This holiday season, explore different types of cuisines instead of visiting the points of interest. Consider Palo Alto as your destination and you will be amazed by what you can eat, drink, and experience. This city in California’s San Francisco Bay Area is about 56 kilometers (32 miles) south of San Francisco proper. It is well known for its parks and historical landmarks. It has a vibrant art scene and the Iris & B. Gerald Cantor Center for Visual Arts Center is a testament to that. Besides that, it is also the main focal point of Silicon Valley as various technology companies such as Google and Facebook are based here. There are many eateries located in the city that are worth checking out when you need a break from exploring. Start your adventure now and scroll down to find the top restaurants in Palo Alto, California!
What to look forward to:
- If you're in the city with young ones, make your way to Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo to meet its large population of animals and birds, feed them, and learn more about them through their caretakers. There are even fun attractions such as a wheelchair-accessible tree house to visit.
- For a getaway amidst the greenest of surroundings, head to Elizabeth F. Gamble Garden, which is free to visit and open every day. Attractions inside include a rose garden, cutting garden, formal herb garden, demonstration bed, wisteria garden, and an allée.
1. Evvia Estiatorio
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Cuisine: Greek
Start your food hunt by checking out this Greek restaurant in Palo Alto. Since it is a popular restaurant for its great food and mountain view, you need to book your reservation online. There are various menus to choose from, so you can dine at Evvia Estiatorio any time of the day be it for lunch, dinner, or supper. You should also check out the wine and dessert menus as there is something to eat or drink for everyone.
The highly recommended dishes are roasted chicken, salads, branzino, and seafood. The aroma of the spices and olive oil will whet up your appetite. If you do not know what to order for your kids, you can always ask the staff for a recommendation. This Michelin Guide-listed restaurant is the best place to try Greek food.
Evvia Estiatorio
Address: 420 Emerson St, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Opening Hours: Monday-Friday (11.30am-2pm, 5.30pm-10pm), Saturday (5pm-11pm), Sunday (5pm-9pm)
Website: Evvia Estiatorio
2. Terun
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Cuisine: Italian
If your kids prefer pizzas, bring them to Terun. You can choose from the various kinds of pasta and pizzas while at Terun. Indulge in high-quality wines while having your pizzas. The excellent Neapolitan-style pizza is a must while dining at this fantastic restaurant with outdoor seating. If you want to order dessert, Eggplant Polpette is one of the favorites and you should go for it.
Along with the Neapolitan pizza, the restaurant also serves authentic Italian pasta, steak, fish, cocktails, and a great wine selection. Its cozy outdoor patio or veranda has lots of comfy seating options and makes alfresco dining enjoyable.
Terun
Address: 448 California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday (11.30am-2.30pm, 5pm-10pm), Sunday (11.30am-2.30pm, 5pm-9pm)
Website: Terun
3. The Fish Market
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Cuisine: Seafood
Craving for delicious seafood or celebrating a special occasion? Then you should dine in at the well-known Fish Market in the city. If you ask any locals where to enjoy fresh and mouth-watering seafood, they will recommend you this casual spot. The garlic prawn, coconut shrimp, and crab cocktails are a must when eating here. They are a favorite among diners.
Service and quality are excellent and you will enjoy eating at The Fish Market. Besides, you can also buy some fish to cook at home. Do not forget to check out the excellent wine list as its selections are great too. The menu highlights might change on a daily basis as it includes seasonal ingredients, so you need to check the website or refer to the staff at the restaurant for details. Kids will like the food here too.
The Fish Market
Address: 3150 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Opening Hours: Monday-Thursday (11am-9pm), Friday-Saturday (11am-9.30pm), Sunday (12noon-9pm)
Website: The Fish Market
4. Odori Japanese Cuisine
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Cuisine: Japanese
Your exciting Asian food crawl in Palo Alto will not come full circle until you try the delicious delicacies at Odori Japanese Cuisine. It is located in El Camino Real. Odori Japanese Cusine will make your dining experience a joyful one with its well-lit, modest interior design and cozy seatings. Aside from its interiors, it will delight you by only utilizing the freshest ingredients in the market. Its seafood fare maximizes ingredients that are shipped straight from a huge fish market in the Land of the Rising Sun. Odori Japenese Cuisine serves mouthwatering sushi specialties, ramen, udon, soba, and teppanyaki varieties as well as teriyaki, tonkatsu, and different dinner combinations.
