Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Palo Alto

16 restaurants available nearby

1. Local Union 271

4.2

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Palo Alto

Booked 18 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.

2. Sekoya

4.7

Exceptional(152)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Palo Alto

Booked 32 times today

Sekoya Lounge & Kitchen in Palo Alto is a haven for cocktail enthusiasts, offering a "fantastic" mixology experience that captivates the senses. The bar's inventive cocktails are expertly crafted, blending subtle and bold flavors to create unforgettable drinks that perfectly complement their modern American cuisine. Diners rave about the "Pisco soirée" and "California oasis," highlighting the bartenders' creativity and skill. The chic decor and warm ambiance make it an inviting spot to relax and enjoy. With "amazing cocktails" and an "awesome bar program," Sekoya stands out as a top destination for those seeking a delightful cocktail bar experience in the heart of Palo Alto.

A photo of Apres Village - Four Seasons Silicon Valley restaurant

3. Apres Village - Four Seasons Silicon Valley

3.5

Very Good(57)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Palo Alto

Booked 6 times today

At Apres Village - Four Seasons Silicon Valley, Contemporary American cuisine is elevated to new heights, offering a unique and enchanting dining experience in Palo Alto. Guests are immersed in a festive ambiance with an Italian Mountain Valley theme while savoring flavorful shared dishes like the artisanal charcuterie and Italian cheese selection. Reviewers rave, "The food was phenomenal," and praise the "attentiveness of the staff." With semi-private chalets, it's an ideal setting for families or groups looking to enjoy a memorable culinary adventure. The innovative menu and impeccable service make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking exceptional Contemporary American dining.

A photo of NM Cafe at Neiman Marcus - Palo Alto restaurant

4. NM Cafe at Neiman Marcus - Palo Alto

4.7

Exceptional(683)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Palo Alto

Booked 21 times today

Nestled in the heart of Palo Alto, NM Cafe at Neiman Marcus offers an exquisite taste of Californian cuisine, celebrated for its fresh and vibrant flavors. This laid-back luxe cafe is known for its "excellent food in an elegant, relaxed environment" and "outstanding" service, as noted by enthusiastic diners. The menu highlights the best of Californian ingredients, exemplified by dishes like the "deconstructed salmon niçoise" and the beloved "popovers with strawberry butter." With a focus on quality and authenticity, NM Cafe ensures each meal is a delightful experience, making it a must-visit culinary destination for those seeking genuine Californian fare.

5. Menlo Tavern

4.6

Exceptional(448)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Menlo Park

Booked 16 times today

Menlo Tavern in Menlo Park is a standout in Dining Bar cuisine, offering a delightful blend of atmosphere, service, and culinary excellence. Guests rave about the "beautiful courtyard with shaded tables" and the "warm and luxurious" inside bar, creating an inviting dining experience whether indoors or out. The restaurant is a "hidden gem" known for its exceptional American dishes, including a variety of flavorful options from their seasonal menus. The service consistently garners praise, described as "attentive but not oppressive," making every visit feel special. With live music enhancing the ambiance, Menlo Tavern is a must-visit destination for delightful dining.

A photo of Naschmarkt - Palo Alto restaurant

6. Naschmarkt - Palo Alto

4.8

Exceptional(399)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Palo Alto

Booked 29 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.

A photo of British Bankers Club restaurant

7. British Bankers Club

4.5

Awesome(645)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Menlo Park

Booked 5 times today

Nestled in the heart of Menlo Park, the British Bankers Club is a gem for Contemporary European cuisine enthusiasts. With a menu that boasts a tantalizing array of dishes, diners rave about the "outstanding" flavors and "superb" quality of meals, from the delectable lobster ravioli to the perfectly cooked halibut. The vibrant ambiance and "great" service create a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for anything from a casual patio lunch to an elegant dinner. The extensive selection of wines and spirits complements the culinary delights, ensuring a complete and satisfying dining experience that patrons eagerly recommend.

8. Flea Street

4.8

Exceptional(2643)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Menlo Park

Booked 15 times today

Flea Street in Menlo Park is a standout destination for Contemporary American cuisine, offering a delightful fusion of innovation and seasonal freshness. As a pioneer in farm-to-table dining, the restaurant promises "delicious, fresh food that's innovative but not fussy," presenting each dish with care and creativity. Chef Bryan Thuerk crafts a seasonally changing menu that highlights local, organic ingredients, ensuring every meal is an "absolute treat." Diners rave about the "elevated cocktails" and the "complex and fabulous" flavors that reflect California's bounty. Flea Street's welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service make it a perfect choice for both celebratory and intimate dining experiences.

