15 Best Restaurants in Palo Alto

Palo Alto offers a diverse dining scene featuring a mix of fine dining, casual eateries, and innovative culinary experiences. Whether you're seeking classic flavors or modern creations, these fifteen restaurants stand out as some of the best in the city.

Nola brings the lively flavors of New Orleans to Palo Alto, offering Creole and Cajun-inspired dishes. The menu features classics like jambalaya, gumbo, and beignets, while the vibrant décor and open-air courtyard create a festive dining atmosphere. The multi-level space, filled with colorful murals and wrought-iron balconies, enhances the Southern-inspired experience. Whether you visit for brunch, lunch, or dinner, the energetic ambiance makes for a memorable meal.

This Michelin-starred restaurant delivers an upscale yet approachable dining experience. Protégé’s contemporary American cuisine is prepared with precision, offering a choice between an à la carte menu or an elevated tasting experience. Its intimate setting and top-tier service make it a fine dining favorite. Guests can enjoy expertly crafted dishes such as Wagyu beef tartare and butter-poached lobster while sipping on selections from its well-curated wine list.

Located in the historic Stanford Barn, The Redwood by Chef Julien highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Its menu focuses on California cuisine with seasonal selections and a carefully curated wine list. The open-kitchen concept adds to the engaging dining experience. Signature dishes include seared duck breast and wood-fired seafood, prepared with Chef Julien’s commitment to quality and presentation. The restaurant’s relaxed yet refined ambiance makes it a great spot for both casual and special occasions.

Zola offers a modern take on French-inspired cuisine, featuring dishes such as duck confit and steak frites. Adjacent to the restaurant, BarZola provides an elegant space to enjoy craft cocktails and small plates in a stylish, relaxed setting. The warm and inviting décor complements the thoughtfully curated menu, which changes seasonally to highlight the best ingredients. The intimate dining room provides an ideal setting for a refined meal, while the bar offers an excellent selection of artisan cocktails and wines.

Known for its premium seafood, The Sea by Alexander’s Steakhouse serves expertly prepared dishes such as sushi, oysters, and fresh fish entrées. The sophisticated ambiance and commitment to high-quality ingredients make it a standout in Palo Alto. With a focus on precision cooking, each dish is crafted to highlight the natural flavors of the seafood. Guests can also enjoy an extensive selection of wines and specialty cocktails that pair perfectly with the menu.

Ethel’s Fancy presents modern American cuisine with global influences, prepared using fresh, seasonal ingredients. The open-kitchen concept and contemporary décor create an inviting yet refined dining experience. Dishes like miso-glazed black cod and crispy duck leg showcase the restaurant’s commitment to both technique and innovation. The welcoming service and relaxed yet stylish setting make it a popular choice for casual diners and food enthusiasts.

This Greek restaurant is known for its warm hospitality and traditional Mediterranean flavors. Evvia Estiatorio serves signature dishes like lamb chops, grilled octopus, and moussaka, complemented by a rustic yet elegant dining space. The wood-fired oven and open grill add an element of authenticity to the cooking process, enhancing the depth of flavor in each dish. Its welcoming atmosphere and attentive service make it a long-time favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Vina Enoteca is an Italian eatery and wine bar offering house-made pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and regional Italian specialties. Its rustic-modern design and extensive wine selection enhance the authentic dining experience. The cozy, candlelit dining room provides an intimate setting, while the outdoor patio is perfect for warm California evenings. Popular dishes include truffle pasta and Neapolitan-style pizzas, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Sekoya Lounge & Kitchen blends modern American cuisine with global influences. Its sleek, contemporary design pairs well with the innovative menu, making it a versatile choice for a variety of tastes and occasions. Guests can enjoy dishes like grilled Wagyu beef, seafood risotto, and handcrafted cocktails in a stylish atmosphere. The restaurant also features an outdoor lounge area, ideal for unwinding with small plates and drinks.

Situated in the Four Seasons Hotel, Quattro offers Northern Italian cuisine in a luxurious setting. The restaurant’s seasonal menu, extensive wine list, and outdoor patio dining contribute to its upscale appeal. Guests can indulge in dishes like saffron-infused risotto, fresh burrata, and expertly prepared seafood. The elegant setting and attentive service make it a go-to destination for special occasions and business dinners.

La Boheme provides an intimate dining experience with a menu that blends French and Californian influences. Its refined yet comfortable atmosphere and expertly crafted dishes make it an excellent choice for a special night out. The carefully curated wine list complements coq au vin and beef bourguignon dishes. The warm, inviting ambiance makes it a favorite for romantic dinners and quiet gatherings.

This Spanish restaurant brings the essence of Barcelona to Palo Alto with a menu focused on tapas and paella. Its lively ambiance, open kitchen, and authentic flavors make it a favorite for those seeking Mediterranean cuisine. Guests can enjoy traditional Spanish dishes like Iberico ham croquettes and seafood paella paired with sangria or Spanish wines. The vibrant, modern décor and friendly service add to the immersive dining experience.

Nobu is recognized worldwide for its Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine. The Palo Alto location offers an upscale dining experience featuring signature dishes such as black cod miso, yellowtail jalapeño, and premium sushi selections. The elegant yet minimalist design creates a sophisticated atmosphere. Guests can also explore the extensive sake selection, which pairs perfectly with Nobu’s signature dishes.

Naschmarkt specializes in Austrian cuisine, serving dishes like Wiener schnitzel, goulash, and handcrafted desserts. The welcoming atmosphere and commitment to authenticity make it a unique addition to Palo Alto’s dining scene. The intimate dining space is complemented by warm, wooden accents and a selection of Austrian wines. Traditional flavors and meticulous preparation make each dish a standout.

Inspired by Cuban flavors, La Bodeguita del Medio offers a menu filled with dishes like ropa vieja, plantains, and empanadas. Its vibrant atmosphere, complete with a rum bar and cigar lounge, adds to the immersive experience. The lively setting, filled with Latin music and tropical décor, makes it a great spot for enjoying flavorful cocktails and traditional Cuban cuisine.

Kathleen Pasin has deep ties to the Palo Alto community, having grown up in the area. With over 22 years of experience in real estate, she provides clients with expert guidance to ensure successful transactions. She understands that buying or selling a home can be stressful and is dedicated to making the process as smooth as possible. Kathleen’s hands-on approach and commitment to her clients create a personalized real estate experience. She remains readily available to address any questions or concerns throughout every stage of the process.

Contact Kathleen Pasin today to explore the Palo Alto, CA, real estate market and find your ideal home.