Osteria is a charming little Italian restaurant in downtown Palo Alto. The food is good, prices are extremely reasonable (at least for Palo Alto!) and the ambiance is nice. The one thing that... More

Osteria is a charming little Italian restaurant in downtown Palo Alto. The food is good, prices are extremely reasonable (at least for Palo Alto!) and the ambiance is nice. The one thing that stinks is the service. Even if you have reservations you may end up waiting for a table. Service is slow. Try one of the pasta dishes.
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I would definitely consider this one of palo alto's jewels in terms of dining. Before going, I would consider calling ahead to place a reservation as most weekdays and weekends you should expect up... More

I would definitely consider this one of palo alto's jewels in terms of dining. Before going, I would consider calling ahead to place a reservation as most weekdays and weekends you should expect up to an hour to an hour and a half wait to be seated. The wait is expected since the meals are definitely cooked to perfection. I would suggest starting off with the Carpaccio as an appetizer. My personal favorite is the Shrimp Tagliarini in garlic cream sauce. I would highly recommend getting a fresh pasta entree as the pasta is what they're known for. Service has always been friendly and while some occasions more attentive than others, its all relative to the pace of business. The ambience is rather crowded though so I would not suggest this for a special anniversary date. This is definitely up to par for a casual date and the fare is around $11.00 for a fresh pasta entree.
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I am a very picky eater when it comes to Italian food --- and Osteria tops my list. The waiters know their stuff cold. The food is incredibly authentic and delicious. The dessert selection is... More

I am a very picky eater when it comes to Italian food --- and Osteria tops my list. The waiters know their stuff cold. The food is incredibly authentic and delicious. The dessert selection is incredible so leave room for that. Best of all, the prices are incredibly reasonable. Great ambiance, free parking nearby, the best Italian food in town (in the country?), authentic feels-like-youre-in-Italy setting, reasonable prices --- what more could you ask for?!
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