Restaurants in Palo Alto
Best Restaurants
2
Ettan
“An absolute favorite that I am sure to visit on every trip to the Bay. Very unique fusions of Indian and Californian flavors with something for every palate. My favorites are the sesame leaf, burrata kulcha, house salad and dry boat scallops. Also don’t sleep on the cocktails. Very nicely crafted.”
“We went to Sundance to celebrate my husband's birthday, and this OG place did not disappoint. The vibe was lovely. The service and timing from our waitress, Ashley G., were outstanding. Complimentary freshly baked bread. Free mud pie (ice cream cake) dessert for the birthday boy. Both of our steaks were cooked and seasoned to perfection. The veggies were still crisp, and the garlic mashed potatoes were to die for. Their Ceasar salad was perfect with crisp romaine, perfect dressing and cheese ratio, anchovies, and crunchy (not hard) croutons. Lastly, their drinks were so good we had to get another round. This place is a solid choice for a nice night out. PS: Don't forget to grab some Andes chocolate on your way out.”
4
Meyhouse
“Mert was an excellent waiter! He made the experience lovely and had great recommendations for our group. The sea bass was excellent and they have a lovely selection of appetizers for a number of dietary restrictions.”
“Service was amazing! Garrett was so attentive and would bring everything we needed before we could even think of asking. Service like that is what makes the experience truly memorable. The atmosphere is good too—not too loud and beautiful decor. Ingredients were delicious, but I was not a fan of some dishes (could be personal preference). The cucumber salad seemed too acidic and the pork belly with burrata pairing didn’t go well in my opinion. But again, the quality was great and the rest is personal preference. Would be an injustice if I didn’t mention that trout was absolutely delectable! Might be the best one I’ve ever had. Also, the vanilla soft serve with cardamom crumble was a hit!”
“This place is absolutely fantastic. Definitely in my top 5 Mediterranean restaurants in the Bay. Their eggplants are awesome and their chocolate dessert is perfect. I'd take any opportunity to go there to eat”
Restaurants by Cuisine
7
Protégé
“We had the most delicious meal last night at Protégé. Each course of the tasting menu was perfection. At the end we couldn't choose a favorite because they were all equally incredible. Our server, Fleur, was so knowledgeable about the food and the wine and gave us wonderful recommendations for the perfect wines to compliment the various courses. The whole experience was wonderful and I can't wait to go back sometime.Dietary restrictions: They made sure they were aware of all of my dietary restrictions and ensured the food I was served was safe for me to eat by making small adjustments when needed.”
“Delicious food and very helpful service staff. They took their time explaining menu items and helped with recommendations. Architecture is nice and the wood table by the entrance is just gorgeous.”
9
RARA
“Delicious Nepalese food. Extremely vegetarian and vegan-friendly menu, but most of the group ate meat and everyone was very satisfied by their meals. We also shared a bottle of wine that everyone enjoyed. We had the cauliflower appetizer that they recommended and it was fantastic, would highly suggest that to everyone who eats here. We also enjoyed the mushroom and buffalo appetizers as well. A lot of great options to choose from.”
Restaurants with Delivery
“I would tell you how great the food and service was, and how much we enjoyed the evening, but I don't want to make reservations harder to get as we are returning! Not only great meat and seafood, but wonderful vegetarian dishes. And desserts were over the top!”
“An absolute favorite that I am sure to visit on every trip to the Bay. Very unique fusions of Indian and Californian flavors with something for every palate. My favorites are the sesame leaf, burrata kulcha, house salad and dry boat scallops. Also don’t sleep on the cocktails. Very nicely crafted.”
“We went to Sundance to celebrate my husband's birthday, and this OG place did not disappoint. The vibe was lovely. The service and timing from our waitress, Ashley G., were outstanding. Complimentary freshly baked bread. Free mud pie (ice cream cake) dessert for the birthday boy. Both of our steaks were cooked and seasoned to perfection. The veggies were still crisp, and the garlic mashed potatoes were to die for. Their Ceasar salad was perfect with crisp romaine, perfect dressing and cheese ratio, anchovies, and crunchy (not hard) croutons. Lastly, their drinks were so good we had to get another round. This place is a solid choice for a nice night out. PS: Don't forget to grab some Andes chocolate on your way out.”
“Mert was an excellent waiter! He made the experience lovely and had great recommendations for our group. The sea bass was excellent and they have a lovely selection of appetizers for a number of dietary restrictions.”
“This place is absolutely fantastic. Definitely in my top 5 Mediterranean restaurants in the Bay. Their eggplants are awesome and their chocolate dessert is perfect. I'd take any opportunity to go there to eat”
“We had the most delicious meal last night at Protégé. Each course of the tasting menu was perfection. At the end we couldn't choose a favorite because they were all equally incredible. Our server, Fleur, was so knowledgeable about the food and the wine and gave us wonderful recommendations for the perfect wines to compliment the various courses. The whole experience was wonderful and I can't wait to go back sometime.Dietary restrictions: They made sure they were aware of all of my dietary restrictions and ensured the food I was served was safe for me to eat by making small adjustments when needed.”
“A lil pricey for a sandwich but very good stuff. Nice fresh sourdough; the bread was soft and had a nice slight crunch to it. The original (ham and turkey) was tasty and came with cheese. I saved half for the next day and it was still delicious. Somehow even better when cold. The crust sourdough dip with warm au jus (roast beef) was amazing. The roast beef was so tender! It was worth it. I also really enjoyed the bacon jam; I didn't know what to expect but I enjoyed the bit of sweetness and caramelized onions in it. Really solid! The bread also held up nicely when dipped into the au jus. The cookies are not too bad; I tried the lemon and it smelled great. Taste was good too but unfortunately it was a lemon cookie with coconut shavings inside (which was not mentioned) and I'm not the biggest fan of coconut! The interior is nice and spacious. They are located in an office space.”
“My friend and I stumbled upon Shekoh Confections purely by chance, while we were strolling the streets of Palo Alto during a business trip from Florida. We found the shop to be inviting and staff very friendly and informative. The delicacies were superb - we tasted a couple and decided to purchase three boxes - mine were meant to be gifts for family members. Unfortunately, a day after the purchase I had an accident and ended up in a LA hospital - and gave the chocolates away to my incredible nurses who took such good care of me. The nurses raved about the treats and I shared the shop's information with them. I look forward to ordering the chocolates (and the beautiful chocolate shoes) online - and hope that they can be delivered to Florida.”
