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California Cafe - Palo Alto Reviews List
California Cafe - Palo Alto
Located in the charming and historic Stanford Barn, Palo Alto’s California Cafe exists to provide an escape from the outside world. We feed the senses through chef-driven creations, engaging service and relaxing ambiance. Our multicultural offerings feature seasonal ingredients with broad appeal. We are passionate about the guest experience, providing service that is friendly and knowledgeable. Our relaxing environment serves as a California-style oasis.
See more California Cafe - Palo Alto details
157 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Very Good)
3.7
/
5
Rating Breakdown 157 reviews
5 stars
(29)
4 stars
(75)
3 stars
(35)
2 stars
(14)
1 star
(4)
Food
(Very Good)
3.8
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
3.7
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
3.7
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- great for lunch(64)
- good for groups(62)
- great for outdoor dining(44)
- neighborhood gem(41)
- fit for foodies(37)
- special occasion(24)
California Cafe - Palo Alto Reviews List
Review 1 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
very average on Motherday
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We booked a table for two for my husband's birthday. As this day was the same day as Motherday, they did not offer the normal a la carte menu but a very poor and expensive buffet of 44 dollar pp exl water/wine/tax/service charge. Food was not exciting, and not warm. Food on the floor and a simple choice of salads. fries, sausages, quiches... not what you expect from a high quality/price restaurant. Next year we go somewhere else, that is for sure."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining
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Review 2 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
I love California Cafe, but..
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"What a disappointing experience this time. The staff was very pleasant, but very slow and brought our table the wrong drink or dish three times. And, the dining room was smoky; wondering if they kitchen fan broke, or if they had a small kitchen fire earlier in the day. It was Mother's Day, and I believe staff was tired after a long and busy brunch service, so I can cut them a little slack. I've been going to this restaurant for years and will probably continue, but if this had been my first visit, it would have also been my last."
Dined on 5/12/2013
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Review 3 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Cold food.
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Mother's Day Buffet looked nice and tasted good but most of the dishes were cold and the meat was dried out. I think they left the same food out for hours. Staff was friendly and made considerations for our displeasure."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining
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Review 4 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
disappointing Mothers's Day brunch
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Made this reservation for the usual brunch but it end up being a buffet that day. That's fine. Our drinks came about 15 minutes after we started eating. The tables were very close together with big chairs, it felt very crowded. The waitress was unfriendly and not smiling. The buffet plates were left on our tables long after we were done. The food was alright-- not great. The drinks were not included in the buffet. The computer was down so the waitress asked for a credit card before giving us a bill. We wanted to see the check first so they hand wrote one in pink ink. Overall it was not very pleasant given it was Mother's Day and we there to celebrate our Mothers."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining
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Review 5 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
A Little Confused
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The Mother's Day Brunch was not the normal environment for the California Cafe. The staff was highly rushed and seemed somewhat confused. The meal was, in my opinion, was a little over-priced. If it had included a glass of champagne or a single rose, or something to commemorate the occasion, it probably would have been appropriate. The ambiance was somewhat lacking, not even including the flowers I normally expect in the room. The food, however, was nicely prepared and presented."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 6 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The pork chop was dry and tough"
Dined on 5/10/2013
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Review 7 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We went on a very hot day only to find out there was no air condition inside. Very uncomfortable!!"
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch
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Review 8 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Running down
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Everything was okay, except that music was too loud, and they really need to rennovate this place."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for lunch
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Review 9 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Fabulous Appetizers!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We visited the California Cafe in Palo Alto on a Friday night and were so delighted with the outside table, the wonderful serivce and the fabulous appetizers.. My friend and I weren't up for a 'dinner' but for wine and a few goodies.. We had the Appetizer Trio, the Stawberry Salad, the House Cut Fries, the Asparagus with Parmesan shavings, the Sorbet Trio and Hess Chardonnay. They were all delightful.. we were delightfully surprised at the House Cut Fries which were covered with spices and parmesan cheese! WOW! Angie was an attentive server.. just the right amount of attention. Thanks again for a wonderful Friday night!"
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 10 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
I took some people to lunch
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I took some people to lunch for a special work occasion and we had a great meal out on the patio. At the end of the meal, to my surprise, our waiter brought us a dessert to share, on the house!!! That was such a great way to end our celebration! Thank You!"
Dined on 04/23/2013
2007
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, great for lunch
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Review 11 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Currently there is a lot of
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Currently there is a lot of construction surrounding the restaurant. While this is going on, it is not the easiest place to locate and drive to. Directions should be noted of the temporary changes for driving to the restaurant."