Odori Japanese Cuisine
Address: 2111 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306, United States
Website: Odori Japanese Cuisine
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 11:30am - 2:30pm, 5pm - 9:30pm; Sun: 4:30pm - 9:30pm (closed on Mon)
5. Tamarine Restaurant
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Looking for Asian food while in Palo Alto? The place you should consider is Tamarine Restaurant located along University Avenue. You will get to savor scrumptious Vietnamese dishes made from fresh ingredients. It will be a unique dining experience for sure. Being one of the highest-rated restaurants in the area, Tamarine requires a reservation for its guests. Among the popular dishes are claypot fish, hoisin lamb chops, empress rice, and many others. Besides that, you can book the dining room according to your preference.
Tamarine Restaurant
Address: 546 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Opening Hours: Monday-Thursday (11.30am-2.30pm, 5pm-9pm), Friday (11.30am-2.30pm, 5pm-10pm), Saturday (5pm-10pm), Sunday (5pm-9pm)
Website: Tamarine Restaurant
6. Jin Sho
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Cuisine: Japanese
Whether you are looking for a restaurant where you can treat your family to some delicious Japanese fare or a dining spot to celebrate a special occasion, Jin Sho is a good choice for Asian food lovers, with or without a milestone to celebrate. It is an upscale culinary paradise with modern decors in pastel colors, minimalist table setting, a bar seating area, and charming alfresco dining. Jin Sho’s specialties are fresh sushi delights, black cod with miso, Angus beef toban yaki, salmon teriyaki, and a multitude of delicious rolls.
Jin Sho
Address: 454 California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306, United States
Website: Jin Sho
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11:45am - 2pm, 5:30pm - 9pm; Sat: 5:30pm - 9pm (closed on Sun)
7. Kanpai
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Cuisine: Japanese
Another excellent dining spot in Palo Alto that is a sure hit among Asian food lovers is Kanpai. Kanpai nestles in Lytton Avenue, and it boasts of a charming interior design that resembles authentic oriental eateries. It has a tranquil kind of vibe that is very much a reflection of Japan’s character. You can relish mouthwatering eats in simple table settings or enjoy your food right in front of the chef while picking from an elaborate chef’s tasting menu. Traditional Japanese specialties are given a contemporary touch in Kanpai. Some of the best dishes it offers include a selection of donburi, a variety of udon, teriyaki specialties, sushi, sashimi, and a lot more. Plus, Kanpai has a wide array of sake for customers to choose from.
Kanpai
Address: 330 Lytton Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301, United States
Website: Kanpai
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11:30am - 2pm, 5:30pm - 9:30pm; Sat: 5:30pm - 9:30pm; Sun: 5pm - 9pm
8. Joanie’s Café
Cuisine: American (breakfast food)
No visit to Palo Alto is complete without enjoying its local food. Do you know that this casual spot was voted “Best Breakfast” for four consecutive years? It is definitely worth your money and everyone should dine here for breakfast and lunch. This is the place to go if you are looking for American food and you will come back for more after eating at Joanie’s Café.
You get to eat in large portions as it is standard American size. The smoked salmon omelet, cobb salad, and hash browns are among the popular foods at the café. Make sure you order them. Imagine yourself having a hearty breakfast - you will leave the café with your stomach full.
Joanie’s Café
Address: 405 California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday (7.30am-2.15pm)
Website: Joanie’s Café
9. Sushirrito
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Cuisine: Asian fusion
Sushirrito is located on University Avenue. It is a fabulously minimalist and chic dining spot with beige-colored walls and simple decors. Sushirrito welcomes guests to its indoor dining area and a small outdoor seating place. Also, customers can have their eats to-go or have them delivered at their doorstep. Sushirrito is famous for its affordable yet delicious Japanese fares that are given a Latin twist. Surely, you will fall in love with its variety of palatable sushi burritos, bowls, shrimp tempura, lava nachos, and mochi to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Sushirrito
Address: 448 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301, United States
Website: Sushirrito
Opening hours: 11am - 9pm (daily)
10. Rangoon Ruby
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Cuisine: Burmese (also serves Thai, Chinese, and Indian food)
Among all the Asian cuisines, you might not have heard of Burmese food. It is time to give it a try and you might be surprised by the uniqueness of the cuisine. Head over to Rangoon Ruby for your meal. Even if you are a first-timer, this restaurant will indeed surprise you with its authentic Burmese cuisines. It also serves Thai, Chinese, and Indian food and has an upscale ambiance with an outdoor dining option.
