Seemor
TasteBWorth Trying
423 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
· Chinese restaurant, Asian restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (1007 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Lively Sichuan spot with standout spicy fish and solid dim sum; prices are high and service can be inconsistent, but attentive owner engagement and many enthusiastic regulars keep it popular.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Taste delivers exceptional Sichuan signatures—spicy fish, cumin lamb, and chili oil wontons earn consistent praise—and benefits from a welcoming University Ave patio setting that draws repeat diners. However, inconsistent execution on classics and occasional service lapses during busy nights, combined with isolated food safety concerns, prevent grade A territory. Strong core strengths make it a solid neighborhood choice for Sichuan enthusiasts willing to accept variable reliability.
Restaurant Summary
On University Ave, the room feels warm and bustling with a patio that draws families and dog walkers. Service swings from helpful guidance on spice to the occasional misstep when slammed. The kitchen leans classic Sichuan with modern polish: spicy fish in red oil, cumin lamb, and chili oil wontons are the hits, while a few crowd-pleasers can be inconsistent. Expect punchy heat with options to dial it down, and a side menu of dim sum favorites for variety. Families do fine here thanks to dumplings, fried rice, chow mein, and mild soups, plus the outdoor patio. Kids wary of chile heat can stick to dim sum or milder stir-fries; adventurous eaters can escalate spice. Allergen labeling is limited, so confirm details with staff.
At a Glance
- Spicy fish, cumin lamb, and chili wontons earn frequent raves
- Patio seating and lively atmosphere in downtown Palo Alto
- Prices are high and an auto service charge is often reported
- Execution can vary on classics like sweet and sour dishes
- Allergen labeling gaps; confirm ingredients if sensitive
What Sets It Apart
- custom_ma_la_tang_bar
- patio_dining_on_university_ave
- strong_sichuan_specialties
What People Love
- That numbing-spicy tingle from the house fish
- Servers who help tune spice levels
- Dim sum variety for the table
- Patio vibes on University Ave
- Reliable go-tos for repeat visits
Points of Concern
- Pricing is premium for Chinese dishes; some plates feel small for cost
- Reports of automatic 18% service charge; factor into budget
- Quality swings on a few items (e.g., sweet and sour proteins, tea-smoked duck)
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (high five-star share, marketing language) which may not reflect typical diner experience
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$42-$66 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with chili oil wontons and hot & sour soup ($12-$14), share spicy fish ($32-$42), add a veg like pea shoots or tofu ($26), finish with sesame balls ($10)
Perfect For
- Craving bold Sichuan heat with friends
- Casual downtown dinner before a movie
- Dim sum nibbling with mild options
- Groups wanting shareable plates
Location Insights
Area: Bustling downtown corridor serving tech workers, Stanford crowd, and visitors; lively evenings with patio seating at many spots.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, with steady foot traffic; typical urban petty-theft caution applies.
Nearby: Near Stanford University, boutiques, cafes, and other eateries along University Ave; strong lunchtime and dinner traffic.
Downtown Palo AltoThe dining environment in Downtown Palo Alto is eclectic, featuring a range of options from casual cafes to high-end restaurants. The area is known for its trendy eateries, innovative cuisine, and a generally upscale yet relaxed social atmosphere. It is highly accessible and considered safe, attracting a mix of business lunches, casual diners, and evening social crowds.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–15:00, 17:00–21:30
Tuesday11:00–15:00, 17:00–21:30
Wednesday11:00–15:00, 17:00–21:30
Thursday11:00–15:00, 17:00–21:30
Friday11:00–15:00, 17:00–21:30
Saturday11:00–15:00, 17:00–21:30
Sunday11:00–15:00, 17:00–21:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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