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Best Californian Restaurants in Menlo Park

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33 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Bistro Vida restaurant
1. Bistro Vida
4.8
Exceptional(2763)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Menlo Park
Booked 26 times today
Bistro Vida stands out as a gem in Menlo Park, bringing the essence of Parisian bistro culture right to the heart of the Bay Area. Since 1998, this charming establishment has been synonymous with top-notch French cuisine, creating an inviting atmosphere that echoes the "joie de vivre." Patrons rave about classics like the "best French onion soup" and perfectly executed scallops risotto, highlighting both the authenticity and the hearty satisfaction of the meals. With its elegant yet comfortable decor and a focus on community and enjoyment, Bistro Vida consistently earns accolades for its "fabulous" service and culinary excellence, making it a beloved destination for both locals and visitors. Whether it's a casual dinner or a special occasion, Bistro Vida promises a delightful dining experience that celebrates the rich flavors and simple pleasures of French bistro dining.
A photo of Oak + Violet - Park James Hotel restaurant
2. Oak + Violet - Park James Hotel
4.7
Exceptional(830)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Menlo Park
Booked 10 times today
Welcome to Oak + Violet where the vibrant spirit of California's Culinary creativity meets the craft cuisine. Tucked away in the heart of Menlo Park.From farm-fresh salads bursting with seasonal produce to succulent seafood caught.And let's not forget about the drinks! Our carefully curated selection of local wines, craft beers, and artisanal cocktails reflects the innovative spirit of California's beverage scene. Oak + Violet is a gathering place where friends and foodies come together to celebrate the flavors, the culture, and the community that make California so special. Come and Enjoy the Oak + Violet Experience
A photo of Ethel's Fancy restaurant
3. Ethel's Fancy
4.9
Exceptional(511)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 19 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Palo Alto, Ethel's Fancy shines as a beacon of Californian cuisine, delighting patrons with its fresh, innovative dishes crafted from local seasonal ingredients. The restaurant's commitment to quality is palpable, with reviews raving about the "unique and satisfying bite" of every dish. Ethel's Fancy offers a culinary journey through Californian flavors with a thoughtful emphasis on sharing plates, allowing diners to experience a variety of tastes. The "charred sugar snap peas" and "pork belly" come highly recommended, embodying the restaurant's prowess in turning simple ingredients into extraordinary meals. With its hip atmosphere and enthusiastic service, Ethel's Fancy is a must-visit for anyone seeking the essence of California on a plate.
A photo of Quattro Restaurant and Bar - Four Seasons Hotel restaurant
4. Quattro Restaurant and Bar - Four Seasons Hotel
4.2
Awesome(1401)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 8 times today
Quattro Restaurant and Bar at the Four Seasons Hotel in Palo Alto offers a premier breakfast experience that is both luxurious and satisfying. Known for its impeccable service and elegant ambiance, Quattro transforms morning dining into a delightful affair. One diner raved about their breakfast, highlighting the French toast: "Super good food. Pricey, but, it is a Four Seasons in Palo Alto so I’m pretty sure it’s standard for brunch out in that area." The ability to customize dishes like swapping berries for bananas exemplifies the restaurant's commitment to personalized service. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Quattro's breakfast is a culinary delight not to be missed, providing a perfect start to any day with its high-quality cuisine and serene setting.
A photo of Zola + BarZola restaurant
5. Zola + BarZola
4.6
Exceptional(1225)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 28 times today
Zola + BarZola in Palo Alto is a gem for those seeking exemplary American cuisine with a unique twist. The restaurant consistently receives glowing reviews for its "delicious food" and "impeccable service," making it a local favorite. One diner raved, "The entire experience was wonderful," emphasizing the quality from the atmosphere to the food preparation. The menu, rich with expertly sourced meats and produce, features standout dishes like the perfectly prepared halibut and Beef Bourguignon, complemented by an "excellent" selection of cocktails and wines. Zola + BarZola is truly a culinary delight, perfect for a memorable dining experience, as echoed by many who promise, "Will definitely be back!"
A photo of Wildseed Palo Alto restaurant
6. Wildseed Palo Alto
4.7
Exceptional(108)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 68 times today
Wildseed Palo Alto is a beacon for plant-based cuisine enthusiasts, offering a vibrant array of vegetarian and vegan dishes that are as nourishing as they are flavorful. Nestled in the heart of Palo Alto, this restaurant prides itself on using the freshest seasonal produce from Northern California, ensuring that each dish, from the polenta cakes to the pea ravioli, bursts with uncompromised freshness and taste. Patrons rave about their dining experiences, noting the "amazing food/menu choices" and the "fabulous delicious healthy dining that is tasty and filling." Whether you're a seasoned vegan or a curious foodie, Wildseed Palo Alto promises a culinary adventure that's both satisfying and sustainable, making every meal a delightful celebration of plant-based goodness.
A photo of Local Union 271 restaurant
7. Local Union 271
4.2
Awesome(544)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 16 times today
Local Union 271 in Palo Alto truly captures the essence of Californian cuisine with its commitment to local sourcing and innovative dishes. Patrons rave about the "abundantly flavorful" options, which showcase the restaurant's dedication to freshness and sustainability. As one reviewer notes, "The menu has both healthy options and super fun, indulgent stuff!" This spot is a testament to California's rich agricultural bounty, featuring a circle of local farms, ranches, and fisheries that contribute to a dynamic menu. With glowing recommendations like "Fantastic food and drink, one of Palo Alto's best spots," it's clear that Local Union 271 offers a genuine and high-quality Californian dining experience.
A photo of Flea Street restaurant
8. Flea Street
4.8
Exceptional(2639)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Menlo Park
Booked 12 times today
