With its lively streets and various food outlets, downtown Los Altos is considered a go-to hangout spot for teens. Its outdoor seating arrangements allow for on-demand comfort while live music plays on every block. Downtown Los Altos’ proximity to Pinewood also makes it a great option for after school gatherings.
A popular destination for Pinewood students is State of Mind Public House and Pizzeria. Located near Fourth Street and State Street, State of Mind creates pizzas made exclusively with native Californian cheeses and tomatoes.
“State of mind has really good hot honey pepperoni pizza,” sophomore Adrian Bunata said.
Despite State of Mind’s popularity, many are drawn to the affordability of Spot a Pizza Place.
“I’m gonna have to go Spot’s,” sophomore Arya Bhaskar said. “The reason being it’s super affordable. They even run a student special.”
Spot a Pizza Place also offers a more casual experience with a wide variety of food, ranging from sandwiches to wings to pizzas.
Located walking distance from State of Mind is State Street Market, a food court with seven different food stalls, ranging from Korean fusion to European baked goods and even artisanal ice cream. On weekend afternoons, groups of teens fill the tables with laughter as sports games play in the background.
Bunanta loves to order buttered chicken from his favorite stall, The Little Blue Door.
“They have great Indian food, The Little Blue Door,” Bunanta said.
While many decide to meet near delicious restaurants, some, such as Bhaskar, congregate near Hyperspace, a small arcade.
“I spend most of my time downtown, probably at Hyperspace.” Bhaskar said. “It’s a cool place to play arcade games and just have fun.”
Although downtown Los Altos’ location is extremely convenient, sophomore Arjith Bhaskar believes that the spirited atmosphere of downtown in conjunction with its food is truly what attracts teens and keeps them coming back for more.
“It’s just very spirited and I love all the food there, it’s just really good,” said Arjith Bhaskar.
