Top Dining Options in Woodside

Woodside offers a diverse culinary scene with California cuisine, farm-to-table concepts, and upscale American fare being the most prominent. You'll also find excellent Italian trattorias, French bistros, and contemporary Asian fusion restaurants. The town's dining culture emphasizes fresh, locally-sourced ingredients with many establishments partnering with nearby farms and ranches in the Peninsula region.

Woodside leans toward upscale casual and fine dining experiences. While you'll find relaxed, equestrian-friendly spots with outdoor seating, many restaurants cater to the town's affluent residents with refined atmospheres, extensive wine lists, and elevated cuisine. Smart casual attire is appropriate for most establishments, though some higher-end venues may encourage business casual dress.

Weekday lunches (Tuesday through Thursday) and early dinner seatings (5:00-6:00 PM) tend to be quieter. Weekends, especially Saturday evenings, are the busiest times. Many locals dine later in the evening (7:30-8:30 PM), so arriving earlier can help you secure tables at popular spots. Making reservations 1-2 weeks in advance is recommended for weekend dining.

Yes, Woodside offers several family-friendly restaurants with welcoming atmospheres and children's menus. Many establishments feature outdoor patios and garden seating that are perfect for families. Brunch spots are particularly accommodating to families with kids. However, some upscale dinner venues maintain a more adult-oriented ambiance.

Expect to pay $30-$60 per person for lunch and $60-$120+ per person for dinner at most Woodside restaurants, excluding drinks. Fine dining establishments can exceed $150 per person. There are more budget-friendly options in the $15-$25 range, particularly for casual lunch spots and cafes. Wine and cocktails typically add $12-$20+ per drink to your bill.

Most Woodside restaurants are well-equipped to handle dietary restrictions including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free requests. Given the farm-to-table philosophy prevalent in the area, chefs are typically flexible and creative with modifications. It's advisable to mention dietary needs when making reservations and confirm with servers upon arrival.

Most restaurants in Woodside offer dedicated parking lots or street parking nearby. Some establishments located along Woodside Road or in small commercial centers have shared parking areas. Parking is generally more accessible than in urban areas, but popular venues during peak hours (especially weekend evenings) may require patience or walking a short distance.

Woodside restaurants pride themselves on extensive wine programs, with particular emphasis on California wines from Napa, Sonoma, and local Peninsula vineyards. Many establishments have sommeliers on staff and wine lists featuring 100+ selections. Corkage fees typically range from $25-$50 if you bring your own bottle, though policies vary by restaurant.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekend brunch. Popular restaurants often book up several days to weeks in advance, particularly on weekends. Some spots accept walk-ins for lunch or offer bar seating on a first-come basis, but calling ahead or booking online ensures you won't be disappointed.

Woodside is known for its beautiful outdoor dining experiences, with many restaurants featuring patios, garden terraces, and al fresco seating surrounded by redwoods and natural landscapes. The mild Peninsula climate makes outdoor dining pleasant year-round, though spring and fall offer ideal conditions. Many venues provide heaters and fire pits for cooler evenings.