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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Palo Alto

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16 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Local Union 271 restaurant
1. Local Union 271
4.2
Awesome(541)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Palo Alto
Booked 19 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 Sekoya restaurant
2. Sekoya
4.7
Exceptional(144)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Palo Alto
Booked 22 times today
Sekoya Lounge & Kitchen in Palo Alto is a gem for those seeking an authentic Californian dining experience. Celebrated for its modern American cuisine with a Northern Californian flair, Sekoya offers a farm-to-table concept that truly stands out. With local, organic produce and sustainable seafood, every dish reflects the freshness and innovation of California. Guests rave about the "high quality, crazy good preparation" and the "eclectic menu" that transforms dining into a delightful culinary adventure. The fresh baked bread, house-made desserts, and the Hibachi Grill add a bespoke touch to the dining experience, making Sekoya a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Californian cuisine in a setting that pays homage to the iconic Sequoia and Redwood trees native to the region.
A photo of Menlo Tavern restaurant
3. Menlo Tavern
4.6
Exceptional(428)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Menlo Park
Booked 16 times today
Menlo Tavern in Menlo Park stands out as a top destination for Dining Bar cuisine, offering a delightful experience that marries classic charm with culinary excellence. Patrons rave about the "sublime evenings" spent in the inviting outdoor patio, enhanced by live music and a cozy atmosphere. The restaurant is renowned for its diverse menu that includes dishes like the succulent lamb rack and the perfectly prepared salmon, each complemented by an impressive selection of cocktails and wines. Reviewers consistently praise the "excellent service" and the quality of the food, describing evenings at Menlo Tavern as "wonderful" with a "great ambiance." Whether it’s for a special dinner under the stars or a lively happy hour, Menlo Tavern’s Dining Bar delivers an unforgettable experience that keeps guests returning.
A photo of NM Cafe at Neiman Marcus - Palo Alto restaurant
4. NM Cafe at Neiman Marcus - Palo Alto
4.9
Exceptional(672)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Palo Alto
Booked 17 times today
Discover the essence of Californian cuisine at NM Cafe at Neiman Marcus in Palo Alto, where the ambiance of laid-back luxe meets culinary delight. Nestled in the heart of Palo Alto, this cafe is a gem for those seeking a blend of modern, understated decor and top-notch dining. With glowing reviews like "The food was great, the orange soufflé and chicken salad was a classic and so good," and "The new chef and manager are elevating classics, better plating, better ingredients and great food," it’s clear that NM Cafe is setting the standard for Californian cuisine. Diners rave about the "warm popovers and strawberry butter," a staple that captures the local flavor beautifully. Whether it's a casual lunch or a special occasion, NM Cafe promises an experience that’s both authentic and enchanting.
A photo of Apres Village - Four Seasons Silicon Valley restaurant
5. Apres Village - Four Seasons Silicon Valley
4.3
Awesome(25)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Palo Alto
Booked 38 times today
Escape to a winter wonderland at the Après Village, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley!This year, the Après menu undergoes a complete transformation with an enchanting Italian Mountain Valley theme. Guests can indulge in a carefully curated selection of savory shared dishes, including the flavorful Antipasto Selection, which features two types of tomato bruschetta, artisanal charcuterie, and a delightful Italian cheese selection. This culinary journey celebrates the rich flavors of Italy at USD 95 per person. Of course, no Après Village experience is complete without the signature s'mores and custom cocktails.Semi-Private Chalets ($150)Quattro Terrace offers semi-private wooden chalets for an intimate experience, making it ideal for families and groups of four to six. Welcome to Apres Season!
A photo of Naschmarkt - Palo Alto restaurant
6. Naschmarkt - Palo Alto
4.8
Exceptional(384)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Palo Alto
Booked 22 times today
Naschmarkt in Palo Alto is a premier destination for Contemporary American cuisine with a delightful Austrian twist. This family-owned gem has been delighting diners since 2011 with its exceptional food quality and an inviting ambiance. Reviewers rave about their culinary experience, highlighting dishes like the "delicious beet stroganoff" and "homemade chicken apple sausage with caramelized onions and sauerkraut," which truly "knocked it out of the park." The authenticity of their Austrian-inspired dishes, combined with Californian freshness, such as the "perfectly cooked and seasoned" pork chop and the praised "Wienerschnitzel," makes Naschmarkt a culinary standout in Palo Alto. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and service shines through in glowing testimonials, making it a must-visit for an extraordinary dining experience.
