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The Grotto Speakeasy

4.5 (10 reviews)
Open 5:00 pm - 12:00 am (Next day)

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THE GROTTO SPEAKEASY ATMOSPHERE

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The Lagoon and Naked and Famous
Shimon K.

Amazing cocktails and outstanding service from a top bartender. Sergey is exceptional at his craft. Highly recommend.

A couple of cocktails
Mr. H.

Like any true Speakeasy tables are at a premium. See Mahmed for reservations at Cetrella, Might be availability for 55ppl at any one time. Service time for order to table, at capacity could be an issue with one bartender. Atmosphere is nice, their signature cocktail selection should be expanded a bit more. A live band in this space could prove challenging in the talk to listen ratio. Overall it was a nice experience, and one I'd likely do again.

Dirty martini (Mahon gin, no vermouth) chilled to perfection!

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Review Highlights - The Grotto Speakeasy

The El Alto folks had built a bar in the basement a d now the Cetrella folks have opened Grotto.

Mentioned in 5 reviews

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Bar Underdog

Bar Underdog

4.3
(52 reviews)
3.7 mi

I think it's kind of funny that there is such a discourse amongst other reviews about whether or…read morenot this place is a speakeasy. As a speakeasy enthusiast myself I definitely agree to the fact that it is "hidden" but also it does kinda give corporate vibes a little bit - maybe we can say they "gentrified" the speakeasy experience which is honestly so funny for Palo Alto. But anyways I don't think a classification should stop you from visiting it. The food is actually surprisingly really good. We came with a pescatarian and honestly while the offerings for snacks were a bit slim, every option was really good. I feel like this was the first time where I understood the price even the the quantity is no where close to be desired. One shrimp is like $6 and I was like whoah. Service is definitely more laid back and it's overall just like a more chill atmosphere. I'm fortunate to work nearby so I'll definitely visit this place a few times after work to blow off some steam... And the drinks! Yes they are good! They are also quite strong! Would come back again but also if you're conscious of budget then I'm not sure if you'll find the same value proposition.

Note: I believe the menu has changed since my last visit…read more Stopped by Bar Underdog for a quick drink and was recommended their take on a martini from the "Traditional" section. It came out quickly, crisp, and as cold as it gets. I also tried a shrimp dish from the "Steamed" section, and it was delicious. Their chicken was also larger than I expected, making it a good bang for your buck, especially if you plan on grabbing a few drinks. Excited to come back and try more of their cocktails!

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Fru-ti Punch and Old Soul
Fru-ti Punch and Old Soul
Bar Underdog
Matcha Brownie and Chilly Wonka

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Matcha Brownie and Chilly Wonka
Second Story

Second Story

4.3
(112 reviews)
13.0 mi

I've been to Second Story a handful of times now, and it's easily one of my favorite lounges! Every…read morevisit has been such a great experience. On my most recent trip, our reservation unexpectedly grew by a few people, and the staff went above and beyond to accommodate us. We really appreciated how hard they worked to make it happen! The cocktails are next level creative, delicious, and unlike anything you'll find at your average bar. My absolute favorite is the Bidi Bidi Bom Bom shot! And of course, we always order the caviar because... why not? The vibe here is everything. Whether it's girls' night, date night, or a celebration, there's always an amazing crowd. The DJ knows exactly how to read the room and keeps everyone singing along/ dancing with banger after banger. One night there was even a live saxophonist who absolutely stole the show, it made the whole experience feel so special! I also love the Renaissance inspired artwork by the entrance featuring icons like Drake, 2Pac, Sade, and more. It's such a cool touch and adds to the atmosphere. Second Story never misses, and I already can't wait for my next night out here!

This is definitely not a happy hour or "let's grab a drink" place. It opens at 6pm, and on a…read moreThursday at 6pm on the dot, I was offered only a bar seat without having a reservation. No big deal, as I wanted the bar anyway, but something others should keep in mind. The cocktail list is plentiful and intriguing. I tend to avoid tequila, so that eliminated a good chunk of the options. I went with Rose Colored Lenses, which was fantastic, and decently sized. Presentation was beautiful. My friend had All a Dream, also very good. The wine offerings are minimal, this is very much a cocktail or champagne type of place, with caviar being the primary food service. Speaking of service, the bartender was excellent, both in his mixology and demeanor. It took awhile to get the drinks, but I assume that was due to the complexity of the cocktails, paired with having just opened the doors a few min earlier. Two notes: 1. The barstools were a little too low, imo. I don't normally pay much attention to that detail, but these were uncomfortably low for me, even with my long torso, I was hyper aware of my posture. So maybe that's actually a good thing 2. Other patrons were rolling in shortly behind me, so there is probably an early crowd when they first open, then a late night group that appreciates the 2am closing time. Interior is beautiful, and you can use the steps up to the 2nd floor either from N Santa Cruz or the rear parking lot off W Main. More substantial food options are a mere few steps across the hall at Heritage.

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Salt and stone catering menu (June 2026)
Salt and stone catering menu (June 2026)
La Bamba. So good
La Bamba. So good
Caesar salad

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Caesar salad
Broma

Broma

3.8
(90 reviews)
3.5 mi

We were staying at this hotel and decided to have dinner at Broma…read more Skirt Steak - Nicely cooked with a flavorful chimichurri sauce that added a fresh balance. Sherry Braised Pork Shank - The meat was tender and easily pulled off the bone, and the polenta it came with was rich and perfectly creamy. Smoked Salmon & Caviar - A bit too salty for my taste, so this one didn't quite hit compared to the others. The meat dishes were definitely worth it, especially with the generous portions. Overall, a good dinner option if you're in the area or staying nearby -- not necessarily a destination spot, but an easy choice.

I tried calling to share feedback, but they did not answer which I feel is important to note…read more We don't mind paying for a quality experience--especially for special occasions--which is why we chose Broma to celebrate our wedding anniversary. Unfortunately, we left regretting that decision. From the start, the experience felt unwelcoming when we were seated with our 3-year-old daughter. There was no single overtly disrespectful moment, but the overall tone and repeated small interactions made us feel like we were being judged for having a child with us. At one point, when our daughter accidentally dropped her fork while playing, the reaction we received came across as frustration, which added to that feeling. We understand not every restaurant is designed for young children, but Broma presents itself as a place for friends and family. Instead, we felt like we had to constantly manage and overcorrect normal toddler behavior, which created stress and took away from what should have been a special occasion. Because of that, we didn't feel comfortable raising concerns during the meal when the server checked in--we were more focused on getting through the experience without drawing additional attention. We were also offered an off-menu item without any mention of price. The menu we were given did not list the smash burger, so when I ordered a double, I had no context for the cost. The final price was a surprise, and we would have made a different decision with that information upfront. The food itself did not match the price point. The "smash burger" was not prepared in the style typically expected, and overall the meal felt underwhelming for the cost. Lastly, the billing was confusing. The paper receipt listed "gratuity," while the digital receipt labeled the same charge as a "service charge," making it unclear whether an additional tip was expected. That lack of clarity does not align with the level of transparency expected at this price point. We don't mind paying for a great experience, especially for meaningful occasions, but this visit did not meet that standard and ultimately left us regretting our choice to celebrate here.

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Broma
Budín de pan
Budín de pan
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The Grotto Speakeasy - cocktailbars - Updated July 2026

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