Seemor
Palo Alto SolB+Worth Trying
408 California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94306
· Mexican restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (602 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Neighborhood Mexican spot with crowd-pleasing sauces, strong margaritas, and roomy patio; prices are higher than taquerias and flavors skew mild, but regulars love the mole and enchiladas.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Palo Alto Sol delivers solid neighborhood dining through reliable food quality anchored by signature mole and enchiladas, paired with attentive, friendly service. The inviting patio setting and strong margarita program make it a comfortable local favorite, though occasional inconsistency in execution and higher pricing relative to flavor intensity prevent a higher grade. Worth visiting if in the area, particularly for house specialties and outdoor dining.
Restaurant Summary
On California Avenue, Palo Alto Sol feels like a comfortable neighborhood standby with a warm, bustling patio and quick, friendly service. One diner summed it up: "Street views and strong margaritas made for an easy night out." Prices lean higher than taquerias, but the room and patio make it feel like a relaxed, sit-down evening. The cooking leans classic Mexican with signature house sauces—mole, chipotle, and guajillo—applied to enchiladas, burritos, and shrimp specialties. Expect crowd-pleasing flavors more than fire-breathing spice; the mole and tortilla soup draw the loudest praise, while a few dishes like fajitas and some tacos read as mild or basic for the price. Families do well here thanks to familiar kid-friendly choices like quesadillas, tacos, and enchiladas, plus adjustable spice levels. Portions are generous, and the patio fits strollers and groups. No explicit kids menu is noted, but the core menu has enough simple options to keep younger diners happy.
At a Glance
- House mole and enchiladas win consistent praise
- Inviting patio on a lively restaurant row
- Strong margaritas and tequila selection
- Prices are high compared to taquerias
- Some dishes can be mild or basic for the cost
What Sets It Apart
- house_mole_specialty
- expansive_patio_setting
- strong_margaritas_selection
What People Love
- Comforting mole and sauce-focused plates
- Relaxed outdoor seating and warm lighting
- Reliable service pacing
- Generous portions that satisfy
Points of Concern
- Flavor intensity varies; some find fajitas and tacos underseasoned
- Pricing is genuinely expensive ($24+ mains) relative to taquerias
- Occasional temperature issues reported (lukewarm plates)
- Limited owner responses to negative feedback may slow problem resolution
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$45-58 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Lead with a shareable guacamole, then choose an enchilada with mole or guajillo; for seafood lovers, try Camarones a la Diabla if you enjoy heat.
Perfect For
- Casual patio dinners with friends
- Family nights with varied spice tolerance
- Team outings with margaritas
- Locals seeking a neighborhood staple
Location Insights
Area: Lively neighborhood corridor with cafes and restaurants, popular for casual dinners and team outings.
Safety: Well-trafficked and generally safe; good lighting and regular evening foot traffic.
Nearby: Near Cal Ave shops, offices, and a public garage; frequent patio dining along the street.
Downtown Palo AltoDowntown Palo Alto is a bustling commercial and social hub featuring a variety of dining options from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. The area is characterized by a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, attracting a mix of locals and visitors who enjoy a blend of innovation-driven culture and historic charm.
California Avenue DistrictCalifornia Avenue is a distinct sub-area within Downtown Palo Alto known for its community-focused vibe, featuring boutique shops, casual eateries, and family-friendly restaurants. It offers a more intimate and neighborhood-centric atmosphere compared to the main downtown strip, popular among locals for everyday dining and socializing.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday17:00–20:30
Wednesday17:00–20:30
Thursday17:00–20:30
Friday17:00–21:00
Saturday17:00–21:00
Sunday17:00–20:30
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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