A photo of Flea Street restaurant
7. Flea Street
4.7
Exceptional(2636)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Menlo Park
Booked 17 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 British Bankers Club restaurant
8. British Bankers Club
4.7
Exceptional(636)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Menlo Park
Booked 5 times today
The British Bankers Club in Menlo Park stands out as a beacon of Contemporary European cuisine, offering an eclectic menu that harmonizes classic European flavors with modern culinary techniques. Patrons rave about the "indescribably delicious" watermelon oysters and the "flavorful and scrumptious" TRUFFLE MASCARPONE ORECCHIETTE PASTA, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to innovation and quality. The ambiance is equally praised, with options to dine in the elegantly modern interior, or enjoy the vibrant rooftop bar. Reviewers consistently highlight the "excellent service" and "beautifully presented" dishes, making it a must-visit for those seeking a top-tier dining experience in Contemporary European cuisine.
A photo of Dinah's Poolside Restaurant restaurant
9. Dinah's Poolside Restaurant
4.5
Awesome(811)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Palo Alto
Booked 6 times today
Dinah's Poolside Restaurant in Palo Alto is a quintessential American dining experience, celebrated for its delightful fusion of classic and contemporary flavors. Serving the Palo Alto area for over 55 years, Dinah's boasts a commitment to fresh, local ingredients, featuring cage-free eggs, free-range meats, and sustainable produce. The ambiance, highlighted by poolside views, enhances the dining pleasure, making every meal feel like a special occasion. Diners consistently rave about the quality, with reviews praising the "perfect steak frites" and "delicious clam chowder." The restaurant's ability to blend a relaxed setting with upscale American classics like steak and seafood makes it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors. As one reviewer puts it, Dinah’s offers "great food, great service, and great ambiance," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic American cuisine in a charming environment.
A photo of The Village Bakery and Cafe restaurant
10. The Village Bakery and Cafe
4.6
Exceptional(1921)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Woodside
Booked 48 times today
At The Village Bakery and Cafe in Woodside, café enthusiasts are treated to a delightful culinary experience that stands out for its authenticity and quality. This charming cafe is celebrated for its "delicious food and coffee," offering a menu filled with a variety of freshly baked pastries, rich coffee drinks, and hearty dishes. Patrons consistently praise the café's ambience and service, noting the staff's attentiveness and the overall welcoming atmosphere. A standout review mentions, "The Avocado Toast was absolutely delicious! Had a savior taste, and the arugula was very fresh." The café's commitment to excellence is further highlighted by comments on their "consistently excellent service" and the use of "fresh and seasonal ingredients." Whether you're stopping by for a casual brunch or a special occasion, The Village Bakery and Cafe provides a consistently superb dining experience that invites repeated visits.

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Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Palo Alto

Discover the vibrant Contemporary American dining scene in Palo Alto, a jewel within the San Francisco Bay Area. This locale shines with a diverse array of restaurants that brilliantly fuse traditional American elements with innovative, modern culinary techniques. Whether you're seeking a laid-back, luxurious atmosphere or a cozy, family-friendly setting, Palo Alto's dining venues cater to all preferences, emphasizing quality and creativity in every dish. The restaurants here pride themselves on utilizing locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring that each meal is not only fresh but also supports local farmers and producers. From farm-to-table experiences to sophisticated ambiances that blend natural elements with modern aesthetics, the dining options in Palo Alto offer something uniquely delightful for every palate. The dining scene here is a testament to the area's commitment to excellence and innovation in Contemporary American cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers and culinary adventurers alike.

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