“Delicious Nepalese food. Extremely vegetarian and vegan-friendly menu, but most of the group ate meat and everyone was very satisfied by their meals. We also shared a bottle of wine that everyone enjoyed. We had the cauliflower appetizer that they recommended and it was fantastic, would highly suggest that to everyone who eats here. We also enjoyed the mushroom and buffalo appetizers as well. A lot of great options to choose from.”
“What a great cafe in Palo Alto. Reasonable price and nice service.The Mozzarella bread is fantastic and highly recommend to try sweet hot latte and Turkish coffee.There are alots of Baklava and sweets. Good for gifts.”
“At first coming in side we were not sure what to get but then we meet Ms Sindy here and she was very friendly and answer my questions about the menu and I ordered a BBQ bacon burger and for my boy a grilled chicken and some fries we love the food and the experience we had here I'm for sure recommend this place if you want a nice burger with fries”
“This is my first time visiting Itálico for my birthday! The food is excellent. The service was phenomenal and everyone absolutely delightful. Michael was so attentive and hospitable! He genuinely wanted to get to know my family and I, and was so sweet. Super profesional and kind to all. He made my family feel super welcomed and felt like a queen on my birthday! Our server was also Carlos was absolutely excellent and gave amazing service to us and everyone else!! He was so funny and always made sure we were all good. I recommend everyone try this restaurant! Graziie Mille Michael . -Haydee ”
“Food was great!! My daughter loves the butter chicken as she says it melts in your mouth with the amazing flavor. The oyster mushroom was delicious with the great texture!! And my son enjoyed the butter naan. Service was wonderful as always and the atmosphere was welcoming and aesthetically pleasing.”
“What a hidden gem we stumbled upon! It was 9:00 am on a Friday, right as they were opening their doors, and already there was a buzz of activity with people streaming in and placing their orders. Overall, it was a delightful experience. I absolutely adored it. And let me tell you, their coffee? To die for! (Haha!)Their menu offers such a unique selection of dishes that you won't find elsewhere. I'd even go as far as to say it's one-of-a-kind. I opted for the croque madam, and let me tell you, it was a generous portion size! My boyfriend went for the scrambles, and he was equally impressed. The owner or general manager was incredibly attentive, which only added to the overall positive vibe of the place.Thanks a bunch! We'll definitely be back for more!”
“One of my favorite restaurants in Palo Alto! I always enjoy the outdoor seating especially since they have heaters and the ambiance is lovely on that street. There's usually a line when I go but it moves pretty quickly since you just order at the counter and take a number before finding a seat. My favorite dish to get is the chicken boti thali. I love that you can substitute the rice for naan because the naan is absolutely delicious. Everything is so flavorful and tasty and I especially enjoy the daal. It's such a great and satisfying meal every time I come!”
“This is my first time visiting Itálico for my birthday! The food is excellent. The service was phenomenal and everyone absolutely delightful. Michael was so attentive and hospitable! He genuinely wanted to get to know my family and I, and was so sweet. Super profesional and kind to all. He made my family feel super welcomed and felt like a queen on my birthday! Our server was also Carlos was absolutely excellent and gave amazing service to us and everyone else!! He was so funny and always made sure we were all good. I recommend everyone try this restaurant! Graziie Mille Michael . -Haydee ”
“What a hidden gem we stumbled upon! It was 9:00 am on a Friday, right as they were opening their doors, and already there was a buzz of activity with people streaming in and placing their orders. Overall, it was a delightful experience. I absolutely adored it. And let me tell you, their coffee? To die for! (Haha!)Their menu offers such a unique selection of dishes that you won't find elsewhere. I'd even go as far as to say it's one-of-a-kind. I opted for the croque madam, and let me tell you, it was a generous portion size! My boyfriend went for the scrambles, and he was equally impressed. The owner or general manager was incredibly attentive, which only added to the overall positive vibe of the place.Thanks a bunch! We'll definitely be back for more!”
“First time yesterday for a casual date night. Reservation was a bit hard to secure, but once booked, we were followed up on multiple times to know our ETA. When we arrived on a busy Saturday night, we were whisked back immediately to our desired corner window table.We knew what we wanted beforehand and was happy the items were not “sold out” (happened more times than you think it’s possible).For appetizer, we split the Black Truffle Soup in two, and it was a good thing we did it since the amount was just right, more so as we planned to have the Dry Aged Ribeye as the entree.The ribeye (we both had it medium rare) was one of the very best I’ve had in recent times (and I’ve been to quite a few expensive restaurants in SF over the last 6 months) - it was flavorful, juicy and well marbled, perfectly complemented by the Bordelaise sauce.I will definitely come back here again, just for the Ribeye!”
Outdoor Dining
“Service was amazing! Garrett was so attentive and would bring everything we needed before we could even think of asking. Service like that is what makes the experience truly memorable. The atmosphere is good too—not too loud and beautiful decor. Ingredients were delicious, but I was not a fan of some dishes (could be personal preference). The cucumber salad seemed too acidic and the pork belly with burrata pairing didn’t go well in my opinion. But again, the quality was great and the rest is personal preference. Would be an injustice if I didn’t mention that trout was absolutely delectable! Might be the best one I’ve ever had. Also, the vanilla soft serve with cardamom crumble was a hit!”
“Delicious food and very helpful service staff. They took their time explaining menu items and helped with recommendations. Architecture is nice and the wood table by the entrance is just gorgeous.”
“First time yesterday for a casual date night. Reservation was a bit hard to secure, but once booked, we were followed up on multiple times to know our ETA. When we arrived on a busy Saturday night, we were whisked back immediately to our desired corner window table.We knew what we wanted beforehand and was happy the items were not “sold out” (happened more times than you think it’s possible).For appetizer, we split the Black Truffle Soup in two, and it was a good thing we did it since the amount was just right, more so as we planned to have the Dry Aged Ribeye as the entree.The ribeye (we both had it medium rare) was one of the very best I’ve had in recent times (and I’ve been to quite a few expensive restaurants in SF over the last 6 months) - it was flavorful, juicy and well marbled, perfectly complemented by the Bordelaise sauce.I will definitely come back here again, just for the Ribeye!”
