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Dinah's Poolside Restaurant

Dinah's Poolside Restaurant, 4261 El Camino Real, Palo Alto

4.5
RESTAURANT RATING: 
WONDERFUL
4.5 out of 5 (77 Ratings)
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2.6 miles Foothill College
About Dinah's Poolside Restaurant
The Spotlight on Dinah's Poolside Restaurant

Laid-back Poolside Dining in the Heart of Palo Alto

Set within the lush grounds of the iconic Dinah’s Garden Hotel, Dinah’s Poolside Restaurant offers a peaceful yet stylish oasis just minutes from Palo Alto’s live music venues. Specializing in fresh, locally sourced Californian cuisine, this open-air restaurant blends tropical vibes with a casual, welcoming atmosphere. With its palm-dotted poolside view and resort casual dress code, it’s a relaxing spot to unwind before or after a show.

Why Concert-goers love it

Dinah’s Poolside is a hit with concert-goers thanks to its tranquil setting that’s still conveniently close to downtown Palo Alto and nearby venues. The efficient service means you can enjoy a flavorful meal without worrying about missing the opening act. With indoor and outdoor seating, it’s versatile for any weather—and the laid-back vibe makes it a perfect pre-concert hangout.

Who this Restaurant is great for

  • Groups of friends looking for a chill spot to gather before the show
  • Solo travelers who want a quiet bite in a scenic setting
  • Couples enjoying a romantic music weekend
  • Fans who want a relaxing, upbeat atmosphere to get in the concert mood
  • Budget-conscious music lovers seeking quality without the downtown price tag

What People Say

Reviews on TripAdvisor and OpenTable praise the fresh, flavorful dishes—especially the fish tacos and seasonal salads. Guests love the peaceful ambiance, calling it a hidden gem in the city. Many mention the friendly staff and how the setting feels like a mini getaway, making it an excellent place to recharge before heading into a crowded venue.

Areas for Improvement

While most diners enjoy the relaxed pace, some note that service can be a bit slow during peak times—something to keep in mind if you’re on a tight pre-show schedule. Also, being slightly tucked away from downtown, it’s best suited for those with transportation or staying nearby.

The Bottom Line

Dinah’s Poolside Restaurant offers a refreshing, relaxed dining experience that’s perfect for concert-goers looking to escape the rush and soak in California charm before the music starts.

Average Price
$30 and under
Cuisine
Californian
Dress Code
Resort Casual
Opening Hours
Breakfast
Daily 7:00 am-2:00 pm
Lunch
Daily 11:00 am-2:00 pm
Limited Dinner
Daily 2:00 pm-4:00 pm
Happy Hour
Mon-Fri 3:00 pm-6:00 pm
Dinner
Mon-Thu, Sun 4:00 pm-9:00 pm
Fri, Sat 4:00 pm-10:00 pm

Dinah's Poolside Restaurant Customer Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Dinah's Poolside Restaurant is #8 of 379 things to do in Palo Alto

3 of 5 stars3 out of 5
By: beckbrenda68, Williams, Arizona
Sun 19 Jan, 2025
l Cute poolside restaurant probably better when you can sit outside and enjoy the patio garden atmosphere! We visited for brunch and the service was good but food was just ok. I ordered the special...

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1 of 5 stars1 out of 5
By: Rachel z
Sat 2 Nov, 2024
l terrible food, nothing like the pictures. I make better food than this. It appeared that the cook was not experienced at all. It was a weekend morning, and we were the only customers

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1 of 5 stars1 out of 5
By: freqstayer, London, United Kingdom
Sat 12 Aug, 2023
l sat by the pool multiple times during a 6-day stay. it became comedy by the 3rd day - what would they screw up today? plenty of staff but noone ever came over to take an order. could they serve by...

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Dinah's Poolside Restaurant 4261 El Camino Real, Palo Alto