allied arts guild

Allied Arts used to be a very active restaurant and shop area; there are still a few shops here but they are quieter. It used to have more to offer. There is a jewelry store, an art store, and a gift type store. Part of the sales do goes toward the Lucille Packard Children's Hospital.The restaurant is still very popular called Blue Garden CafeOne thing I really enjoyed on my repeat visit today was the beautiful Christmas decorations.Allied Arts is in a residential community. The unique historical architecture and gardens are also nice.However, it seems to have lost some of the charm of the past; as such for me its now average. I left with a short visit but no purchases.Parking is in a free lot.

This little group of shops, artist studios and gardens is so charming I wonder why I don't go there more often. Such a treat to sit by the beautiful fountain with a coffee or light lunch. A popular wedding venue so there is frequently nice music drifting through the gardens.

From the glorious gardens & whispering fountain to the incredible shops sprinkled around you can truly be lost for a delightful afternoon. Fear not - there is a terrific place to enjoy lunch and tea. Wish I could scoop the Allied Arts Guild up and take it all home to Alaska.

This venue is so special, an historic rancho, which has been completely refurbished in the last few years! The integrity of the original buildings have been preserved; it is a lovely visit back in time!The food and service continue to be excellent--soups, salads, sandwiches and small hot entrees. No alcohol is served.They also serve afternoon teas.(Check their schedule for dates.) this is not an ideal venue for small children. Proceeds go to the Lucille Packard Children's Hospital.On the grounds there are several artisan boutiques; well worth the visit!

My girlfriend and I visited for a wedding, but this would be worth a stop if you had a few hours to spend and you're in the area (it would be kind of off the beaten path if you aren't in or near Menlo Park). The Spanish mission style is amazing, and the plants and flowers are well maintained and very photogenic. There looked to be a cafe and maybe a gift shop, but since we were wedding guests most of it seemed closed-off.