San Jose Fuels AI Innovation with Downtown Startup Grants

San Jose is launching a grant program to draw AI startups to Downtown, positioning the city as a leader in artificial intelligence amid friendly rivalry with San Francisco and others. Mayor Matt Mahan highlights the city's hardware expertise in areas like energy, robotics, and transportation, including autonomous vehicles and electric vertical takeoff craft. This focus complements software advancements, emphasizing physical applications that shape everyday life and leverage San Jose's strengths in the world of atoms.

The first four recipients demonstrate diverse AI solutions addressing real-world challenges. Elythea develops voice agents to monitor patient outcomes, partnering with Medicaid to detect high-risk pregnancies early and reduce maternal mortality. Metafoodx creates an embodied AI platform for smart kitchens, aiding restaurants in cutting food waste through efficient systems. Clika assists hardware firms in optimizing AI models for edge efficiency. Satlyt offers edge-computing services for satellites, integrating them into a decentralized virtual cloud to enhance data processing.

Each winner receives a $50,000 one-time grant, plus eligibility for two years of waived business taxes and two free parking spots per 1,000 square feet of Downtown office space. These incentives encourage relocation or expansion, fostering a robust AI ecosystem in the heart of the city. San Jose also applies AI internally to improve bus routes, detect road objects, and translate meetings, showcasing practical integration.

As a top metro for startup salaries, tying with San Francisco and New York, San Jose attracts talent despite slower early-stage hiring trends. This program builds on the city's legacy as Silicon Valley's core, inviting entrepreneurs to contribute to groundbreaking advancements.

Source: SVBJ

Symphony San Jose Kicks Off Season with Masquerade

San Jose welcomes the 24th season of Symphony San Jose with an enchanting program titled Masquerade at the California Theatre in Downtown San Jose on October 4 and 5, 2025. Performances occur Saturday at 7:30pm and Sunday at 2:30pm, featuring conductor Nathan Aspinall leading the orchestra through works that evoke fantasy and emotion. This opening sets a high note for the year, showcasing the city's thriving classical music scene in a historic venue at 345 South First Street.

The program opens with Anna Clyne's Masquerade, a five-minute orchestral piece commissioned by the British Broadcasting Corporation and premiered in 2013, capturing celebration and revelry. San Jose native Jon Nakamatsu performs Sergei Rachmaninoff's Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini, the composer's 1934 work for piano and orchestra known for its technical brilliance. The evening concludes with Hector Berlioz's Symphonie Fantastique from 1830, a revolutionary symphony portraying love, delirium, and visions through vivid orchestration.

Jon Nakamatsu brings local pride to the stage as a celebrated pianist and Van Cliburn International Piano Competition gold medalist. His connection to San Jose adds a personal touch, drawing audiences to experience world-class talent rooted in the community. The symphony's commitment to such artists reinforces the city's position as a cultural powerhouse in the Bay Area.

Opening night on October 4 includes Masquerade Fantastique, starting with a red-carpet reception featuring wine, food, and entertainment for VIP guests. Intermission offers access to the Baton Society Lounge, followed by a courtyard dessert reception to meet Aspinall, Nakamatsu, and musicians. These elements create memorable evenings that blend performance with social connection.

Tickets range from $35 to $115, with a SoundCheck Pass at $25 for ages 17 to 25 covering all seven Saturday concerts. Available through the box office at 408.286.2600 or walk-up at 325 South First Street, these options make classical music accessible. Convenient parking is nearby at the city garage on San Carlos Street.

Silicon Valley Pride Celebrates 50 Years in San Jose

San Jose marks a milestone with Silicon Valley Pride's 50th anniversary festival unfolding today, August 30, 2025, and tomorrow, August 31, at Plaza de Cesar Chavez in Downtown San Jose. Themed Unstoppable: 50 Years of Love, Legacy & Liberation, the event starts with evening performances at 6pm tonight, headlined by San Jose native and Latin GRAMMY-nominated rapper Snow Tha Product. Sunday features a parade stepping off at 10:30am along Market Street to Julian Street, leading into an afternoon festival in the plaza. This gathering draws thousands to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community's resilience and contributions in the South Bay.

