Salt & Straw Palo Alto

Palo Alto's old-school fountain diner since 1923, the classic treat-lunch downtown: grilled cheese, real milkshakes, and counter seats.

Cal-Mex tacos and guacamole with a heated parklet and sidewalk tables.

The family-style Italian chain built for groups: platters meant for sharing, kitschy photo-covered walls kids stare at all meal, and a noise level that absorbs toddler volume.

A long cement slide is the thing here, with a sand pit, swings for babies and for bigger kids, and shaded picnic tables for you.

Neighborhood park with a playground.

Outdoor pool and a location next to Stanford's campus and the Palo Alto Caltrain station.