46 Best Southern American Restaurants In Palo Alto

1. Zola + BarZola

4.6

Exceptional(1240)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Palo Alto

Booked 18 times today

Zola + BarZola in Palo Alto shines as a beacon of exceptional American cuisine, delighting patrons with a harmonious blend of traditional flavors and innovative dishes. Guests consistently rave about the "outstanding food" and "excellent service," appreciating the welcoming atmosphere that feels "like a comfortable dining room in a friend's home." The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in its carefully sourced seasonal ingredients, expertly prepared to perfection. Diners are enamored with the "melt-in-your-mouth short ribs" and "exquisite mushroom crepes," making it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. Zola + BarZola truly offers an authentic American dining experience.

A photo of St. Michael's Alley restaurant

2. St. Michael's Alley

4.6

Exceptional(809)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Palo Alto

Booked 17 times today

Nestled in the heart of Palo Alto, St. Michael's Alley offers an authentic Californian dining experience that has delighted locals and visitors since 1959. Known for its "exceptional hospitality and delicious food," this restaurant is a true gem that "never disappoints." With a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, the seasonal menu highlights the diverse flavors of Californian cuisine. The intimate wood-paneled dining room, casual bar area, and charming outdoor patio provide the perfect setting for any occasion, from date nights to celebrations. As one diner put it, "A wonderful dining experience," St. Michael's Alley is a must-visit for anyone seeking quality Californian cuisine.

3. Local Union 271

4.3

Awesome(556)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Palo Alto

Booked 35 times today

Local Union 271 in Palo Alto is a shining example of authentic Farm-to-table cuisine. This family-owned gem emphasizes locally sourced ingredients, creating an experience that is both flavorful and healthy. The restaurant is a "circle of farms, ranches, dairies, hatcheries, bakeries, fisheries, breweries, and wineries," ensuring every dish is crafted with the freshest and most sustainable produce. Diners rave about the "wonderful, great quality food," with standouts like the "perfectly cooked black cod & vegetables" and "delicious meatloaf." The ambiance is comfortable and crafted by local artisans, making it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike.

A photo of MacArthur Park - Palo Alto restaurant

4. MacArthur Park - Palo Alto

4.3

Awesome(1674)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Palo Alto

Booked 3 times today

Nestled in the heart of downtown Palo Alto, MacArthur Park offers a sublime Barbecue experience that seamlessly marries tradition with the richness of California's bounty. Known for its "exceptional" Baby Back Ribs, this iconic spot draws rave reviews for its tender, flavorful meats and generous portions. Guests are consistently delighted by the "outstanding" quality and taste, with many praising the ribs as "classic." The dining room, designed by Julia Morgan in 1918, adds a touch of elegance to the cozy ambiance. With a vibrant garden patio and a menu that caters to all tastes, MacArthur Park ensures a memorable BBQ dining experience.

A photo of RH Rooftop Restaurant at RH Palo Alto restaurant

5. RH Rooftop Restaurant at RH Palo Alto

4.4

Awesome(577)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Palo Alto

Booked 186 times today

The RH Rooftop Restaurant is located on the third floor of RH Palo Alto, The Gallery at Stanford. Enjoy a reimagined menu of enduring classics, along with a curated selection of exceptional Champagnes and wines. Dine in a year-round skylit garden escape with heritage olive trees, sparkling chandeliers and a cascading center fountain sculpted of solid Biancone limestone.

A photo of Wildseed Palo Alto restaurant

6. Wildseed Palo Alto

4.7

Exceptional(133)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Palo Alto

Booked 58 times today

Wildseed Palo Alto brings a fresh twist to American cuisine with its vibrant, plant-based menu that promises to delight both vegans and carnivores alike. Nestled in the heart of Palo Alto, this restaurant is celebrated for its “exceptional food” and “creative cocktails,” making it a must-visit spot for diners seeking healthy yet hearty dishes. Using Northern California’s freshest seasonal produce, every meal served is a testament to quality and authenticity. Guests rave about the “delicious vegan dishes” and the “wonderful experience,” noting how Wildseed’s innovative approach “makes you rethink dining” with its flavorful offerings. Enjoy a superb dining experience that’s both satisfying and sustainable.

A photo of Sundance The Steakhouse restaurant

7. Sundance The Steakhouse

4.8

Exceptional(5560)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Palo Alto

Booked 73 times today

Sundance The Steakhouse in Palo Alto is a true gem for lovers of authentic American cuisine. Celebrated for its "consistently terrific steaks and prime rib," this iconic establishment has been a favorite since 1974. Stepping into Sundance feels like a warm embrace, with its nostalgic clubby atmosphere complete with dark wood and sports memorabilia. Diners rave about the "amazing meats and fabulous fish options," all complemented by an award-winning wine list. The attentive and friendly service makes every visit feel special, whether it’s for a casual dinner or a grand celebration. If you're in search of the quintessential American steakhouse experience, Sundance is the place to be!

A photo of True Food Kitchen - Palo Alto restaurant

8. True Food Kitchen - Palo Alto

4.3

Awesome(3592)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Palo Alto

Booked 73 times today

True Food Kitchen in Palo Alto brilliantly marries the art of flavor with conscious nutrition, offering an exemplary Vegetarian and Vegan dining experience. Founded by Dr. Andrew Weil, a pioneer in integrative medicine, the restaurant prides itself on providing dishes that are both delicious and health-conscious. Enthusiastic diners rave about the "gloriously healthy" meals, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to using fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients. The menu is a testament to creativity, with options that delight both the palate and the soul, ensuring every bite is a "culinary masterpiece." True Food Kitchen is the go-to spot for those seeking authentic and flavorful plant-based cuisine.

9. Menlo Tavern

4.6

Exceptional(463)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Menlo Park

Booked 19 times today

Menlo Tavern in Menlo Park is a standout in Dining Bar cuisine, offering a delightful blend of atmosphere, service, and culinary excellence. Guests rave about the "beautiful courtyard with shaded tables" and the "warm and luxurious" inside bar, creating an inviting dining experience whether indoors or out. The restaurant is a "hidden gem" known for its exceptional American dishes, including a variety of flavorful options from their seasonal menus. The service consistently garners praise, described as "attentive but not oppressive," making every visit feel special. With live music enhancing the ambiance, Menlo Tavern is a must-visit destination for delightful dining.

A photo of NM Cafe at Neiman Marcus - Palo Alto restaurant

10. NM Cafe at Neiman Marcus - Palo Alto

4.6

Exceptional(689)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Palo Alto

Booked 10 times today

Nestled in the heart of Palo Alto, NM Cafe at Neiman Marcus offers an exquisite taste of Californian cuisine, celebrated for its fresh and vibrant flavors. This laid-back luxe cafe is known for its "excellent food in an elegant, relaxed environment" and "outstanding" service, as noted by enthusiastic diners. The menu highlights the best of Californian ingredients, exemplified by dishes like the "deconstructed salmon niçoise" and the beloved "popovers with strawberry butter." With a focus on quality and authenticity, NM Cafe ensures each meal is a delightful experience, making it a must-visit culinary destination for those seeking genuine Californian fare.

Best Southern American Restaurants in Palo Alto

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Top Rated

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Award-winning

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46 restaurants available nearby

1. Zola + BarZola

2. St. Michael's Alley

3. Local Union 271

4. MacArthur Park - Palo Alto

5. RH Rooftop Restaurant at RH Palo Alto

6. Wildseed Palo Alto

7. Sundance The Steakhouse

8. True Food Kitchen - Palo Alto

9. Menlo Tavern

10. NM Cafe at Neiman Marcus - Palo Alto

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