University South, Palo Alto

University South has a lot going on - perhaps even more than Downtown North. With an abundance of everything from restaurants to bars to yoga studios, it is probably the most packed couple of blocks in Palo Alto. While it is an exciting place to be, it is also home to the most traffic and the least parking of anywhere in the area.

Staples around here include Pizza My Heart, Coupa Cafe and Reposado, but new venues seem to pop up every month. This is probably one of the best places for restaurants and nightlife in Silicon Valley, and the prices certainly reflect this!

University South is a large neighborhood, so its qualities vary as you move up and down the streets. Most residents, frankly, are yuppies, but despite the negative connotations this term often carries with it, the area is generally a friendly one. Of course, there are a number of publicly snobby and rude people, but I imagine the same can be said for most wealthy neighborhoods around the country. The number of young families in the area is rising, so if you are thinking of raising a family here you won't be alone. Furthermore, the schools in the city are excellent and no matter where you're living in the neighborhood you're sure to be close to a store where you can buy most things that you need, be it Whole Foods or Longs Drugs.