“The imperial pho is amazing, light, balanced, perfect portion... The beef while still mostly rare melts in your mouth. There's a few other standout menu items including the Shaken beef and tuna tartare. Still haven't tried a lot of the things on the menu, though, because the pho is too good to skipDietary restrictions: Most dietary restrictions seem to be accommodated with specific dishes and requests”
“My skepticism about vegan food and that it may have only limited choices was shattered at this place. Menu is pretty elaborate and can very well satiate quite a few people with different tastes. Drink options are nice too. Definitely recommending this place, and going back some time soon.”
“Cool location. They have both indoor and outdoor seating. There's a co-working space within the building where you can rent space by the hour if needed. Super convenient. Oh, and the coffee was great also.”
“Good food, IMO the avocado was overpriced and nothing fancy, tastes like eating ash coating. Tiny food portions, typical of fine dining. Nothing out of this world though, for the prices.”
“Good atmosphere with decent service. Overall it's tasty despite a bit overpriced. Recommend taro root roll, yellow chicken curry, crab & glass noodle and clay pot cod, all are really delicious.”
“Had a great experience when visiting on a Friday evening at 7pm without a reservation. We quickly got a table and got prompt service.They offer cocktails (~$15) both with and without alcohol. I can highly recommend "Last Stand" (Gin, Aperol, Prosecco & perchaud Bitters) or the blood orange mocktail.We had two homemade pasta dishes that were both really tasty (Bolognese & cacio et pepe) and finished with a tiramisu shared between the two of us.The tiramisu was served in a small bowl which sadly meant a high cream to ladyfingers ratio. Still tasty but could have been better.Altogether we paid $130 incl tax and tip.”
“If y’all don’t know about Ada’s, y’all should — because they got one of the BEST coffees around town. They are locally sourced and get the most organic beans, and make the BEST pastries. And best of all, they are a 501(c)3 non-profit social enterprise running in the heart of Palo Alto. I work at Cubberley not far from Ada’s, so I have been coming by often and supporting.A big shout out goes to Kathleen, the owner and founder of Ada’s Cafe — she’s absolutely humble and very caring at every customer. She goes above and beyond in support of not only the neurodivergent community, but also for the communities in need in Palo Alto.I ordered a 16oz latte with whole milk on a Friday — and they honestly served it with SO much love and so much belonging. It truly felt like I was at home, but 10x better. The beans had flavor, and the whole milk wasn’t overly saturated. I also appreciated how much love and consideration they put in the croissant sandwich as well, because the ingredients were fresh and not too sweet or too salty at all.It is located next to the Palo Alto Library, and they do close early at 4pm. There is limited indoor seating, but there is a variety of things you can choose from. I would definitely recommend supporting a local business like Ada’s and having your bestie brunch dates here too.Vegetarian options: They have some things you can ask for vegetarian! In fact, most things are vegetarian :)Dietary restrictions: They have different kind of non-dairy options you can choose from! :DParking: Because we’re sharing a parking lot with the Palo Alto Library, there are times where you’re not able to find parking right away. However do not fret, because they usually clear away after a while.Kid-friendliness: Very kid-friendly - most of the kids from Challenger or nearby kids from the surrounding neighborhood come to get an ice cream scone from Ada’s! No wonder that’s why they were this profit-driven — and they’re still running despite the inflation — they get TONS of business from the kids everyday!Wheelchair accessibility: It is wheelchair accessible! Very wheelchair friendly — and they accommodate very openly about who sits there and stuff.”
“We are faithful diners at this local neighborhood cafe . The owner is always so cordial in his greeting of us and the staff always are so courteous and have smiles despite the busy atmosphere of this Valentine's dinner . The dedicated menu for the evening was sufficient to please the diverse palates ( though our friend who received the duck breast choice was a bit displeased because the slices were very thin and small compared to what was usually served to others ) but taste wise he said it was very good . The seabass and the lamb choices were delicious ... no complaints there !! We love this cafe and look forward to returning and ordering from their usual menu ( esp. the squid ink pasta which is a FAVORITE ♥️) I highly recommend this cafe for a dining choice ??”
“Back in high school, I tried a sandwich from here and felt underwhelmed so I never came back. Returned for the first time recently because I was uncharacteristically craving a sandwich...and I am NOT a sandwich person, especially when it comes to meat-stuffed ones. I picked up a Customer's Favorite sans bacon to eat at home in front of the computer and woah...it totally hit the g-spot. Gastronomical spot! It was so warm and flavorful with melted cheese, turkey and pastrami, complemented by juicy tomatoes, creamy avo and zesty chipotle mayo, all smushed inside pillowy-soft Dutch Crunch. I had only planned to finish half as the sammy was enormous. However, once I started eating I just couldn't stop! Before I knew it, the gargantuan Suanwich disappeared and left crumbs all over my keyboard. Writing this review made me hungry.”
“This rooftop bar offers some of the best panoramic views of the peninsula in cozy atmosphere, perfect for a special occasion or an early night out with friends.You'll need to take the elevator at the Graduate Hotel to reach this little lookout, so don't be surprised if your map leads you into a hotel lobbyThe space itself is intimate and stylish, with a room for about five small groups. It can get a bit cold on the rooftop, but thankfully some warm blankets are provided to ease the chill. The staff is quite attuned to making sure your visit is comfortable.The cocktail menu boasts creative and playful options, and the food menu is small but good for sharing. Be aware that the drinks come with a premium price tag. Overall a nice place for a special occasion.”
“We love Vino Locale! Nice ambiance, great wine list, and solid snacks to enjoy. Of of the best things about Vino Locale is that the wine list isn't just the same 5 wines that you see at many other places, they offer a great variety of domestic & international wines, and treat each one well. I love the Sancerre on the menu, and appreciate that they offer 6oz or 9oz pours, half bottles, and full bottles. The Black Cabra Cabernet Sauvignon and Miraval Rose are also among my favorites. In terms of food items, I usually gravitate toward the chicken skewers are a good option and come with a few flavor/sauce options. The beet salad is good, and I often get their Brussels sprouts (know what to expect, though: they're not fried/crispy, but are tasty - served with parmesan, cranberries, almonds, and optional bacon). The cheese plates and hummus platter are also good, reliable options. Service is so friendly! They have a nice dog-friendly patio (and often have a few treats for pups), and live music most Thursday evenings.”
