The Grotto (also listed as The Grotto Speakeasy) is an intimate downtown Los Altos bar and cocktail lounge nestled underneath restaurant Cetrella, and it’s perfect for drinks and small bites.
There are a few things that you need to know before heading downstairs. You must make reservations; they do not accept walk-ins. You will be escorted downstairs by Cetrella staff; you can not just wander downstairs.
The Grotto leans fully into the speakeasy aesthetic: Expect dim lighting, exposed brick, jazz-inspired artwork, and a relaxed yet elevated ambience with seating for roughly 30 guests; the space feels exclusive and intimate. You’ll find booths, bar seating and small cocktail tables.
The bar itself? Stunning. A true focal point.
However – and here’s the honest take – the rest of the space didn’t quite live up to that cozy, tucked-away fantasy. Some of the tables and chairs gave more “local college-town bar on The Hill in Boulder” than polished underground lounge. It’s intimate, yes. Ultra-luxe cozy? Not quite.
The curated cocktail gets my praise, with custom creations and playful names inspired by art themes. The Grotto has hand-crafted standout drinks and experienced bartenders. A selection of nice French and Californian wines by glass or bottle and bottled beers are available. The small bite menu features sharable items like potato croquettes, duck fat fries and lamb meatballs – light but quality pairings to the drinks.
The Grotto is a well-liked spot in Los Altos for high-quality craft cocktails in an intimate, artsy setting, with service that is attentive and fun. While the furnishings didn’t fully match the moody speakeasy dream, the drinks and service absolutely carry the experience.
Attentive, fun and polished without being stuffy, the staff enhances the experience rather than overpowering it – always a good sign in a cocktail-focused space.
It’s not a dining destination – but a perfect date-night, after-work or small-group cocktail hideaway. I can’t wait to grab some friends again and enjoy the Grotto vibe.
The Grotto is located at 160 State St., Los Altos. For reservations, visit cetrella.com.
