Palo Alto Restaurants
Looking for the best places to eat in Palo Alto? Browse all 153 Palo Alto restaurants in the Outside Eats dining guide to the San Francisco Peninsula, from casual neighborhood favorites to award winning destinations. Select any restaurant for photos, hours, cuisine, directions, and the full profile.
- Anatolian KitchenCalifornia Avenue Turkish kitchen specializing in beef doner kebab, Adana kebab and house-made manti since 2010.
- Araki SushiFresh sushi, sashimi and bento boxes at reasonable prices with standout lunch deals on University Avenue.
- Arya SteakhousePersian and steakhouse hybrid with halal aged meats, barg kabob, saffron rice and private dining rooms.
- Asian Box100% gluten-free Vietnamese scratch kitchen with bold six-spice chicken, coconut curry tofu and lemongrass pork bowls.
- Bacio di LatteBrazil's premier gelateria makes its Bay Area debut at Stanford Shopping Center with 22+ rotating flavors and a new flavor introduced every three weeks. Over 200 locations in Brazil and 16 in Southern California. Authentic Italian gelato made fresh daily with premium ingredients, blending traditional recipes, local dairy, and imported Italian flavors into every handcrafted scoop
- Bevri - Palo AltoThe Bay Area's only Georgian restaurant, famous for wood-fired khachapuri cheese boats and hand-rolled khinkali dumplings.
- Bistro ElanIntimate French bistro sourcing local farm ingredients with a seasonal menu and rotating desserts.
- Bistro MaxinePalo Alto's only authentic French crepe cafe since 2006, using batter and equipment imported directly from France.
- Buca di Beppo Italian RestaurantFestive family-style Italian with generous portions of classic pasta, lasagna and chicken for groups and celebrations.
- Cafe Pro BonoThree-time Palo Alto Weekly best Italian restaurant winner with housemade pasta and organic ingredients for 30-plus years.
- Caffe RiaceFamily-owned California Avenue Sicilian trattoria since 1997 with outdoor piazza dining and housemade Italian specialties.
- Cedar & Sage Bistro & Lounge (coming soon)(COMING SOON) Wine-focused bistro and lounge coming to Stanford Shopping Center from the owners of The Winery Restaurant in Orange County. Chef-driven menu with custom paintings of R&B and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame artists throughout.
- Celia’s Mexican RestaurantDaily fresh salsa, lard-free tortillas and skinless chicken define this longtime El Camino Real neighborhood staple.
- Chef Zhao KitchenRegional Chinese cooking with bold wok-fired dishes and dumplings popular with the Stanford community.
- Coconuts Caribbean Restaurant & BarJerk chicken, curried goat and oxtail bring island flavors to Silicon Valley in a lively full-bar setting.
- Como Esta TaqueriaNo-frills Middlefield Road taqueria with fresh-made burritos and tacos at the most affordable prices in Palo Alto.
- Coupa Cafe - RamonaVenezuelan cafe and Silicon Valley landmark since 2004, known for locally roasted coffee and gluten-free arepas.
- Crepevine RestaurantsAll-day neighborhood cafe serving generous crepes, omelets, salads and sandwiches from breakfast through dinner.
- Curry Pizza House Palo AltoIndian fusion pizza on University Avenue with butter chicken, tandoori chicken, and chili paneer pies alongside craft beer and outdoor seating.
- Da Sichuan BistroLongstanding El Camino Real Sichuan kitchen famous for spicy dan dan noodles, mapo tofu, and owner warmth after six-plus years in Palo Alto.
- DaigoHidden gem on Birch Street serving exceptional omakase, hamachi shots, and yuzu cheesecake in an intimate Japan-reminiscent setting.
- Darbar Indian CuisineAward-winning Indian kitchen one block from Stanford combining north and south regional dishes with a beloved weekday lunch buffet since the 1980s.
- Dohatsuten Ramen & TapasNagoya-style ramen with spicy minced pork and Japanese small plates in a vibrant family-friendly spot open since 2009.
- Douce FranceAlsatian bakery cafe in Town and Country Village since 1981, beloved for handmade croissants, buckwheat crepes, and Lavazza espresso.
- Dumpling Hours-Palo AltoPalo Alto's go-to dumpling house with handmade xiao long bao, pan-fried dumplings, and noodle soups served twice daily.
