Trellis Restaurant

Northern Italian restaurant at 1077 El Camino Real with a hidden upstairs al fresco terrace draped in grapevines, fresh seasonal menus, housemade pastas, two full bars, and private dining for groups up to 220.

Trellis describes itself as a hidden oasis in Menlo Park and cooks modern Italian with a California flair. Starters run from beef carpaccio to steamed Manila clams in Provencal sauce, and the pasta list includes Gnocchi Aurora, veal and spinach cannelloni, and a trademarked ravioli called Susan's Downfall in gorgonzola cream. Entrees include a chef's saffron risotto with chicken, sausage, and shellfish, and roasted boneless Sonoma duck breast in orange-thyme sauce. Separate lunch, dessert, wine, catering, and banquet menus support private parties.