“I order pizzas for my 1 year olds birthday party at a park in Palo Alto. Their online ordering was easy and fast use. The delivery guy was super friendly and helpful he carried out pizzas and wings all the way to our table at the park. I’ve always been a fan of New York Pizza, their wings are by far the best I’ve had at a pizza place and their pizzas are fire!!!”
13
Wildseed
“My skepticism about vegan food and that it may have only limited choices was shattered at this place. Menu is pretty elaborate and can very well satiate quite a few people with different tastes. Drink options are nice too. Definitely recommending this place, and going back some time soon.”
14
Bird Dog
“Good food, IMO the avocado was overpriced and nothing fancy, tastes like eating ash coating. Tiny food portions, typical of fine dining. Nothing out of this world though, for the prices.”
“Good atmosphere with decent service. Overall it's tasty despite a bit overpriced. Recommend taro root roll, yellow chicken curry, crab & glass noodle and clay pot cod, all are really delicious.”
Online Reservation Available
“The food is quite pricey but it is the BEST Chinese food I've had to date in the Stanford area. They have good spicy stir fry options and their lamb is amazing! Highly recommend!!”
“Today I had lunch for the first time at ARYA Steakhouse. The food was absolutely delicious and the service was excellent. Michael (L.) our server and Mike the owner were very welcoming. Can't wait to go back with the whole family.”
“My cousin went to this restaurant few days ago with me. The service and food are both great. This is an American-Japanese fusion restaurant and we just had perfect steak and fish filet, also the waiter is fantastic, very friendly and talkative. I'll go back again for sure!”
“Boat scallops were perfection. We ordered most of our favorites like chicken satay,, wok eggplant and garlic noodles. My mom didn't know what to order and settled on Bali ribs, she said they were perfection.in addition we had sea bass, duck and spicy basil chicken. Two of the dishes arrived cold but when we stated we didn't wish to wait for it to be warmed up we were comped a dessert. We tried all 3 at our table. Each unique. Nice birthday and retirement celebration.”
“As soon as I stepped into the restaurant, the manager, Stacey, noticed it was my first time there without a reservation. She asked if my lunch was business-related, seeing me carrying a laptop. I confirmed it was quite important. Despite the busy lunch hours on a Sunday, she promptly found me a table within a minute. Stacey's professionalism and hospitality surpassed the ordinary; it was truly extraordinary! The food and ambiance were also fantastic! Overall, it was a fantastic experience—one of the most memorable moments in my life. Thank you very much, Stacey!”
“The line at Ramen Nagi was way too long so we found this place. Solid ramen. Not the best I've ever had but pretty good. The garlic karagge was okay...would pass on it next time.”
“My friend visited me last weekend and we decided that we wanted to go to a steakhouse. This place was just amazing. The service and the food was just spectacular. I ordered a tomahawk and it was just delicious. It was perfectly cooked to my liking and I will be returning here again.”
“We met up with friends. When asked what was good we said everything We each thoroughly enjoyed our meals. Thai beef salad, tacos, pastas. The restaurant was quite busy. We were not rushed and we enoour time there. The noise level was a bit higher than usual including some pounding in the kitchen.”
“As an Italian always desperately trying to find good pizzerias in the USA…. I think I have found my favourite one. Ingredients are fresh and authentic, and the pizza is just SO GOOD! And not heavy at all! Because that’s how a pizza should be: an healthy meal! Definitely worth it, spend all your money there, great Italian food guaranteed.”
“Seriously some of the best brunches around. Would have loved to come with a bigger party so that we could share even more food. The service and atmosphere just add to the overall experience. This place makes a regular in our ”
“I don’t know why this restaurant doesn’t have a line outside the door! The food is always delicious and fresh. The menu is small but PERFECT. They change things up slightly seasonally and I’ve never eaten anything there that wasn’t 10/10.”
“Some places call themselves authentic other place is our truly great authentic. Taverna nails it on every level service food wine overall can’t recommend them high enough.”
“Lovely experience with the Alice in Wonderland Tea! We had the Earl Grey Oolong tea, which was mildly disappointing (very little flavor), but the pastries more than made up for it! Three tea sandwiches, a perfectly baked blueberry scone, and three tiers of cakes and sweets. The best part was the setting, though. The place is covered flowers and beautifully decorated.”
“Came here for my birthday dinner. Parking was easy since we had an early reservation. We were seated promptly. Service was a bit hard to flag down—the partitions that made each table feel like a private dining experience was a double edged sword. But once we did manage to flag someone down, they were very nice.They put all our sushi on a boat, balled up wasabi on either end, and stuck birthday candles into them. It was a nice touch.We ordered fried oysters, agedashi tofu, chicken karaage, and seaweed salad for appetizers. Our favorite item was the spicy citrus scallop roll, we would order that again.”
“Brilliant food, friendly and prompt service on a Friday evening. Highly recommend the pork empanadas, ropa vieja (steak) and key lime tart. Mojito and Cafe Cubano cocktails were nicely presented ??”
16
Vina Enoteca
“Had a great experience when visiting on a Friday evening at 7pm without a reservation. We quickly got a table and got prompt service.They offer cocktails (~$15) both with and without alcohol. I can highly recommend "Last Stand" (Gin, Aperol, Prosecco & perchaud Bitters) or the blood orange mocktail.We had two homemade pasta dishes that were both really tasty (Bolognese & cacio et pepe) and finished with a tiramisu shared between the two of us.The tiramisu was served in a small bowl which sadly meant a high cream to ladyfingers ratio. Still tasty but could have been better.Altogether we paid $130 incl tax and tip.”
“We are faithful diners at this local neighborhood cafe . The owner is always so cordial in his greeting of us and the staff always are so courteous and have smiles despite the busy atmosphere of this Valentine's dinner . The dedicated menu for the evening was sufficient to please the diverse palates ( though our friend who received the duck breast choice was a bit displeased because the slices were very thin and small compared to what was usually served to others ) but taste wise he said it was very good . The seabass and the lamb choices were delicious ... no complaints there !! We love this cafe and look forward to returning and ordering from their usual menu ( esp. the squid ink pasta which is a FAVORITE ♥️) I highly recommend this cafe for a dining choice ??”
