Hey, Stanford frosh! Are you new to the Bay Area and don't know where to go out to eat? Are your options currently limited to The Treehouse, Thai Cafe, and your favorite dining hall? Want to get off campus every once in a while for a high quality meal, but aren't sure where to start? Want to make sure to eat something that tastes good but doesn't leave you penniless?
Have no fear - the Stanford Foodie is here! I've lived in the Bay Area my whole life and have a passion for good food. This week, I'll share a few recommendations in midtown and downtown Palo Alto, only a 10-15 minute bike ride from campus. Bon appétit!
1. Sancho's Taqueria
Genre: Mexican
Location: Downtown Palo Alto
Yelp Price Range: $
Heard California had great Mexican food, but still waiting to experience the proof? Go to Sancho's. They make some of the best tacos I've ever had and are especially famous for their fried fish tacos. My recommendation? The Sancho's taco with Carnitas.
2. Palo Alto Creamery Fountain & Grill
Genre: American, Diner
Location: Downtown Palo Alto
Yelp Price Range: $$
Thought Late Nite had the best milkshakes? Think again. The Creamery - an old-school diner, featuring all sorts of cool decor and a jukebox - undoubtedly serves the greatest milkshakes around. And everything else they offer is fantastic, from breakfast to burgers to pies. My recommendation? The club sandwich.
3. Mayfield Bakery & Cafe
Genre: Bakery, Cafe
Location: Town & Country Village
Yelp Price Range: $$
Mayfield is a great go-to breakfast and brunch spot. The bakery offers delicious coffee drinks and pastries, whereas the cafe also has a seasonal menu. My recommendation? The menu changes regularly, so I can't guarantee this will be an option, but never pass up the opportunity to try their fried chicken and biscuits.
4. Calafia Café and Market A Go Go
Genre: New American
Location: Town & Country Village
Yelp Price Range: $$
Calafia was started by former Google executive chef Charlie Ayers, and their menu options are always innovative and unique. Don't forget to check out their daily specials. My recommendation? The Completo - it's basically a deep-fried hot dog.
5. The Counter
Genre: Burgers
Location: Midtown Palo Alto
Yelp Price Range: $$
While I've had better burgers, The Counter allows you to build your own burger which is a definite plus. They also have various side options, ranging from sweet potato fries to deep-fried dill pickle chips. My recommendation? The 50/50 for sides, along with any burger that floats your boat.
6. Mediterranean Wraps
Genre: Middle Eastern
Location: Midtown Palo Alto
Yelp Price Range: $
Mediterranean wraps serves the best falafel I've had in area, hands-down. Service is great and everything is tasty. They even have those delicious San Pellegrino blood orange sodas to complement your meal. My recommendation? The falafel wrap - it's their specialty.
