Best of Palo Alto 2011 Homer and High two years ago, St. Mike’s reserves “the annex,” a small dining room on Emerson Street, for private functions and Sunday’s midday repast. All manner of eggs and pancakes as well as salads, pasta and sandwiches — but not reservations — are available in the 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. brunch window. St. Michael’s Alley also shined for ambiance. 806 Emerson St., Palo Alto. 650-3262530. stmikes.com
Sushi/Japanese Restaurant Fuki Sushi was named a favorite by readers for its professional standards of service, dedication to authenticity, delicately calming geometrical decor and ultra-fresh seafood. Customers can enjoy their tataki, donburi, gyoza, udon and tempura in the more spacious dining areas, or reserve smaller tatami rooms for private meals, optionally followed by a relaxing, romantic kona coffee ice cream dessert. 4119 El Camino Real, Palo Alto; 650-494-9383. fukisushi.com
Thai Restaurant A craving for mango chicken, hot soups, curries, roast duck, shrimp rolls or peanut-topped noodles leads the discerning local foodie to downtown Palo Alto powerhouse Siam Royal. The eatery makes generous use of sweet-and-sour flavors, basil, peppers and mint leaves in cooking up a robust signature taste that readers have voted the best in Thai cuisine. 338 University Ave., Palo Alto; 650329-8129. siamroyalthai.com
It’s often a beautiful day for patrons of St. Michael’s Alley, winner for Best Sunday Brunch and in the Hall of Fame for Romantic Restaurant.
Hall of Fame: 1st Year Delicious food and an inviting atmosphere have earned Thaiphoon induction into the Best Of Palo Alto Hall of Fame. The downtown restaurant has tantalized eaters with a winning menu that includes Kung-Pao Chicken, Musamun Beef Curry and Lychee Curry Prawns. Executive Chef Wanna Vongampai has more than 25 years of experience and uses only the
freshest ingredients with no MSG. Try something spicy to ignite that inner rock star, or aim for a smooth-jazz approach with a mild dish. 543 Emerson St., Palo Alto; 650-323-7700. thaiphoonrestaurant.com
Vegetarian/Vegan Cuisine Veggie-friendly Calafia Cafe & Market A Go Go won honors for its Cali-
Lumi Gardner of the always-in-vogue Fuki Sushi, winner for Best Sushi/ Japanese Restaurant. fornia-style fare. See the complete listing in the California Cuisine category.
Wine Bar A cozy and classy spot for a glass of wine, the downtown Wine Room also offers a small menu of snacks including a cheese plate, stuffed piquillo peppers and marinated olives. But wine, domestic and imported, is the real star here. The front room includes
a bar as well as seating at small high tables or in comfortable stuffed chairs and benches. A back room offers sofa and easy-chair seating, and a fireplace. 520 Ramona St., Palo Alto; 650-462-1968. thepawineroom.com
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