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Best Californian Restaurants in Portola Valley

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31 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Parkside Grille restaurant
1. Parkside Grille
4.8
Exceptional(1842)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Portola Valley
Booked 14 times today
Nestled among the majestic redwoods of Portola Valley, Parkside Grille epitomizes rustic elegance and offers a true taste of Contemporary American cuisine. Family-owned since 2000, the restaurant has consistently wowed diners with its innovative dishes and high-quality ingredients. From the "melt-in-your-mouth tender" Osso Buco to the "perfectly seasoned" Asian flank steak, each menu item is a testament to the culinary craft. Guests rave about the ambiance and the attentive service, describing dining here as "a special treat" in a "jaw-dropping location." Parkside Grille stands out as a beloved destination where every meal is memorable, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Contemporary American flavors in a stunning setting.
A photo of Oak + Violet - Park James Hotel restaurant
2. Oak + Violet - Park James Hotel
4.6
Exceptional(830)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Menlo Park
Booked 6 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 Flea Street restaurant
3. Flea Street
4.7
Exceptional(2635)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Menlo Park
Booked 31 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 Zola + BarZola restaurant
4. Zola + BarZola
4.7
Exceptional(1216)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 32 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
5. Wildseed Palo Alto
4.7
Exceptional(104)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 50 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 St. Michael's Alley restaurant
6. St. Michael's Alley
4.8
Exceptional(793)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 7 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.
A photo of Local Union 271 restaurant
7. Local Union 271
4.2
Awesome(542)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 21 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 Cafe Wisteria restaurant
8. Cafe Wisteria
4.8
Exceptional(553)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Menlo Park
Booked 10 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 Bistro Vida restaurant
9. Bistro Vida
4.8
Exceptional(2744)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Menlo Park
Booked 39 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 NM Cafe at Neiman Marcus - Palo Alto restaurant
10. NM Cafe at Neiman Marcus - Palo Alto
4.8
Exceptional(679)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 11 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.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Janetvip
    San Francisco Bay Area •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    We always love Zola! Great food. Great service! LOVE that Zola is open late!
    More info
    Zola + BarZolaPrice: Expensive• French• Palo Alto
    •
    4.7
  • Lawrence E.
    San Francisco Bay Area •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    This our favorite restaurant and is the place where family happenings occur; Christmas eve, Graduations, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Sunday evening dinners after a rough week of work, out of town visitors. It's a beautiful setting and the ambience is welcoming. Hope and her family make it feel like coming home to family. ps. They make a wicked Manhattan and the Mac&Cheese is always a side that should be ordered ( and the calamari ! Actually, never had a bad dinner ever.
    More info
    Parkside GrillePrice: Expensive• Californian• Portola Valley
    •
    4.8
  • Stacie
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Amazingly delectable food and reasonably priced dinner. The staff was exceptionally warm and courteous. We would definitely go again if we were in the area. (We live on the other side of the Bay.) The only small downside is that it is located at a very heavily trafficked area, perhaps close to the Stanford campus. But definitely worth the trouble, especially if you are a vegetarian. I am not, but the food was so delicious, it did not matter.
    More info
    Wildseed Palo AltoPrice: Moderate• Vegetarian / Vegan• Palo Alto
    •
    4.7
  • S
    San Francisco Bay Area •32 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    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
    •
    4.6
  • John P
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 15, 2024
    We had an absolutely wonderful time. The whole experience was superb, from the moment we arrive the staff was friendly. welcoming and very attentive. The food was incredibly delecious andservic impeccable. Could not have had a better time. We'll definitely be back.
    More info
    Flea StreetPrice: Expensive• Farm-to-table• Menlo Park
    •
    4.7

Discover best Californian restaurants in Portola Valley

Discover the essence of Californian cuisine in the picturesque San Francisco Bay Area, specifically within the charming Peninsula enclave of Portola Valley. Renowned for its vibrant and innovative culinary scene, Portola Valley offers an array of dining options that perfectly capture the spirit of Californian cooking, characterized by fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and creative gastronomy. Each restaurant in this area provides diners with a distinct experience, ranging from casual elegance to rustic charm, ensuring that there's something to satisfy every palate and occasion. The dining scene here is not only a reflection of California's rich agricultural heritage but also incorporates modern culinary trends, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers. Whether you're in the mood for sophisticated dining environments or cozy, intimate settings, the restaurants in Portola Valley cater to all desires with exceptional service and a welcoming atmosphere. Moreover, these establishments support local producers, showcasing a commitment to sustainability and community that's at the heart of Californian cuisine. This summary captures the essence and diversity of Portola Valley's restaurant offerings, promising memorable culinary adventures that highlight the best of Californian flavors and hospitality. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring this unique dining landscape is sure to be a delightful and satisfying experience.

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