Wonderful coffee with outdoor seating. The Latte Macchiato was very smooth and creamy. I really enjoyed the atmosphere and would definitely come back. read more

Cafe Venetia - Reception - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

Cute cafe on University Ave. We always go there when we visit Palo Alto. Their hot chocolate is really good. We get the Cioccolata in Tazza. It is thick and creamy (see video). Also, it is just perfectly sweet, not overwhelmingly so. We also tried their flourless almond cake - it was quite dry, brittle and tasted like toasted and ground almonds. Will return for the hot chocolate and pass the cake! There is no option for to-go (for drinks) and you pick your food at the billing desk itself. They serve with a smile. read more

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The coffee is good. I'll say that first so nobody can wave this away as sour grapes from someone who doesn't know what an espresso should taste like. Everything else about Cafe Venecia is a problem, and it has been a problem every time I've gone, including today. The outside tables are never cleared. Crumbs, coffee rings, somebody's abandoned napkin. No one comes out. Ask an employee about it and they'll point you toward a rag you're welcome to fetch and use yourself. That's the arrangement here -- you buy the coffee, you bus the table, you wipe it down, and the staff watches you do it. Today I asked for a bowl of water for my dog. The answer was no. Not "we're slammed, give me a minute," just no. So I asked whether they could put a little water in a to-go container instead, and was told, "Well, I can't give you a to-go container because we don't do them." Sit with that one. They don't do to-go containers, which means everything in the place comes in real dishware, which means the building is full of cups and bowls. They had exactly what I was asking for. They simply weren't going to hand one over, and they made sure I understood that by the tone. So: a café on University Avenue, with sidewalk seating, in a town where half the foot traffic is people walking dogs, has decided that tap water is outside its operating capabilities, and table cleaning is outside its operating capabilities, while charging Palo Alto prices is somehow well within them. There are a dozen places within three blocks that manage the coffee and the manners at the same time. Go to one of those. One star, and the star is for the beans. read more

Came here on a Saturday morning and there was quite a bit of people sitting outdoor with family and friends drinking their coffees. This place is known for its European like ambiance. They even have a sign outdoor that says "computer free area" so it's not intended to be a study or work spot. My boyfriend got a cappuccino which he really enjoyed and I got their morocchino which was chocolatey but strong. This is definitely not one of those trendy specially iced lattes place so don't come in thinking you'll get a sugary drink. Service was straightforward. They rang us up and our drinks came out quick. read more

Cafe Venetia - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

Stopped by around 5pm for drinks while waiting to meet a friend for dinner and was pleasantly surprised by how good the Aperol spritz was. I ordered two and they are honestly one of the best spritz I've had outside of Italy, and even better, more affordable than many other places in the area. The balance of Aperol, sparkling wine, and sparkling water was spot on. Not overly sweet, not too bitter, just crisp and refreshing the way it should be. I sat on the outdoor patio people watching, and it honestly made me feel like I was in Europe. Relaxed atmosphere, great drinks, and a perfect spot to unwind before dinner. You do need to go inside the cafe to order and pay at the counter. Would highly recommend if you're looking for a quality spritz in Palo Alto. read more

Cafe Venetia - Aperol spritz - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

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Some places just hold memories, and every time I walk by Cafe Venetia it pulls me right back to some great moments with friends. I've been here a few times over the years and it has never disappointed. Walking past it again recently instantly brought those memories rushing back, so naturally I made the left turn and stepped inside. The feeling of walking in and having those memories flood back from the great conversations and laughs we've shared here was pretty special. It's one of those spots where time slows down for a minute. I ordered a cappuccino and it was excellent. Smooth, rich, and exactly what I needed. Sitting outside, relaxing with the sunshine coming down and just enjoying the moment felt like a small blessing in the middle of a busy day. The atmosphere here is welcoming and easygoing, making it a great place to sit, catch up with friends, or just take a quiet moment to yourself. Definitely a place that keeps you coming back. read more

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Cute Italian cafe on university ave. Today was hoppin as weather was incredible. I tried a spiced hot chocolate drink. It was delicious, not too sweet or thick but still creamy. I hate watery hot chocolate. I choose cardamom as my spice and it a nice combination, but then again I love cardamom in chai at home. Coffee not your thing, there is enoteca venetia next door to grab a glass of wine. read more