Founded in 1975 as a simple march for equality, the organization evolved into a full-year supporter of resources, events, and education for local LGBTQ+ individuals. The 2014 rebrand to Silicon Valley Pride expanded its reach to neighboring cities, tripling attendance and quadrupling the budget under visionary leadership. These changes position San Jose as a welcoming tech-savvy center where diversity thrives through community-driven efforts.

Honoring former CEO Thaddeus Campbell, who passed in 2019, the Thaddeus Orlando Campbell Scholarship Fund has provided $31,000 in aid to youth over recent years. This program underscores the festival's role in fostering education and empowerment, extending its influence beyond the weekend to build stronger futures for San Jose residents.

With over 15,000 expected visitors, the event invigorates Downtown San Jose's economy by directing foot traffic to nearby businesses. Collaborations like the kickoff party with the Qmunity district enhance the area's appeal as a hub for LGBTQ+ culture.

Facing national hurdles in diversity, equity, and inclusion funding, Silicon Valley Pride adapts while maintaining its core mission of unity. The festival offers a platform for music, cultural showcases, and family-friendly activities that highlight San Jose's commitment to inclusive progress.

Source: SVBJ

Chicano Soul Fest Lights Up San Jose with Culture and Rhythm

San Jose hosts the 4th Annual Chicano Soul Fest on September 6, 2025, at History Park, inviting everyone to a day of music, art, and community from 11am to 7pm. Organized by Mas Dulce Productions, the event celebrates Chicano heritage through diverse performances, Lowriders, and interactive experiences. With free entry for kids 12 and under, tickets available on Eventbrite make it easy for families to join in the festivities at 635 Phelan Ave.

The lineup includes artists like Dayna Donna, Los So-Lows, Johnny David, The Notations, Joe Bataan, Lighter Shade of Brown, and a guest appearance by Jose Santana. Bay Area DJs from The Frisco Gang and Suavecito Oldies keep the energy high, while cultural groups Calpulli Tonalehqueh and Los Mestizos deliver captivating shows. A tribute to Brenton Wood honors his legacy in Chicano and Lowrider communities, alongside the Souleros Exhibition with a short film documentary and curated display exploring Black and Brown connections through music.

Attendees find over 200 Lowriders throughout the park, an art exhibition on Chicano Resilience by 1Culture, creative vendors, and food options. Booths from the San Jose Sharks and San Jose Earthquakes add local sports flair. Supported by sponsors like the City of San Jose and Councilman D5 Peter Ortiz, the festival aims to sustain itself long-term, creating jobs and eventually offering free access to strengthen community bonds. For more info and tickets, head over here.

San Jose's Candy Kitchen Brings Handmade Sweets to Milpitas Great Mall

San Jose's own Candy Kitchen prepares to delight more Bay Area residents with a new location at the Great Mall in Milpitas this fall. Set to open in November at 447 Great Mall Drive, Suite 141, near Entrance 5, the 500-square-foot store mirrors the success of its Downtown San Jose original. Owner Ajay Patel selected the spot for its consistent foot traffic, aiming to share the shop's confections with a wider audience while rooting its growth in the city's entrepreneurial energy.

The menu features an array of handmade treats that blend tradition with inventive flavors. Guests can enjoy fudge in varieties like classic chocolate or peanut butter, caramel apples coated in nuts or sprinkles, and truffles filled with ganache or fruit essences. Chocolate-covered treats include strawberries dipped in premium chocolate, alongside the popular Dubai chocolate-inspired strawberry cup layered with pistachio, kunafa, and sweet strawberries. Hand-dipped ice cream comes in scoops or as part of shakes, smoothies, ice cream sandwiches, and panini, with options like popcorn in savory-sweet mixes rounding out the selection.