18
Vino Locale
“We love Vino Locale! Nice ambiance, great wine list, and solid snacks to enjoy. Of of the best things about Vino Locale is that the wine list isn't just the same 5 wines that you see at many other places, they offer a great variety of domestic & international wines, and treat each one well. I love the Sancerre on the menu, and appreciate that they offer 6oz or 9oz pours, half bottles, and full bottles. The Black Cabra Cabernet Sauvignon and Miraval Rose are also among my favorites. In terms of food items, I usually gravitate toward the chicken skewers are a good option and come with a few flavor/sauce options. The beet salad is good, and I often get their Brussels sprouts (know what to expect, though: they're not fried/crispy, but are tasty - served with parmesan, cranberries, almonds, and optional bacon). The cheese plates and hummus platter are also good, reliable options. Service is so friendly! They have a nice dog-friendly patio (and often have a few treats for pups), and live music most Thursday evenings.”
24 Hour Restaurants
“We couldn't thank the Ronald McDonald house enough for housing my wife and I in 2020 when my daughter was born with a rare condition and had to be hospitalized long term. They have shuttles to the LPCH all day until a certain time ( I dont remember the times, this was in 2020) they also serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. Again thank you RMHC for housing us when we were in dire need of a play to stay.Rest In Peace Eve, We love and miss you ?”
“We like that they still have a value menu. Most items on this menu are delicious and filling. Their chicken nuggets are always served hot and crispy. Their crispy tacos have been my favorite since my junior high school days.The breakfast Jack's are also very good.”
19
Taste
“The food is quite pricey but it is the BEST Chinese food I've had to date in the Stanford area. They have good spicy stir fry options and their lamb is amazing! Highly recommend!!”
“Today I had lunch for the first time at ARYA Steakhouse. The food was absolutely delicious and the service was excellent. Michael (L.) our server and Mike the owner were very welcoming. Can't wait to go back with the whole family.”
21
Sun Of Wolf
“Six stars! After greeting us, our waiter asked if we had any allergies--so appreciated since I have celiac. He told me they are careful about cross-contamination, don't use shared friers, and can make most things on the menu gluten free (menu is well-marked, too). Our tastey food and drinks came out almost immediately, and we weren't sitting around forever waiting to pay when we were ready. The whole staff was cheerful, the space had cool decorations, and the interior was naturally lit. Such a nice date brunch spot.Vegetarian options: Vegetarian and vegan marked on the menu, plenty of optionsDietary restrictions: Gluten free marked on the menu, plenty of options, celiac friendly kitchen practices”
Takeout Restaurants
“Great new salad spot! They kept my online order nice and cold in a fridge behind the register. Very fresh tasting ingredients and super healthy. I feel like I gave my body a one-up today.”
“Absolutely phenomenal experience at Greek Kitchen! From the moment we stepped in, the ambiance transported us to the Mediterranean coast. The attention to detail in decor, combined with the tantalizing aroma of authentic Greek cuisine, set the stage for an unforgettable dining adventure. Each dish was a masterpiece, bursting with fresh flavors and expertly crafted to perfection. The staff were incredibly warm and attentive, ensuring every need was met with a smile. A true gem in the culinary world, Greek Kitchen has earned its place as a must-visit destination for anyone craving an authentic taste of Greece. Highly recommended!”
“The best burger that I ever had. Integrity 100%, which means consistency between first bite and the last bite. Balsamic onion has sourness, crispy bacon is strong, beef patty is not to fat, arugula has bitter to balance the fat, egg yolk is just a little bit running, bun is buttery and lots of seasame. Every thing about the burger is perfect.Onion rings is crispy but not oily. Fries are better than average. Wisconsin burger is also very good, mushroom are tender, bread is chewy but cut in half beforehand. A small complaint is that less sauce would be perfect.”
“This is a really spacious location compared to other locations they have in the area. Many tables for seating! A few people were waiting for their drinks and socializing. Cozy little spot. This is conveneient across from Ramen Nagi and Son & Garden as well.I recommend the Mango Mochi Coconut Pudding and the Jasmine Coconut Pudding! These are my favorites, but definitely get pricey. For drinks, my go-to is the Da Hong Pao (DHP) Latte with Jelly! Very fragrant tea, but still creamy from the milk. A well balanced milk tea.”
“Six stars! After greeting us, our waiter asked if we had any allergies--so appreciated since I have celiac. He told me they are careful about cross-contamination, don't use shared friers, and can make most things on the menu gluten free (menu is well-marked, too). Our tastey food and drinks came out almost immediately, and we weren't sitting around forever waiting to pay when we were ready. The whole staff was cheerful, the space had cool decorations, and the interior was naturally lit. Such a nice date brunch spot.Vegetarian options: Vegetarian and vegan marked on the menu, plenty of optionsDietary restrictions: Gluten free marked on the menu, plenty of options, celiac friendly kitchen practices”
“Very good taste. Tried Malai Kofta, Saag, Chana masala with Onion Kulcha, Rice and Garlic naan. Too good. Chana masala was less salty which you can pour on the top but wonderfully cooked.How can I forget complementary Bhajis. Thanks a lot.Yummy!”
“This is a five star spot for me, good value for money, especially on beef teriyaki which was great quality and portion, first drink free was an excellent perk as well.Plenty of soap in bathrooms as well ??.”
“Amazing selection of ice cream, they experiment with very interesting flavors. My favourites have been blue cheese-pear, olive oil, salted malted caramel, chocolate gooeyThey do let you try a couple of flavors while trying to choose”
“This spot is a downtown gem, off the beaten track, and open to the public (next to senior center Avenidas). The food is delicious, fresh, and has the “extra flair” that comes from Chef Julien being a passionate foodie and French culinary school trained professional. The fish sandwich is outstanding (I have now had it on three visits!) with beer-based batter (not too much, not greasy, not dry) with at least seven different savors coming through the sauce, fresh veggies, and condiments on the fresh ciabatta bun. I like to have it with a Perrier sparkling water and follow up with tiny raspberry jam-filled beignets and a small americano on the hidden inside patio. Chef Julien is working to expand and improve coffee offerings. He is kind, down-to-earth, and very approachable. And also does catering for events, has a crêpe stand at the Sunday California Avenue Farmer’s Market, and is a private chef. Great value for money.”
