12 Best American Restaurants in Palo Alto

“This restaurant is a true standout for anyone who appreciates creative cuisine in a stylish, welcoming setting. The ambience is modern yet cozy, with a warm atmosphere that makes it perfect for a relaxed evening or a special occasion. Every detail, from the decor to the plating, feels carefully thought out.

The food was impressive across the board. The oysters were incredibly fresh and bright, and the swordfish was a real star, perfectly cooked with flavors that felt both bold and balanced.

The Salt and Pepper Spanish Octopus deserves special mention. It was beautifully presented and cooked to perfection, tender, flavorful, and paired with unique elements like persimmon and fermented napa cabbage that added depth and complexity. It’s clear the kitchen puts a lot of care into crafting dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious.

If you’re looking for a place that combines high-quality ingredients, inventive flavors, and a great vibe, this is absolutely worth a visit. I’d recommend it without hesitation, you’ll leave impressed and wanting to come back.“

“The Redwood is a secret gem in downtown Palo Alto. I'm a sandwich for lunch guy, and what I've loved about the several that I've had is that Chef Julien takes excellent base components -- like bread/rolls, meat, cheese and veggies -- and adds extras that make it taste especially good. My wife is a soup and salad person and she's always been very happy with her food. We're so grateful that a friend turned us on to the place.

I'm addition, we recently had Chef Julien cater a dinner for us. He was especially thoughtful to manage the menu around dietary restrictions of guests. Everyone loved the meal, from start to finish.“

“Palo Alto Creamery is located in the heart of Palo Alto at 566 Emerson St, right at the intersection of Hamilton Ave and Emerson St, making it very easy to find. It’s a spacious restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and consistently great service.

The food is delicious and served quickly, even during busy times. This place is especially well known for its burgers, which are flavorful and satisfying. I personally loved the chicken wings the spicy and sweet flavors were spot on and the fries were crispy and tasty.

It’s an excellent spot for friends and family gatherings, whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a relaxed dining experience. Street-side parking is available, which is convenient given the central location.

Overall, a reliable and enjoyable place for good food, fast service, and a comfortable dining experience. Highly recommended!“

“Enjoyed their Hamburger and fish & Chips Fries are excellent. Lovely surroundings, the ducks enjoyed the pool.“

“Always try to go at least once when I’m in Old El Palo Alto.“

“They have all the product just like your in Paris shopping“

“1st time in Cali , this place was a 3 min walk from my hotel . I had the adult grill cheese. It was delicious. The service was great and the prices were not bad at all . I definitely recommend and will be returning next time i’m on the west coast .“

“Es un restaurante muy bonito, sus platos muy bien servidos y deliciosos! Recomiendo a Local Union siempre, excelente servicio el de Guadalupe y Estefany!“

“Very nice modern spot with a clean aesthetic and friendly staff that makes you feel welcome. The food is great comfort fare — I highly recommend the Original Single Patty with fries for a classic combo. The Mushroom Chicken is a flavorful option if you’re looking for something different, and the Mac N Cheese is creamy and satisfying. Portions are generous, definitely great for sharing. Overall, a solid choice for a casual bite while shopping.“

“My recent stay at the Hilton Garden Inn was nothing short of fantastic. From the moment I arrived, the staff was welcoming and attentive, ensuring I felt right at home. The room was clean, comfortable, and equipped with everything I needed for a relaxing stay.

The highlight of my stay, however, was the exceptional service at the hotel bar. José, the bartender, was amazing! Not only did he craft delicious drinks, but his friendly and genuine approach made every visit to the bar feel personal. His knowledge of cocktails and attention to detail were impressive, and he went out of his way to ensure guests were taken care of.

Overall, the hospitality at the Hilton Garden Inn exceeded my expectations, and the staff, particularly José, made the experience memorable. I’ll definitely be returning!“

“Seniors love La Comida! It's a warm friendly atmosphere where they can get a nutritious meal each weekday. And it's a great way for them to get out and meet people.“

“My sister and I had lunch on July 28, 2025. The French fries are absolutely the best. Crisp with rosemary scattered on top. Two Ceasar salads, one with chicken and one with wild Pacific prawns. My sister said the chicken was cooked perfectly and had good flavor. The problem was with the salads. The dressing on the salad had no flavor at all. Who ever made must have forgotten the flavor ingredients. My prawns were cooked perfectly but no seasoning, just no flavor. Not sure what happened yesterday but just no taste and no seasoning of the dressing and prawns.“