A photo of Dinah's Poolside Restaurant restaurant

9. Dinah's Poolside Restaurant

4.7

Exceptional(819)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Palo Alto

Booked 8 times today

Dinah's Poolside Restaurant in Palo Alto offers an authentic American dining experience that combines tradition with modern flair. Known for its "hearty breakfast and lunchtime favorites," this gem elevates classic American cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients like cage-free eggs and sustainable produce. Diners rave about the "great service and wonderful atmosphere," making it a cherished locale for over 55 years. The relaxed poolside setting and attentive staff create a vacation-like ambiance that complements the delicious food, from "perfect omelets" to "divine mushroom ravioli." Whether for brunch or dinner, Dinah's consistently delights with its genuine American flavors.

10. The Village Pub

4.8

Exceptional(4026)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Woodside

Booked 40 times today

Nestled in the heart of Woodside, The Village Pub is a culinary gem that has captivated the palates of discerning diners for over two decades. The restaurant's contemporary Californian cuisine, rooted in the culinary traditions of France and the Mediterranean, is a symphony of flavors that celebrates the freshest, seasonal ingredients. Each dish is a testament to the chef's artistry, with every component meticulously crafted to showcase the essence of each ingredient. The menu changes with the seasons, ensuring that diners can always savor the bounty of the harvest. The Village Pub's partnership with SMIP Ranch, a nearby organic farm, is a testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality and sustainability. The farm's heirloom produce, cultivated with care and harvested exclusively for the restaurant, adds an unparalleled depth of flavor to every dish. The restaurant's ambiance is as inviting as its cuisine. The cozy front lounge and more formal dining area offer a choice of settings, each with its own unique charm. The warm, welcoming atmosphere makes The Village Pub the perfect place for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or simply a delightful evening out with friends and family. Whether you're a seasoned gourmand or a curious newcomer, The Village Pub promises an unforgettable culinary experience. Come and

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From verified diners like you

M
MelissaVIP
Seattle / Eastern Washington •16 reviews
5.0
Dined today
Our server was excellent and we enjoyed the food. She gave us a s”more kit and we had a great time outdoors at the fire pit.
More info
Menlo TavernPrice: Expensive• American• Menlo Park
•
4.6
L
Lakesha
San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
From start to finish everything was amazing! The food, the vibe and customer service!
More info
Apres Village - Four Seasons Silicon ValleyPrice: Very Expensive• Tapas / Small Plates• Palo Alto
•
3.5
M
Mary BethVIP
Asheville / Western North Carolina •13 reviews
4.0
Dined on 2 Jan 2025
Easy to locate in downtown Palo Alto, family friendly. Service was fine, not friendly. Food was fine. The restaurant was cold inside.
More info
Local Union 271Price: Moderate• Contemporary American• Palo Alto
•
4.2
B
BenjaminVIP
Las Vegas •2 reviews
4.0
Dined on 2 Jan 2025
Overall great. Keep up the good work. Love the rolls and halibut
More info
SekoyaPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Palo Alto
•
4.7
P
perfectoVIP
San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on 29 Dec 2024
Great food and service ! Server very cordial, courteous and professional
More info
NM Cafe at Neiman Marcus - Palo AltoPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Palo Alto
•
4.7

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Palo Alto

Discover the vibrant Contemporary American dining scene in Palo Alto, a jewel within the San Francisco Bay Area. This locale shines with a diverse array of restaurants that brilliantly fuse traditional American elements with innovative, modern culinary techniques. Whether you're seeking a laid-back, luxurious atmosphere or a cozy, family-friendly setting, Palo Alto's dining venues cater to all preferences, emphasizing quality and creativity in every dish. The restaurants here pride themselves on utilizing locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring that each meal is not only fresh but also supports local farmers and producers. From farm-to-table experiences to sophisticated ambiances that blend natural elements with modern aesthetics, the dining options in Palo Alto offer something uniquely delightful for every palate. The dining scene here is a testament to the area's commitment to excellence and innovation in Contemporary American cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers and culinary adventurers alike.

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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Palo Alto

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16 restaurants available nearby

1. Local Union 271

2. Sekoya

3. Apres Village - Four Seasons Silicon Valley

4. NM Cafe at Neiman Marcus - Palo Alto

5. Menlo Tavern

6. Naschmarkt - Palo Alto

7. British Bankers Club

8. Flea Street

9. Dinah's Poolside Restaurant

10. The Village Pub

See what locals rave about

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Palo Alto

Explore OpenTable