Flea Street in Menlo Park is a true gem of Californian cuisine, embodying the fresh, farm-to-table ethos that epitomizes the state's culinary spirit. Since 1980, this establishment has delighted diners with its commitment to "clean, organic, unprocessed ingredients" sourced from nearby farms and waters. This commitment shines through in menu items that change seasonally, ensuring each dish represents the best of what's local and fresh. Patrons rave about experiences like "the corn bread snack was amazing: simplicity coupled with bright flavors" and "everything’s good! Nice service, delicious foods as well as good ambiance!!" Flea Street's focus on local seafood, pasture-raised meats, and produce from surrounding farms not only delivers a taste of California on every plate but also supports the community. A dining experience at Flea Street is not just a meal; it's a celebration of Californian abundance and sustainability.
A photo of Cafe Wisteria restaurant
9. Cafe Wisteria
4.7
Exceptional(555)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Menlo Park
Booked 2 times today
Cafe Wisteria in Menlo Park is the quintessence of Californian cuisine, celebrated for its commitment to locally sourced, organic produce and its stunning garden setting, perfect for enjoying the fresh flavors of the region. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of dishes, like the seafood paella and salmon Niçoise salad, describing them as "delicious and beautifully presented" and "to die for." The serene ambiance of dining amidst lush gardens enhances the dining experience, making every meal feel special. Reviews consistently highlight the "wonderful experience" and the "perfect setting" of Cafe Wisteria, underlining its status as a gem within Californian culinary culture. It's not just a meal; it's an immersion in local flavor and beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Menlo Park.
A photo of St. Michael's Alley restaurant
10. St. Michael's Alley
4.8
Exceptional(796)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 13 times today
At St. Michael's Alley in Palo Alto, the essence of American cuisine is elevated to an art form. Established in 1959 and reinvented in 2009, this restaurant has been a cornerstone of culinary excellence, blending traditional American flavors with innovative presentations. Diners rave about standout dishes like the mushroom cake and the perfectly cooked Branzino, with one patron noting, "The food, the service, and the atmosphere were all top notch." The restaurant's ability to maintain high standards over the years is evident from the glowing reviews, such as, "Always impeccable. We've been coming here for years...You won't be disappointed." The cozy yet sophisticated ambiance, combined with a menu that captures the diversity and richness of American cuisine, makes St. Michael's Alley a must-visit for anyone seeking an exceptional dining experience in Palo Alto.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Sébastien
    San Francisco Bay Area •19 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    It was a good dinner. I got the escargots, it was really tasty and it was great it came with a piece of bread 🥖. Next I got the short ribs, it was a little bit too salty for me, the gratin dauphinois and the mushrooms were great. For the dessert I got the mousse au chocolat it was excellent but a little bit heavy for my stomach. The restaurant is quite dark and the others tables were too close, you can easily follow discussions from others tables.
    More info
    Zola + BarZolaPrice: Expensive• French• Palo Alto
    •
    4.6
  • JaniceVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Two of us enjoyed a lovely Christmas lunch. We began with the the onion soup who was delicious. We shared the seared sea scallops and vegetable risotto also delicious. For dessert I had the apple tartin and my daughter had the chocolate mousse which were excellent.. our server was friendly and professional and I think we just started a new Christmas tradition and will invite friends next year. BISTRO VIDA IS A TRUE NRIGHBORHOOD GEM
    More info
    Bistro VidaPrice: Moderate• French• Menlo Park
    •
    4.8
  • MaheshVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •56 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Excellent food and service. Thanks to the chef, Micky and our waiter Leandro. Everything was superb. Probably top restaurants here in Palo Alto
    More info
    Ethel's FancyPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Palo Alto
    •
    4.9
  • OpenTable Diner
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 16 Dec 2024
    We visited for a birthday dinner. We booked an indoor seat because it was cold, but the outdoor seat was already full term. The food was generally delicious and the service was satisfactory. It was a perfect evening except for the surprise that the family of the side table made a few loud noises in the middle. At first, I made a reservation at 6:30 a.m. by mistake, but I was so embarrassed because it was no-show.
    More info
    Quattro Restaurant and Bar - Four Seasons HotelPrice: Moderate• Californian• Palo Alto
    •
    4.2
  • S
    San Francisco Bay Area •32 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 7 Dec 2024
    Loved everything about this visit! Our server Jackie was absolutely lovely and so kind and on point with all her recommendations. We can’t wait to come back!
    More info
    Oak + Violet - Park James HotelPrice: Expensive• Californian• Menlo Park
    •
    4.7

Discover best Californian restaurants in Menlo Park

Discover the essence of Californian cuisine in the vibrant dining scene of Menlo Park, located in the San Francisco Bay Area Peninsula. This area is a treasure trove for food enthusiasts seeking diverse and innovative culinary experiences. Restaurants here are renowned for embracing farm-to-table philosophies, utilizing locally sourced, organic ingredients to create fresh and flavorful dishes that truly represent the spirit of California. Menlo Park offers a range of dining options that reflect a commitment to quality and sustainability, from cozy bistros capturing the warmth of French cuisine with a Californian twist to cutting-edge eateries that blend local produce with global culinary trends. Each restaurant aims to provide not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience, set in inviting atmospheres ranging from casual chic to sophisticated elegance. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Menlo Park’s culinary scene promises an authentic taste of Californian hospitality and innovation, making it a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates fine food in a great setting.

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