Dined on 04/22/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 12 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Consistently Good
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I have come here frequently for 10 years, originally because of the restaurant's proximity to Stanford Hospital. Now, I come just because California Cafe never fails to satisfy. Every menu item is reliably good. This evening my entrée was a sea bass served on a base of chard and parsnip puree. Delicious."
Dined on 04/19/2013
2004
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 13 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent, and vegetarian friendly
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The name "California Cafe" kind of betrays this lovely restaurant, as does the unassuming signage out front. It looks like a much more casual place than it actually is on the inside. On the inside, the ambiance is lovely; a nice, clean, spacious eatery whose vaulted ceilings and visible rafters drop rustic hints at the stable or barn it once was. The menu is exciting for both omnivores and vegetarians alike. Don't miss the Salmon Tartare. I will be back for the Roasted Vegetable Napoleon. My table also enjoyed the Angus New York strip steak. For dessert, don't miss the Sour Cherry Crumb Tart!"
Dined on 04/11/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 14 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The chef makes some very interestin
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The chef makes some very interesting creations. I loved the steak dish I ordered. The staff was welcoming and helpful."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 15 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Tired food, slow service,
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Tired food, slow service, over-priced food and wine"
Dined on 04/10/2013
2004
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Review 16 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
My friend was coming from
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"My friend was coming from brunch before going to the theater(Theatreworks) and she was bringing four of her friends who I didn't know. California Cafe had something for everyone -- a super burger for the college student home from spring break, vegetarian selections for the vegetarian and everything for the rest of us. The servings were generous and delicious. Everyone left happy.
As for the ambiance. A very nicely decorated place. For brunch it is a little dark. And while it was bearable, it was a bit chilly inside... so I kept a throw/scarf on through the meal, but the others seemed okay."
As for the ambiance. A very nicely decorated place. For brunch it is a little dark. And while it was bearable, it was a bit chilly inside... so I kept a throw/scarf on through the meal, but the others seemed okay."
Dined on 04/07/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 17 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
I found the restaurant to
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I found the restaurant to have a dark and worn feel. The food was very mediocre, but our waiter was excellent."
Dined on 03/31/2013
2005
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Review 18 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great spot, beautiful old
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great spot, beautiful old building on the farm. Only kind of odd thing was that I was clearly the youngest person in the place on that particular day. Could've been the kid of any of the other diners. I'm in my early 30's."
Dined on 03/27/2013
2010
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 19 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
California Cafe is my new
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"California Cafe is my new favorite. I live in Newark which is about 30 minutes away but the ride over is worth it then going to the local restaurants where I live. The food at California Cafe is excellent. I had the Scallops where were to die for. The Mussels were awesome and the Tiramisu is decadent. It's a must go for great food."
Dined on 03/27/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion
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Review 20 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
What I especially liked was
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"What I especially liked was the fact that the restaurant noticed my request for a "quiet" table area. As the lunch crowd filed out, the staff also didn't hurry us to leave."
Dined on 03/21/2013
2006
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, great for lunch
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Review 21 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
A disappointing lunch visit
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"A disappointing lunch visit - my risotto had little flavor and the coffee was lukewarm. Had great difficulty getting the waiter's attention to bring some cheese to help the risotto and to order coffee. The best thing about this restaurant is the location and ease of parking in the Stanford area, but everything else has been gradually declining, and I think it will be the last time I meet peoplethere for lunch."
Dined on 03/13/2013
2003
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Review 22 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The table was ready when we
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The table was ready when we got there on time. No waiting in line or for them to set it up. I was there for a business related dinner with 5 other people and the large round table was perfect for a casual and pleasant conversation.
The food was quite good. Everyone had enjoyed their meals and all had finished their portion. The portion is a moderate quantity. The presentation was great.
Price was reasonable for the restaurant and what it offered.
We'll use this place again."
Dined on 03/12/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups
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Review 23 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great Meeting Place
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"I met some family members for brunch on a Sunday morning at The California Café in Palo Alto. We were seated in a comfortable booth, service was excellent, and we enjoyed a wonderful visit along with a delicious meal."
Dined on 03/10/2013
2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, great for lunch
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Review 24 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent cuisine and service!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"We've been to this CC previously however we were informed Fri night about the new chef. The menue had been updated which we immediately noticed and commented on to our waitperson. Additionally, our hostess mentioned where she took note on our social event following and ensured we would be through with dinner with time to spare.
The food was perhaps the best we've experienced at a CC. The Lemon Riotta Ravioli was superb as was my beet salad. The wine was excellent. Our overall impression was very pleasing. This is superior to other dining spots in the Stanford area and worth a visit!"