“Overall, this place is a gem. Staff is very welcoming. Great coffee.Note that there are a lot of fleas and the tables are by no means "elegant". The seating is rather scrappy, but it is a great coffee shop.”
“Vegan here! I enjoyed my meal at the State of Mind Spice House. Although the vegan pizza could have used a few extra toppings, it was still pretty decent. The “old-fashioned“ soda was a nice addition.The young men working the counter were friendly and fun to interact with.There were a few seats inside, but given the Bay Area weather, it was nice to get a seat outside and enjoy the weather and pizza together.Dietary restrictions: The vegan cheese is a homemade cashew cheese.Kid-friendliness: The environment is very welcoming to children. If they are loud, you should be able to grab a seat outside without an issue.Wheelchair accessibility: Everything is ground level, so getting in and out shouldn’t be a problem.”
“Double (decaf) cappuccino was exceptional (as judged by this self-confessed coffee snob). Sitting outside on a "dry" day was a luxury in this winter of atmospheric rivers. The place is always busy, and little wonder: the espresso drink was very, very good, the atmosphere wonderful, the place super clean, and the staff personable. Overall, a worthy coffee place.Parking: This is downtown Palo Alto, people. Parking is always difficult, and subject to close timing surveillance.Kid-friendliness: A very civilized, adult atmosphere would be spoiled by kids, much I love them....”
“What should I do in Japanese restaurant while some americans are talking too loud?In a situation where fellow diners are being too loud in a restaurant, it's generally best to handle it with tact and politeness. Here are a few steps you could consider:1. **Self-assessment**: First, check if their volume is indeed excessively loud or if it's a normal conversation level for a public place.[I put the earplug on to protect my hearing.]2. **Move Away**: If possible, ask the restaurant staff if you can move to a quieter table.[This is a small place.]3. **Communicate with the Staff**: If moving isn't an option, you might consider speaking to the restaurant staff or management. They are usually trained to handle such situations diplomatically.[Staff is busy and understaffed even for bringing dishes to the side of our desk.]4. **Direct but Polite Approach**: If you feel comfortable, you could approach the individuals directly. Do so politely and calmly, expressing that their conversation volume is a bit high and is disturbing your dining experience.[Some of them speaks Chinese but they just pretend to ignore our complaints. ]Remember, every situation is different and requires a judgement call. It's important to stay respectful and considerate in your approach.[I am wondering what else I can do to deal with this situation?]”
“I went to this place a couple days ago I had their Beef pho here and its good the only thing is that I feel like they need to improve on is the pho broth and service. The pho broth seems like it needed more flavor and more fish sauce. And they did not give me a soup spoon until much later but other than that its a decent place to get a nice bowl of pho. And the Ambiance is so calming overall a 4/5”
“The chicken croffle is not good. Chicken is over cooked and very very dry. Then when you eat it with the sauce which is just purely sweet syrup, it just didn’t go right with the chicken.”
“My cousin went to this restaurant few days ago with me. The service and food are both great. This is an American-Japanese fusion restaurant and we just had perfect steak and fish filet, also the waiter is fantastic, very friendly and talkative. I'll go back again for sure!”
“Boat scallops were perfection. We ordered most of our favorites like chicken satay,, wok eggplant and garlic noodles. My mom didn't know what to order and settled on Bali ribs, she said they were perfection.in addition we had sea bass, duck and spicy basil chicken. Two of the dishes arrived cold but when we stated we didn't wish to wait for it to be warmed up we were comped a dessert. We tried all 3 at our table. Each unique. Nice birthday and retirement celebration.”
“As soon as I stepped into the restaurant, the manager, Stacey, noticed it was my first time there without a reservation. She asked if my lunch was business-related, seeing me carrying a laptop. I confirmed it was quite important. Despite the busy lunch hours on a Sunday, she promptly found me a table within a minute. Stacey's professionalism and hospitality surpassed the ordinary; it was truly extraordinary! The food and ambiance were also fantastic! Overall, it was a fantastic experience—one of the most memorable moments in my life. Thank you very much, Stacey!”
Drive-Thru Restaurants
“I love Vitality Bowl, my friend does too - we have to order over DoorDash for lunch and there are not a ton of healthy options! I have been to the store on California and everyone is so nice, consistently. I only took off one star because the açaí bowls sometimes not made correctly. I think once some put a curved lid because I ordered some extras but most of the time they smush it with a flat lid. Then there is days where there is not much açaí and it's mostly toppers I bought. But have no fear Door Dash refunds. They usually are consistent with ther food but lately it's gotten a little - what is going on lately... That is just with delivery and it's not chronic but no one likes mistakes when they are hungry when it comes to food. The shop is a good place to relax and have a healthy snack. It's set up with a sofa and some tables it's super convenient! This bowl had strawberry, extra granola, spirulina and a couple other extras and it is a little over $21 - so the little extras add up! But when it's made correctly, it's super delicious!”
“Love this place!! I hope they don't "go big" and change!! Super Burrito with or without meat is always a hitter.Parking: There's more parking available near the back entranceKid-friendliness: Very kid friendly.”
“I have a long history with Taco Bell. It used to be one of my mom's favorite place wasn't as a child and I loved getting the food. I even worked for a Taco Bell, and even managed one in Oregon. So I have a succinct idea of how things should be when I get Taco Bell food. I frequent here quite often because it is really close to home. My only complaints about this place is I think they should stir their meat a lot more when I come during off hours before they serve my taco and sometimes the taco shells are a bit stale. The customer service is usually really good but sometimes can be hit and miss obviously people have bad days so I always forgive that. If you're in the area this is a Taco Bell it's not the worst in the world it's definitely not the best I've ever been into but it is good if you want Taco Bell food and it's really convenient! Did I mention I like Taco Bell!?”
“I give it a 4 because they offered me the happy meal and it didn't come with the toy they advertised and they told me it couldn't be exchanged. I love their food!”
