Gott’s Roadside is on University Avenue in downtown Palo Alto, and it’s the kind of place where you can actually sit outside with your dog while eating legitimately good food — not the usual greasy roadside fare you’d expect from the name. The restaurant leans hard into California sourcing, working with purveyors like Niman Ranch for beef, Zoe’s for bacon, Panorama Bakery for breads, and Osprey Seafood. You’ll see these quality ingredients show up in dishes like their California Burger, which comes topped with a fried egg, Zoe’s bacon, and balsamic onions. If you’re not in a burger mood, the Ahi Poke Crispy Tacos use sushi-grade tuna, and they do a solid Chicken Kale Caesar. Their hand-spun organic shakes are worth ordering — the kind of thing that actually tastes like real ingredients went into it.

The wine and beer list reflects the same local philosophy. Joel Gott personally selected bottles that span from Napa down to San Diego, so you’re getting California regional favorites rather than the usual chains’ generic lineup. It’s a nice touch if you want something to drink while your dog hangs out under the umbrella.

The outdoor seating is the real draw here — you get a genuine downtown Palo Alto vibe without feeling like you’re at some corporate chain. The menu’s got enough variety that whether you’re craving something hearty or lighter, there’s something worth ordering. The place gets busy during typical meal times, especially on nice days when everyone has the same idea about eating outside. If you’re walking around the Stanford area or exploring downtown, this is a solid stop where you won’t feel like you’re sacrificing food quality for convenience.