Protégé

“Started the night with a bang with the Spanish octopus served with two panisse accompanied with an addictive romesco sauce. The chicken was a bit dry but could tell the chef took pride in ensuring the crisp of the cornish chicken skin and it went well with the fideos in a piperade sauce. Dessert was a rhubarb and strawberries pie encased in a crispy crust with a scope of elderflower mousse. The chef has a clearly a mindset of balance for texture and taste. On my second visit, I tried the hamachi seasoned with red curry mayo and it came on a crispy tapioca/taro chip - achieving a nice crackle to enhance the poke. Next I had the bone-in Berkshire pork chop, thick juicy piece with a sliver of fat on the edge. To balance the richness, it was served with a layer of deep fried broccoli bits on top and a tart tomato like paste on the side - the dish was perfect. Blueberry cheesecake didn’t particularly stand out but it was probably because it was served after two outstanding dishes.”

“Protégé – Palo Alto ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Protégé continues to set the standard for elevated dining in Palo Alto. From start to finish, every dish showcased exceptional craftsmanship and balance the Wagyu, Duck, and Crispy Skin Chicken entrées were all phenomenal, each offering distinct layers of flavor and presentation. The starters are equally unforgettable, the bread pudding is rich and comforting, the crab and caviar indulgent, and the octopus perfectly tender. Chef Anthony and his team deliver refined, soulful cuisine that’s both creative and comforting. Cocktails were outstanding, and Chris behind the bar introduced me to Alambique Serrano, a rare Mexican-produced rum I’d never heard of before a true hidden gem. Adding even more excitement, the team recently opened Bar Underdog right across the street, serving up amazing appetizers and cocktails in a stylish, relaxed setting. It’s creating a real buzz on California Avenue a much-needed lift for the area as nearby offices and companies come back to life. @peekabooiseefood and I enjoyed a wonderful date night here and can’t wait to return soon with our little foodie @cassian.famero to experience this incredible cuisine together. A true Bay Area gem thoughtful food, warm service, and a vibrant energy that keeps us coming back. 🍽️🥂 Update April 2026 we feell like family here. Always an amazing time chatting with everyone. Still one of our all time favorite Bay Area restaurants. #ProtegePaloAlto #BarUnderdog #CaliforniaAvenue #PaloAltoEats #BayAreaFoodie #DateNight #MichelinDining #FineDining #Wagyu #Duck #CrispyChicken #CrabAndCaviar #Octopus #RumTasting #AlambiqueSerrano #ChefAnthony #CassianAdventures #OhanaEats #BayAreaRestaurants #FoodieCouple #CheersToGoodTaste #PeekabooISeeFood #BayAreaEats”

“Favorite restaurant in Palo Alto, maybe favorite Michelin restaurant in Bay. Very well thought out menu, sharp but friendly team, and beautiful flavors. Prix fixe meal is worth doing if you can line up reservation, but a la carte is well worth it otherwise. Also super convenient location.”

“I couldn't catch a late flight home last Friday, and had time to kill in Palo Alto. I decided to treat myself and book a seat at the bar. It was a lovely experience. Excellent food, great cocktails, and super warm and chill vibes. I'll definitely go back next time I'm in town!”

“The dishes were very meticulously prepared and tasty, as noted by many other reviewers. I was just as impressed by professionalism of the staff, from maître d' to server to people who take away your plates. They were all attentive, professionally friendly, extremely knowledgeable about the ingredients and dishes. They all live up to the excellent dishes and the chic urban interior decor, contributing to the great dining experience. We had an a la carte dinner this time (in what they call "a la carte lounge" area), but the tasting menu is served in a different area with plenty of banquette seating. Will definitely try that next time!”