for a no fuss hot dog (2.95) or burger, pop on over to Jack’s Grill. Come here for a quick and yummy basic dog, italian sausage, pastrami sandwich or even a Harris Ranch burger with my personal favorite burger toppins, bacon and cheddar (4.95). Get all of this goodness before or after a movie at a price cheaper than a movie ticket these days. Jack’s Grill is at a prime location right outside of the Century Downtown Theatre and close to the public parking garage AND a Coldstone so if you are tres stealthly, maybe you can sneak a dog into the theatre in your girlfriend’s giant handbag.
There’s not much room to eat besides the counters and the islands but otherwise this place a a island/​motiff. The only qualm: one of the servers has a severe case of the grumps. He seemed so unhappy, no smiles, no nada when this place’s décor is laid-​back island happy. Next time, I hope I get a smile with my dog.

this is the spot to go especially to grab a bite to eat before your movie flick starts. why pay $ 3.50 for a hotdog in the theater when you can get a dog for less than three bucks and you can get all the fixins you want plus you can even order chili cheese fries to go along with your meal to seal the DEAL! all you can drink if you stay inside. friendly staff.

I really like the newly refurbished downtown San Mateo area, and this little weiner joint is situated right at the heart of the action in the walkway next to the new Century theaters and plaza area. They serve great grilled sausages on sesame seeded bakery buns with tables on the walkway outside to eat at. Too bad they are all populated by groups of awkward, pimple-​faced junior high delinquents loitering around and smoking. Its no wonder they have separate schools for 13 – 14 year olds to isolate them from the general kid populations.

Decent dogs. The ambiance was lacking a bit, but it’s the downtown shopping area of San Mateo so I’m not expecting much nor will I fault them too highly on that point. The Louisiana hot link was indeed hot, and tasty as well. The Bockwurst was odd, but having never tried this blend of veal, pork, milk, and egg I can’t say that Fatt Dog was at fault. They use a fresh baked roll and grill it just a little. A nice selection of mustards and a few other condiments but I wouldn’t mind seeing a few more. The sauerkraut was less than great, but I would go back for sure. And I have to ask where Clarence usually eats that he finds two gourmet dogs for $ 6.50 after tax to be too much $? What’s your allowance looking like Clarence?

The dogs are actually quite small and you’ll have to spend some good $ to get full. I wasn’t particular impressed nor do I have any desires to go again. Because it is outside the theater though, I think it might find some fans.

The BF has a mild addiction to the chicken apple sausage, but I am able to keep him under control by administering a dose every 3 – 4 weeks. I myself am fond of the bratwurst, even though it wouldn’t even qualify as bratwurst to the denizens of Bucyrus, Ohio, home of the Bratwurst Festival and the finest German sausages outside of Germany. I don’t know how this place compares to the Genentech Hot Dog Cart, but it compares favorably to nearly all the retail hot dog places I’ve ever been. It’s in an alley right across from the new cinema complex in downtown San Mateo. You’ll be able to find it by all the over-cola’d junior high school kids out front proving why kids from 12 thru about 16 should all be sent out to Wyoming for a few years until they’re old enough to behave.