University Avenue

I live in Los Altos which has its own quaint and village-like downtown area. Its the kind of place where you can take a leisurely stroll with your family, eat some frozen yoghurt along the way, and pick up your fresh produce from the weekly farmer's market. There are book fares and antique fares, and the occasional parade. Its the kind of place where if you'd happen to spot the Mayor you'd imagine him tipping his hat and saying "Mornin ma'am"!" Its filled with niche boutiques and eateries, and people walking their dogs, and is so peaceful and friendly that it just leaves a big, broad smile on your face.

But every once in a while, I enjoy going to University Avenue in Palo Alto. I just came back from having an an al fresco dinner there with a work colleague of mine, and the place was teeming with people, the restaurants were bustling and everyone was out and about taking advantage of the last few days of summer. Favorites here are Gyros, Gyros (Mediterranean); Plutos (salads, fresh food); Tamarine (Vietnamese); Evvia (Greek, just off the main drag); Borders (bookstore); Shokolaat (great desserts), Pampas (Brazilian - for meat lovers only), and of course - the cheese or carrot cake from the Cheesecake Factory, of which I've just had my fill.

Check them out on Yelp. Anywhere else you'd recommend?