“I was treated well and promptly and had no problem getting to use the restroom which is for customers only and rightfully so. Did prices there have skyrocketed in recent years but nice to know they still have a few affordable items. Taco Bell has been known for being skimpy on their portions however i felt like i got what I paid for this time and will be going back to this location soon.Vegetarian options: Bean and cheese burritos among other items with no meat would be classified vegetarian. You can also make any item vegetarian by asking for no meatDietary restrictions: Low calorie options with intent to cater to dietary restrictionsParking: Shopping center parking which is almost never full in that area as this place is a stand alone building within the centerKid-friendliness: Kids welcome with some children optionsWheelchair accessibility: Fully ADA compliant”
“Vegetarian options: All of I have to say is listed as I said it above, + really great customer service & rapport you get here with us patrons at this location, highly recommend it, thanks!!”
“The very nice black older lady was very friendly when picking up my order! And in general, it seemed to me that all the staff were very attentive to visitors and respectful, which is often lacking in McDonalds. This one has nice service.”
25
Daigo
“What should I do in Japanese restaurant while some americans are talking too loud?In a situation where fellow diners are being too loud in a restaurant, it's generally best to handle it with tact and politeness. Here are a few steps you could consider:1. **Self-assessment**: First, check if their volume is indeed excessively loud or if it's a normal conversation level for a public place.[I put the earplug on to protect my hearing.]2. **Move Away**: If possible, ask the restaurant staff if you can move to a quieter table.[This is a small place.]3. **Communicate with the Staff**: If moving isn't an option, you might consider speaking to the restaurant staff or management. They are usually trained to handle such situations diplomatically.[Staff is busy and understaffed even for bringing dishes to the side of our desk.]4. **Direct but Polite Approach**: If you feel comfortable, you could approach the individuals directly. Do so politely and calmly, expressing that their conversation volume is a bit high and is disturbing your dining experience.[Some of them speaks Chinese but they just pretend to ignore our complaints. ]Remember, every situation is different and requires a judgement call. It's important to stay respectful and considerate in your approach.[I am wondering what else I can do to deal with this situation?]”
26
Sweet Maple
“The chicken croffle is not good. Chicken is over cooked and very very dry. Then when you eat it with the sauce which is just purely sweet syrup, it just didn’t go right with the chicken.”
27
Ramen Kowa
“The line at Ramen Nagi was way too long so we found this place. Solid ramen. Not the best I've ever had but pretty good. The garlic karagge was okay...would pass on it next time.”
Cheap Eats
“Up on par with my best ramen experiences in Tokyo. The lone can be seem long, but it goes quickly. They are fast to seat you and serve you. I keep going back to the Red King, but that's a personal preference. Oh, yes, you can customize your order quite a bit, but if ramen is not your thing, there is no point in going here... aside from some yummy sides, ramen is all they offer. Which is just fine by me. Update: still the place to go for ramen in Palo Alto, hands down.”
“Awesome ambiance, friendly service, great vibe, coffee, books games and magazines to read, retro decor. Ample seating and fast service as well. Coffee and service will peel up your morning!”
“My go-to for amazing chicken and shawarma wraps. Super healthy, super flavorful, and been around for decades. Love this local business, especially all the cooks!”
“visited the Penny ice creamery recently and noticed they had a few interesting flavors. Service was good even though they had one person working the entire operation. No seats inside a lot of outdoor seating around.”
“For so many years it has been the place to go to eat with a friend and enjoy their specialties!Well served with complementary great small sweet pastry on the side.”
“I got the ube soft serve upside down with Nutella filling and biscoff crumbles. It was amazing! I do wish there were some high-top tables inside. It was just a bit too cold to eat outside when the sun goes down so we ate inside the shop.”
“Whenever I come to visit California I try to come to Philz for their iced mint mojito sweet and creamy style! This location has lots of seating to come and enjoy a cup, study for a bit, or just swing to go.FoodI ordered the iced mint mojito and got it sweet and creamy. I think that the creaminess that is added is the best way to have this drink. There are a variety of other flavors and tones of coffee as well if you want a standard coffee drink. Pastries are served here if you want a quick bite as well.AtmosphereOpen safe and casual cafe to grab coffee or even study for a bit. Did not see too many wall outlets but I wasn’t paying attention too much. Noise level average for a coffee shop. Plenty of natural lighting though.PricingAverage prices for a coffee and is worth the money since it’s so good!ServiceMy mint mojito came out pretty quick and I was able to go about my day easily. The staff was nice!OtherThere is some street parking available but the area is pretty busy and bustling with restaurants and shops so can be challenging to find.”
“We absolutely love Local Kitchen in Palo Alto! Our go-to dishes are the buffalo wings, Detroit pizza, chips, salsa, and the Smack Burger. We also highly recommend the poke bowl. The variety of food options is fantastic, and everything we've tried has been delicious.”
“Great perk at Stanford Hospital — agreed that the matcha here is excellent! (Had iced and hot with oat milk)Super fast and really personable service - which is nice for anyone who might need a pick me up during a challenging time at the hospital.”
“World Wrapps offers a diverse selection of wraps and bowls inspired by all sorts of global cuisines. It’s customizable and any wrap can be ordered in bowl form, or vice versa.The wraps are sizable and very filling. The sweet potato kale wrap with steak and shrimp was amazing. The Hawaiian teriyaki wrap was pretty decent and had a sweet sauce and stir fried vegetables. They also offer a variety of drinks, of which we tried the pineapple mint agua Fresca - quite refreshing!”
“Perfect spot to sit with a guest over breakfast. Plenty of great choices on the menu. Delicious food with generous portions. Some might choose to split a plate here. Service was attentive and were kind not to rush us out when we were done.”
“You have to drop by even if only to meet Alan! He is polite and incredibly kind, and made sure I got a delicious Geisha’s kiss roll even if they were technically closed! Sushirrito is a must- stop in Palo Alto.”
“I realized I’ve been in and out of ZombieRunner for years and I’ve never done a review. Clearly they’re doing something right. I kind of miss the quirkiness of their previous location, but it’s still a great place to grab coffee.”
“It was good! I paid around $15 for a two item combo with braised pork belly and beef stew, which I think cost extra, with fried rice. Serving size was generous. One of the best Chinese takeout options in the area!”