- El Taco RancheroNo-frills Mexican street food counter with fresh-made tacos and burritos at some of the most affordable prices on the Peninsula.
- Ethel's FancyA cozy upscale neighborhood restaurant in downtown Palo Alto focused on locally sourced seasonal ingredients and a thoughtfully curated wine list.
- EttanCritically acclaimed modern Indian restaurant from acclaimed chef Srijith Gopinathan offering a refined tasting menu and a la carte with a curated wine list.
- Evvia EstiatorioCelebrated Greek kitchen on Emerson Street with wood-fired lamb, whole fish, and mezze that have earned consistent acclaim for over 25 years.
- Fambrini’s CafeCheerful daytime cafe near Stanford serving generous housemade soups, paninis, and daily specials in a relaxed neighborhood setting.
- Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine BarUpscale steakhouse featuring prime dry-aged cuts and one of the most extensive wine-by-the-glass programs of any Peninsula restaurant.
- Fuki SushiElegant California Avenue sushi restaurant with a devoted following for its pristine nigiri, omakase options, and serene unhurried dining pace.
- Go Fish Poke Bar- Stanford Shopping CenterBuild-your-own poke bowls with fresh ahi tuna, salmon, and creative sauces at Stanford Shopping Center.
- Gott'sNorthern California roadside classic known for grass-fed burgers, crispy onion rings, and seasonal milkshakes in a bustling open-air setting.
- Green Elephant GourmetBeloved neighborhood Thai kitchen with a devoted local following for its green curry, pad see ew, and generous lunch specials.
- HatchedEgg-forward breakfast spot at Town and Country Village with Asian-inflected sandwiches, smashed avocado toasts, and ceremonial-grade matcha lattes.
- HE&C Tea + PotIndividual hot pot concept on Emerson Street serving Kagoshima wagyu beef and handcrafted fruit teas with organic milk and fresh fruit.
- Hidden Tap And Barrel Palo AltoCraft beer and cocktail bar with a rotating tap list and a kitchen serving elevated pub food and weekend brunch.
- Holy SushiCasual downtown sushi spot with an extensive menu of rolls, nigiri, and Japanese entrees at approachable everyday prices.
- Hong Kong RestaurantLongstanding Cantonese kitchen on El Camino Real serving traditional homestyle dishes like walnut prawns, beef clay pot, and shrimp chow fun.
- Horsefeather Palo AltoSF's beloved New American restaurant at Town and Country Village with Asian-Latin inspired dishes, inventive cocktails, and a bold low-proof program.
- Howie's Artisan PizzaMultiple-time Palo Alto Weekly Best Pizza winner with California thin-crust pies, housemade sausage and ricotta, and fresh handmade pasta since 2009.
- Hummus Mediterranean KitchenHalal Turkish-Mediterranean kitchen at Stanford Shopping Center with fresh-baked pita, housemade hummus, slow-roasted gyro meats, and lahmacun.
- Iki OmakaseBay Area-style Edomae omakase at $195 per person from Chef Jiabo Li, trained at Sushi Hon and Sato Omakase in San Francisco.
- Imperial treasureUpscale Chinese restaurant on California Avenue with tableside-carved Peking duck, xiao long bao, and Szechuan specialties in an elegant setting.
- INDO Restaurant & LoungeIndonesian fusion kitchen on El Camino Real blending native Chef Diana Anwar's authentic recipes with California-French technique and craft cocktails.
- IndochineLongstanding Middlefield Road Thai and Vietnamese kitchen with bold curries, fresh spring rolls, and catering for private events and corporate meetings.
- iTalicoMichelin Bib Gourmand-recognized California Avenue Italian with Neapolitan-style pizza, housemade pasta, and a Wine Spectator-awarded wine list.
- Izzy's Brooklyn BagelsColorful hand-rolled bagels, deli sandwiches, and coffee served daily from 6 AM at a beloved Palo Alto institution.
- Jin ShoRefined California Avenue Japanese restaurant with chefs trained at Nobu NY, praised for pristine miso black cod, blue fin tuna, and seasonal sashimi.
- Joanie's CafeFour-time Palo Alto Weekly Best Breakfast winner known for generous American portions, smoked salmon omelets, Cobb salad, and hash browns.
