TAVERNA — Restaurant in Palo Alto

A much needed trip to Taverna got accomplished and we were delighted with the experience. Parking is usually not a problem as there happen to be ample spots that can be picked from around the restaurant.

Ambiance: Taverna exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere that transports diners to a charming Mediterranean village. The decor is elegant yet cozy, with rustic wooden tables, soft lighting, and tasteful Mediterranean accents. The outdoor patio is particularly delightful, offering a pleasant al fresco dining experience under twinkling lights. Whether for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends, the ambiance at Taverna is both relaxed and sophisticated.

Food: The food at Taverna is a culinary delight, focusing on authentic Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. The menu features a variety of traditional dishes, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The mezze platter is a perfect starter, with hummus, tzatziki, and dolmades that are full of flavor. The grilled octopus is tender and beautifully charred, while the lamb chops are succulent and perfectly seasoned. Vegetarian options, like the spanakopita and Greek salad, are equally impressive. The desserts, especially the baklava and loukoumades, are a sweet ending to a fantastic meal.

For our dinner we ordered, a Sashimi (yellowfin Tuna) and Halloumi cheese (crispy with Honey drizzle) to begin with along with Spanakopitakia. We followed that goodness with a couple orders of the Psaraki which turned out to be extremely well cooked. We wrapped that up with an espresso , a greek coffee along with a Sokolatina and Bougatsa for our dessert selection.

Service: The service at Taverna is generally excellent, with attentive and knowledgeable staff who are passionate about the menu. They are quick to offer recommendations and ensure that diners have a pleasant experience. During peak times, there can be a slight wait, but the staff's professionalism and friendliness make up for any minor delays. The overall service is warm and hospitable, enhancing the dining experience. Shoutout to Bayron, Fotis and Elo (i might have gotten that name wrong) for making our experience such wonderful.

Value: Taverna offers good value for the quality of food and dining experience. The prices are on the higher side, but the portion sizes and the quality of ingredients justify the cost. It's an ideal spot for special occasions or when you're looking to indulge in a memorable meal. The overall experience, from the ambiance to the food and service, makes it worth the price (there is a living wage charge added to the bill which is about 5.00% or so).

Overall: Taverna in Palo Alto is a gem for anyone seeking authentic Mediterranean cuisine in a charming and elegant setting. The combination of delicious food, excellent service, and inviting atmosphere makes it a standout choice for dining in the area. Whether you're in the mood for a leisurely lunch, a romantic dinner, or a celebration with friends, Taverna delivers a delightful and...

We booked a banquet of 9 a week ago on 6/22 Service was good , food was mediocre. Worst of all, my friend got food poisoned after eating their salad. Ambulance had came and took her to ER. We didn't really look at the receipt due to the chaos. First, water ! We never order for bottle water , they just had them on the table and serve to us. Second, my friend who got food poisoned was gluten free . She asked for a salad without some stuffs. Which again never mentioned they going to charge extra. Also the fish they swap was never communicated in advance. What kinda of restaurant just brings things to you without even let you know there will be We booked a banquet of 9 a week ago. Service was good , food was mediocre. Worst of all, my friend got food poisoned after eating their salad. Ambulance had came and took her to ER. We didn't really look at the receipt due to the chaos. First, water ! We never order for bottle water , they just had them on the table and serve to us. Second, my friend who got food poisoned was gluten free . She asked for a salad without some stuffs. Which again never mentioned they going to charge extra. Also the fish they swap was never communicated in advance. What kinda of restaurant just brings things to you without even let you know there will be extra for everything ?? This is robbery!!!! I undertand a lot of restaurants start charge that 5% fee. But here you can see they also put tax and 20% gratuity on top of the 5%. This is illegal!!! I used to manage strait cafe and 3 season in PA I do undertand how restaurants work. But this is not acceptable just bring things without acknowledging! My friend ended up spend all night in ER with extreme pain. Todya I have called them try to resolve this matter , when I called the hostess micalah or micaylen was extremely rude . I left my number for the owner to call me about the food poisoning case. She denied this happen and wouldn't transfer me to a manger . When I asked her name. She hang up on me. I called back and asked her name, she just hang up on me again !!!! So this is it! I won't waste my time try to resolve with restaurant anymore. Taverna ! Try to train your employees this is not how they talk to people ! At this point I will start live streaming and social media and I will contact...

Taverna: A Taste of the Greek Isles in the Heart of Palo Alto

Our visit to Taverna in Palo Alto was nothing short of extraordinary—a culinary journey that transported my fiancée and me to the sun-drenched shores of the Greek Isles, all while remaining firmly within the vibrant cityscape of Palo Alto.

From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere at Taverna radiated warmth and authenticity. The rustic yet refined decor, coupled with the cheerful hum of diners and the fragrant aroma of Mediterranean spices, set the stage for an unforgettable evening.

We began with traditional Greek appetizers that were nothing short of exquisite. The dolmes were a revelation—soft, perfectly rolled grape leaves brimming with a delicate blend of rice, herbs, and citrus. The saganaki, flambéed tableside with dramatic flair, was both a visual spectacle and a taste sensation, its golden crust yielding to creamy, salty perfection. The spanakopita, with its flaky layers and vibrant spinach filling, was a symphony of texture and flavor that could only be described as divine.

Our entrees elevated the experience to new heights. The moussaka was a masterpiece, with tender layers of eggplant, spiced meat, and béchamel so velvety and flavorful, it felt like a hug for the soul. My Fiancée enjoyed her chicken souvlaki equally, it was remarkable, expertly grilled and seasoned with a harmony of oregano, lemon, and olive oil that brought the essence of Greece to every bite.

Taverna doesn’t just serve food—it tells a story. Every dish felt steeped in tradition, crafted with love and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. Paired with a thoughtful wine selection featuring Greek varietals, the meal became a celebration of heritage and hospitality.

This is not just a restaurant; it’s an escape, a sanctuary for those seeking to indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean without leaving Palo Alto. Taverna is a rare gem, where the food, service, and ambiance come together in perfect harmony to create an experience we’ll cherish for years to come.

A glowing 5-star experience. Efharisto, Taverna! ⭐ Excellent menu, magnificent service. Exceptional overall experience. 10 out of 10. Complements to the Chef, Waitstaff, and Everyone...