Shubham K.
Google
Sweet Maple in Palo Alto is a high-energy, modern brunch spot that excels at blending classic American comfort with bold Asian-fusion twists. The primary draw is the Millionaire’s Bacon, a thick-cut, slow-cooked indulgence glazed with brown sugar and peppers. While it’s undeniably delicious—striking a perfect balance between chewy fat and a spicy-sweet crust—be prepared for the Palo Alto premium: a side of this famous bacon will run you about $14 to $15 for just a few slices.
Beyond the bacon, the menu leans heavily into "maximalist" food. The Chicken Croffle (a croissant-waffle hybrid) is a standout, offering a buttery, flaky base that pairs exceptionally well with their crispy fried chicken and spicy honey maple syrup. For those seeking something less traditional, the Pimped Up Ramyun and Tornado Galbi Omurice bring savory Korean flavors to the breakfast table, though some diners find the richness of these dishes a bit overwhelming for early morning.
Sweet options like the Matcha Moffle (mochi waffle) are visual showstoppers, featuring a "lava" of matcha whipped cream and fresh fruit. The texture is unique—crispy on the outside with a dense, chewy mochi center—though it can lean toward the sweeter side. To wash it all down, their specialty lattes, particularly the Ube and Black Sesame, are creamy and photogenic, though they are often priced more like a dessert than a coffee.
The honest trade-off here is the cost and the chaos. You are paying for high-quality, creative ingredients in a trendy University Avenue setting, which means a full brunch for two easily hits the $100 mark. While the food is consistently flavorful and beautifully plated, the long weekend wait times and bustling, loud environment mean this is a place for a lively social meal rather than a relaxing, quiet breakfast.