As you know, we love to travel to new destinations and discover wonderful flavors. So on a recent journey to California, we were delighted to experience a vast array of wonderful San Jose eats and treats. If you don’t know, San Jose is in what’s known as the “Silicon Valley” area of northern California. But beyond all the fantastic technology companies, you will discover an incredibly rich and diverse culinary destination, from Michelin-starred chefs and five-star dining to hidden secrets, finds, and tasty desserts. There’s something for every budget and every taste in this charming, laid-back, California town.
Here’s a sampling of what we tried. The sweet endings include a mascarpone cheesecake, a trio of creme brulee, and other delicious ways to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Left Bank Brasserie
We had an excellent French lunch at the Left Bank Brasserie. From the sidewalk cafe, outstanding wine list, and classic menu choices, you really felt that you escaped to Paris for just a few hours.
Located on the always lively Santana Row in San Jose, Left Bank Brasserie is an authentic Parisian-style brasserie. So, we tried an authentic (and delicious) salad Nicoise. We were not disappointed.
Having a leisurely lunch almost demands a dessert be ordered. Our personal favorite, profiteroles, made for a blissful ending to a perfect afternoon.
San Pedro Square Market
Seems like just about every city has a “market” now but not everyone can boast a market with a wide array of vendors and a relaxing courtyard to meet up with friends over great food. San Pedro Square Market, located in downtown San Jose is a little gem that has so many great food choices it took almost half an hour before we settled on what to try.
This city market has over 25 vendors, in three spacious market halls that feature everything from wood-fired pizza, delicate crepes, and Spanish tapas to regionally-inspired hot dog creations.
Of course, there are plenty of treats for dessert too. Like fresh chocolate chunk cookies. Who can resist? The market is a perfect place to visit whether you want to grab a morning coffee, lunch, or dinner with live music.
This is just a brief sampling of the wonderful, tasty food options you’ll find in San Jose. We have only begun to scratch the surface, and hope we’ve encouraged you to find your way to San Jose.
To learn even more about what there is to see in San Jose check out our other post Do You Know The Way to San Jose
THE QUICK BITE: If you’re looking to visit a city that offers many tasty food offerings for just about every budget or style be sure to check out San Jose eats and treats.
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6 Comments
It is indeed! San Jose surprised me too. I look forward to another visit.
Love these selections. The dishes look totally delicious. We live on the Peninsula not all that far from San Jose and these restaurants give us a few good reasons to get down there for dinner sometime. We’re fortunate all around the Bay Area to have great dining options.
Wow- these photos and food descriptions made my mouth water. The one that really got me is Michael Mina’s Arcadia Modern American Steakhouse and I’m not a steak in restaurants fan.
Never thought of San Jose as a foodie destination but it sure looks that way!
Wow, it all looks fantastic! The tuna, the tri tip, I’ll take one of everything.
Good thing I had lunch just before reading this. All the food looks wonderful, especially the black olive Caesar salad and the Profiteroles.