17 Best Cocktail Bars in Palo Alto

Sekoya Lounge & Kitchen Cocktail Bar • $$$
417 California Ave, Palo Alto

Customers` Favorites

Teeny Tiny Triple Chocolate Cookies
Double Fried Tempura Mushrooms
Hibachi Grilled Chicken
Chicken Liver Mousse
Tiny Cookie Dessert
Hangar Steak Skewer
Beef Tongue Skewer
Wagyu Smash Burger
Parker House Rolls
Fried Mushrooms

“The atmosphere here is very inviting with a beautifully designed interior that really stands out. The wooden dining table adds a unique touch to the experience. The staff was friendly and attentive, making the service excellent. The food was flavorful and well prepared, and the cocktail complemented the meal perfectly.“

4.2 Good191 Reviews
San Agus Cocina Urbana & Cocktails Cocktail Bar • $$
115 Hamilton Ave, Palo Alto

Customers` Favorites

Coctel De Camaron 14 41
Tacos De Camaron Dorado
Chicken Tinga Tostadas
Salsas \u0026 Chips V
Tacos De Carne Asada
Mexican Torta Cubana
Family Size Churros
Ceviche de Pescado
Tacos Al Pastor
Salsas & Chips V

“By far was this is the best Mexican food I've ever had. A bit on the pricey side, but well worth it!“

4.3 Superb187 Reviews
Cafe Pro Bono Italian • $$
2437 Birch St, Palo Alto

Customers` Favorites

Gnocchi Homemade with Basil Pesto Sauce Sun Dried Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
Hangar Steak with Vegetables
Chocolate Decadence
Susan's Downfall
Linguini Vongole
Grilled Polenta
Tiramisu Cake
Veal Marsala
Rack of Lamb
Panna Cotta

“Good food and great customer service. Do recommend“

4.6 Superb212 Reviews
Naschmarkt - Palo Alto Austrian • $$$
2323 Birch St, Palo Alto

Customers` Favorites

Classic Wiener Schnitzel
Goat Cheese Purse Salad
Hungarian Beef Goulash
Pan-Seared Scallops
Salzburger Nockerln
Pan Roasted Halibut
Austrian Cold Cuts
Watermelon Gazpacho
Side Potato Salad
Pork Belly Entree

“This is a welcoming restaurant with a very gracious manager! Three of us had lunch there on Sat. for the first time. We opted for indoor window seating but there is ample and comfortable outdoor seating, as well. The Wiener Schnitzel was tender, the Eggs Benedict tasty, the arugula salad fresh. Next time I will try the Jäger Schnitzel. The Sacher Torte was perfect! We were treated to extra birthday desert--without asking for it--which was a thoughtful gesture. Naschmarkt was spotless clean, and the kitchen ventilation works well. It is very suitably located at the quieter side of California Avenue, close to public parking.“

4.6 Superb333 Reviews
Wildseed Vegan • $$
South, 855 El Camino Real Building 4, Palo Alto

Customers` Favorites

Curried Cauliflower with Muhammara and Toasted Almonds
Curry and Forbidden Rice Platter
Vanilla-Coconut Panna Cotta
Orecchiette Alla Pugliese
Spicy Sausage Flatbread
Summer Squash Flatbread
Green Forest Flatbread
Polenta Cakes Platter
Wild Mushroom Zeppole
Warm Chocolate Cake

“Ottimo cibo, servizio veloce, locale molto carino.“

4.6 Superb294 Reviews
Protégé New American
250 California Ave, Palo Alto

Customers` Favorites

Smoke and Mirrors Mezcal Cognac Aperol Egg White Peychaud's
American Wagyu Short Rib Pithivier
Selections from Our Cheese Cart
Brown Butter Parker House Rolls
A5 Japanese Wagyu Beef Ribeye
Bone-In Berkshire Pork Chop
Sourdough Loaf and Butter
Romesco-Crusted Lamb Loin
Blackened King Salmon
Black Truffle Lasagna

“An exceptional culinary experience at Protégé in Palo Alto. Every dish showcased masterful technique and impeccable flavors. The A5 Japanese Wagyu Ribeye was perfectly marbled and melted effortlessly, while the Crab and Caviar delivered a luxurious balance of brine and sweetness. The lobster toast was crisp, buttery, and indulgent, and the Black Bass—flawless in execution—was the best I’ve encountered. The Ricotta Dumplings , delicate yet deeply flavorful, rounded out an unforgettable meal. The shigoku oysters with whipped ponzu were indescribably fresh and flavorful. The sunflower Caesar, with its preserved tomato jam, was a unique and unforgettable twist on a classic. As for the brick chicken that we took to go, it was so delicious that it barely made it home before being devoured. The experience was elevated even further by the outstanding service—every person was kind, attentive, and genuinely dedicated to creating a memorable evening. A true showcase of precision, creativity, and hospitality“

4.4 Superb158 Reviews
Sun Of Wolf Mexican • $$
406 California Ave, Palo Alto

Customers` Favorites

Slow Cooked Carnitas
Vegetarian Lasagna
Breakfast Sandwich
Breakfast Burrito
Duck Confit Tacos
Chips and Salsa
Beet Empanadas
Carnitas Plate
Maja Lasagna
Tacos Verdes

