The food was good but lacked flavor and needed spicing. The ribs were very good, as was the pecan pie. The shrimp were good, and the sauce for the shrimp was excellent. Parking was terrible. The streets to get to the restraunt were a pain. The first room we were seated in was very cold!! The next room was warmer but was very isolated.
Overview
When you're looking for a place to unwind with delicious food and great drinks in Palo Alto, Macarthur Park Restaurant and Bar should be at the top of your list. Situated at 27 University Ave, this cozy yet sophisticated restaurant and bar brings a unique mix of comfort and culinary excellence that locals and visitors alike have come to love.
Walking into Macarthur Park Restaurant and Bar, you are greeted by a warm, inviting ambiance that blends modern design with a touch of classic charm. The space is perfect for a casual meal, a special night out, or even a gathering with friends. Whether you're sitting at the bar enjoying a handcrafted cocktail or at one of the tables savoring an expertly prepared dish, the atmosphere is one of relaxation and enjoyment. The layout is spacious, allowing for a good balance between intimacy and socializing, making it perfect for almost any occasion.
The menu at Macarthur Park Restaurant and Bar offers something for everyone. From fresh salads and mouth-watering appetizers to hearty entrees, the variety is impressive. One standout dish is their signature Macarthur Burger. It features a juicy beef patty cooked to perfection, topped with a blend of cheeses, and served with crispy fries-simple, yet full of flavor. For those seeking something lighter, their grilled salmon salad with citrus vinaigrette is a crowd favorite, offering a fresh burst of flavor that's both satisfying and healthy.
The drinks menu also deserves a mention. Known for their creative cocktails, Macarthur Park Restaurant and Bar features everything from timeless classics to more modern concoctions. Their signature cocktails, like the "Palo Alto Mule," made with local ingredients, are a great way to start your evening. If you're in the mood for something unique, the bar staff is always happy to recommend drinks based on your preferences, showing off their expertise in mixology. The extensive wine list complements the menu perfectly, with choices from around the world to suit any taste.
One of the things that truly sets Macarthur Park Restaurant and Bar apart is the service. The staff are attentive and knowledgeable, making sure that every guest feels welcome. It’s clear they take pride in providing a top-notch dining experience. From the moment you’re seated to the final sip of your drink, the service is friendly, efficient, and genuinely helpful, creating a warm and personal touch that enhances the overall dining experience.
The restaurant also caters to dietary preferences and restrictions, offering vegetarian, gluten-free, and other customizable options on the menu. It’s easy to find something delicious that suits your needs, making it an inclusive place for a wide range of diners. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, you’ll find the staff eager to accommodate your needs and ensure your meal is exactly what you’re craving.
Not only is Macarthur Park Restaurant and Bar perfect for a meal, but it also serves as a great location for special events. The private event space is ideal for birthday parties, business meetings, or any occasion that requires a special touch. The restaurant’s ability to seamlessly blend a laid-back environment with upscale elements makes it perfect for both casual and formal gatherings.
When it comes to reviews, Macarthur Park Restaurant and Bar consistently receives high praise for both its food and service. Many patrons mention how the restaurant feels like a hidden gem in the heart of Palo Alto, offering quality dining without the pretense that sometimes comes with more upscale places. Whether you’re a local resident or just passing through, the positive feedback is undeniable. Guests consistently rave about the quality of the food, the creativity of the drinks, and the overall welcoming atmosphere that makes each visit memorable.
One thing to keep in mind when visiting is that it can get busy, especially during peak hours, so making a reservation is recommended if you plan to dine during popular times. However, even without a reservation, the staff will always do their best to accommodate you.
For anyone in the Palo Alto area, or even those visiting nearby, Macarthur Park Restaurant and Bar offers a dining experience that combines great food, excellent drinks, and top-notch service in a comfortable yet stylish setting. Whether you're popping in for a casual lunch or celebrating a special occasion, this restaurant and bar is a must-visit destination. With its dedication to quality, it's no wonder why it's become such a beloved spot in Palo Alto.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ No-contact delivery ✓ Delivery ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inHighlights
✓ Fireplace ✓ Great cocktails ✓ Great dessert ✓ Great wine listPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Happy-hour drinks ✓ Happy-hour food ✓ Private dining room ✓ Spirits ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ Toilet ✓ Wi-Fi ✓ Wi-FiAtmosphere
✓ Historic ✓ Trendy ✓ UpmarketCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ LGBTQ+ friendly ✓ Transgender safe spacePlanning
✓ Brunch reservations recommended ✓ Lunch reservations recommended ✓ Dinner reservations recommended ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Free parking lotPhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 565 reviews
The current owner Faz gave me a grand tour of the facility, and I was impressed with the history in heritage of this venue, along with the current use from an army depot to a critically acclaimed neighborhood eatery in the shadow of Stanford University
The service from the staff was excellent. They promptly refilled our drinks as soon as they were empty and also quickly brought us seconds of delicious, freshly baked bread. I had the steak, which was well-aged and very flavorful.
Hadn’t been to the restaurant in over 30 years. We used to frequently dine there when we lived in the area. It was exceptional. I had the rosemary chicken and my husband had the ribs and chicken. My favorite turtle pie was as delicious as I remembered. Enrique our waiter was very knowledgeable and provided excellent customer service. We look forward to the next time when we are in Palo Alto and visit the restaurant.
This has been one of our favorite "hidden" gems over the past 30 years to take the family. I think a lot of people pass over this place without realizing what a great place it is. We always get wonderful food, and it is super affordable for the great quality. The outdoor patio is fun (and even the front porch tables) where we can take our pups. Inside, you walk into a great room with a lofty high ceiling and fireplaces, so it has a great ambiance. It's colonial style with a beautiful historical vibe. There are extra rooms for private parties so the place can be packed, but you would never know. The Holidays are especially wonderful because they go all out in decorating!!! We take our staff here for our end of year Dinner!!!
Delicious food and excellent service, with romantic ambiance. It’s one of those restaurants that would make it hard to chose where to seat because both indoor and outdoor are gorgeous. We went there for the first time for dinner and live band music. As we were sitting at our table enjoying the restaurant we were greeted by the Chef/Owner, Mr.FAZ, and later on we even received a special treat by him. What a nice and generous gesture. I sure highly recommend this place to anyone who would like to experience fine dining and beautiful ambiance. The rack of lamb was superb. Service was excellent. I certainly will go back to MacArthur Park location and other FAZ locations again.
Absolutely the best steak I’ve ever had—nothing else comes close. The service was excellent, and the staff couldn’t have been friendlier. Honestly, the negative reviews seem questionable; the wording is so similar it feels like they may have come from the same source. On top of that, the happy hour prices are unbelievably good. Cannot beat a $6 glass of amazing wine.