- Kali Greek KitchenFast-casual Greek kitchen at Stanford Shopping Center serving housemade gyros, falafel, and fresh-baked pita with a vibrant Mediterranean spread.
- Kanji Sushi & RamenLively Japanese spot combining creative sushi rolls and rich tonkotsu and miso ramen bowls in a casual, welcoming setting.
- KanpaiIntimate Lytton Avenue Japanese restaurant with a tranquil Japan-inspired interior, traditional donburi, sushi, and an extensive sake selection.
- Khazana by Chef Sanjeev KapoorModern Indian concept on University Avenue from India's most celebrated TV chef with seasonal cocktails and a full bar.
- Kirk's SteakBurgers - Palo AltoBay Area burger institution grinding USDA choice steak in-house daily for thick patties and a devoted following for over 40 years.
- La Bodeguita del MedioMultiple Palo Alto Weekly Best Ambience and Best Latin American winner with Cuban ropa vieja, rum cocktails, and a heated California Avenue patio.
- La BohemeIntimate French-Californian dinner spot with refined coq au vin, beef bourguignon, and a thoughtfully curated wine list for special evenings.
- La Corneta TaqueriaSan Francisco's beloved Glen Park taqueria since 1995 opens its first Palo Alto location on University Avenue. Expect the same carefully crafted burritos and tacos that built a 30-year following. Fresh Mexican food with a full menu of classic dishes made to order, offering a wide variety of tacos, enchiladas, or our famous burritos.
- LeQuyNeighborhood Vietnamese restaurant with a loyal Palo Alto following for pho, banh mi, and classic stir-fries at everyday prices.
- Local Union 271Family-owned farm-to-table American kitchen with scratch-made dishes, locally sourced ingredients, and handcrafted decor throughout.
- Lotus Thai BistroReliable California Avenue Thai bistro with a broad menu of curries, pad Thai, and noodle dishes for casual lunch and dinner.
- Lou & Herbert'sAll-day neighborhood American cafe serving breakfast and dinner from early morning through evening with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
- Macarena Restaurant in Palo AltoTraditional Spanish kitchen on Ramona Street with Michelin backing, authentic paellas, croquetas de jamon, and house-made sangria.
- MacArthur Park Restaurant and BarPalo Alto landmark since 1972 in a 1918 Julia Morgan building, famous for award-winning mesquite BBQ baby back ribs and prime rib.
- Mademoiselle ColetteFrench patisserie on Lytton Avenue known for buttery handmade croissants, elegant tarts, and silky espresso since 2015.
- Marugame UdonJapanese fast-casual chain on University Avenue with handcrafted Sanuki-style udon made to order in an open theater kitchen.
- Mediterranean WrapsQuick-service Mediterranean counter with fresh-made wraps, falafel, and gyros at some of the most affordable prices on California Avenue.
- Mendocino FarmsCalifornia sandwich and salad chain known for fresh ingredients, bold flavor combinations, and extensive options for all dietary preferences.
- Meyhouse & Meyhouse Jazz ClubElevated Turkish-Mediterranean dining on Emerson Street with live jazz, tender lamb chops, vibrant mezes, and a curated wine list.
- Meze KebabDowntown Palo Alto Turkish kitchen serving housemade hummus, grilled kebabs, and Mediterranean small plates next door to Meyhouse.
- MJ Sushi Palo AltoCasual neighborhood sushi spot with generous portions of fresh nigiri, creative rolls, and beef udon at everyday prices.
- Namaste Indian CuisineNeighborhood Indian kitchen with a devoted local following for butter chicken, garlic naan, and a weekday lunch buffet.
- Naschmarkt - Palo AltoFamily-owned Austrian restaurant on Birch Street with crispy Wiener Schnitzel, double-cooked pork belly, and European beers since 2022.
- New York New York SandwichesLongtime Palo Alto deli with thick-cut New York style deli sandwiches and classic cold-cut combinations at affordable prices.
- New York Pizza Palo AltoClassic New York style pizza by the slice or whole pie with a devoted following for its foldable thin crust and late-night hours.
- Nick The GreekFast-casual Greek chain with hand-carved gyros, lamb and chicken souvlaki, and fresh tzatziki served quickly in a modern setting.
