Authentic Sichuan Flavors That Bring People Together in Palo Alto
Whether you're craving bold, fragrant dishes straight from China or sharing a relaxed outdoor meal with family and friends — Taste delivers a genuine Chinese dining experience right on University Avenue.
Why customers choose us
What makes Taste stand out
01
Authentic Sichuan Flavors, No Flight Required
Customers hire Taste when they crave genuine Chinese cooking that's hard to find locally. The kitchen delivers bold, regionally authentic dishes that satisfy a deep cultural and culinary longing.
“The signature spicy fish fillet in flaming red oil is a must-try — bold, fragrant, and so satisfying it might have just saved me an expensive flight back to China.”
02
A Welcoming Space for Every Occasion
Customers choose Taste when they need a restaurant that works for their whole group — including pets — thanks to its rare outdoor patio on University Avenue. The inviting atmosphere makes it a reliable go-to for repeat visits and celebrations.
“This is probably the only Chinese restaurant around here with such an inviting outdoor patio, which makes it perfect for us since our dog babies can relax too.”
03
Effortless, Well-Planned Group Catering
Customers hire Taste when they need catering handled smoothly and professionally. Dedicated staff guide clients through food planning, making the process easy and stress-free.
“She is super nice and super helpful. Nice food planning for us.”
What customers love most
Consistently praised by reviewers
Spicy fish fillet in flaming red oil
“The signature spicy fish fillet in flaming red oil is a must-try — bold, fragrant, and so satisfying it might have just saved me an expensive flight back to China.”
Chili oil wontons as a starter
“The chili oil wontons are my personal favorite starter and never disappoint.”
Inviting outdoor patio (dog-friendly)
“This is probably the only Chinese restaurant around here with such an inviting outdoor patio, which makes it perfect for us since our dog babies can relax too.”
Authentic Sichuan flavors
“One of the most authentic Chinese food I had in a while. Palo Alto is blessed with this spot!”
Skewer pot dish
“The skewer pot was so good! So well balanced and slightly spicy.”
Catering service with attentive staff
“We did catering through Kiki. She is super nice and super helpful. Nice food planning for us.”
Wonderful atmosphere and beautiful building
“What a gem in such a beautiful building! The food is absolutely authentic and delicious, the service is great, and the atmosphere is wonderful.”
New desserts worth trying
“Have to try their new desserts!”
The little things that matter
Beyond expectations
A Welcoming Outdoor Patio
Taste has carved out a rare pet-friendly outdoor seating area on University Avenue, so guests can bring their dogs along and enjoy a meal together without compromise — a thoughtful detail that sets it apart from virtually every other Chinese restaurant in the area.
Signature Dishes That Feel Transportive
Dishes like the spicy fish fillet in flaming red oil are crafted with enough depth and authenticity that diners describe them as a genuine taste of China — the kind of cooking that satisfies a craving most restaurants in the Bay Area simply cannot.
A Menu Balanced for Every Table
Rather than committing solely to one style, Taste thoughtfully spans authentic Sichuan flavours and familiar Chinese-American classics side by side, meaning a table of mixed tastes and spice tolerances can all find something they love.
Standout Starters That Keep Guests Coming Back
Small touches like the chili oil wontons leave a lasting impression — the kind of starter guests mention by name and look forward to on return visits, signalling that care is applied to every part of the menu, not just the mains.
A Dedicated Catering Liaison
For larger events, Taste offers a personalised catering experience guided by a named team member who handles food planning with warmth and attentiveness — giving groups confidence that their event is in capable, friendly hands.
Evolving Dessert Offerings
Taste continues to develop and introduce new desserts, showing that the kitchen is actively investing in the full dining experience rather than resting on an established menu — giving returning guests something fresh to discover.
A Visually Striking Presence
The restaurant's bold red Chinese design elements on a prominent stretch of University Avenue create an immediate sense of occasion before guests even step inside, setting an inviting tone for the meal ahead.
Housed in a Beautiful, Characterful Building
The physical space itself contributes to the experience — guests note the building's charm as part of what makes dining at Taste feel special, demonstrating that atmosphere has been treated as a genuine priority alongside the food.
Tips for your first visit
Make the most of your visit
Order the spicy fish fillet
The signature spicy fish fillet in flaming red oil is a standout dish — bold, fragrant, and deeply satisfying.
Start with chili oil wontons
The chili oil wontons are a reliable, crowd-pleasing starter worth ordering every visit.
Bring your dog along
Taste has an outdoor patio on University Avenue where your pets are welcome to relax while you dine.
Ask for Kiki for catering
If you're planning a catered event, ask specifically for Kiki — reviewers highlight her as especially helpful with food planning.
Try the skewer pot
The skewer pot is well-balanced and lightly spicy — a dish reviewers rate among the best on the menu.
Save room for dessert
Recent reviewers recommend checking out the new desserts, which are worth saving room for after your meal.
More reasons to visit
There's always more to love
Spicy Pickled Fish Soup
“The spicy pickled fish soup was great! Everything was amazing!”