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⏰ School Schedule Changes, Local Business Updates & a Chef Worth Trying

⏰ School Schedule Changes, Local Business Updates & a Chef Worth Trying

Cafeteria makeovers, museum updates, a must-try Pakistani and North Indian spot, plus block parties, chili cook offs, and Valentine’s events.

Greg Kemper
January 29, 2026

Good morning neighbors!

Welcome to this week’s Palo Alto Scoop!

In this week’s newsletter, learn more about changes coming to local school, business updates to the Palo Alto Museum and Hassett Hardware, a top local chef recognized, plus tons of events to get you out of the house!

Let’s dive in! 👇

In this week’s edition:

School Updates: Newly proposed start times and cafeteria makeovers
Business Updates: Water damage to Palo Alto Museum and an update on Hassett Hardware
Restaurants to Try: Top chef recognized, serving up Pakistani and North Indian cuisine
Events To Get You Out and About: Lunar New Year Celebrations, Super Bowl Chili Cook offs, First Friday in Los Altos, Redwood City’s Block Party, and Valentine’s Events

🍽️ Redwood City School Cafeterias Get a Tasty Makeover

Students in the Redwood City School District are now eating much fresher meals thanks to a major overhaul of the cafeteria program. What was once mostly pre-packaged food has been replaced with freshly prepared, globally inspired options that are both healthier and more appealing.

For decades, some families felt school lunches were more like fast food, but this reheat has brought in fresh produce, whole grains, and meals that kids are excited to try. Parents and staff are already noting the positive shift in how students respond to lunchtime. It’s a big step in making school meals both nutritious and enjoyable for children across the district. Read more here.

⏰ Palo Alto Schools Consider Tweaking High School Start Time

The Palo Alto Unified School District and local educators are discussing a potential tweak to high school start times for next school year. Right now, high schools begin around 9:00 a.m., but there’s a proposal to start 15 minutes earlier, which some educators say would help align better with after-school activities and family schedules.

Supporters argue the small shift could make afternoons less rushed for sports and homework, while some students worry it will cut into morning sleep time. The community conversation is ongoing, and any change would be thoughtfully planned before next fall’s schedule is finalized. Read more here.

🛠️ Hassett Hardware to Re-Open After Fiery Crash

Hassett Ace Hardware in Redwood City is planning a major comeback after a dramatic December incident when a vehicle crashed through its front window and sparked a fire. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but the crash and triggered sprinklers caused extensive smoke and water damage that forced the store to temporarily close. Co-owner Eric Hassett and his team have been busy clearing out damaged inventory and preparing for a full renovation. They’re optimistic they’ll reopen around May with a refreshed space that’s “better than ever.” Neighbors have been stopping by to ask about progress, showing strong community support for the beloved local shop. Read more here.

Palo Alto Museum Postponing Public Opening

The Palo Alto Museum is postponing their public opening due to water issues within the building. Repairs are underway while planning for exhibits and programming is moving forward, with a new open date to be determined once repairs are underway. Read more here.

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Zareen’s Restaurant in Palo Alto

Zareen’s is a popular casual restaurant serving bold Pakistani and North Indian cuisine, with its chef, Zareen Khan, named a 2026 James Beard Semi-Finalist last week. The menu highlights deeply spiced curries, grilled kababs, and house-made breads rooted in family recipes and regional influences. Standout dishes include Chicken Tikka Masala, lamb gosht, and crispy Memoni samosas that have earned national recognition, including praise from the Michelin Guide. Congratulations to the entire team at Zareen’s!

Our Top Picks: Chicken Tikka Masala, Lamb Gosht, Memoni Samosas, Halwa Puri

La Bodeguita del Medio in Palo Alto

La Bodeguita del Medio offers Cuban-influenced cuisine inspired by the iconic Havana restaurant of the same name. This casual spot serves a broad menu of Latin-style dishes, including ceviche, fried calamari, chicken flautas, and burritos filled with shrimp, fish, carne asada, or vegetables. Cuban flavors come through in dishes like ropa vieja, garlic-forward marinades, and citrus-bright seafood preparations. The restaurant is also well known for its classic Cuban cocktails, including mojitos, paired with an extensive rum selection. With a menu that works well for brunch, lunch, or dinner, La Bodeguita remains a go-to for approachable Cuban-inspired fare.

Our Top Picks: Ropa Vieja, Shrimp Ceviche, Chicken Flautas, Classic Mojito (obviously!)

See more here!

📖 Goodnight Moon | Palo Alto | Children’s Theatre | 01/29-02/15 | more
A gentle, family-friendly stage production inspired by the beloved bedtime classic.

🎷 Jazz Night | Redwood City | Feast and Floral | 01/29 | more
Enjoy live jazz in an intimate setting with food, drinks, and a relaxed vibe.

🧩 Puzzle Hunt: Kickoff Weekend | Palo Alto | Mitchell Park Library | 01/31 | more
Launch weekend for Palo Alto’s annual puzzle hunt, with clues and challenges for all ages.

📚 Winter Book Sale | Redwood City | Downtown Library | 01/31 | more
Browse a wide selection of children’s books and great reads at bargain prices.

📀 Community Book & Media Sale | Los Altos | Community Center | 01/31 - 02/01 | more
Stock up on books, movies, and music while supporting the local library.

🚣 Paddle Race | Redwood City | Redwood Water Sports | 02/01 | more
Watch or participate in a competitive paddle race on the Redwood City waterfront.

🏕️ Summer Camp Registration | Palo Alto | Online | 02/05 | more
Registration opens for Palo Alto’s summer camps, including sports, arts, and enrichment programs.

🎉 First Friday | Los Altos | Downtown | 02/06 | more
An evening downtown event with shopping, dining, and community fun.

🌶️ Chili Tasting and Football Celebration | Redwood City | Chan Zuckerberg Community Space | 02/06 | more
Sample chili, enjoy football-themed fun, and connect with neighbors.

🍫 Valentine’s Choco-“Super” Stroll | Los Altos | Downtown | 02/07 | more
Stroll downtown and sample chocolate treats while shopping local.

💃 Sweetheart Dance | Redwood City | Veterans Memorial Senior Center | 02/07 | more
A festive dance event designed especially for seniors.

🎉 El Maiz Block Party | Redwood City | Winklebleck St. | 02/07 | more
A lively neighborhood block party featuring food, music, and community vibes.

🧧 Lunar New Year Market | East Palo Alto | Bloomhouse EPA | 02/07 | more
Shop local vendors and celebrate Lunar New Year with cultural flair.

✨ Spirit Fest 5.0 | Los Altos | Community Center | 02/08 | more
A full-day wellness and mindfulness festival with workshops, vendors, and activities.