Maum, Camper, Hero Ranch Kitchen and Tre Monti tempt with innovative preparations.
Camper, Menlo Park
The Scene
Silicon Valley energy indoors, leafy ambiance outdoors.
Behind the Name
Chef-owner Greg Kuzia-Carmel wants everyone to be a happy camper.
The Bottle
Carlo Mondavi’s Raen Fort Ross-Seaview Pinot Noir.
Specialty of the House
Roasted chickpea panisse with brassicas and Tuscan kale pesto.
What the Chef Likes
“The roast chicken reminds me of simple meals with friends and family, of the cornbread, and of the cornmeal pancakes Dad made when we camped in the Adirondacks as a kid!”
898 Santa Cruz Ave., Menlo Park, 650.321.8980
Tre Monti
The Scene
White tablecloths, intriguing Italian wines.
Behind the Name
“Three mountains” is a play on the three owners’ disparate heights.
The Bottle
Specogna Sauvignon Blanc, Friuli; Babone Riserva Super Tuscan, 2015 Sassicaia.
Specialty of the House
Gamberi al pistacchio: deep-fried prawns in pistachio batter served with mascarpone and pistachio paste.
What the Chef Likes
Mattia Galiano loves preparing pistachio-encrusted rack of lamb, but says, “I don’t cook for me; I cook to make people happy!”
270 Main St., Los Altos, 650.695.6806
Hero Ranch Kitchen
The Scene
Warmly finished reclaimed barnwood, bright decor, separate wine bar.
Behind the Name
Named for serial chef-owner Angelo Heropoulos.
The Bottle
Hero Ranch Estate Pinot Noir, grown on Heropoulos’ south county ranch.
Specialty of the House
Octopus salad tenderized in olive oil and herbs and grilled.
What the Chef Likes
Raw Brussels sprouts salad with bacon in a vinaigrette of freshly ground pecans, grilled lemon and honey.
14583 Big Basin Way, Saratoga, 669.267.3183
Muam
The Table
Communal-style dining at one table for 16.
The Raison D’Etre
Founded as a private club stemming from owners Brian and Grace Koo’s desire to introduce Silicon Valley to the cuisine of their heritage.
Behind the Name
Korean for “from the heart.”
The Experience
An eight-to 10-course Korean tasting menu ($195 per person) by Michael and Meichih Kim
The Bottle
Den Sake, Junmai Nama Genshu
Specialty of the House
Galbi, Korean barbecue with meat; banchan (small sides of vegetables, pickles and kimchi); seasonal cast iron pot rice; seaweed soup.
The Goal
Re-create the abundance of the Korean table.
322 University Ave., Palo Alto, 650.656.8161
