california Date: 05-15-2026

Highly Recommended 14 Dinner Restaurants Near Palo Alto, California

Planning dinner tonight? Check out highly recommended restaurants in [Palo Alto] known for quality food and memorable dining experiences.

RestaurantsAddressPrice_level
1TAVERNA800 Emerson St, Palo Alto, CA 94301Expensive
2iTalico341 California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306Moderate
3Anatolian Kitchen340 California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306Moderate
4Nola535 Ramona St, Palo Alto, CA 94301Moderate
5True Food Kitchen180 El Camino Real Ste 1140, Palo Alto, CA 94304Moderate
6Orens Hummus261 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301Moderate
7Palo Alto Creamery566 Emerson St, Palo Alto, CA 94301Moderate
8Sundance The Steakhouse1921 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306Expensive
9Reposado236 Hamilton Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301Expensive
10Local Union 271271 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301Moderate
11Crepevine Restaurants367 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301Moderate
12Tamarine Restaurant & Gallery546 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301Expensive
13Bevri - Palo Alto335 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301Moderate
14La Bodeguita del Medio463 California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306Moderate

1.TAVERNA

Address: 800 Emerson St, Palo Alto, CA 94301

images TAVERNA

(981) user ratings total:

Ralph G The appetizers were good and you could make a meal out of them and the sides. I liked the fried fish, anchovies and the meatballs with yogurt sause was great. I had the lamb chops which were excellent including the crispy potatoes and sauses. Wife had shrimp which she liked. We were in the larger group room which was a little noisy but they have outside seating and other rooms that are quieter. The service was great.
5 /5
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2.iTalico

Address: 341 California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306

images iTalico

(965) user ratings total:

nimita mishra so tasty! pesto is incredible. service amazkng, everyone is so kind. the quality of the pasta is just incredible. the gnnochi is so soft and pillowt, and the sauce is out of this world. the pizza margarita is also perfectly delicious. absolutely love it hwre, have already been back 3x. keep it up guys, love your food!!
5 /5
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3.Anatolian Kitchen

Address: 340 California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306

images Anatolian Kitchen

(932) user ratings total:

Salim Ali Khan We visited Anatolian Kitchen in Palo Alto for a team dinner, and it turned out to be a great evening all around. A big plus right off the bat was that there’s a public parking lot less than a minute’s walk away, which makes visiting very convenient.Levant was an amazing host who took excellent care of our table throughout the night being attentive, friendly, and always on top of things. Everyone at the table had a wonderful time. We started by ordering a mix of appetizers for the table, and they set the tone perfectly: 3-combo appetizer platter – an absolute standout; fresh, flavorful, and beautifully balanced. Everybody enjoyed the contents with the bread that was served. Falafel – crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and very satisfying Pan-fried calamari – tender and well seasoned Beet salad and Anatolian salad – fresh, vibrant, and refreshing Every appetizer was excellent, but the combo platter clearly stole the show. The main course spread was impressive, with something for everyone: Iskender – rich, comforting, and full of flavor Chicken Adana – bold, juicy, and well spiced Vegetable moussaka – hearty and comforting Grilled chicken shish – tender and flavorful Grilled salmon – perfectly cooked and fresh Grilled lamb shish – juicy and delicious Whole Branzino – absolutely amazing; this was my order and I loved every bite. Vegetarian turlu – (Stewed tomatoes, eggplant, potatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, and carrot served with rice pilaf) well-balanced and satisfying We ended the evening with three orders of family-style desserts, and the desserts were truly standout, rounding off the meal on a high note. I also placed a separate to-go order that included a mixed grilled platter and grilled lamb shish. While the food itself was excellent and tasted just as good at home, the only downside was being charged a large party fee, even though this was a separate personal to-go order. That aside, the quality and flavor were still top-notch, with clear 5-star food written all over it. Overall, Anatolian Kitchen delivers exceptional Turkish cuisine, generous portions, and great service. Minor billing hiccup aside (for the to go order which ideally should have been separate from the table), this was a wonderful experience, and it’s a place I’d happily recommend and return to.
5 /5
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4.Nola

Address: 535 Ramona St, Palo Alto, CA 94301

images Nola

(3483) user ratings total:

steven thorne Casual, popular and centrally located southern restaurant and bar with wide range of southern inspired plates and side dishes. Will definitely return. Surprisingly, shrimp and grits as a dish was strangely not on the menu. Very welcoming and attentive staff.
5 /5
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5.True Food Kitchen

Address: 180 El Camino Real Ste 1140, Palo Alto, CA 94304

images True Food Kitchen

(2613) user ratings total:

M J (Texas Foodie) Nice location. Small bar but large outdoor patio. Tried the butternut squash soup that was ‘ok’ but wouldn’t order again. Overly sweet and only warm. Edamame dumplings were delicious as usual and the prickly pear sparkler was nice.
5 /5
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6.Orens Hummus

Address: 261 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301

images Orens Hummus

(2568) user ratings total:

