Nobu Palo Alto

I've always planned on heading to Nobu, but I always heard mixed reactions to it: some consider it a must try while others claim that it is extremely overrated. I must say that with my experience at Nobu, I was extremely pleased and will most definitely be coming back. To begin with, the staff was extremely kind, helpful, and knowledgeable. My friend and I decided to go with the omakase menu which proved to be a stellar decision. I loved how in depth our waiters went in with the descriptions about every course. Some of the standout dishes were definitely the yellowtail sashimi jalapeno, sea bass tempura, ribeye with shitake mushrooms, and the tuna tartare with caviar. Surprisingly, the portions were quite large and filling as well. Besides the food, the cocktails were equally as impressive. I went with the Nobu Sidecar, which is a leveled up Old-Fashioned, and my friend with the Lychee Martini. The interior was also very elegant and spacious with splendid décor. Overall, our experience was pretty much flawless.

For the price, wasn't impressed where we were seated, not to mention that table wasn't balanced - literally it was "fixed" by placing something under one of table legs. Also was disappointed to learn, they were out of single malts we wanted to try. Other than that, friendly service and great food! The Prime Filet 'Toban-Yaki' is a MUST try! Sashimi and Maki quality was out of the ordinary. Ordered fried rice paper wrapped tofu dish which was amazing (great if you are looking for veggie options). Ended up trying Akashi single malt (bit pricy but was worth it). Will definitely visit again!

Hotel is very overpriced for what it is… thought paying extra for a premium king room meant a view and bathtub. Instead I get woken up at 7:30am by Nobu’s construction out my window. Rooms very underwhelming, simply have a large TV. Restaurant was good, but easy to rack up a 700$ bill for just two people; on top of 700$ for a room i expected more. Hotel did not say anything regarding construction that is currently going on.

Would not recommend going here without a reservation unless you are alone or ok with sitting at the bar. They have both inside and out seating with heaters with most tables are for parties of four. The place is relatively small with low ceilings and can feel not as private (tables are too close and just getting into the table was tight). They confirm reservations via phone and or text the day before and take down any allergies or diet restrictions you may have when you make the reservation with a credit card (required). Food is served as it is made and family style is encouraged. They have a classic and new menu, we tried quite a few items and loved everything except any of the sushi, we order four different kind. Their wasabi was not strong for us either. Really did not like getting a table opposite to the bar as constant drink mixing got too loud for us and our conversations. The pace of food serving was inconsistent.

The good My grapefruit cocktail My company The bathrooms The bad My dirty menu Cheap Disposable chopsticks Salmon belly that was overly sauced Lobster in truffle butter that was way overdone (in fairness they took it off the check). The slightly weird crispy rice texture that I think would’ve been good if the balance of texture was better but the crispy rice was chewy vs crispy and the tuna was pasty. The service at several moments there were misses - not bringing fresh chopsticks, missing coffee orders, bringing only one sample of sake for us to ‘share’ For a restaurant this acclaimed I expected a lot more - I also hope this feedback helps them refine your evening.