- Nobu Restaurant Palo AltoThe Bay Area's only Nobu location at the Epiphany Hotel, co-founded by Chef Matsuhisa and Robert De Niro, with signature black cod miso.
- NolaNew Orleans-inspired kitchen on University Avenue with Cajun and Creole classics, craft cocktails, and a lively all-day dining atmosphere.
- O2 ValleyChinese hot pot and bubble tea spot with a broad selection of broths, fresh ingredients, and customizable dipping sauces.
- Odori Japanese CuisineQuiet neighborhood Japanese restaurant with precise sashimi, teriyaki, and bento boxes in a relaxed unhurried setting.
- Oklava CafeTurkish-inspired all-day cafe serving freshly prepared breakfast, housemade pastries, sandwiches, and specialty coffees from early morning.
- Onigilly Japanese Kitchen - Palo AltoJapanese rice ball chain with gourmet onigiri stuffed with premium fillings like salmon, tuna, and umeboshi for a quick nutritious meal.
- Oren's HummusIsraeli-style hummus restaurant on University Avenue with velvety housemade hummus, fresh pita, and a devoted line of regulars.
- Orens Hummus ExpressA faster-format companion to Oren's Hummus with the same fresh housemade hummus and falafel in a more casual counter setting.
- Osteria ToscanaCalifornia Avenue Tuscan trattoria with housemade pasta, braised meats, and a curated Italian wine list in a warm intimate setting.
- Pacific CatchWest Coast fish house at Stanford Shopping Center serving sustainably sourced seafood with Pacific Rim flavors and Aloha-inspired hospitality.
- Palo Alto CreameryA Palo Alto institution since 1923 with made-from-scratch milkshakes, burgers, waffles, and all-American fountain treats served by authentic soda jerks.
- Palo Alto SolFamily-owned Mexican kitchen serving traditional regional dishes from Puebla using family recipes and sustainably sourced local ingredients.
- Peninsula Fountain GrillA beloved Palo Alto lunch counter institution known colloquially as The Creamery, serving burgers, omelets, waffles, and house-made pie since 1923.
- Phở Hà NộiVietnamese pho kitchen using ancestral spice recipes, Harris Ranch Angus beef, free-range chicken, and spices harvested from Vietnam's Central Valley mountains.
- Pizza GuysMade-to-order pizza chain with a broad menu of classic and specialty pies available for delivery and pickup until 11 PM daily.
- Pizza My HeartCalifornia surf-culture pizza chain with a devoted Peninsula following for its thin-crust pies, calzones, and affordable slices.
- Pizzeria Delfina - Palo AltoPeninsula outpost of the James Beard Award-winning SF original, serving Neapolitan-inspired thin-crust pizzas with a daily-changing seasonal menu since 2014.
- Poke House - Palo AltoBuild-your-own poke bowl concept inspired by Hawaiian flavors with fresh sustainable fish and a California spirit in every bowl.
- ProtégéMichelin-starred New American restaurant on California Avenue from French Laundry alumni, earning the Bay Area's attention since opening in 2018.
- Ramen KowaCalifornia Avenue ramen kitchen with rich broths, perfectly fried karaage, and Japanese curry in a neighborhood setting representing Japanese culture and craft.
- Ramen NagiRevered Tokyo-based ramen chain with its first US location in Palo Alto, famous for intensely rich broth and fully customizable bowls.
- Rangoon Ruby Burmese CuisineChef Max Lee's celebrated Burmese kitchen with garlic noodles, coconut rice, and nan gyi dok noodles drawing a devoted following for modern Burmese cuisine.
- RaraA vibrant neighborhood restaurant with a rotating menu of globally inspired small plates, natural wines, and a lively convivial atmosphere.
- Redwood Café by Chef JulienDaytime cafe from a French-trained chef with farm-to-table breakfast and lunch using locally procured ingredients near Stanford.
- ReposadoPalo Alto's premier tequila and mezcal destination with an extensive agave spirits program alongside a full Mexican kitchen and lively bar.
- RH Rooftop Restaurant at RH Palo Alto
- ROOH Palo AltoModern Indian kitchen on University Avenue from Chef Sujan Sarkar exploring open-fire cooking and regional Indian flavors in a splashy communal setting.
- Roost & RoastAll-day breakfast and brunch spot in Town and Country Village from the team behind Hatched, with rotisserie chicken, sandwiches, and craft coffee.
