If you’ve ever found yourself wandering the scenic, tree-lined streets of the Highlands in Los Altos and wondering, “Where do the locals really eat?” — you’re in for a delicious adventure. The Highlands is more than just a picturesque neighborhood nestled between Foothill Expressway and Interstate 280; it’s a surprisingly robust enclave of dining delights reflecting the diversity and innovative spirit of Los Altos. Here’s where to savor everything this tucked-away community has to offer, from buzzing cafés to mom-and-pop bakeries, destination-worthy restaurants, and surprising food trucks.
Highlands Eats: Neighborhood Overview
The Highlands of Los Altos, located just west of the Village center, is primarily residential but sits close to hotspots like Rancho Shopping Center and Foothill Crossing, making it a perfect jumping-off point for foodies. Highlands locals don’t need to stray far to enjoy artisanal pastries, bold Asian flavors, or modern Californian twists — many within a five-minute drive, some walkable from Covington Road or nearby Edith Avenue.
Rancho Shopping Center: The Highlands’ Culinary Hub
Sitting just southeast of the Highlands, the Rancho Shopping Center on Foothill Expressway and Springer Road anchors much of the area’s dining scene:
- Chef Chu’s – No Highlands food roundup is complete without this legendary Chinese restaurant. Since 1970, Chef Chu’s has drawn diners from all over Silicon Valley for their Peking duck, kung pao chicken, and melt-in-your-mouth potstickers. Service is professional, the atmosphere is lively, and dishes span from $15-$30 for entrées.
- Esther’s German Bakery & Café – A neighborhood classic for fans of European breads, sausages, and decadent pastries. Their pretzels and apple strudel are must-tries, and breakfast lovers line up for hearty farmers’ omelets and fluffy pancakes. Most meals and bakery items fall in the $7–$15 range — and the patio seating is an added bonus.
- Le Boulanger – While now part of a regional chain, this location maintains a bustling bakehouse vibe, perfect for those craving fresh sourdough, sandwiches piled high, and sweet bear claws. Popular for lunch with a price range around $10–$14.
- Spot’s Pizza – A Highlands favorite for casual family nights or game days, Spot’s delivers New York-style pies with high-quality ingredients. Try the “Mountain View Special” for a local twist, with prices per pizza from $18–$28.
- Pompeii Ristorante – Hidden halfway down the plaza, this Italian spot charms with housemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and an extensive wine list. Their linguine alle vongole is an under-the-radar standout. Expect entrée prices from $18–$32.
- Rick’s Rather Rich Ice Cream – Not technically a restaurant, but an iconic dessert destination for Highlands families. Rick’s offers inventive small-batch flavors (think cardamom pistachio or Swiss orange chip) in cones or pints, with single scoops starting at $5.
Highlands’ Hidden Breakfast and Coffee Gems
Highlands’ residents are spoiled for morning choices, whether you need a quick caffeine fix before a hike or a leisurely Sunday brunch:
- Red Berry Coffee Bar (on Grant Rd.) – A hidden gem just on the edge of the neighborhood. Their hand-poured single-origin coffees are rich and nuanced, and the almond croissants rival world-famous bakeries. Breakfast sandwiches and toasts, typically $6–$12, are made with local eggs and artisan bread.
- Manresa Bread (right off Foothill Expwy in adjoining Los Altos) – A bakery fan’s paradise. The flaky kouign-amann, rustic sourdough loaves, and citrus-glazed morning buns draw lines out the door. It’s pricier (pastries $5–$7 each), but every bite is a revelation.
- Lou’s Coffee Shop – Tucked into a shopping strip on Los Altos Avenue, Lou’s is all about hearty, fuss-free classics. Their pancakes, eggs Benedict, and homemade corned beef hash have a loyal local following. Expect breakfast plates from $8–$14.
Authentic Flavors & Family-Owned Spots
Great food in the Highlands isn’t just about big-name restaurants — local families have been pioneering unique flavors for years:
- Saffron Indian Bistro – Located at the base of Highlands on Foothill Expwy, Saffron pairs cozy ambiance with a robust menu spanning Northern and Southern Indian traditions. Their tandoori grill and butter chicken are favorites, and they cater well to vegetarians and vegans. Main dishes are $14–$22.
- Oren’s Hummus (Rancho Shopping Center) – For something lighter, Oren’s serves authentic Middle Eastern cuisine — pillowy fresh pita, creamy hummus, and zesty salads. Their chicken shawarma bowl is a Highlands lunch go-to, with most items $10–$18.
- Taqueria La Espuela – Don’t overlook this unassuming Mexican eatery on Grant Rd., which locals swear by for generous burritos, homemade salsas, and corn tortillas made daily. Most lunches and dinners stay under $12.
Food Trucks & Seasonal Treasures
While not always stationed in one spot, the Highlands’ proximity to Los Altos’ schools and parks has made it a semi-regular stop for food trucks — especially on Friday nights or for community events at Covington Elementary. Recent favorites have included:
- Churros El Guero – For warm cinnamon-sugar churros hot out of the fryer, often found at seasonal sporting events in Heritage Oaks Park.
- The Boneyard BBQ – A mobile favorite for brisket, pulled pork, and crispy fries. Track them down via local Facebook groups or community postings near Highlands Park.
And don’t forget the annual Highlands Neighborhood Picnic, where residents bring out homemade specialties — from Filipino lumpia to Persian kuku sabzi — sharing Los Altos’ diverse culinary tapestry. It’s community, food, and fun, all rolled into one.
Pro Tips for Highlands Foodies
- The lunch rush at Rancho Shopping Center is real — go before noon for the freshest pastries and easiest parking.
- Market-style pop-ups occasionally set up shop along Covington Road, especially on spring weekends: look for fresh flower vendors and locally-made jams.
- Don’t skip dessert. Whether it’s an ice cream scoop at Rick’s or a kouign-amann from Manresa Bread, sweet treats complete any Highlands food crawl.
The Highlands may be quiet and leafy, but don’t let its serene vibe fool you — this neighborhood is home to some of the most flavor-packed, diverse, and welcoming food experiences in Los Altos. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just exploring for the first time, make sure to bring your appetite.