Bistro Elan, nestled in the heart of Palo Alto, stands as a quintessential Californian dining experience that has won the hearts of patrons for over 20 years. Not only does this charming restaurant offer a varied menu, but it also prides itself on quality and attentive service, which are echoed in many glowing reviews. Diners rave about the Alaskan Halibut, beautifully adorned with a gremolata crust, and the Bucatini Carbonara, a rich delight featuring guanciale and fresh eggs. The Grilled Marinated Skirt Steak, served with a refreshing pea sprout salad, showcases a blend of flavors that resonate with both locals and food enthusiasts. The thoughtful touches extend to their appetizers and sides, like the Bistro French Fries and Castelvetrano Olives, which complement the main dishes perfectly. Beyond the savory offerings, Bistro Elan's dessert menu features a standout Ground Almond Cake that's a sweet finale to a memorable meal. Customers appreciate the fresh, meticulously prepared dishes, with many noting the generous portions and the inviting ambiance reminiscent of the 1940s. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or looking for a remarkable dinner spot, Bistro Elan captures the essence of Californian cuisine—a blend of creativity, tradition, and community. With heartfelt recommendations from satisfied diners, it’s a culinary gem worth exploring.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers kerbside pickup
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Serves great dessert
Has great wine list
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves coffee
Serves food
Serves organic dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Cosy
Romantic
Upmarket
Crowd
LGBTQ+ friendly
Planning
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations
Usually has a wait
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Photos
Reviews For Bistro Elan
Thomas DiRocco
Apr 30,2025
There's a secret hotdog counter here on Sundays during the Farmer's Market. 1940s vibes, really tasty dog on an Acme bun with grilled whole peppers, onions, and sauerkraut.
Simone Yew
Apr 27,2025
Our go-to place for special occasions or last minute Friday night dinner. Special for more than 20 years.
Sarah Touchstone
Apr 21,2025
Delicious fresh and prepared with great care. The staff is very kind and professional, and the food was top, portions generous and meticulously cooked. We enjoyed the scallops and Sole. We will be back!
alysa smith
Apr 15,2025
I don’t know why this restaurant doesn’t have a line outside the door! The food is always delicious and fresh. The menu is small but PERFECT. They change things up slightly seasonally and I’ve never eaten anything there that wasn’t 10/10.
jennifer farhat
Apr 12,2025
Loved this place. Picked it randomly while looking for a place to celebrate my husband's birthday and we absolutely loved it. Everything we tried on the menu was delicious from the salmon waffles, the entrees of mussels and fries, scallops and finally the dessert. It's not expensive compared to the quality of the food. Service was good, although a little bit on the slower side. Food was nicely presented.
Merry Yen
Mar 19,2025
Delightful neighborhood bistro! Food is simple but well prepared and well presented. Everything we had was delicious! NY steak cooked perfectly medium rare, with extra crispy fries. The Petra sole was flaky and buttery, with crunchy snap peas. Almond cake and chocolate cake are both light and flavorful. Planning a return trip soon!
Cory Wilmoth
Feb 28,2025
Went for my fiance and my rehearsal lunch. We sat on the patio as a party of 17. They personalized the menu with my and my fiance's names, we were give a 3 course prix fixe menu that included a soup or salad, entree, and dessert. Service was great, food was amazing, and wine was delicious. We will definitely be back! Thank you so very much for everything Erick!
Jenny Bezolutskikh
Feb 23,2025
Amazing place with the most wonderful and kind staff. Food was excellent and unique, very seasonal and fresh. Love outdoor space and the music. 10/10
Reviews For Bistro Elan