Cafe Venetia - Spiced hot chocolate - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

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Adorable cafe on University street in Palo Alto for an afternoon visit with a friend. Food: 4 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 4 Cost to worth it rating: 3 Opentableable: no reservations Return worthiness: yes Highlights: - Cute and lively patio that feels very European - No laptop sign which is rare around here so people can focus on spending time together - Yummy cakes: we got a dense chocolate almond one and a lemon cake that were quite nice. 4 stars - Has a storefront next door with some bites and wine you can get as well Midlights: - Were out of all but 1 tea Lowlights: - Can get crowded even midweek afternoons so can be hard to get a seat read more

Best italian hot cholocate cafe in town! Service is quick and simple, lots of people always. Make sure to bring your own cup if you intend to make your order togo. This place always make me feel like I'm in somewhere in Europe whenever visiting. I love how they are dedicated to Italy vibes, even from the name of the cafe! read more

Cafe Venetia - Bicerin - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

Cafe Venetia makes you feel like you are in Europe. The seating outside is the perfect place to people watch and hang with friends and family. The coffee is VERY Italian. So if you are looking for a sweet latte do not come here. If you enjoy authentic espresso and cappuccino, this is the place for you. The croissant was also soft, crumbly and delicious as well. read more

Cafe Venetia - Cappuccino and butter croissant - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

This is a place you go for their chocolate drinks but I feel like even those can be a hit or miss depending on the time of the day. This particular evening, the drinking chocolate was mid while their Marocchino was fantastic!! On previous visits, I've tried their Chocospice which has been delicious (self-reminder to always order that) & I'm yet to try their dessert offerings. Maybe Tiramisu will change my mind ;) If you enjoy your chocolate drink a bit on the not-so-sweet side, this might just be the place for you. read more

Cafe Venetia - Drinking chocolate - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

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Super popular cafe in downtown Palo Alto. I came here to try the classic European style thick hot chocolate. I was not disappointed. Sitting outside and watching the people coast by while slowly sipping a rich and creamy chocolate drink was a divine experience. Yum! I loved the people watching and relaxed vibe. read more

Cafe Venetia - Outside with a half- drunk cup of thick hot chocolate - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

Venetia still offers great hot and iced espresso drinks and their specialty chocolate beverage is also now offered as iced. Walk-in, line and pick up is still the modus operandi. Although its time this cafe added a second bathroom -- specially given they've extended seating out on to the sidewalk (post covid i think). read more

If you're in Palo Alto and want to switch up your usual breakfast spot, this is a nice place to check out. It's especially enjoyable on a sunny day, grabbing a coffee and dessert and sitting outside just hits the spot. There's nothing super unique or "must-go-out-of-your-way" about it, but everything is consistently solid: good food, quality ingredients, and a pleasant atmosphere. That said, the coffee is definitely the highlight here, really well done. The crème brûlée was a standout for me as well, definitely worth trying. Unfortunately, the service leaves a lot to be desired, it felt pretty indifferent. read more

Cafe Venetia - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

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This has been my go-to meeting spot in Palo Alto. It really feels like a little slice of Italy -- from the coffee to the chocolates to the charming setting. Perfect for a sunny afternoon catch-up with friends, a casual business meeting, or even a sweet first date. Perfect for: when you want European café vibes without leaving the Bay Area. read more

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What's with the attitude with the person behind the counter? We came in the early evening for a quick dessert as we were waiting for our reservation across the street and we planned to indulge more post dinner. We chose the lemon ricotta cheesecake, while the cheesecake itself was nice with the right amount of citrus the attitude of the person was awful, first when I asked for extra spoons he mentioned that they have a policy of only 2 spoons per dessert (had handed only one to begin with). Since the dessert were good the first time, we went ahead to round 2 of desserts post dinner and that is when the rudeness really shines! We were a group of 6 and it was fairly empty when we were chatting the same guy comes around and says "Can you please keep it down, you all are too loud" Mind you there was music in the background that I could hear, I could hear the chatter on the adjacent table so I don't know how loud we could have been. Had I wanted to eat quietly I would have just done a to-go and eaten in my car don't you think? Argh I don't think I can come back here, the food isn't that good that I have it with a side of insults read more