Dined on 03/08/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 25 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Overall very nice, pleasant,
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Overall very nice, pleasant, good food.
A couple minor complaints:
After reviewing the menu and making our selections, only then did the waiter tell us what they were out of. Would have been better to tell us immediately before making out selections.
After salad was server, we gave up waiting for fresh ground pepper, only to see it being offered at the next table."
Dined on 03/07/2013
2005
Special Features: good for groups, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 26 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
I and my friend liked the
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I and my friend liked the food very much this time compared to last year's experience. We learned that the chef is new. kudos to the new chef!!"
Dined on 03/06/2013
2010
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 27 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Good food at a reasonable
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Good food at a reasonable price."
Dined on 03/05/2013
2011
Special Features: good for groups
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Review 28 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Reliably excellent food.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Reliably excellent food. Usually quiet enough to carry on a conversation. A favorite for many years"
Dined on 02/23/2013
2004
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 29 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The only thing that comes
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The only thing that comes to mind is that when doing an online reservation, maybe to have a selection whether to sit inside or outside. If there is one, then I didn't see it. Other than that all was very well."
Dined on 02/26/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, late-night find, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 30 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Creative menu with dishes
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Creative menu with dishes featuring local ingredients. Attentive service in nicely decorated restaurant, that is excellent for groups or families. Great food in a large restaurant that makes it easy to get a reservation."
Dined on 02/23/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining
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Review 31 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Great staff and service...food
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great staff and service...food very acceptable."
Dined on 02/22/2013
2008
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Review 32 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
I was a little disappointed
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I was a little disappointed in the food. I have been to this cafe several times but this was not a memorable meal."
Dined on 02/21/2013
2013
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Review 33 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
California Cafe is a dependable
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"California Cafe is a dependable place to dine, Consistently good food and friendly, if not fast, service"
Dined on 02/18/2013
2008
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 34 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Was very disappointed with
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Was very disappointed with overall experience.
Service was slow, energy was dead, looked like the
Restaurant was in closing mode :-(
Ordered a blackened chicken Caesar and the
The chicken was cold and not blackened really.
Manager told me they cook the chicken in the
Morning and put it in the refrigerator and take it out
To add to salad. Turn off!
Very disappointing :-(. Will not return"
Service was slow, energy was dead, looked like the
Restaurant was in closing mode :-(
Ordered a blackened chicken Caesar and the
The chicken was cold and not blackened really.
Manager told me they cook the chicken in the
Morning and put it in the refrigerator and take it out
To add to salad. Turn off!
Very disappointing :-(. Will not return"
Dined on 02/15/2013
2005
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Review 35 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
The Trout Entre that my wife
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The Trout Entre that my wife both had was inferior to entries that we have had over the years. Not much effort was placed on presentation and taste.
It was my birthday and I was presented with a piece of red velvet cake that did not present itself very well on the plate. It looked like it was sliced in a half hazard manner.
I might try dinner again to see if I have a better food experience."
Dined on 02/15/2013
2011
Special Features: good for groups, special occasion
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Review 36 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
It was very difficult to fine
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"It was very difficult to fine because of the construction in the surrounding area. The environment was warm and friendly. We went for a romantic Valentine dinner. The appetizer plate was tasty, however, the main course, I believe was over priced and barely warm. The risotto in the scallop dish was extremely over cooked, thus mushy. We asked for 2 red velvet cake deserts to go, only to find when we arrived home, only one desert in the box! The cake was delicious. The cafe in Los Gatos, by my experience, was better."
Dined on 02/14/2013
2011
Special Features: romantic
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Review 37 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Another Great Evening
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We enjoy California Cafe more as a lunch spot especially when the weather is nice and you can sit outdoors, but we went for dinner and had a great time. The food as always was prepared well from really fresh ingredients. The day boat scallops were amazing that night. Wine is reasonably priced, with a nice range of choices through any price range. For dessert my wife chose the handmade truffles and a wine pairing. When she didn't care for the wine they replaced it with something she liked better. The staff has always been friendly and efficient. They just seem to know when you might want assistance and when to leave you to your dinner and conversation. It's one of our go-to places for a guaranteed good meal."
Dined on 02/12/2013
2004
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 38 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
This restaurant used to be
OpenTable Diner Since
Dined on 02/05/2013
2002
Dined on 02/05/2013
2002
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"This restaurant used to be very good and had unique tasty menus, but it's not "California Cuisine" any more. Menu is not attracted at all. no originality, no special flavor. We won't go again until they change the menu to be very attractive ones."