“Stopped by three times during my week stay in Palo Alto. Chill, laid-back bar with Pliny on tap. Why try anywhere else when you found something right up your alley? Will be back next time my travels bring me to Stanford. Didn’t have food but looks surprisingly good.”
“My friend visited me last weekend and we decided that we wanted to go to a steakhouse. This place was just amazing. The service and the food was just spectacular. I ordered a tomahawk and it was just delicious. It was perfectly cooked to my liking and I will be returning here again.”
“First time trying this place after coming back fromJapan recently. Had the yuzu lemonade, mushroom risotto and the pork donburi. It was soooooo delicious! Will come back again.”
“We met up with friends. When asked what was good we said everything We each thoroughly enjoyed our meals. Thai beef salad, tacos, pastas. The restaurant was quite busy. We were not rushed and we enoour time there. The noise level was a bit higher than usual including some pounding in the kitchen.”
Latest Reviews
“The best carnitas tacos around. Moist, juicy slow roasted and tender. Good portions. Two will do. Other meat and chicken are good as well. Very consistent and the Chef has been there for years. He loves his work and always has a smile for everyone.”
“The I ice cream was so good I can't even explain it and the service was amazing I recommend the scoopalicious with gram cracks in it I am super impressed with how well there ice cream was”
“had a wonderful night at BISTRONOMIE by Baumé for my husband's birthday! Even though we were not the only customers, the way the restaurant is arranged made us feel like we were having our own private, intimate meal. Every plate was stunningly beautiful and the compositions of flavor and texture were truly a new experience. Even the plateware and cutlery kept drawing our attention as elegant pieces of art. The service was wonderful, we loved how friendly, funny, and warm both the wife and son were. They really made us feel welcome and at ease. I would highly recommend to visit this place. We're not the type to frequent restaurants of this caliber so we usually reserve these types of visits to special occasions, but we are hoping the menu will change (maybe seasonally?) so we can use that as an excuse to return ASAP.”
Most Popular Restaurants
“Great Spanish food. We ordered six or seven tapas to share. The croquetas were the highlight. Both ham and crab. We ordered a bottle of Sangre de Toro (rosé) that accompanied splendidly.”
“First time here. Had the vegan Teriyaki Quinoa Bowl w/ Tempeh. Delicious but the portion was small for me despite adding Tempeh. Others at the table loved their food too. Great environment and service. I'd go again.”
“Bucket list meal.! Thinly sliced hamachi layered & arranged like a flower with a thin slice of radish topped with a dollop of Tobiko . Beautiful & delicious Fresh ground wasabi perfectly prepared tea.”
“This is a five star spot for me, good value for money, especially on beef teriyaki which was great quality and portion, first drink free was an excellent perk as well.Plenty of soap in bathrooms as well ??.”
“At first coming in side we were not sure what to get but then we meet Ms Sindy here and she was very friendly and answer my questions about the menu and I ordered a BBQ bacon burger and for my boy a grilled chicken and some fries we love the food and the experience we had here I'm for sure recommend this place if you want a nice burger with fries”
“Service is awesome. Reservation was very smooth. It’s a great dining experience overall.I rate 4 out of 5 as I think meat could be better quality given the price.”
“Some places call themselves authentic other place is our truly great authentic. Taverna nails it on every level service food wine overall can’t recommend them high enough.”
“One of my favorite restaurants in Palo Alto! I always enjoy the outdoor seating especially since they have heaters and the ambiance is lovely on that street. There's usually a line when I go but it moves pretty quickly since you just order at the counter and take a number before finding a seat. My favorite dish to get is the chicken boti thali. I love that you can substitute the rice for naan because the naan is absolutely delicious. Everything is so flavorful and tasty and I especially enjoy the daal. It's such a great and satisfying meal every time I come!”
“One of my favorite places for really good Mexican food. Both the food and beverages are excellent and unique. The staff is always friendly and helpful. Can’t miss!Dietary restrictions: Gluten free”
“Lovely experience with the Alice in Wonderland Tea! We had the Earl Grey Oolong tea, which was mildly disappointing (very little flavor), but the pastries more than made up for it! Three tea sandwiches, a perfectly baked blueberry scone, and three tiers of cakes and sweets. The best part was the setting, though. The place is covered flowers and beautifully decorated.”
“We had a really nice evening dining and walking around afterwards inside the hotel areas. The fact that the restaurant name has “poolside” in it got our attention and we were looking for American cuisine on Google. Once we approached the restaurant it really lightened up our eyes, the environment is nearly perfect. If you want to sit indoors you have warm places with fair lighting, if you want to sit near the pool you can as well.The foods are just delicious and of fair price. Truffle fries are the best! I would recommend this restaurant and maybe this hotel (without being a hotel guest) to anyone who visits Palo Alto or just want to dine in the area.Thai style and the ambience are a plus!”
“We had asked the server we didn't want coleslaw and we wanted a sub side my sister could eat. But he still brought us coleslaw that had to be tossed since I didn't want it either so unfortunately the side went to waste. The side we had placed that my sister didn't have allergies with was Brussels sprout and it was not considered a replacement for something that she was allergic to. So was a little disappointed. Other than that the food was good.”
“Shout out to our server last night! Unfortunately I did not catch her name, but if you have a way of finding out who she was please thank her for us. She did a really great job with our table, and she even found a way to have them make us a grilled chicken breast instead of chicken tenders for our very picky toddler, which we really appreciated. The food was served promptly and was delicious, and we had a really great time.”
“We went to Local Union 271 for a Sunday brunch.Their brunch menu is extensive and features plenty of gluten free dishes for those with allergies.The food was very good - the loco moco dish (pictured) was delicious.4 stars for service due to drinks and coffee arriving after food - some room for improvement here. Truth be told, turnaround time for food was quite fast.Dietary restrictions: Plenty of gluten free options.”
“Ms. Marie provided extraordinary services, was prompt, and very attentive to our needs as our server. She made the experience and the food that was provided here truly one of a kind Highly recommend 10/10!”
“I would tell you how great the food and service was, and how much we enjoyed the evening, but I don't want to make reservations harder to get as we are returning! Not only great meat and seafood, but wonderful vegetarian dishes. And desserts were over the top!”