We got chocospice and mocha. Both were amazing! Very smooth and rich and yet not very sweet. I actually prefer this kind of chocolate than the hot chocolate at Dandelion: easier to drink and digest. I especially like chocospice. The combination of chocolate and spice do not only bring out the best of chocolate and also help wit digestion. read more

Cafe Venetia - Chocospice - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

The wine choices are wonderful! The outdoor seating is very nice. The restaurant needs to add more savory food choices. read more

A great place to relax , have a nice cup of coffee and watch people and cars Tables available with "no computers" so you can just enjoy your coffee without distractions Service is quick read more

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Cafe Venetia is not a small spot inside a Las Vegas casino. No, it's a marvelous gem right in the heart of Palo Alto. Sharing its name and space with a wine bar, this coffee shop asks you to leave the laptops at home and savor in some Italian favorites. Favorites including sweet desserts, artisan coffee, and decor to give you that European vibe. You'll think you would need to pay with Euros. Visit Venetia and chart that as a trip to Italy next. read more

This was my first time at this coffee shop, and it made a great first impression. It's open late, has plenty of outlets, and lots of space to sit both inside and out. That alone is a big win. I came in around 6 pm and the line moved fairly quickly. My cake and coffee were ready almost immediately and served European-style: a real plate, metal utensils, and a proper hot drink glass. Love that. The tiramisu was SCRUMPTIOUS. Full stop. Five stars . As for the coffee: it was beautifully made, but not the best I've had. The flavor was strong, but the texture felt a bit diluted. Possibly 2% milk? I'm not sure. They didn't ask for my milk preference, which was a small miss. Bottom line, will I be back? Absolutely. read more

Cafe Venetia - Tiramisu cake and a latte - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

the thickest hot chocolate i've ever had in my entire life and it was so delicious I had two cups in one sitting. There's both indoor and outdoor seating, but it's nice getting to sit outside and people watch. The drinks came out quickly and you clean up your own table. read more

Cafe Venetia - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

Traditional Italian style cafe. I quite enjoy it and the coffee however it may not be for everyone. It's definitely a cafe to sit down and enjoy your drink/company. They don't do take out or to go drinks and have best practices for zero waste. I highly recommend this cafe to take it slow and enjoy the cafe and not be in a tush read more

Cafe Venetia - Caffe Freddo and Sandwich - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

Feels like an authentic European cafe. They have some different types of coffee drinks and pastries that you won't find at other coffee shops especially the chains. Service is simple you order at the counter and pick up when it's ready. They don't have a tipping option when you purchase I like that a lot. Extra points for me for that. read more

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Wonderful cafe in downtown Palo Alto with the most decadent hot chocolate I've ever had. It feels like you're drinking from a warm chocolate fountain and they even have non dairy milk. The indoor and outdoor seating makes this cafe wonderful for any occasion. read more

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Until today, I have loved Cafe Venetia. We are not daily regulars but do go 3-4 times a month. This morning the service was poor. I had to give my order three times because the baristas were constantly talking while I was ordering. She took a regular patron between the second and third time I said my order and was asked to step aside while this happened. Then.....I had also ordered a pastry. The next patron behind me asked if they were fresh and the barista said no but she would get her a hot one from the back. Since it was the same pastry I ordered, I asked for the same. She gave me a dirty look and then took an old pastry and heated in the microwave. Then she brought out a fresh one for the other patron, winked at her and they both looked at me. It was so strange. I get that regulars are there all the time but treating customers very differently is not acceptable. read more

I had a nice double espresso and Ricotta cake on the outside patio. Good pople watching or book reading spot.