This expansion from the Downtown San Jose shop at 200 S. 1st Street, which debuted in 2022, underscores the city's role as a launchpad for local businesses. By extending to Milpitas, San Jose Candy Kitchen invites more people to savor creations that start right here, fostering connections through shared indulgences. The Great Mall's mix of retailers gains a local touch, drawing visitors to experience sweets crafted with care in San Jose.

Source: SVBJ

New Townhomes Set to Enhance Cambrian Neighborhood in San Jose

San Jose is advancing its housing initiatives with the completion of the environmental report for a townhome project at 5670 Camden Avenue in the Cambrian area. Developer Mana Camden Fund LLC proposes 108 units spread across 32 structures, transforming baseball fields and green space behind Beacon School into residential spaces. This development leverages the Builder’s Remedy under the Housing Accountability Act for efficient approvals, including 22 deed-restricted low-income affordable units to support diverse community needs.

The irregularly shaped site will feature an internal street network connecting to Camden Avenue and Singletree Way, with ample parking for 243 vehicles and 40 bicycles. Residents can anticipate modern living options that integrate seamlessly into the neighborhood, fostering stronger local connections.

With the Draft Environmental Impact Report now available, the City of San Jose welcomes public input through September 30 to shape the final version. Construction timelines point to about 34 months of work, marking another step in expanding housing opportunities across the city.

Source: SF YIMBY

Farewell to Rollati

San Jose's food landscape is taking a hit with the sad closure of Rollati Ristorante after its final service today. Located at 181 East Santa Clara St. in Downtown San Jose, this modern Italian-American spot has served as a gathering place for memorable meals since opening in 2023. The team at Vine Hospitality expresses deep gratitude for the community's support and now shifts focus to their established venues in the city.

Rollati offered a menu centered on house-made fresh pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and seasonal dishes inspired by Italian regions and American adaptations. Favorites included linguine alle vongole, thousand-layer lasagna with short rib, and hot honey pizza, all paired with Italian wines and cocktails in a sleek, nostalgic setting. While its chapter ends, the spirit of quality dining continues through Vine Hospitality's other San Jose locations, each bringing unique flavors to local tables.

Left Bank Brasserie at 377 Santana Row delivers timeless French charm with dishes like escargots in garlic butter, French onion soup, steak frites, and beef bourguignon, all prepared with seasonal, local ingredients. The open kitchen and expansive patio create an inviting space for lingering over meals or sipping Champagne.

Meso Modern Mediterranean at 3060 Olsen Dr. provides a feast of vibrant mezze, wood-fired seafood, and craft cocktails inspired by coastal traditions. Standouts include harissa seared octopus, Mediterranean branzino a la plancha, and lamb shank tagine with couscous, served in a light-filled oasis with running water features.

LB Steak at 334 Santana Row excels in modern American steakhouse fare, featuring hand-cut Prime Angus steaks, imported A5 Japanese Wagyu, and sustainable seafood like broiled Maine lobster tail. Accompaniments such as truffle mac and cheese or creamed spinach complement the robust wine selection in a polished environment.

As a thank you, Vine Hospitality offers 10% off at Left Bank Brasserie, Meso Modern Mediterranean, or LB Steak when mentioning code ROLLATI, valid through September 30.

Rollati was one of my favorite restaurants Downtown and whomever takes it's flagship corner spot across from City Hall will have some big shoes to fill.

Must Be Thai Expands to Downtown San Jose

San Jose continues to enhance its culinary scene with the arrival of Must Be Thai Kitchen and Bar on San Pedro Street. Set to open in 2026 at 18 N. San Pedro St., this new spot occupies a 2,800-square-foot space previously home to a TOGO's. The restaurant's expansion from its established location near Westfield Valley Fair signals growing confidence in Downtown San Jose's revival, where efforts to activate the area draw more diverse dining experiences.

