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Best Californian Restaurants in Portola Valley

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32 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Eylan restaurant
1. Eylan
4.4
Awesome(83)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Menlo Park
Booked 66 times today
From Chef Srijith Gopinathan and restaurateur Ayesha Thapar, the creators of Ettan, Copra and Little Blue Door, Eylan offers seasonally-driven Cal-Indian cuisine centered around a wood-fired grill, with thoughtfully sourced produce and a variety of proteins cooked over the embers and served alongside clever riffs on traditional breads from different regions of India. The bar program by West-Bev and Christopher Longoria draws upon the kaleidoscope of ingredients and techniques that make up global cocktail culture, while also taking inspiration from the culinary traditions of India. Wine director Andre Sydnor's program offers depth in classic regions like Burgundy, Champagne, Piedmont, and California, offering a variety of options for casual wine lovers while including more exclusive selections for serious oenophiles.
A photo of Parkside Grille restaurant
2. Parkside Grille
4.8
Exceptional(1871)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Portola Valley
Booked 14 times today
Parkside Grille in Portola Valley offers an exquisite Mediterranean dining experience that is both authentic and memorable. Guests rave about the "consistently good food" and the enchanting setting among majestic redwoods, making it a unique culinary haven. Using only the highest-quality organic produce from local farms, Parkside Grille's dishes, such as the Wood-Oven Baked Goat Cheese, highlight the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. This family-owned gem is praised for its warm and inviting atmosphere, with reviews noting the "excellent service" and "delightful experience" that keeps diners returning. It's a must-visit for lovers of Mediterranean cuisine and a true Californian treasure.
A photo of Oak + Violet - Park James Hotel restaurant
3. Oak + Violet - Park James Hotel
4.7
Exceptional(840)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Menlo Park
Booked 10 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 Zola + BarZola restaurant
4. Zola + BarZola
4.6
Exceptional(1252)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 44 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 Flea Street restaurant
5. Flea Street
4.7
Exceptional(2659)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Menlo Park
Booked 8 times today
Flea Street in Menlo Park is a standout destination for Contemporary American cuisine, offering a delightful fusion of innovation and seasonal freshness. As a pioneer in farm-to-table dining, the restaurant promises "delicious, fresh food that's innovative but not fussy," presenting each dish with care and creativity. Chef Bryan Thuerk crafts a seasonally changing menu that highlights local, organic ingredients, ensuring every meal is an "absolute treat." Diners rave about the "elevated cocktails" and the "complex and fabulous" flavors that reflect California's bounty. Flea Street's welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service make it a perfect choice for both celebratory and intimate dining experiences.
A photo of St. Michael's Alley restaurant
6. St. Michael's Alley
4.5
Awesome(819)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 24 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.
A photo of Ettan - Palo Alto restaurant
7. Ettan - Palo Alto
new
4.7
Exceptional(1682)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 75 times today
With highly personal, vibrant dishes from the country’s most decorated Cal-Indian chef, the rustic chic ambiance at Ettan is simultaneously warm, magical and glamorous; without being intimidating. Located in the heart of downtown, every detail from our craft cocktails and wine list to our lush courtyard patio and private dining mezzanine are designed to appeal to a diverse audience whether you are on an intimate date or entertaining for business.
A photo of Wildseed Palo Alto restaurant
8. Wildseed Palo Alto
4.7
Exceptional(144)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 64 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 Local Union 271 restaurant
9. Local Union 271
4.5
Awesome(561)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Palo Alto
Booked 17 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 Bistro Vida restaurant
10. Bistro Vida
4.8
Exceptional(2800)
Price: Moderate
• Californian • Menlo Park
Booked 37 times today
Bistro Vida in Menlo Park is a gem for authentic Bistro cuisine, echoing the vibrant spirit of Parisian dining right in the heart of downtown. Since 1998, it has been a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a taste of France with dishes that are “always fantastic” and service that is “top-notch.” The cozy yet lively atmosphere, complete with chic interiors and a welcoming ambiance, makes guests feel like they’ve stepped into a classic French brasserie. With accolades like “the best French Onion soup” and perfectly prepared dishes like mussels and steak tartare, Bistro Vida is a must-visit for anyone seeking genuine French flavors.

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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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