The Tiki cocktails are refreshing and are a must when you dine in at this Californian restaurant. Order the shrimp curry, samosa soup, and tea salad - among the well-known dishes. Whether it is noodles, salads, soups, or desserts, this is a unique dining experience so book your reservation to avoid disappointment.
Rangoon Ruby
Address: 445 Emerson St, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Opening Hours: Sunday-Thursday (11.30am-2.30pm, 5pm-10pm), Friday-Saturday (11.30am-2.30pm, 5pm-10.30pm)
Website: Rangoon Ruby
11. YAYOI
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Cuisine: Japanese
YAYOI is a successful Japanese culinary business with a multitude of outlets around the world. You will be delighted that this famous food business has a branch in Palo Alto and it is situated on University Avenue. Its dining place showcases a sleek and minimalist interior design with lots of natural light permeating the place through expansive glass windows. What’s more interesting about it is that guests can pick their meals on high-tech tablets that each table in the restaurant features. YAYOI Palo Alto has an extensive menu that will overwhelm you, with everything from ramen, udon to dumplings, sushi, a variety of curry, and hearty set menu options.
YAYOI
Address: 403 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301, United States
Website: YAYOI
Opening hours: 12pm - 7pm (daily)
12. Zola Restaurant
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Cuisine: French
Fine dining is popular around the world. One of the common things that come to mind when mentioning fine dining is a French restaurant. It is among the best and most popular cuisines in the world. Enjoy a mix of Californian and French cuisines at Zola Restaurant. Take a look at the picture below and you will want to grab hold of the food.
Salmon rillettes, beef Bourguignon and grilled pork chop are some of the dishes to order as they are the favorites among diners. Fine dining is not complete without the wines. Do remember to choose a flavorful drink from the restaurant’s excellent wine list. Additionally, it is one of the Michelin Guide-listed establishments in Palo Alto.
Zola Restaurant
Address: 565 Bryant St, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Opening Hours: Tuesday-Thursday (5pm-9pm), Friday-Saturday (5pm-10pm), Closed on Sunday-Monday
Website: Zola Restaurant
13. Sushi House
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Cuisine: Sushi, Japanese
Find yourself craving for classic Japanese favorites? Satisfy your culinary desires and drive straight to Sushi House for your fill of palatable oriental eats. You’ll find Sushi House in the vibrant Town & Country Village. It is a fantastic fast-food restaurant that serves authentic Japanese dishes and classic staples that you can either enjoy indoor or have to-go. You can order sushi and sashimi, bento box combinations, and noodles or salad dishes in Sushi House. Beverages are also available in this fantastic Japanese restaurant, from sake and Japenese beer to tea and soft drinks.
Sushi House
Address: 855 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94301, United States
Website: Sushi House
Opening hours: 11am - 2:30pm, 4:30pm - 8:30pm (daily)
14. Vino Locale
Cuisine: American, vegan
Hanging out with your friends or looking for a bar to just have a drink? Vino Locale is the wine bar for you to enjoy premium wines and hang out with your friends. Apart from wines, you can order beers and some light snacks. This is the place to celebrate your birthday, hang out with the locals and have a glass of wine. Try the fillet mignon and Caprese salad as they are super delicious.
You can choose from the impressive wine selection that includes white, red, sparkling, and rose wines available. Just remember to drink moderately and refrain from taking heavy doses of alcohol.
Vino Locale
Address: 431 Kipling St, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Opening Hours: Monday (5pm-9pm), Tuesday-Sunday (11.30am-2.30pm, 5pm-9pm)
Website: Vino Locale
15. Izzy’s Brooklyn Bagels
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Cuisine: Bagels, American
Fancy eating some bagels? There are two well-known eateries in Palo Alto. One is located on California Avenue and the other on University Avenue. The shops also share the same name. It is up to you which shops you want to go to but the bagels are indeed awesome and huge too. So creamy and freshly made.
