Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Palo Alto

Food spots with outdoor space

Made for those who refuse to be confined indoors and prioritize fresh air as a necessary component of their dining experience.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Marugame Udon image 1
Marugame Udon image 2
Marugame Udon image 3
View all
Udon noodle restaurant

Udon noodle restaurant offers efficient casual setup with fresh udon and tempura prepared in front of diners. Atmosphere is cozy and clean but can be noisy with loud dance pop music during busy times. Outdoor seating includes patio heaters providing warmth while dining outside.

Food arrives quickly, often cooked in about 2 minutes, with fresh flavors that combine into pure joy. Prices stay super affordable, and staff offer kind service, even helping carry food when needed.

Patio heaters create a warm spot outside, even when it rains. The outdoor seating is nice and works well for families, with a cute patio area.

People are saying

"I found the udon noodles to be fresh, chewy, and flavorful."

"The food here is really good and tasty."

"The outdoor space has amazing patio heaters for a warm surrounding."

Good to know

1

The prices at Marugame Udon are very affordable, with meals under $10.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

There is a two-hour free parking lot on the nearby street.

02
Naschmarkt - Palo Alto image 1
Austrian restaurant

Interior resembles a high-end European bistro with an Austrian feel and cozy village pub vibe. Atmosphere ranges from quiet to loud, often making conversation difficult during busy times. Live violin music adds to the ambiance but can increase noise levels.

Authentic Austrian and German dishes stand out with excellent seasoning and perfect cooking. Salads come beautifully presented and are incredibly tasty, matching the overall classic comfort food vibe.

Outdoor seating offers a lovely table with a pleasant afternoon breeze. The ambiance blends well between inside and outside spaces.

People are saying

"The sausage here is solid and flavorful."

"The food here is hearty and flavorful, especially the goulash."

"I enjoyed sitting at a lovely outdoor table."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20% 'large party fee' for groups, not listed on the menu.

2

A 3% fee applies for credit card payments, disclosed only on the check.

3

Parking is plentiful on weekends.

03
Ada's Cafe image 1

Cafe offers abundant outdoor seating with fresh flowers on tables and charming decor featuring eclectic mugs and succulents. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, creating a strong sense of community. Patrons enjoy a quiet, cozy vibe suitable for meetings or casual visits.

Food comes fresh and delicious with a focus on great breakfast dishes like the breakfast burrito. Drinks and coffee complement the menu, all served with a welcoming smile and attentive service.

Plenty of outdoor seating options exist, including a shaded patio under a canopy ideal for meetings or working. The space is dog friendly and suits calm weather conditions.

People are saying

"The coffee here is rich and flavorful."

"This cafe's atmosphere is so warm and inviting."

"The food here is delicious and next level."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; consider parking farther away.

2

Outdoor seating is available, but be prepared for pests.

3

The cafe supports people with disabilities through its nonprofit mission.

04
Stanford Shopping Center image 1

Open-air mall with beautiful landscaping and natural scenery including plants, trees, and fountains creates a peaceful, cozy atmosphere. Comfortable seating and coffee shops are scattered throughout, inviting relaxation and leisurely strolls. The vibe feels upscale and tranquil, distinct from typical indoor malls.

Dining options cover a wide range from casual to upscale. Choices include healthy meals at Tender Greens, sushi at Sushi Roku, and diverse spots like P.F. Changโ€™s and Pacific Catch.

Open walkways and lush greenery create a relaxed California vibe. Seating areas blend with natural elements like waterfalls and gardens for a stylish outdoor experience.

People are saying

"I loved strolling through this open-air mall with its gardens and fountains."

"I loved strolling through the landscaped outdoor space with gardens and fountains."

"You'll find great food options, from quick bites to full meals."

Good to know

1

Parking at Stanford Shopping Center can be challenging, especially during peak hours.

2

There is a good variety of shops, including high-end and mainstream brands.

3

Dining options are available, with several restaurants located within the shopping center.

05
Macarena Restaurant in Palo Alto image 1

Upscale space blends marble tables, checkerboard floors, and wood accents for a stylish, intimate vibe. Warm, lively atmosphere transports diners with a Spanish-inspired energy. Cocktails and tapas complement the elegant setting, creating a distinctive dining experience.

Food bursts with authentic Spanish flavors from start to finish. Dishes like tuna, potato churros, tomato salad, and ribeye stand out alongside two desserts.

Outdoor seating feels surprisingly cozy with upscale patio chairs dressed in furs. The space invites comfort despite its elegance.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the suckling pig."

"The tiramisu and flan desserts here are amazing."

"The paella negra had delicious squid ink flavors."

Good to know

1

Reservations are needed at peak hours to secure a table.

2

Expect a long wait if ordering the paella, as it takes time to prepare.

3

The catch of the day costs $78, so budget for higher-priced items.

06
Sheraton Palo Alto Hotel image 1

Rooms have thin walls that let in noise from neighbors and nearby events, affecting quietness. Outdoor heated pool sits in a courtyard surrounded by seating and greenery, offering a pleasant spot despite feeling watched. Interior design mixes modern renovations with some areas showing outdated decor and layout challenges.

Offers a breakfast buffet with a mix of local and international dishes. The hotel bar serves phenomenal food and drinks at reasonable prices.

Rooms feature patios overlooking a pond, offering a peaceful setting. The outdoor pool area is surrounded by lush greenery and is well-maintained, creating a relaxing environment.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were wonderfully friendly and professional."

"The food here is really good, especially the chicken wings."

"It's a great Outdoor Space, perfect for exploring downtown and Stanford."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $17 and requires a key for gated entry and exit.

2

The hotel is a 5-minute walk from downtown Palo Alto and Town and Country village.

3

WiFi connectivity is poor and may not support multiple devices.

07
Dumpling Time image 1
Asian restaurant

Open kitchen and heated outdoor seating create a casual, family-friendly vibe with options for indoor and dog-friendly outdoor dining. The atmosphere feels like a local, family-owned restaurant with a relaxed pace. Coloring pages and crayons add to the welcoming environment for children.

Dishes feature fresh ingredients and strong flavors, especially the bao, XLB, and cucumber salad. Presentation is aesthetically pleasing and the food maintains consistent quality and taste.

Outside seating offers automatic heating, making it comfortable even on cooler days. Plenty of room and a dog-friendly setup complement the open kitchen floor plan visible from outdoors.

People are saying

"I found the dumplings here to be fresh and innovative."

"The food here is delicious, especially the dumplings."

"The outdoor space is heated and very comfortable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a 6% Living Wage fee added to the menu prices.

2

Outdoor seating is recommended during nice weather.

3

Parking is easy to find near the restaurant.

08
Town & Country Village image 1

Outdoor walkways and seating areas with wooden decor and flowering plants create a relaxed, small-town vibe. The atmosphere is generally peaceful and elegant, though noise rises during busy times. Parking can be difficult and crowded, especially near salons and on weekends.

Varied dining options range from casual cafes to upscale restaurants with food quality that varies across spots. Food is often unique with good taste and nice presentation, offering a lively and diverse experience.

Outdoor walkways and seating areas create a relaxed vibe with plenty of greenery. Crowds fill the outdoor seating quickly on weekends, making spots hard to find.

People are saying

"I found this outdoor mall to have great restaurants and fun shops."

"This local spot feels like a small village with an eclectic mix of shops."

"I found the outdoor mall to be a great little spot."

Good to know

1

Parking is often difficult, especially during peak times like lunchtime.

2

There is free parking available for up to 2.5 hours.

3

Expect heavy traffic in the parking lot, particularly on weekends.

Discover more

Palo Alto, California

Area guide
Loading Map...