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Best Californian Restaurants in Palo Alto

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33 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Ethel's Fancy restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(544)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 18 times today
Ethel's Fancy in Palo Alto is a vibrant culinary gem that perfectly blends Contemporary French and American cuisine with a unique twist. The restaurant's commitment to using local, seasonal ingredients shines through in every dish, resulting in an ever-evolving menu that delights and surprises diners. As one reviewer noted, "every bite has an interesting mix of flavors... and occasionally it’s magical." With dishes like pork belly with burrata and caramel miso, and a stunning halibut, the menu offers a delightful array of taste experiences. The impeccable service and inviting atmosphere make Ethel's Fancy a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
A photo of Zola + BarZola restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1240)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 14 times today
Zola + BarZola in Palo Alto shines as a beacon of exceptional American cuisine, delighting patrons with a harmonious blend of traditional flavors and innovative dishes. Guests consistently rave about the "outstanding food" and "excellent service," appreciating the welcoming atmosphere that feels "like a comfortable dining room in a friend's home." The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in its carefully sourced seasonal ingredients, expertly prepared to perfection. Diners are enamored with the "melt-in-your-mouth short ribs" and "exquisite mushroom crepes," making it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. Zola + BarZola truly offers an authentic American dining experience.
A photo of St. Michael's Alley restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(808)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 21 times today
Nestled in the heart of Palo Alto, St. Michael's Alley offers an authentic Californian dining experience that has delighted locals and visitors since 1959. Known for its "exceptional hospitality and delicious food," this restaurant is a true gem that "never disappoints." With a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, the seasonal menu highlights the diverse flavors of Californian cuisine. The intimate wood-paneled dining room, casual bar area, and charming outdoor patio provide the perfect setting for any occasion, from date nights to celebrations. As one diner put it, "A wonderful dining experience," St. Michael's Alley is a must-visit for anyone seeking quality Californian cuisine.
A photo of Local Union 271 restaurant
4.3
Awesome(555)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 28 times today
Local Union 271 in Palo Alto is a shining example of authentic Farm-to-table cuisine. This family-owned gem emphasizes locally sourced ingredients, creating an experience that is both flavorful and healthy. The restaurant is a "circle of farms, ranches, dairies, hatcheries, bakeries, fisheries, breweries, and wineries," ensuring every dish is crafted with the freshest and most sustainable produce. Diners rave about the "wonderful, great quality food," with standouts like the "perfectly cooked black cod & vegetables" and "delicious meatloaf." The ambiance is comfortable and crafted by local artisans, making it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.
A photo of Tacolicious - Palo Alto restaurant
4.5
Awesome(209)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 11 times today
At Tacolicious in Palo Alto, the authentic Californian cuisine is a delightful fusion of vibrant flavors and fresh, responsibly sourced ingredients. This modern Mexican restaurant has captivated diners with its “delicious tacos and drinks,” with standout favorites like the Pork Chile Colorado and Mushroom Carnitas tacos. The house-made organic corn tortillas are praised as “soft and flavorful,” perfectly complementing the diverse taco options. Tacolicious offers not just a meal, but an experience, with enjoyable outdoor seating and a lively yet cozy atmosphere. This culinary gem promises to leave you saying, “we’ll definitely be back,” with every visit feeling like a culinary fiesta!
A photo of Eylan restaurant
4.4
Awesome(52)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Menlo Park
Booked 28 times today
From Chef Srijith Gopinathan and restaurateur Ayesha Thapar, the creators of Ettan, Copra and Little Blue Door, Eylan offers seasonally-driven Cal-Indian cuisine centered around a wood-fired grill, with thoughtfully sourced produce and a variety of proteins cooked over the embers and served alongside clever riffs on traditional breads from different regions of India. The bar program by West-Bev and Christopher Longoria draws upon the kaleidoscope of ingredients and techniques that make up global cocktail culture, while also taking inspiration from the culinary traditions of India. Wine director Andre Sydnor's program offers depth in classic regions like Burgundy, Champagne, Piedmont, and California, offering a variety of options for casual wine lovers while including more exclusive selections for serious oenophiles.
A photo of Quattro Restaurant and Bar - Four Seasons Hotel restaurant
4.2
Awesome(1407)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 7 times today
Quattro Restaurant and Bar at Four Seasons Hotel in Palo Alto is a breakfast haven that seamlessly blends Italian flavors with California's freshest ingredients. Diners rave about its "beautiful presentation and ambiance" and the "delicious, excellent new menu," which ensures an unforgettable morning culinary experience. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in every bite, with expertly crafted dishes that cater to both locals and visitors seeking a standout breakfast in Silicon Valley. Whether you're indulging in their perfectly executed classics or exploring innovative breakfast options, Quattro promises a memorable start to your day with its "great atmosphere" and "phenomenal service."
A photo of Oak + Violet - Park James Hotel restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(838)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Menlo Park
