Lively fusion small-plates spot known for bottomless brunch and dinner; excellent variety and value for most, but service consistency and allergy handling can vary.
Palette 22 delivers solid neighborhood dining with flavorful creative small plates and attentive service that keep the energy high. However, inconsistent execution on seasoning and pacing and tight seating prevent it from reaching higher territory. The bottomless brunch concept and art-filled setting make it worth a visit for variety lovers, though dietary accommodations need advance planning.
Palette 22 is all about lively, art-filled energy and a choose-your-own-adventure of small plates. Diners describe fast-moving rounds of food, friendly servers who keep things humming, and walls packed with local artwork. One guest summed it up simply: "Plates arrived quickly and we kept finding new favorites." However, there are some review authenticity concerns suggesting certain reviews may be solicited or influenced. The cooking leans creative fusion rather than purist tradition: sesame steak skewers, funghi pizza with truffle-buttermilk, dan dan noodles, jerk chicken, and tikka masala all share the stage. Bottomless brunch and dinner make it easy to sample broadly, and value is strong if you like variety. Expect a bold, crowd-pleasing style with occasional misses; when a dish lands, it really lands. Families do well here: kids gravitate to the waffle bar, pepperoni pizza, sliders, street corn, and churros. There is no dedicated kids menu, but the format suits sharing. Note for dietary needs: gluten-free handling and vegetarian protein at the taco bar draw mixed feedback, so plan ahead and confirm options with staff.
Area vibe: Pedestrian-friendly mixed-use village with artsy vibe and active brunch and happy hour scene.
Safety: Well-lit, busy, and generally safe with steady foot traffic, especially evenings and weekends.
What's nearby: In Village at Shirlington near theaters, cafes, patios, and parking garages; dog-friendly strolling area.