- San Agus Cocina Urbana & CocktailsMexico City street kitchen with 40-plus tequilas and mezcals, pastor tacos, cochinita pibil, and margaritas in a cozy lively setting.
- Sancho's Taqueria _LyttonFast-casual Palo Alto taqueria with a devoted following for fresh fish tacos, California burritos, and loaded nachos at affordable prices.
- Sancho's Taqueria _middlefieldFast-casual Palo Alto taqueria with a devoted following for fresh fish tacos, California burritos, and loaded nachos at affordable prices.
- Sekoya Lounge & KitchenCalifornia Avenue's most sceney restaurant with seasonal New American dishes, a Hibachi grill, house-made breads, and craft cocktails.
- Show de Carnes Brazilian SteakhouseAuthentic Brazilian churrascaria experience with tableside carving of perfectly grilled meats and the vibrant flavors of Brazil.
- Siam Fine Thai CuisineRefined Thai kitchen with a dedicated following for elevated curries, pad Thai, and wok-fired dishes in a comfortable setting.
- Simmer & SteamerTaiwanese hot pot and steamer restaurant with individual broth selections, fresh ingredients, and a broad Asian comfort food menu.
- So Gong Dong Tofu HouseOne of the Bay Area's only Korean restaurants specializing in sundubu-jjigae, serving authentic soft tofu soups and stews since 2003.
- Sprout CafeUniversity Avenue healthy cafe with fresh salads, grain bowls, and seasonal ingredients popular with the Stanford community.
- Square Pie GuysDetroit-style square pizza with a crispy caramelized cheese crust and creative toppings, a Bay Area cult favorite on University Avenue.
- State of Mind Slice HouseNew York-style pizza pub with generous slices, craft beer on tap, and a casual neighborhood atmosphere perfect for watching sports.
- SteamPalo Alto's go-to dim sum restaurant with a broad menu of steamed and fried dumplings, rice noodles, and Taiwanese specialties.
- SUN of WOLFPalo Alto Weekly Best Mexican winner with inventive Mexico City inspired tacos, carnitas, and craft cocktails in an intimate setting.
- Sundance The SteakhouseA Palo Alto institution since 1974 with fireplaces, dark wood booths, slow-roasted prime rib, and hand-cut USDA Prime steaks.
- Sushi HouseLongtime Palo Alto neighborhood sushi restaurant with fresh traditional nigiri, rolls, and Japanese entrees in a welcoming setting.
- Sushi Roku Palo AltoUpscale contemporary Japanese restaurant at Stanford Shopping Center with premium nigiri, signature rolls, and creative cocktails.
- Sweet MapleSF brunch import beloved for thick-cut millionaire bacon, fluffy pancakes, and creative egg dishes with lines forming before opening.
- Tai PanUpscale Hong Kong-style Cantonese restaurant on Waverly Street with honey-smoked sea bass, Shanghai crab, and an elegant East-meets-West dining room since 2005.
- Tamarine Restaurant & GalleryUpscale Vietnamese restaurant and art gallery on University Avenue from Chef Tammy Huynh, celebrated for shaking beef, garlic tiger prawns, and rotating Vietnamese artwork.
- Tane Vegan IzakayaPalo Alto's only 100% plant-based sushi bar with gluten-free rolls, location-exclusive Hawaiian poke bowls, and king oyster mushroom nigiri.
- Taqueria El Grullense M&GAuthentic Mexican taqueria on El Camino Real open early until midnight with fresh tacos, burritos, tortas, and seafood dishes at street-food prices.
- TasteAll-day American bistro on Emerson Street with rotating seasonal menus, craft cocktails, and a convivial downtown atmosphere popular for lunch and dinner.
- Tasty PotTaiwanese individual hot pot restaurant with customizable broth options, fresh proteins, and a broad selection of Asian comfort food accompaniments.
- TAVERNAFarm-to-table upscale Greek kitchen on Emerson Street since 2018, with wood-fired lamb chops, grilled Spanish octopus, and a curated all-Greek wine list.
- Telefèric Barcelona Palo AltoPalo Alto's original Spanish restaurant at Town and Country Village, with seven paella varieties, 200-plus Spanish wines, hand-carved jamón ibérico, and private dining near Stanford.
