Local Union 271
American Restaurant in Palo Alto
About Local Union 271
Local Union 271 is a local family-owned American restaurant in Palo Alto, California, serving farm-sourced ingredients. We offer omelets, sandwiches, seafood, and more for dine-in, takeout, and delivery, along with hosting special events, private parties, and catering.
Our restaurant features a comfortable setting crafted by local artisans and an airy atmosphere filled with greenery. Guests enjoy a farm-to-table menu with options like the Duck Fat Burger, Chilaquiles, Buddha Bowls, Thai Brussels Sprouts, paninis, and soups. We accept reservations and offer outdoor seating, free parking, and wheelchair-accessible facilities.
What this business offers
Frequently asked questions
★ 4.2 · 2225 reviews
Shubham Kamdi
6 months ago · ★ 4
Local Union 271 is the quintessential Palo Alto "crowd-pleaser," offering a beautiful, airy atmosphere filled with greenery that works just as well for a business lunch as it does for a boozy weekend brunch. The farm-to-table menu is impressively broad, with standouts like the rich Duck Fat Burger, hearty Chilaquiles, and a variety of dietary-friendly Buddha Bowls. The ingredients are fresh, portions are generous, and the cocktail program is surprisingly robust for such a casual, high-energy space. However, the "honesty" in this review comes down to the noise and price. The industrial-chic design makes for loud acoustics that can make conversation difficult during peak hours, and you definitely pay a "University Avenue tax" on the bill. While it may not be the place for a quiet, intimate dinner, its consistency and ability to cater to every dietary restriction make it one of the most reliable and vibrant staples in downtown Palo Alto.
Jason Palmer
6 months ago · ★ 4
Great vibes, the food is delicious, and the service is great. The duck fat burger (though recommended) was not as amazing as I hoped, but the panini’s and soup were incredible. Cesar (our server) was super kind and attentive. We look forward to coming back again!
Warren Burke
7 months ago · ★ 5
We came to Local Union as a family of six and had an incredible experience from start to finish. The Thai Brussels Sprouts were out of this world… truly a must-order. For anyone who isn’t drinking, I highly recommend the Clean Kick; it’s refreshing and full of flavor. Our table tried a variety of dishes: the Duck Fat Burger, the Poke Bowl, and the Halibut — all of which were absolutely divine. Every plate was prepared beautifully and tasted even better. But the real standout was our server, Kellie!! She was phenomenal….attentive, patient, and so good at managing my older relatives with care and kindness. She made the whole experience even better! Thank you Local Union 271! We’ll be back!? Highly, highly recommend Local Union. Perfect for a date night, a family gathering, or anything in between. Huge appreciation to the entire staff for a wonderful meal and experience.
Cynthia Cerron
3 weeks ago · ★ 5
Great ambiance and delicious food! We came here for a casual dinner and had a wonderful experience. Alex, our server, provided excellent recommendations that were spot on. Friendly service, great atmosphere, and tasty food!
Thomas G
7 months ago · ★ 5
I recently visited a restaurant that delivered one of the most impressive burgers I’ve had in quite some time. Their signature burger is crafted from 100% grass-fed beef, enriched with duck fat for exceptional richness, and prepared without any seed oils—an immediate standout for anyone who values both quality and clean ingredients. The moment it arrived, the presentation set the tone: perfectly seared, beautifully assembled, and clearly made with care. The flavor exceeded expectations. The beef was bold and naturally flavorful, elevated by the duck fat’s depth and smoothness. Every bite was balanced, satisfying, and noticeably fresher than typical burgers found elsewhere. The atmosphere complemented the meal with its warm, welcoming feel, and the staff delivered attentive, friendly service throughout the visit. It’s evident that this restaurant takes pride not only in its ingredients, but also in its overall dining experience. For anyone seeking elevated comfort food made with integrity, this spot is absolutely worth visiting. The quality is exceptional, and the burger alone is reason to return.
Where you'll find it
271 University Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301, USA