La Palmera Family Mexican Restaurant

We come here occasionally because it’s my son’s absolute favorite Mexican spot. The flavors are amazing, and it’s the perfect spot if you're looking to try something new and authentic. The service is always top-notch and friendly, too.

It’s been years since I’ve been to a La Palmera and it was good to see it still lively. It was so cute how decorated it was too! Unfortunately, my friends and I came for lunch and while the food was delicious, our service was sub-par. From the beginning, just with ordering, our waiter was snappy because we also wanted some food to-go for later. I understand it might’ve just been a little stressful given it was busy, but still it threw us off. I had ordered the taco salad on the far left of this menu in the picture. Clearly it states, “all served with rice and refried beans,” but when I got my food, it did not have said rice and beans. No biggie, so I ask our waiter and he says “it’s a salad, why would it come with rice and beans?” And I simply pointed out that’s what the menu says, there

I will never go back here. The food is very mid. I could have gotten Taco Bell and it would been better. The biggest issue is that they advertise happy hour and happy hour specials are on EVERY TABLE in the restaurant but when you arrive during happy hour time they tell you happy hour is only for in the bar. There is NO SIGNAGE stating this and why is it on every table? I think it’s highly misleading.

I have very mixed feelings about this review. I must go back sometime and try it again. Our dinner started with a horrible experience but ended with one of the most interesting Mexican dinners we have had. We were part of a large group that came in after the tree lighting just down the street. There were not enough spots at the table so some of us sat nearby at the bar. The wait staff for the table ignored us not realizing we were part of the group. The staff tending that area was pointing to the server for the group tables saying she was going to help us. We were finally moved to a different table and given a different staff member after deciding to leave. We were done being ignored. The others in our party had ordered! Once we did too, this is where it gets strange. The food wa

Okay, so I checked out this place at 546 University Ave in Palo Alto – it was buzzing! Really lively atmosphere, felt pretty busy but not frantic. The staff were super friendly, and my portion was huge for the price, which was great. Parking was a bit of a challenge, but worth it for the tasty food. Would have been nice to have a few more water refill options though.