01
Iconic institution
Chef Chu's
El Camino Real Corridor, Los Altos • Classic Chinese Restaurant • Iconic Local Landmark
A bustling, old-school Chinese favorite known for generous portions, fast service, and a crowd that spans families to Stanford alums.
Chef Chu's has been the go-to spot for Chinese food in this part of the Peninsula for decades, and it still feels like the kind of place where regulars are known by name. Expect a long menu, but the house specialties—like Peking duck and Mongolian beef—are where it shines. The dining room runs loud and lively, so it’s ideal when you want energy over intimacy.
02
Best overall pick
Los Altos Grill
Third Street, Downtown Los Altos • Upscale American Grill • Best For Date Nights
Warm lighting, wood-fired cooking, and polished service make this the reliable "sure thing" for dinner in downtown Los Altos.
Los Altos Grill leans into a timeless playbook: rotisserie chicken, prime rib, and a burger that many locals quietly rank as the area’s best. The room feels refined but not stuffy, with a comfortable bar that works as well for solo dining as it does for a date. Book ahead for peak nights; this is one of the first places people think of for a relaxed but special evening out.
03
Modern Indian standout
Aurum
Main Street, Downtown Los Altos • Modern Indian Restaurant • Refined Special-Occasion Choice
Aurum reimagines Indian flavors with a seasonal, California-driven lens in a space that feels polished without being formal.
This is where you go when you want Indian food that’s as much about presentation and nuance as it is about comfort. The menu plays with regional dishes and elevates them with thoughtful plating and an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. It’s a strong choice for diners who already know the classics and are ready for something a bit more inventive, especially for birthdays or visiting guests.
04
Mediterranean escape
Evvia Estiatorio
Downtown Palo Alto Near Caltrain • Upscale Greek Taverna-Style Restaurant • Worth-The-Drive Splurge
Evvia pairs wood-fired Greek cooking with a warmly lit room that feels like a sophisticated taverna tucked into downtown Palo Alto.
From grilled octopus and lamb chops to hearty braises, the menu reads familiar but delivers big flavors and careful execution. The space fills quickly with a mix of tech folks, locals, and families celebrating milestones, so reservations are smart, especially on weekends. It’s a bit more of a commitment from Los Altos Hills, but consistently earns the "let’s go somewhere really good" vote.
05
Most flexible choice
State Street Market
State Street Community Hub, Los Altos • Contemporary Food Hall With Multiple Vendors • Group-Friendly Option
A modern food hall bringing together several vendors under one roof, ideal when no one can agree on just one type of cuisine.
State Street Market feels like a community living room, with counter-service stalls, a central bar, and plenty of indoor-outdoor seating. You can mix everything from noodles to tacos to more cheffy plates in one visit, which makes it especially handy for families and groups. Go early with kids or swing by later for a casual drink-and-snacks night that still feels like an outing.