What should I order at Macarena Restaurant in Palo Alto?
Macarena Restaurant in Palo Alto
Paella
Paella is repeatedly praised across multiple reviews, described as authentic, flavorful, perfectly cooked, and a standout dish. Variants like lobster paella, rib eye paella, black seafood paella, pork paella, and vegan paella are all highlighted for their deliciousness and perfect seasoning.
Flan
The flan is specifically mentioned multiple times as a creamy, dreamy, caramelized dessert that is perfect and highly satisfying.
Tiramisu
Tiramisu is frequently noted as exceptional and one of the best the reviewers have tried, described as a delicious and perfect dessert choice.
Empanadas
Empanadas are praised as really good and a recommended appetizer, contributing to the authentic Spanish tapas experience.
Branzino
Branzino is highlighted as the best the reviewer has had, indicating it is a top-quality main dish option.
Churros Bravos
Churros bravos are described as perfectly crispy, delicious, and a favorite tapa that many reviewers return for.
Iberico Ham
Iberico ham is recommended for its outstanding quality and authentic Spanish flavor, a must-try item.
Oxtail Canalones
Oxtail canalones are mentioned as amazing, making them a highly recommended appetizer.
Prosciutto
Prosciutto is noted as the best some reviewers have had, marking it as a must-try item.
Potato Churros
Potato churros are praised for their satisfying texture and flavor, stealing hearts and recommended as a great dish.
Suckling Pig
The suckling pig is recommended when ordered in advance and described as amazing.
Saquets de Crema
Saquets de Crema is called legendary and highly recommended to save room for this dessert.
Hours
| Monday | 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Thursday | 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Friday | 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM to 10:30 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM to 9:30 PM |
About Macarena Restaurant in Palo Alto
Macarena Restaurant in Palo Alto is a Spanish restaurant in Palo Alto, California, serving tapas, paella, and other Spanish dishes. Reviewers consistently praise the paella, including lobster paella, rib eye paella, and squid ink paella, along with tapas like croquetas, jamon, empanadas, and pan con tomate. The restaurant is also noted for its cocktails, wine list, desserts, and service, with many reviews describing it as a cozy, upscale spot that feels authentic and welcoming. It offers dine-in, outdoor seating, takeout, lunch and dinner service, and takes reservations, with lunch and dinner often recommended ahead of time because there is usually a wait.
Amenities & services
From the business
- Identifies as women-owned
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fireplace
- Great cocktails
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Organic dishes
- Private dining room
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
- Transgender safespace
Planning
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- Has changing table(s)
- High chairs
Parking
- Free parking garage
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- On-site parking
- Paid parking garage
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Frequently asked questions
What is Macarena Restaurant in Palo Alto known for?
Macarena is best known for its paella and tapas, especially lobster paella, rib eye paella, and squid ink paella. Reviewers also repeatedly call out croquetas, jamon, empanadas, and pan con tomate, saying the Spanish flavors feel authentic and the portions can be generous enough to share.
What dishes are most recommended at Macarena Restaurant in Palo Alto?
The most frequently recommended dishes are paella, especially the lobster paella, rib eye paella, and squid ink paella, plus tapas such as croquetas, jamon, empanadas, and bravas. Reviewers also praise grilled pulpo, branzino, oxtail cannelloni, and desserts like flan, tiramisu, churros, and puff pastry.
What is the atmosphere like at Macarena Restaurant in Palo Alto?
The atmosphere is described as cozy, romantic, trendy, and upscale, with some reviewers saying it feels like a trip to Spain. It works well for groups and celebrations, but it is also popular for solo dining, and the fireplace, bar, and private dining room add to the setting.
Is Macarena Restaurant in Palo Alto good value?
The price range is $40 to $100, and reviewers often say the experience feels worth it because the dishes are high quality and some mains are large enough for two people. Several reviews mention great value, especially when paired with the wine list or cocktails.
Do you need a reservation at Macarena Restaurant in Palo Alto?
Yes, reservations are recommended for both lunch and dinner, and reviewers say the restaurant is usually busy by early evening. People who arrived in the mid-afternoon were seated quickly, while later service often meant a wait.
Is parking available at Macarena Restaurant in Palo Alto?
Yes. Free parking garage, Free parking lot, Free street parking, On-site parking, Paid parking garage, Paid parking lot, Paid street parking, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Does Macarena Restaurant in Palo Alto have vegetarian options?
Yes, Macarena Restaurant in Palo Alto offers vegan options.
Is Macarena Restaurant in Palo Alto kid-friendly?
Yes, Macarena Restaurant in Palo Alto is good for kids.
Restaurants like Macarena Restaurant in Palo Alto in Palo Alto
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