Lana's 10 Go-To Peninsula Restaurants
There are so many noteworthy restaurants on the Peninsula, it’s hard to know where to start. Often my taste buds take me to Palo Alto, home to both iconic and emerging restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for pizza or pasta, French or Mexican, here are some of my favorites in Palo Alto (and beyond).
Photo by Kayleigh Harrington on Unsplash
1. Terùn
Palo Alto
I crave this pizza all the time. Terùn was featured in the New York Times in 2014 and is known for its wood-fired Neapolitan oven. It defines business casual but is just as good for date night as it is for a lunch meeting. I love their pear and gorgonzola pizza and the homemade beet gnocchi.
2. Evvia
Palo Alto
This restaurant embodies classic Greek fare. Evvia’s menu never changes, and that’s what I love about this place. It’s so cozy and welcoming, and I know I can always count on the branzino to be just as delicious as it was last time. It’s also the only place I will order lamb—their lamb chops will win anyone over.
3. Tamarine
Palo Alto
This University Avenue staple combines influences from Southeast Asia with its California roots. Tamarine is fusion food at its best. Decor is refined with your choice of bar seating, communal tables or private tables. Save room for dessert and get the fried banana with coconut ice cream.
4. Bird Dog
Palo Alto
This is modern California cuisine at its finest. Bird Dog attracts a hip, young crowd with its open kitchen and menu of inventive dishes. While there’s always something new and exciting to try, it’s also one of the best burgers I’ve ever had. And don’t skip the appetizers. Order the wood-fired grilled avocado topped with ponzu and fresh wasabi.
5. Zola
Palo Alto
This new French restaurant has quickly gained a following. Zola’s menu changes with the seasons but if the bone marrow is on it—order it. Top things off with a classic dessert like creme caramel or chocolate mousse.
6. Reposado
Palo Alto
Guacamole is a must at Reposado. After that, you really can’t go wrong with their selection of classic and inventive Mexican dishes. Share ceviche with friends, try their handmade corn tortillas or choose from dozens of tequilas and order a top-shelf margarita.
7. iTalico
Palo Alto
This is my absolute favorite for an upscale Italian experience. iTalico is all about the pasta. Every dish is carefully composed with the highest quality ingredients, creating classic yet elevated dishes (try the homemade ravioli). It’s also a great place to grab a glass of wine paired with a charcuterie board.
8. Cascal
Mountain View
Cascal does tapas right with its colorful decor, inviting outdoor patio and its exciting variety of menu options. Looking for more than just tapas? Don’t pass up the paella. It’s cooked with traditional Spanish Bomba rice and loaded with meat and seafood.
9. Left Bank
Menlo Park
This is an old school French restaurant that really knows how to cook the classics. I go for lunch and order the Niçoise Salade. It’s the best I’ve ever had outside of France. They have two additional locations in Larkspur and on Santana Row in San Jose.
10. La Bodeguito del Medio
Palo Alto
The name means “the little bar in the middle of the block” and this restaurant is as inviting as that translation implies. La Bodeguita del Medio has been bringing a slice of Havana to California Street since 1997. Share the plantain chips then choose from one of their many flavorful seafood entrees. I always end my meal with Havana Bananas—caramelized bananas, spiced walnuts and vanilla ice cream.