Look at the picture of the bagels and kids will get excited too. You can get your bagels through take-outs or enjoy them in the store’s indoor or patio dining spaces. Izzy’s Brooklyn Bagels is the place to go for bagels. Apart from bagels, you can also order sandwiches and coffee. The bagels are so colorful and there are so many to choose from. It is also a must-visit if you’re hunting for a burrito, wrap, or sandwich shop.
Izzy’s Brooklyn Bagels
Address: 477 California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Opening Hours: Monday-Thursday (6am-5pm), Friday (6am-4pm), Saturday-Sunday (7am-3pm)
Website: Izzy’s Brooklyn Bagels
16. Fuki Sushi
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Cuisine: Sushi, Japanese
Can’t get enough of Asian food? Whether you have Asian ancestry or you just have a taste for oriental flavors, you will surely love the food and the vibes at Fuki Sushi. Located in El Camino Real, Fuki Sushi is your go-to for your classic Japanese favorites. Impressively, it will not only take you to a gastronomic adventure but it will also make you feel like you flew all the way to Japan with its captivating traditional Japanese interior design. Plus, they have tatami rooms for a more intimate dining experience. Fuki Sushi is known for its delicious sushi bites. Other than those, be sure to try its fried oysters, kushiyaki mori, gindara kasuzuke, chicken karaage, kinoko foil yaki, and others.
Fuki Sushi
Address: 4119 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306, United States
Website: Fuki Sushi
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11:30am - 2pm, 5:30pm - 9pm; Sat - Sun: 5:30pm - 9pm
17. Onigilly
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Cuisine: Japanese
Make the most of your adventure in Palo Alto by adding a delicious lunch or dinner in Onigilly in your exciting itinerary. This fantastic Japanese restaurant is situated in the bustling University Avenue. It features a minimalist interior design with rustic accents, and it exudes a cozy, cool, and airy ambiance that adds relaxing vibes. This business revolves around a simple mission, whose goal is to provide customers with mouthwatering yet affordable eats that will compel them to come back for more, every time they are in the area. Some of Onigilly’s blockbuster dishes include chicken karaage, tofu noodle soup, teriyaki chicken, and a lot more.
Onigilly
Address: 164 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301, United States
Website: Onigilly
Opening hours: 11am - 9pm (daily)
18. Hong Kong Restaurant
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Cuisine: Cantonese, Chinese
This Chinese restaurant is one of the favorite destinations of Asian food lovers in Palo Alto. The ambiance is informal, making the restaurant the perfect spot to chill out after a stressful day at work. The menu offers home-style Chinese and Cantonese delicacies prepared according to traditional recipes. Do try out lip-smacking offerings like the three treasures in black bean sauce, drunken live clams soup, mustard green and sliced pork soup, deep-fried oysters, braised tofu, and more. The place gives you great value for money, and vegetarians would find plenty of options to indulge in.
Hong Kong Restaurant
Address: 3691 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306, United States
Website: Hong Kong Restaurant
Opening hours: 11am - 9pm (daily)
19. Steam
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
We call them “The Seafood Trio!” Fantastic alternatives to Shrimp Har Gow! In order, Spinach Seafood Dumplings,...
Posted by Steam Palo Alto on Wednesday, February 12, 2020
Cuisine: Dim-sum, Chinese
The wooden decor of Steam dim sum restaurant reminds you of the teahouses on Silk Road. You can taste authentic dim sum and dumplings along with specialties of Chinese and Taiwanese cuisines at this eatery. Drop by after a movie, hang out with friends at the outdoor seating area, or satiate your hunger on the go with takeout offerings. Some of the mouthwatering dishes here include chicken wings with Szechuan sauce, vegetarian mu shu, ma po tofu, pea shoots with garlic, tiger prawns with special sauce, and lots more.
