Everytime I pass by this restaurant, it’s always crowded. I finally got to try it, but it closed in 10 minutes. The host was already grabbing menus when we walked in, and seated us right away.

We got bread and butter, but the bread was cold and the butter was hard. I decided on the linguine and porcini mushroom dish. It came piping hot, and the pasta wasn’t too soft. Just perfect. Osteria also makes their pasta fresh, and you can taste it.

The staff didn’t rush us at all, even though we were the last ones there. Still, we made our dinner quick.

I hope to try some of their other dishes. The menu had a lot of variety.

Be sure to make reservations for dinner on weekends, or else you’ll end up with a long wait. Closed on Mondays, I think.

Been going here for over 20 years. Consistently fantastic Italian food at a really reasonable price considering quality and quantity you get.

Must Haves:
- Caesar Salad
- Carpaccio
- Minestrone Soup
- Linguini
- Gamberatti
- Calamari
- Lemon Chicken

LOCATION:
Located right in down town Palo Alto, there is street parking and two parking garages. Easy to get to but leave at least 5 minutes for parking. Make a reservation! You won’t get in without one even on the week nights.
AMBIANCE:
Osteria is always pack and for a good reason! If you have been to Italy it is set up exactly like a traditional Italian restaurant. The tables are close together and the restaurant is loud but it is not overwhelming. My 90 year old grandmother was able to navigate the restaurant in a walker to give you an idea about how crowded it really is.
MENU:
Everything on the menu is superb. The food is the best Italian food in the Bay Area. My family and I eat at Osteria all the time and we have never had a bad meal!
SERVICE:
The servers are always friendly and knowledgeable. The owners and hosts recognize me and my family whenever we come in to eat which reflects the Italian atmosphere. Despite the packed tables, I’ve never had to ask for more bread, a refill on water, or a drink etc. The food is always brought out together and in a timely manor.
OVERALL:
A wonderful place to eat! It is one of my favorite restaurants and if I had to have a last meal I would probably have it at Osteria! 5 stars for the outstanding food, and great service.