Downtown Palo Alto is legendary. There’s something about the allure of strolling down the promenade of this storied community filled with its vibrant collection of shops, boutiques, and of course, University Avenue’s popular food scene. Offering the opportunity to meet and mingle with people from all walks of life —from executives to college students and older adults to young families —University Avenue is the heartbeat of downtown Palo Alto and its undeniable charm.
Whether you’re planning a quiet, high-end dinner for a special someone or want to enjoy a delightful breakfast and gourmet coffee after a morning workout with friends, you can create memories and share experiences at any of the new or established restaurants on University Avenue in Palo Alto.
Oren’s Hummus
261 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Photo courtesy of Oren's Hummus
Owner Oren Dobronsky sought to bring some of his hometown of Tel Aviv’s charm and recipes to the valley and opened Oren’s Hummus— an authentic Israeli restaurant featuring delectable plates including creamy Hummus with fresh pita and Mediterranean salads. The result? A Bay Area favorite offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as quick and convenient Grab & Go meals.
Tamarine
546 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Photo courtesy of Tamarine
Offering a relaxed yet elevated dining experience, Tamarine invites guests to delight in the cuisine of Vietnam made with fresh ingredients from California. Creating dishes of exotic flavors, Tamarin was listed by Forbes Magazine as one of the “Top 10 Power Dining Spots” in the world.
Crepevine
367 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Offering a delicious and comforting menu selection of crepes, sandwiches, salads, and other lunchtime treats, The Crepevine is a casual dining destination brimming with charm and mouth-watering eats. With a variety of items for all palates and ages to enjoy, the Crepevine is a family-friendly, relaxed locale to enjoy great food and company.
Local Union 271
271 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Photo courtesy of Local Union 271
Local and family-owned, Local Union 271 offers locally sourced provisions for delicious and unique menu items from fresh seafood to authentic pasta dishes and healthy bowls to protein-packed burgers. Whether you’re looking to dine outdoors and enjoy the sunshine or would rather dine inside amid a relaxed setting, you’re sure to enjoy your visit to this downtown Palo Alto favorite.
JOYA
339 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Photo courtesy of Joya
JOYA offers guests a memorable combination of sophisticated ambiance paired with culinary creativity in downtown Palo Alto. With a seasonal Spanish and Latin American menu of tapas and entrees, the lovely restaurant has been recommended on several Michelin guides for foodies looking to experience elevated cuisine.
Curry Pizza House
320 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Photo courtesy of Curry Pizza House
Experience relaxed energy and delicious craft pizza in this fast-casual eatery located in the heart of downtown Palo Alto. Featuring delicious curry flavors amid a wide menu selection, Curry Pizza House promises you’ll pop in for a relaxed lunch as you make your way through University Avenue shops and boutiques.
MacArthur Park
27 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Photo courtesy of MacArthur Park
Offering contemporary American fare, MacArthur Park launched in 1981 and has been delighting locals and visitors alike ever since. Housed in a historical WWI-era building, this University Avenue eatery has a fantastic dinner menu, including favorites like its signature BBQ entrees and Mesquite Grilled Salmon from its Wild Wood Grill selection among others.
Sushiritto
448 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Photo courtesy of Sushiritto
Known as the creator of the world’s first sushi burrito restaurant brand, guests enjoy hand-held sushi burritos in delicious Japanese and Latin flavor combinations. Set amid a relaxed setting, Sushirrito dishes are made with traditional and unique ingredients sure to delight every palate.
Sweet Maple Palo Alto
150 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Photo courtesy of Sweet Maple Palo Alto
The relaxed neighborhood restaurant offering brunch options and Korean fare brings organic, locally-sourced ingredients to a spacious locale ideal for enjoying excellent food and a great time. Founded in 2010, Sweet Maple is a popular brunch destination and a great place to visit when strolling downtown Palo Alto.
Taste
23 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Touted as a unique and taste-inspired Chinese restaurant, locals and visitors agree Taste is a winner. A wide variety of menu items to choose from and flavors including Szechuan, Beijing, Shandong, Chongqing, and Hunan are sure to delight your taste buds.
New York New York Sandwiches
125 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94309
If you’re looking for the taste of the East coast, New York New York Sandwiches is a great spot to enjoy fuss-free and delicious casual dining. Featuring bagel breakfast sandwiches and items like the Grilled New York Famous Reuben Sandwich, you won’t want to miss trying out the popular lunch locale the next time you’re in downtown Palo Alto.
Pho & Banh Mi
405 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Photo courtesy of Pho & Banh Mi
Stop by and enjoy delicious Vietnamese cuisine offering a menu of salads, pho, spring rolls, smoothies, and more! Located nearby to the Stanford Shopping Center and Heritage Park, you’re able to take in a full day’s worth of activities before finishing your evening with a delightful menu of authentic Vietnamese favorites.
Sprout Cafe
168 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA
Photo courtesy of Sprout Cafe
A casual dining experience, Sprout Cafe offers a healthy, cost-conscious menu of fresh and delicious food with only the best ingredients. An ideal weekend spot to enjoy signature salads, sandwiches, soups, and so much more, you’ll rave about the great food and friendly ambiance.
Onigilly Japanese Kitchen
164 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Using nutrient-rich, high-quality ingredients, Onigilly makes fresh creations made to order. Offering delicious and flavorful combinations, guests choose their preferences to create a balanced diet. Using a Bento concept unique to Japan, guests are able to take in delicious food and culture.
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Recommended reading: Best San Carlos Restaurants
Recommended reading: Best San Carlos Restaurants