Best hot chocolate found here. There are always line out there but it is worth it. Sometimes, they server good pastries as well. read more

Delicious hot chocolate and mocha drinks. The melted chocolate is like liquid gold. After a long day of work, I would love to stop by here to get a drink. Service is quick. There are a couple of seats indoors and a lot more seats outdoors. read more

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We visited Cafe Venetia over the weekend. Tired from all the walking around and search for parking. The last we visited Cafe Venetia was back in 2021 and I'm happy to report, it is still the great cafe it was back in 2021. We had a slice of the Almond Cake (I forgot what it was called) as well as the Chocospice and Cappucino Viennese. Cake: It was tasty, it was dense and it was really good. A slice was enough for 4 adults to taste and savour the deliciousness. Chocospice: Hot chocolate you say? It was more like a tasty chocolate and milk syrup. It was heavy and delectable. I'd definitely come back for more. Cappuchino Viennese: The smooth coffee, the creamy whipped cream (not sweet, just perfect) and the chocolate powder was simply marvelous. It is the whole package. The coffee was just smooth and makes you want to keep sipping it again and again. Service: Top notch, the baristas were awesome and witty. Ambiance: I've never been to EU but comparing the ambiance to a traditional European cafe (googled it), looks convincing to me. All in all - Full 5 stars for me. I am definitely coming back and this time, I won't wait for 2-3 years! read more

Cafe Venetia - Cappucino Viennese - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

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I stopped in for a bite to eat on a whim and really enjoyed this place. Perfect for a quiet glass of wine alone or with a friend. The red velvety couches are extremely comfortable and would be a great place to curl up with a book. I enjoyed the cheese plate and thought it was a good portion and quality for the price. I was also surprised by the amount of affordable glasses of wine, with many around $10. Would be a great place for a date as well. Highly recommend! read more

Cafe Venetia - Ambiance inside - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

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I didn't come here for coffee but came with a friend and snacked on their carrot cake which was quite good. The atmosphere is outstanding here. Casual and laid back yet feels classy and elegant, but not overdone at all. Fits in very well with the Palo Alto vibe. read more

I stopped by Cafe Venetia early one morning, and it ended up being one of the highlights of my trip to Palo Alto. My drink, Caffe Freddo, arrived quickly and was great. I especially loved sitting at one of the computer-free tables, soaking in the atmosphere and people-watching. I wish we had a spot like this near me in Chicago! read more

Cafe Venetia - Caffe Freddo - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

The best hot chocolate I've ever had! You may think that their cup of hot cocoa is too little but it's just the right amount - thick consistency with a deep chocolate taste with a very light & fluffy whipped cream. The outdoor area is also very nice with lots of space for big groups but enough space for people to walk through. My husband & I always visit this cafe whenever we want hot cocoa! read more

Which they had refills for teapots. Verrryyy cute ambiance but menu could be more diverse. Fast service. read more

Cafe Venetia - Tea - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

A really cute coffee place . I tried an americano which was very good and we also got the pistachio pudding - which was very good - not too sweet had a great texture I'll probably swing by again if in the neighbourhood and in a.mood for coffee read more

Cafe Venetia - Pistachio pudding - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

Ambiance is amazing. Food is great. The vibes are really lovely. This is a very interesting and welcome hangout space. There're people hanging, some with friends, some alone, some reading books, some on their computer. Some having wine with their partner, etc etc. I saw most of the negative reviews were due to service which is also amazing if you're down for the Europian experience. Jk I actually don't think there's anything wrong with the service. read more

- One of the few late night coffee/dessert places on University Ave. - The chocolate drink is good, but very chocolaty and I thought it would be warmer. - We also ordered coffee/espresso with a shot of chocolate, which was good. - Had the apricot tart, good for the season. - Great ambience and vibe inside and outside seating. There seemed to be a lot of regulars and late night happy hour. Customers didn't mind standing outside, while we opted for a seat inside where it was warmer and cozy. - Staff is friendly and efficient, definitely committed because they're open late hours. read more

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Love this place. Always busy. Everything we ordered was delicious. Cashier was friendly. Love watching the baristas at work. Plenty of outdoor seating. read more

Cafe Venetia - Marocchino, lemon tart, espresso macchiato - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California

It's a perfect spot to relax near the Stanford campus. The coffee was good, which reminded me of the European coffee-strong and rich. The fruit tart was delicious too! The fruit on top was really fresh and the whole tart tasted really light. read more

Cafe Venetia - The coffee was really authentic and delicious! - Coffee & Tea Near Me - Palo Alto, California