In Palo Alto, there are plenty of places to grab a drink. There’s the type you sip while waiting for a table at a crowded gastropub, and there are cocktail experiences that cost as much as a weekend getaway. This list is for all the spots in between. When you’re looking for a quality cocktail without the fuss, these are the bars you want. They’re approachable, and they all serve excellent drinks.
Zola + BarZola
$$$ | (650) 521-0651 | WEBSITE
This spot in downtown Palo Alto with its dim lighting and intimate booths looks like dozens of other cocktail lounges, but that’s where the comparisons stop. Zola + BarZola is serving some of the best drinks in the area—not just for a casual bar, but for any bar. The focus here is on intentionally-crafted cocktails, and for $24, you get a perfectly balanced spirit-forward creation along with their popular mushroom crepe.
There’s a fantastic overall experience, making it a must-visit oasis, though it can be a bit pricey.
Ettan
$$$ | (650) 752-6281 | WEBSITE
Ettan (from the chic Palo Alto dining scene) specializes in Indian fusion and attracting crowds of people who like to enjoy it. The Goan shrimp and Vellore chicken are our favorites, and for $28 you can get a small-plates set that includes both of those. On a weeknight, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to get a seat at the stylish modern bar (the tables fill up fast), but we wouldn’t recommend bringing more than three other people with you.
The Bangalore days cocktail is an option if you’re just stopping by.
Sun Of Wolf
$$ | (650) 325-8888 | WEBSITE
Sun Of Wolf in Palo Alto offers quality handmade tortilla chips and tortillas, as well as more innovative dishes. It’s pleasant to eat in too, with comfortable outdoor seating that looks out onto the lively farmers market on Sundays and a cozy interior where the staff prepares generous portions of salmon and Carnitas with a home-cooked feel.
Drop in for one of their happy hour meatballs, or bring friends to celebrate in the visually stunning atmosphere, and order one more vegetarian lasagna than you actually need.
Dinah’s Poolside Restaurant
$$ | (650) 798-1314 | WEBSITE
A go-to for Palo Alto’s weekend brunch crowd, Dinah’s Poolside Restaurant often has a line—so arrive early or call ahead. The oasis-like setting works for a family meal or special occasion, and they have a broad-enough menu of non-breakfast items in case you’re craving something like the Cobb salad or Reuben sandwich later in the day. Expect fresh fruit, cheeses, and chef-prepared dishes, with breakfast staples like the French toast starting at a very reasonable $14.
Telefèric Barcelona Palo Alto
$$$ | (657) 366-4103 | WEBSITE
Telefèric Barcelona Palo Alto has some of the best Spanish food in Palo Alto, and their excellent paella negra with premium shrimp and rich squid-ink base is a standout. But they also have delicious vegetarian options as well as popular dishes like pulpo and crab croquettes, which means you can enjoy a vibrant meal with friends without breaking the bank. If you aren’t in Palo Alto, the original Telefèric Barcelona is in Spain.
Hidden Tap And Barrel Palo Alto
$ | (650) 547-8600 | WEBSITE
This casual offshoot of a craft cocktail scene called Hidden Tap And Barrel is located near downtown Palo Alto with bar seating that wraps around an area where the bartenders pour all your drinks. And just like California’s foremost beer consortium, Hidden Tap And Barrel’s perfectly-poured craft beer flights will remind you that a diverse, inventive selection is extremely pleasing to your palate.
You can get pizza sets with things like curry chicken masala and jalapeño poppers, or you can order what you want from their Indian-influenced late-night menu.
San Agus Cocina Urbana & Cocktails
$$ | (877) 408-8702 | WEBSITE
For a vibrant (yet welcoming) spot in Palo Alto that you can pretty much always get a table at, San Agus has no business being as fun as it is. Three shrimp tacos plus a margarita will cost you roughly $28 here, and you can be confident that your meal will be both flavorful and satisfying. The menu also has a bunch of other tacos as well as flautas and guacamole.
Wildseed
$$ | (408) 781-0112 | WEBSITE
To get to Wildseed, you walk into a bright, plant-filled space just off University Avenue, where the shaded patio offers a perfect escape from the summer heat. Yes, you’re in the right place. Here, you’ll find some of the best casual dining in Palo Alto. Try the mezze platter that comes with fresh dips and vegetables, or get the wildseed burger. The quality of the ingredients is as good as many fine-dining spots.
Scotty’s Bar
$ | (650) 561-4929 | WEBSITE
Scotty’s Bar & Grill is the cocktail headquarters for all downtown Palo Alto locals. What do those locals come for? The daily happy hour from 5-7pm with great deals. Sergio, the bartender, is amazing, welcoming, and super funny, too. And, while the decor might be basic, the bartenders are friendly and attentive, and it works well for a chill vibe or even a work drink if your office is nearby. This place also has top-notch food and good drinks.
Kitchen at Palo Alto
$ | (650) 843-0795 | WEBSITE
This Palo Alto cocktail bar has been a local staple for years, and it feels like stepping into a timeless retreat. The dim lighting creates a sophisticated, grown-up atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding after a long day. José, one of the friendly staff members, moves through the space with the practiced ease of someone who’s been mixing exceptional cocktails for ages, his knowledge elevating every drink he prepares.
There’s usually a steady crowd during happy hour, but the service remains attentive and welcoming—no need to wait long to find a cozy spot at the bar. Settle in, order from their great cocktail menu, and let José guide you through a memorable experience.
Naschmarkt – Palo Alto
$$$ | (650) 561-3202 | WEBSITE
When you want top-tier Austrian comfort food in a casual setting, make a reservation at Naschmarkt in Palo Alto. The room has lovely decor and lots of little tables, and it’s lively enough for a vibrant dining experience. This restaurant does everything well, from the course menu options like mussels and sea bass to the garlic soup and Jager Schnitzel. They also serve goat cheese salad and apple strudel, as well as an extensive wine list and delightful lunches.
Reposado
$$$ | (650) 833-3151 | WEBSITE
Reposado offers elevated Mexican fare in a lively Palo Alto setting, just a short walk from University Avenue. The spacious double-height room features colorful modern art on the walls, tables throughout, and a long central bar where screens often show sports. There are plenty of entrées in the $25-$35 range, including the popular huevos Oaxiqueños with mole poblano for $28.
Protégé
$$$$ | (650) 494-4181 | WEBSITE
In a city known for its tech-driven dining scene, Palo Alto’s Protégé stands out as a Michelin-starred spot where you can relax in the lounge seating and enjoy exceptional food without the usual formality. Their regular menu features perfectly cooked dishes like the tender duck confit with pomegranate and brussel sprouts, and the flavorful octopus, but they always offer standout upgrades like the A5 wagyu and the celebrated 10-layer lasagna.
If you’re looking for a memorable experience without breaking the bank, try the ala carte lounge options, where dishes like the fish and chips or ricotta dumplings come at reasonable prices for a one-star restaurant. The sticky toffee pudding with brown butter ice cream remains a favorite, even if some desserts from the beautiful cart don’t quite hit the mark. With attentive service and a welcoming ambiance, it’s a place many will return to for special occasions or just a great meal.