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Business Description

The Swingin' Door, located in San Mateo, CA, is a beloved British pub that boasts over 30 years of culinary excellence. Their award-winning food has even been featured on the Cooking Channel and numerous other food and entertainment blogs. While their menu is vast and varied, they're especially known for their mouth-watering fish and chips, juicy burgers, and impressive selection of 21 unique beers on tap.

But what truly sets The Swingin' Door apart is its rich and fascinating history. The pub was originally built in the 1940s and converted by the Fey Brothers, whose grandfather invented the slot machine, into a bar in December 1955. It was named The Swingin' Door due to its two swinging doors at the entrance and quickly became a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.

Over the years, The Swingin' Door has seen its fair share of famous faces, including World War Two pinup girl Betty Grable and bandleader Harry James, both of whom frequented the bar in the 1950s. A young and struggling group named the Kingston Trio even played upstairs in 1957. However, not all of the pub's history has been glamorous; in 1958, a tear gas bomb was lobbed into the bar, causing chaos and confusion.

The pub's current owner, Warren Chapman, hails from Manchester, England, and comes from a long line of British heroes. His grandfather, William Chapman of the 70th Battery RFA, was given the Battle of Mons medal, and his great uncle, PTE John Chapman, was in the 11th Hussars. Warren's father, Raymond Chapman, was a Grenadier Guard, which explains why two guardsmen stand guard outside of the pub.

The Swingin' Door's casual ambiance, fun decor, and decent drink selection make it a great spot for a night out with friends. And with its fascinating history, delicious food, and impressive beer selection, it truly is a San Mateo institution that is not to be missed.

Gift Ideas for The Swingin' Door

For those seeking a unique gift for the foodie or beer lover in their life, The Swingin' Door in San Mateo, CA has got you covered. With its rich history, award-winning cuisine, and impressive beer selection, there are plenty of options to choose from.

For the food lover, consider gifting a gift certificate to The Swingin' Door, allowing them to indulge in the pub's famous fish and chips, juicy burgers, and other award-winning dishes. For those who are a bit more adventurous, the pub also offers on-demand hookah, a rare find in San Mateo.

For the beer lover, The Swingin' Door's selection of 21 unique beers on tap is sure to impress. Consider gifting a mixed six-pack of some of their favorites, such as the refreshing Lagunitas IPA or the chocolatey Left Hand Milk Stout.

Looking for something a bit more unique? The pub also sells branded merchandise, such as t-shirts and pint glasses, that would make a perfect gift for any fan of The Swingin' Door's laid-back vibe and rich history.

No matter what gift you choose, you can be sure that it will be met with enthusiasm and delight. The Swingin' Door's blend of rich history, delicious cuisine, and impressive beer selection make it a beloved spot in San Mateo, and any gift from this iconic pub is sure to be a hit.

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