Steam
Address: 209 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301, United States
Website: Steam
Opening hours: Sun: 11am - 9:30pm; Mon - Thu: 11am - 2:30pm, 5pm - 9:30pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 10pm
20. Dohatsuten
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Cuisine: Ramen, tapas
Planning an exciting holiday in Palo Alto anytime soon? Curating an elaborate itinerary? Don’t forget to add excellent restaurants on your list. If you are into Japanese food, you must try the offerings of Dohatsuten. Located in San Antonio Road, Dohatsuten is a simple and quaint yet cozy dining spot that is popular for its savory ramen specialties. You can enjoy your food indoors or outdoors in its alfresco dining area, where you can people-watch as you indulge in your palatable noodle eats. More so, Dohatsuten also offers classic Japanese fare such as sushi and gyoza. Beer and sake are also available at this minimalist Japanese restaurant.
Dohatsuten
Address: 799 San Antonio Rd, Palo Alto, CA 94303, United States
Website: Dohatsuten
Opening hours: 11:30am - 1:30pm, 5:30pm - 8pm (daily)
21. Chef Zhao Kitchen
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
All from our amazing chef-Will Zhao''Chef Zhao Kitchen''
Posted by Chef Zhao Kitchen on Friday, July 27, 2018
Cuisine: Chinese
This is hands down one of the best Asian restaurants in Palo Alto, and the contemporary decor makes it a charming place for a family dinner or a date. You can enjoy Shanghai-style dishes in one of the three dining rooms. Some of the must-try delicacies include shepherd tofu soup, Shanghai soup in clay pot, Szechuan scallop, spicy fillet with napa, water eel with yellow chives, and many more exotic options. The restaurant also hosts private events, and the dedicated staff works hard to provide the best service.
Chef Zhao Kitchen
Address: 2180 W Bayshore Rd #120, Palo Alto, CA 94303, United States
Website: Chef Zhao Kitchen
Opening hours: 11:30am - 2:30pm, 5pm - 9:30pm (daily)
22. Tai Pan
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Tai Pan Palo Alto on Friday, May 22, 2009
Cuisine: Chinese, Cantonese
This place specializes in combining contemporary culinary techniques with Asian cooking styles and ingredients to create gastronomic heaven. The popular dishes on the menu include shrimp dumplings, chicken in crispy lettuce cup, crispy salt and pepper calamari tidbits, crispy crab claws, and other Hong Kong-style Cantonese fare. With its continuous endeavor to excel, from the use of the finest ingredients to the attentive presentation styles, the restaurant lives up to its name, which in Chinese refers to a person who shines above all.
Tai Pan
Address: 560 Waverley St, Palo Alto, CA 94301, United States
Website: Tai Pan
Opening hours: 11am - 3pm, 5:30pm - 9:30pm (daily)
23. Garden Fresh Chinese Vegan Cuisine
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Cuisine: Chinese, vegan
If you are a vegan foodie, this is the best place to try Chinese cuisine. Vegan meats, tofu, exotic vegetables prepared with care—you get them all at this offbeat eatery. Nutritious plant-based dishes like basil moo shu rolls, scallion pancakes with carrot sticks, cold noodles, miso soup, and more will satisfy even the most ardent meat lovers. Using the freshest of ingredients with the choicest seasonings, the chefs cook up healthful dishes that tantalize your tastebuds.
Garden Fresh Chinese Vegan Cuisine
Address: 1245 W El Camino Real, Mountain View, CA 94040, United States
Website: Garden Fresh Chinese Vegan Cuisine
Opening hours: 11:30am - 2:30pm, 4:30pm - 9:30pm (daily)
24. Asian Box
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
In case you need weekend food inspo here you go. All #farmtobox #customizable and of course #glutenfree and #delicious
Posted by Asian Box on Saturday, February 8, 2020
Cuisine: Asian street food
Raising the bar in the category of fine-casual dining places, Asian Box in Palo Alto offers delicious Asian street food that is healthy without compromising on taste. Incredibly mouthwatering flavors are created in low-fat and low-sodium variants, and the food served is absolutely gluten-free, without additives nor colorants used. The items can be readily customized based on customer preferences. You can create your own meal combining your choices of the base, protein, toppers, and sauce. Special kids’ boxes are also available.
Asian Box
Address: 855 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94301, United States
Website: Asian Box
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 9pm; Sun: 11am - 8pm
A mix of Asian and Western cuisines
Whether it is a local delicacy or Asian food, you can find almost anything in Palo Alto’s lovely restaurants. Indulge in the city’s food scene by visiting as many restaurants as you can from this list!
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