Caffe Riace: Al Fresco Dining at Its Finest

When you want to enjoy one of the loveliest al fresco dining experiences the Peninsula has to offer, head to Caffe Riace in
Palo Alto. 

Though it’s just a few blocks from California Avenue, you’ll feel transported to a little corner of Italy when you step into the restaurant’s spacious piazza. With its olive trees and flowers, classical statues and playful fountain at its center, the patio offers a beautiful respite from the daily rush. It’s the perfect ambience for a romantic evening or a dinner with family and friends. 

The family-owned restaurant was opened in 1997 by the Carrubba family, who missed the warm and relaxed dining experience found everywhere in their native Sicily. You’ll see those Sicilian roots reflected in the menu, with classic dishes like arancine (fried arborio risotto balls) and the penne Norma with eggplant, tomato, basil and ricotta di bufala. The menu focuses on Italian classics with seasonal highlights like a recent mahi mahi with mango salsa and summer heirloom tomato salad with arugula. 

From Barolos to Brunellos to Sicilian treasures, you’ll find no shortage of exceptional Italian vintages to pair with your meal. But don’t worry, Napa and Sonoma have their place to shine as well. The restaurant is known for its extensive wine library, which has been curated to complement the menu. 

Owner Giuseppe Carrubba invites you to join them on “Italian time” and savor your meal and your company at your leisure. 

“We’re an escape in your own backyard — no passport required,” said Giuseppe. 

The restaurant is also known throughout the Peninsula as a venue for elegant events.
Whether you’re planning a corporate cocktail party, a birthday bash or a wedding reception, the company’s experienced event planners are available to take care of every detail so that you can enjoy yourself at your own party. In addition to helping you plan the perfect menu, they can also arrange flowers, music and any other necessary details for the occasion. They have a variety of spaces available, from private dining rooms that accommodate up to 35 guests, to their patio, which can host up to 200 and is perfect for late summer and fall events of any kind. 

Caffe Riace is open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and for dinner from 5 to 9 p.m. For reservations or to learn more about private events and catering, call (650) 328-0407 or go to cafferiace.com or opentable.com.