Fambrini’s Cafe (Palo Alto)
What a cute little hidden gem! Fambrini’s Cafe is located in Palo Alto. On the outside, it looks to be a part of an office building, and you might miss it if it weren’t for the line of people heading into the restaurant.
When you walk in, it’s one of those restaurants where you order first and then pick your seat. There are all kinds of items on their menu you can order, from sandwiches to pastries, and specialized drinks. One sandwich I like is their Cajun Shrimp sandwich, since it’s fresh and tasty. It doesn’t come with a side, which I always find to be a bummer (sides should automatically come with sandwiches!), so I usually order one. The prices are not cheap, but they’re not outrageous either.
You could opt to sit inside, but it’s quite small indoors, and you’ll be right in the midst of the line that’s at the register. Instead, a huge outside area awaits with plenty of seating for all. The great part is there is lots of shade as well, so you’re not baking in the sun. I find the outside area to be relaxing and chill, a perfect place for brunch or lunch.
The only thing that is really a pain is the parking. There is a parking lot across the street, or you can park in the community center lot that’s about half a block away. While parking lots are right next to the restaurant, they are clearly marked for other businesses, not Fambrini’s, so park carefully!
Overall, Fambrini’s is a cute spot to get a meal and enjoy the lovely outdoors. And here in the Bay Area, the weather is pleasant quite often, so the outdoor dining option is a good choice many times of the year. If you go, let me know what you think!