“I’ve been there a few times and is always very good I highly recommend“

4.7 Superb74 Reviews
Zola + BarZola French • $$$
585 Bryant St, Palo Alto

Customers` Favorites

Midwife & the Baker French Demi Baguette
Gulf Flounder Beurre Blanc
Beef Cheeks Bourguignon
Halibut Beurre Blanc
Roasted Bone Marrow
Ricotta Gnocchi
Salmon Rillette
Steak Frites
Beet Salad
Escargot

“Staff are friendly. They’re pet friendly. My Ribeye steak was the best!“

4.2 Good348 Reviews
Scotty's Bar Bar & Grill • $
548 Emerson St, Palo Alto

“We were weary travelers stopping by Scotty's in hope of a more chill vibe with some good food, and Scottys delivered! Our bartender, Sergio, was so friendly and fun! We got some inside knowledge about the town as we are from Oregon. The drinks were perfect and the food was top notch! I would have expected to pay a lot more for the quality of food and service we received at literally any of the surrounding places. We will visit Palo Alto again if only to go back to Scotty's as a new tradition! Thank you, Sergio, for making our anniversary dinner a great one! Someone give him a raise!“

4.8 Superb21 Reviews
Horsefeather Palo Alto New American • $$$
855 El Camino Real Ste 151, Palo Alto

Customers` Favorites

Double Cheeseburger
Duck Fat Fries

“Loco Moco was the best I've had. The gravy sauce on it was umami but also had a slight touch of sweet and sour (from the caramelized onion and maybe a tiny bit of vinegar?). It's different than traditional, but way better in my book. If you're very hungry, you can add a second patty for another $6 or $7.

Chicken & Waffles were great too. Matcha butter sounds a bit much at first, but I'm glad we got it because it goes well with the crispy & fluffy waffles. Crispy banana/plantain + strawberry on the waffle was a nice touch too“

4.5 Superb41 Reviews
Kitchen at Palo Alto American • $
Hilton Garden Inn, 4216 El Camino Real, Palo Alto

Customers` Favorites

Bud Bud Light Michelob Ultra Coors Light Miller Light White Claw

“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!“

4.4 Superb9 Reviews
12

Ettan

Ettan Indian • $$$
518 Bryant St, Palo Alto

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Biryani with Salan & Raita
Spice-Roasted Seabass Collar
Tender Jack Vada Pav Veg
Butter Chicken and Naan
White Chocolate Cremeux
Locale Chicken Biryani
Cast Iron Monkey Buns
Dark Chocolate Oblong
Passion Fruit Dessert
Locale Butter Chicken

“🎉 Just had an unforgettable evening at Ettan! Cozy vibes, top-notch service, and every dish was a masterpiece. 🍽 The chef's special? Mind-blowing! 🤯 Whether it's for the ambiance, the flavors, or the amazing staff, Ettan's a must-visit. Left with a full belly and even fuller heart. ❤️ Can't wait to go back! #EttanMagic #FoodieDream #BestDinnerEver“

3.7 Good705 Reviews
Reposado Mexican • $$$
236 Hamilton Ave, Palo Alto

Customers` Favorites

Beans GF Black Bean Epazote
Pollo Rostisado Con Mole GF
Empanadas De Camarón
House Made Guacamole
Chips and Guacamole
Ceviche De Pescado
Cochinita Pibil GF
Crepas Con Mariscos
Salmon Con Pipian
Chile Poblano GF

“The bistek asado. omg! soooo tender. we ordered it medium. it was perfect. We also ordered the pollo rostisado con mole. it was tender and tasty. Thank you for accommodating us with no reservations. make reservations. place gets packed quick.“

4 Good261 Reviews
Dinah's Poolside Restaurant American • $$
4261 El Camino Real, Palo Alto

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

4.2 Good298 Reviews
Hidden Tap And Barrel Palo Alto Bar • $$
320 University Ave, Palo Alto

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Tikka

“Great selection of beers!“

4 Good49 Reviews
MacArthur Park Restaurant and Bar American • $$$
27 University Ave, Palo Alto

Customers` Favorites

Smoked Hampshire Double Cut Pork Chop
Petaluma Boneless Half Chicken
Mesquite Grilled Wild Salmon
Mary's Organic BBQ Chicken
Berry Salad w Salmon
Pumpkin Cheesecake
Wild King Salmon
Dessert Sampler
Baby Back Ribs
Onion Strings

“Fun Times with the Hubby!“

3.7 Good205 Reviews
Telefèric Barcelona Palo Alto Spanish • $$$
855 El Camino Real #130, Palo Alto

Customers` Favorites

Jamón Iberico de Bellota
Churros Con Chocolate
Churros Con Nutella
Empanadas De Pollo
Brussel Sprouts V
Spanish Meatballs
Fried Cauliflower
Gambas Al Ajillo
Patatas Bravas V
Prime Wellington

“And the most amazing cocktails! 🍹“

3.9 Good752 Reviews