Peninsula Eats + Cafes
Here I share my favorite places to stop in for a bite, tea, or coffee!
BACKHAUS | Downtown San Mateo
A pastry shop and cafe with modern, minimalistic vibes. When we first visited on a Saturday morning, the line stretched out the door down the block. We had thought the line was for a new movie or something. That being said, we knew we had to wait in that line to see what the hype was about. Though I haven’t yet sampled their savory pastries (they had run out), their sweet pastries (e.g., banana chocolate croissant) were fluffy and delicious, and very worth the wait.
Oak + Violet | Menlo Park
Nestled under the Park James Hotel on a busy street, Oak + Violet is very eye-catching even from the exterior. This restaurant/bar features an outdoor California-style shaded patio with lounge chairs/sofas and bar seats, as well as a beautifully decorated interior for their main restaurant. Though their portions are somewhat small, we found their lobster tacos, burrata, roasted chicken and bread pudding so delicious. Their bread pudding is a must-try!
Mademoiselle Colette | Menlo Park, RWC, and Palo Alto
With 3 locations (and likely growing) in Redwood City, Palo Alto, and Menlo Park, the Madamoiselle Colette French patisserie shops continue to grow – and rightfully so. They feature some of the most thoughtfully and delicate desserts and pastries I’ve ever had, and at such a reasonable price. I recently discovered the deliciousness of their weekend brunch which features mimosa, and classic savory items like croque madame!
Verve Coffee | Palo Alto
Although certainly not unique to Palo Alto, Verve is a major staple of a cafe on University Ave with a huge backyard patio and a delicious menu. This place is the perfect place to park oneself with a good book, study materials, etc. It’s a pretty busy place though so be prepared to wait a little bit for a seat!
Sue’s Cafe and Gallery | Saratoga
A minimalistic gallery with beautiful wheel-thrown ceramics made by the gallery/cafe owner herself, Sue’s Cafe is in a quiet part of town with a beautiful patio. It’s a great place to nestle up with a book, and I love browsing the pottery and wares. The drinks are also delicious and poured in her own ceramics.