Dined on 02/05/2013
2002
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Review 39 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Our waiter Mauricio was super
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Our waiter Mauricio was super helpful when we were selecting a wine, offering a taste of a highlighted wine. He was the only server at lunch that day and apologized for the slow service (which I did not think was slow). He offered us a complimentary dessert, too which was nice. The salads there are consistently excellent. I tried the pork loin for a change of pace and thought it was a heavy for my taste. I think I would go back to my favorite Thai Chicken Salad in the future. I would ask for Mauricio in the future as a server. This place is a standard go to place for our ladies who lunch group for special occasions."
Dined on 02/11/2013
2003
Special Features: great for lunch
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Review 40 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Went for a business lunch.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Went for a business lunch. It gets crowded during the lunch hour but staff is friendly and food is fresh and healthy."
Dined on 02/11/2013
2012
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, great for lunch
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Review 41 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Our waiter was super, we were
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Our waiter was super, we were in the back room and it worked wonderfully for our dinner. The food was good!"
Dined on 02/11/2013
2007
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Review 42 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food was better than our last
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Food was better than our last visit not too many weeks ago. We eat here fairly often and was not pleased when the hostess tried tout us in a "half booth" stuffed next to a party of four. We said it wasn't Acceptable (we had requested a booth) and she gave us one, but it was the first time they've tried that.
The waiter was very pleasant and apologetic for the very slow service."
The waiter was very pleasant and apologetic for the very slow service."
Dined on 02/06/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 43 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Do you really have the time?
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I was really excited to take my friend to lunch for her Birthday celebration but there were more problems than I expected. We had a reservation and arrived before noon but there was such a line to get in that it took us an additional 15 minutes before we got to the hostess to be seated. We were at least seated in a quieter area of the restaurant, if you can call it that, but we were ignored for almost a half hour eating bread before my friend literally grabbed a waiter and made them take our order. After that it took another 30 minutes or so to get our food. When we were done we had to grab a bus person to get a dessert menu. Getting the final check took forever and processed too. This was mid-week, do you really have the time? I didn't!"
Dined on 02/06/2013
2006
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Review 44 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Very service, food good
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Very slow service. After about an hour, the waiter let us know that the delay in the kitchen was due to a gas leak problem the previous night. I ordered entrio lunch special (selecte 3 items from a list). The polenta with sun dried tomatoes was great, crab sandwich was good and sauteed chard was too tough to chew."
Dined on 02/01/2013
2003
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Review 45 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Stanford Barn gem!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Excellent food and service was perfect. The menu is creative and different -- definitely a place we will return to again & again. The huge scallops on a bed of risotto and sauteed chard and fava beans is our favorite."
Dined on 02/02/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, great for lunch
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Review 46 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
One of my very favorite eating
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"One of my very favorite eating places. I travel from the San Mateo Peninsula to meet with friends and students. Great food, incredible service and beautiful ambiance.
Thank you."
Thank you."
Dined on 02/02/2013
2011
Special Features: great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 47 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
HOLY SMOKES !
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
"HAVE BEEN TO CC IN PAST WITH BETTER EXPERIENCE. THEY MISSED MY OPEN TABLE POINTS REGISTRATION,HOWEVER WAS TAKEN CARE OF AFTER THE FACT,THANK YOU. WILL NOT BE DISCOURAGED. WILL RETURN BUT NOT FOR ANY SPECIAL OCCASIONS. HANG IN THERE.SINCERELY,OLD DOC RUSSI"
Dined on 01/31/2013
2002
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Review 48 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
The scallops were WAY undercooked
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The scallops were WAY undercooked and bland - but the server removed that from our bill - which was unexpected and appreciated. The steaks, fish, ravioli, soup and salads for our group of 5 were very good. The service was gratious but very slow - because of under-staffing. This remains a good staple in Palto Alto restaurant."
Dined on 01/30/2013
2012
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Review 49 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We love California Cafe.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We love California Cafe. The food is always very good. The waiters seem a little rushed there, which does detract from the service and experience. I do love the wine flights there. You can order a flight of wine (3 samples), and you get 2 oz. of each to try with dinner for a very reasonable price. If you can't make up your mind on wine, this is the way to go."
Dined on 01/26/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 50 for California Cafe - Palo Alto
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Do not neglect this gem of
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Do not neglect this gem of a restaurant because of Stanford Hospital construction !
If you can find Nordstrom, you can find Califorina Cafe...their new menu is deeelicous, and more vegetarian friendly... go try it, soon..."
If you can find Nordstrom, you can find Califorina Cafe...their new menu is deeelicous, and more vegetarian friendly... go try it, soon..."
Dined on 01/22/2013
2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem
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