M Pak It was a very interesting experience. It was my first time eating Israeli food and it was delicious. Hummus was delicious and the atmosphere was modern. They also kindly recommended food. If you like a different experience, I recommend you to go.
5 /5
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7.Palo Alto Creamery

Address: 566 Emerson St, Palo Alto, CA 94301

images Palo Alto Creamery

(2391) user ratings total:

Laura Perkins Ive been coming here for decades and love the diner vibe and atmosphere. Prices have definitely gone up, but the burgers and milkshakes are well worth it. They also serve breakfast all-day!
5 /5
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8.Sundance The Steakhouse

Address: 1921 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306

images Sundance The Steakhouse

(2257) user ratings total:

John Zavolas Sundance Steakhouse & Wine Bar in Palo Alto delivered a stellar dining experience centered around their signature prime rib. Starting with a cup of New England clam chowder, the meal set the tone with its comforting creaminess and rich seafood flavors, immediately standing out as a memorable appetizer. The highlight was the prime rib, beautifully cooked and perfectly marbled, with just the right balance of savory depth and subtle seasoning. The accompanying sautéed mushrooms added an earthy, umami punch, while steamed carrots and broccoli provided vibrant color and a refreshing contrast that balanced the richness of the beef. The au jus and creamy horseradish sauce further elevated each bite, making the dish both classic and indulgent. The ambiance at Sundance combined traditional steakhouse elegance with welcoming warmth. Crisp white linens, attentive service, and well-crafted drinks added to the sense of occasion, making the meal feel special without being stuffy. Every course was prompt, thoughtfully plated, and made for a relaxing, memorable evening.
5 /5
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9.Reposado

Address: 236 Hamilton Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301

images Reposado

(2078) user ratings total:

Kevin Stanley A must stop if you are visiting or live in PaloAlto. Cocktails are spot on! Food and service excellent. Great building and ambiance. Check it out.
5 /5
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10.Local Union 271

Address: 271 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301

images Local Union 271

(2060) user ratings total:

Warren Burke We came to Local Union as a family of six and had an incredible experience from start to finish. The Thai Brussels Sprouts were out of this world… truly a must-order. For anyone who isn’t drinking, I highly recommend the Clean Kick; it’s refreshing and full of flavor. Our table tried a variety of dishes: the Duck Fat Burger, the Poke Bowl, and the Halibut — all of which were absolutely divine. Every plate was prepared beautifully and tasted even better. But the real standout was our server, Kellie!! She was phenomenal….attentive, patient, and so good at managing my older relatives with care and kindness. She made the whole experience even better! Thank you Local Union 271! We’ll be back!? Highly, highly recommend Local Union. Perfect for a date night, a family gathering, or anything in between. Huge appreciation to the entire staff for a wonderful meal and experience.
5 /5
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11.Crepevine Restaurants

Address: 367 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301

images Crepevine Restaurants

(2020) user ratings total:

Erdi Ulas I had a great time at Crepevine today and our waitress Eda was incredible professional so I had chicken shawarma plate I can say that everything fresh and delicious. Atmosphere also good as well clean and bright I’m recommending everyone to try it out.
5 /5
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12.Tamarine Restaurant & Gallery

Address: 546 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301

images Tamarine Restaurant & Gallery

(1623) user ratings total:

Indra Singhal Very upscale, very chic. Excellent level of service, delicious entrees and appetizers. Very amenable to business meetings at lunchtime - you can actually talk and think! So glad we were invited to Tamarine - we are likely to go back ourselves.
5 /5
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13.Bevri - Palo Alto

Address: 335 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301

images Bevri - Palo Alto

(1526) user ratings total:

Alicia Wallace A wonderful spot with unique dishes! We had never had Georgian food before so we’re a little intimidated, but we’re happily surprised. Both the salads (tomato one and eggplant one) were amazing and the pork ribs were a stand out. The vegetable stew was also a favorite. The rolls that accompanied the ribs were a group favorite and quickly consumed. The serviced drinks, dessert (shout out to the wine soaked pear dessert) and ambiance were all phenomenal. I highly recommend getting out of your comfort zone and trying Georgian food here, it won’t disappoint. It was loved by the whole group who was nervous and skeptical.
5 /5
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14.La Bodeguita del Medio

Address: 463 California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306

images La Bodeguita del Medio

(1473) user ratings total:

Maverick Sy Went in at 2pm on a Friday. No problems parking at a free street parking. We were immediately seated as soon as we arrived. Food was lovely. Ordered Camarones Pequeños (small fried breaded shrimp) as an appetizer, Ropa Vieja (braised shredded beef w/ fried plantains & rice) and a Cubano Sandwich (ham, roast pork, cheese on a crispy baguette) Service was solid, server checked in often and gave contextual info on the orders. Atmosphere was nice, had a nice dive bar feel music-wise. Therevs an indoor and outdoor section. And a place for people that want to smoke.
5 /5
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