- Terun PizzaVerace Pizza Napoletana-certified California Avenue pizzeria since 2013 with wood-fired Neapolitan pies, San Marzano tomato sauce, and a shaded outdoor veranda.
- The FarmFarm-fresh all-day cafe at Stanford Shopping Center with house-made pastries, seasonal bowls, and locally sourced ingredients from morning through early evening.
- The Ma'lawah BarPalo Alto's only Yemenite-Israeli cafe, kosher-certified, specializing in handmade malawach flatbread, slow-baked jachnun, tahini shakes, and sabich sandwiches.
- The MeltTech-forward grilled cheese concept serving melty sandwiches with quality ingredients, soups, and shakes available for quick dine-in or delivery.
- The Patio @ Rudy'sPalo Alto's go-to sports bar and neighborhood pub with cold draft beer, casual American food, multiple big screens, and a large outdoor patio open until midnight.
- The Rose & CrownPalo Alto's oldest bar, the first in the area to serve craft beer, with award-winning fish and chips, darts, and a welcoming unpretentious pub atmosphere since 1982.
- The Sea by Alexander's SteakhouseAn exceptional seafood-focused fine dining restaurant from the Alexander's Steakhouse group, showcasing pristine raw bar selections, Japanese-influenced preparations, and an extensive wine program.
- The Wine RoomCozy downtown wine bar open until midnight with a curated global wine list, tapas-style bites, and a welcoming Mediterranean-inspired atmosphere ideal for after-dinner drinks.
- Tie Mu Zhen Cuisine 铁木真内蒙菜Inner Mongolian restaurant on El Camino Real with hand-pulled noodles, lamb-based dishes, and bold northern Chinese flavors rarely found on the Peninsula.
- Timothy Adams ChocolatesHandcrafted luxury chocolates created in small batches using the finest all natural French chocolate and ingredients. Artistic designs are as beautiful as they are delicious. Order online and delivered in 2 days.
- Tong Sui Desserts & Drinks (Palo Alto)Hong Kong-style dessert cafe open late with silky tong sui sweet soups, mango sago, durian dishes, and bubble tea in a casual relaxed setting.
- Tootsie's At The Stanford BarnWeekday-only all-day breakfast and lunch cafe inside the historic Stanford Barn with seasonal farm-to-table dishes, craft coffee, and a sun-filled industrial-chic interior.
- True Food KitchenAnti-inflammatory focused restaurant at Stanford Shopping Center with seasonal menus built around Dr. Andrew Weil's nutritional principles and bold plant-forward dishes.
- Urban MomoNepali restaurant in downtown Palo Alto serving handmade momos, gorkhali chicken, and Himalayan street food as part of the neighborhood's new wave of openings.
- Vina EnotecaMichelin-recognized Italian restaurant inside the historic 1888 Stanford Barn with wood-fired pizza, housemade pasta, and a curated Italian wine program.
- Vino LocaleRelaxed downtown wine bar with a hidden garden patio, global wine flights, craft beer, Mediterranean small plates, and a devoted happy hour crowd.
- WildseedPlant-based fine dining from the Union Square Hospitality Group with an elegant menu of globally inspired vegetable-forward dishes and zero compromise on technique or presentation.
- World WrappsCalifornia-born wrap concept with globally inspired fillings including teriyaki chicken, Thai peanut, and Mediterranean veggie in fresh whole wheat and spinach tortillas.
- YAYOI Palo AltoJapanese teishoku restaurant chain serving set meal combos with grilled fish, rice, miso soup, and pickles in a clean efficient fast-casual format.
- YutoriA California-inspired Japanese cafe and konbini serving matcha drinks, fresh onigiri, seasonal bentos, and sandwiches daily in a thoughtfully designed space.
- Zareen's Palo AltoPakistani-Indian kitchen from Zareen Khan beloved for slow-cooked karahi, aromatic biryanis, and homemade naan, with a devoted following since opening in 2014.
- ZaytinyaChef Jose Andres brings his celebrated mezze concept to Stanford Shopping Center with Turkish, Greek and Lebanese small plates and creative Mediterranean cocktails.
- Zola + BarZolaRomantic French-California bistro on California Avenue with a changing seasonal menu, natural wine program, and intimate BarZola cocktail lounge next door.