Visitors can look forward to authentic Thai dishes infused with bold flavors and creative twists. Signature offerings include Khao Soi with creamy peanut curry and chicken, Pixel Wings coated in a special house sauce, and Tom Yum Fried Rice featuring prawns and calamari with lemongrass notes. Other highlights range from Chicken Pad Thai and Panaeng Curry to desserts like Mango Sticky Rice, all drawing from traditional Thai recipes adapted for modern palates. Paired drinks such as Singha beer or Thai Tea add to the appeal, promising a vibrant meal in a welcoming setting.

This addition aligns with broader momentum along San Pedro Square, a key gathering point in Downtown San Jose lined with eateries. Nearby, Toastique prepares to debut at 145 W. Santa Clara St. in 2026, further enriching the neighborhood's options.

Source: SVBJ

Experience the Bold Fusion of Inebria me at MACLA

San Jose thrives as a hub for innovative arts that reflect its diverse communities, and MACLA stands at the forefront of this movement. The upcoming experimental opera Inebria me by San Cha promises to deliver a unique blend of sounds and stories that capture the essence of cultural exploration. Scheduled for September 25 through 27, 2025, at MACLA’s Castellano Playhouse in Downtown San Jose, this production invites audiences to immerse themselves in a narrative drawn from personal and collective experiences.

San Cha, a queer Latinx musician and performance artist, weaves together ranchera, cumbia, mariachi, punk, classical, and electro elements into a live music score. The work draws from rural Mexican immigrant life, Catholic choir traditions, Bay Area drag performance, and cross-border identity to explore themes of colonization, heartbreak, liberation, and healing. Enhanced by innovative visual design, Inebria me celebrates chosen family, self-discovery, and the power of hope, making it a compelling addition to San Jose's dynamic cultural landscape.

Attending events like this at MACLA highlights the city's commitment to fostering artistic expression that resonates on a deep level. With its location at 510 S. First Street, MACLA continues to serve as a vital space for Latino American art and culture. Those interested can register through inebriame.eventbrite.com to secure a spot and join in this celebration of creativity that strengthens San Jose's reputation as a center for groundbreaking performances.

Lazy Dog in San Jose Launches $15 Fireside Favorites and National Dog Day Support

San Jose residents have a new reason to visit Lazy Dog Restaurant at 5305 Almaden Expressway in the Almaden Plaza Shopping Center, where the new $15 Fireside Favorites menu brings handcrafted entrees paired with a S’more Brownie Sundae for weekday dining. Available all day Monday through Friday, the lineup features options like a fried chicken dinner with red skin potato mash and sautéed spinach, or grilled shrimp tacos served with Spanish rice and cilantro black beans. Each meal wraps up with an individual portion of the signature dessert, complete with a chocolate chip brownie, graham cracker crust, toasted marshmallow, and vanilla bean ice cream, offering a nostalgic touch to everyday outings.

Other choices include a Mediterranean chicken bowl with yellow rice and tzatziki sauce, fettuccine Alfredo that can add chicken or shrimp for extra cost, and loco moco fried rice topped with a sunny-side up egg and teriyaki gravy. These dishes draw from seasonally inspired ingredients, creating satisfying experiences in a space that evokes the coziness of a mountain town. Guests can enhance their meals with a soup or salad starting at $5, making it straightforward to customize for any preference.

With National Dog Day on August 26 just ahead, Lazy Dog partners with Pet Partners to donate $1 for every Dog Bowl ordered in-restaurant from August 26 to 31. These bowls, made with grilled chicken or beef over brown rice and veggies, cater to pets on the dog-friendly patio, and buyers receive a card for a free Dog Bowl on a future visit with an entree purchase. This effort aids the nonprofit's work in registering therapy dogs that provide comfort in hospitals, schools, and senior centers, reflecting San Jose's embrace of pet-inclusive community activities.

Open from 11 a.m. to midnight Monday through Friday and starting at 10 a.m. on weekends, the location also hosts happy hours and weekend brunch until 2 p.m., alongside a bar with craft beers and cocktails. Such features make Lazy Dog a versatile spot for locals to unwind, connect, and savor the city's evolving food landscape.