Booked 1 time today
Welcome to Oak + Violet where the vibrant spirit of California's Culinary creativity meets the craft cuisine. Tucked away in the heart of Menlo Park.From farm-fresh salads bursting with seasonal produce to succulent seafood caught.And let's not forget about the drinks! Our carefully curated selection of local wines, craft beers, and artisanal cocktails reflects the innovative spirit of California's beverage scene. Oak + Violet is a gathering place where friends and foodies come together to celebrate the flavors, the culture, and the community that make California so special. Come and Enjoy the Oak + Violet Experience
A photo of Wildseed Palo Alto restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(133)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 79 times today
Wildseed Palo Alto brings a fresh twist to American cuisine with its vibrant, plant-based menu that promises to delight both vegans and carnivores alike. Nestled in the heart of Palo Alto, this restaurant is celebrated for its “exceptional food” and “creative cocktails,” making it a must-visit spot for diners seeking healthy yet hearty dishes. Using Northern California’s freshest seasonal produce, every meal served is a testament to quality and authenticity. Guests rave about the “delicious vegan dishes” and the “wonderful experience,” noting how Wildseed’s innovative approach “makes you rethink dining” with its flavorful offerings. Enjoy a superb dining experience that’s both satisfying and sustainable.
A photo of Naschmarkt - Palo Alto restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(410)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 12 times today
Naschmarkt - Palo Alto is a hidden gem offering an exceptional dining experience with its Contemporary American cuisine. Guests rave about the "superb cuisine" and "delicious innovative food," highlighting the restaurant's ability to seamlessly blend traditional dishes with a modern twist. Known for its high-quality ingredients, Naschmarkt takes pride in its skillful cooking, crafting a menu that delights with every bite. The "fantastic food" is complemented by a welcoming atmosphere and "friendly, gracious professional services," making it an ideal spot for both special occasions and casual outings. Diners leave with a smile, eager to return for more culinary delights.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Anne
    California Central Coast •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Great dining opportunity from appetizers to dessert, especially the profiteroles. A great & reasonably priced wine list. All in all, a definite destination!
    More info
    St. Michael's AlleyPrice: Expensive• American• Palo Alto
    4.6
  • AlonsoVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Sat at the bar and Stephen was awesome. The food was flavorful and interesting while being very down to earth and approachable. We came on Valentine’s Day so it was a set menu but the stand outs were scallop stuffed mushrooms, salt and pepper octopus, milk bread and wagyu sirloin. Can’t wait to come back.
    More info
    Ethel's FancyPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Palo Alto
    4.9
  • EvelynVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Delicious food in a nice atmosphere! Loved the GF menu options since one in our party needed that. Also that clean oils are used as we try to avoid seed oils. We like the updates (not sure how recently done) and plan to come back more often.
    More info
    Local Union 271Price: Moderate• Contemporary American• Palo Alto
    4.3
  • Nathaniel
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    I visited Zola for their Valentine's Day event and had a mixed experience. The ambiance was great, and the service was attentive, making for a nice evening. The appetizer was a highlight—beautifully presented and full of flavor, setting a great tone for the meal. Dessert was equally impressive, with a perfect balance of sweetness and texture that made for a satisfying end to the dinner. However, the steak was a letdown. It arrived colder than expected and tasted just okay—nothing special for the price and occasion. I was hoping for a more enjoyable main course, but it didn’t quite meet expectations. Overall, while the event had its strong points, the main course left something to be desired. I’d consider returning for the appetizers and desserts but might opt for a different entrée next time
    More info
    Zola + BarZolaPrice: Expensive• French• Palo Alto
    4.6
  • MichaelVIP
    Indiana •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 12 Jan 2025
    Best margaritas anywhere in the Bay Area! Food is delicious and affordable. Servers are super friendly and welcoming. This is a go-to for us on a Friday or Saturday night. Good deals for happy hour if we can make it early enough.
    More info
    Tacolicious - Palo AltoPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Palo Alto
    4.5

Discover best Californian restaurants in Palo Alto

Discover the diverse and vibrant Californian cuisine in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, specifically in Palo Alto and the Peninsula. This region is renowned for its innovative approach to food, blending local, seasonal ingredients with culinary creativity to offer a truly unique dining experience. From farm-to-table practices to the incorporation of international flavors, each restaurant in this area presents a distinct interpretation of Californian fare, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. The dining scene here is characterized by a commitment to quality and sustainability, emphasizing fresh, organic ingredients that reflect the health-conscious ethos of California. Whether you're seeking a casual dining atmosphere or a more refined culinary adventure, the restaurants in Palo Alto and the Peninsula area promise an exceptional gastronomic journey. Enjoy the blend of laid-back luxury and meticulous food craftsmanship that makes each meal a memorable event. Explore the culinary delights of Californian cuisine in this dynamic and scenic region, where every meal is an opportunity to savor the rich flavors and innovative dishes that define the Golden State.

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