Shake Shack Arrives at Sunnyvale Cityline with Classic Burgers and Community Support

Shake Shack latest Bay Area outpost will open its doors tomorrow at 10 a.m. inside Cityline Sunnyvale, located at 275 S Murphy Avenue. This marks the brand’s 16th location in the region and 51st throughout California.

Visitors who arrive early on opening day will walk away with limited-edition custom tote bags. Shake Shack also directs one dollar from every sandwich sold on April 1 toward Sunnyvale Community Services. The donation advances efforts to combat homelessness and hunger right here in the local community.

The menu features all the expected favorites. Diners will enjoy ShackBurgers, crinkle-cut fries, and thick hand-spun shakes. Seasonal specials rotate in regularly, and the restaurant will operate from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday while extending to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

San Jose Moves Forward with Over One Thousand New Homes

San Jose has unlocked substantial progress on housing by approving nearly ten million dollars in incentives for three residential developments. These waivers will help deliver more than one thousand one hundred new units while addressing affordability challenges that many residents face daily.

In Downtown San Jose the Gateway Tower project at 470 South Market Street will introduce two hundred twenty affordable apartments in a fifteen-story structure that also includes ground-floor retail space. Construction starts in May. Nearby the historic Bank of Italy building transforms into one hundred nine apartments, preserving architectural heritage and adding needed homes to the urban core with work beginning in April.

West San Jose gains momentum as well. Sand Hill Property Co. has already launched construction at El Paseo de Saratoga where seven hundred seventy-two units will take shape along the Saratoga corridor. Vertical building is expected to advance soon.

San Jose continues to demonstrate leadership by streamlining costs and encouraging developers to move forward despite broader market pressures. As these projects rise, residents will gain more choices for living spaces that fit their budgets and lives.

Source: SVBJ

San Jose Welcomes Rowan’s First California Studio to Santana Row

San Jose has welcomed Rowan to Santana Row and in doing so has secured a fresh destination that redefines ear piercing for everyone from first-timers to seasoned enthusiasts. This modern studio arrives with clinical training at its core, delivering procedures performed exclusively by licensed nurses who follow strict operational standards developed over years of nationwide growth. The result stands as a milestone experience rather than a rushed errand, complete with hypoallergenic earrings selected to minimize any discomfort long after the appointment ends.

Residents who value precision will notice the difference immediately. Rowan maintains an adverse reaction rate below one percent through its dedicated clinical protocol, a stark improvement over typical industry figures. That consistency has fueled expansion to more than one hundred studios across the country, and Santana Row now serves as the gateway for California. Families marking birthdays, teens choosing their first lobes, or anyone refreshing an existing look can step in knowing safety and style receive equal attention in a space designed for comfort from the moment of arrival.

Santana Row already draws crowds for its mix of dining, retail, lifestyle and entertainment attractions, so this just adds another option to the list. Rowan’s intentional design blends medical expertise with welcoming aesthetics, turning what could feel clinical into something celebratory and approachable.

San Jose Cat Day Returns This Weekend With Feline Fun Across Downtown

Cat enthusiasts across the South Bay will find their perfect gathering spot this Saturday in Downtown San Jose. The second annual San Jose Cat Day will take over Paseo de San Antonio and the Post Street area from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. as a free celebration packed with vendors, kittens, and creative activities.

More than 55 local makers, artists, and small businesses will set up shop at the Paseo de San Antonio with cat-themed goods ranging from artwork to one-of-a-kind accessories. Early arrivals among the first 1,000 guests will pick up a special San Jose Cat Day giveaway while supplies last.

Near the MOMENT Post Street storefronts, the Kitten Lounge from Mini Cat Town will let visitors meet adoptable kittens during 15-minute sessions. Craft stations will offer hands-on experiences including friendship bracelet making and cat-themed coloring, while food vendors will serve up themed treats and desserts. Head over to experience the fun firsthand and support local businesses in Downtown San Jose.

99 Affordable Homes Will Rise on South Almaden Near Downtown San Jose

Satellite Affordable Housing Associates will build a nine-story apartment complex with 99 units at 501 South Almaden Avenue. The project will stand right next to the Arya affordable housing development the same team previously completed. SB 35 will enable a speedy approval process that moves the project forward without traditional delays.

All apartments will deliver 100 percent affordable housing. The building will contain 67 studio units, 31 one-bedroom apartments, and one two-bedroom home. This thoughtful mix will support a broad range of households seeking a central San Jose location.

Source: The Mercury News

San Francisco Bay University Prepares to Launch Neighborhood Campus Near Downtown San Jose

San Francisco Bay University has secured roughly 4,000 square feet inside the Center for Employment Training on Vine Street and aims to bring the space online later this year. This move establishes the Fremont-based school’s inaugural neighborhood campus right near Downtown San Jose. The site will eventually host undergraduate and graduate programs plus key student resources.

Local residents stand to benefit from accessible programs shaped through direct conversations with community members. Planners will prioritize stakeholder input to craft services and coursework that truly align with neighborhood aspirations for learning and growth. The approach puts community needs first every step of the way.

You will discover an inviting hub where dropping in becomes routine. Students can forge relationships, tap into mentorship networks, and feel fully integrated into the wider SFBU experience. The adaptable layout leaves ample space for expansion should it be needed.

Proximity to the main campus in Fremont was also an added bonus for the San Jose location. Success here paves the way for the next location in Oakland, advancing a model that embeds education deeply within city neighborhoods.

Source: SVBJ

Gateway Tower Will Deliver 220 Affordable Homes to Downtown San Jose

The Core Cos. secured decisive predevelopment financing that puts construction of Gateway Tower on track to start this summer. The 15-story structure at 470 South Market Street will introduce 220 apartments in the SoFA district near Downtown San Jose. Every apartment will stand as affordable housing.

Developers adjusted the original market-rate vision to serve households earning 30 to 70 percent of area median income. Housing Trust Silicon Valley contributed $1.5 million from its TECH fund to advance the entire effort. The corner location delivers immediate walkability to transit lines, exciting restaurants, and neighborhood services.

You will gain a front-row seat to this exciting development at the intersection of South Market, East William, and South First streets. The tower places future residents in the middle of Downtown San Jose’s energy with modern homes and shared community spaces. This project will open up new possibilities for families who want to stay rooted in the city core.

Gateway Tower represents meaningful progress toward a more inclusive San Jose. The rising structure will enhance the skyline while providing hundreds of families the chance to call Downtown home. Hopefully we'll see this break ground in the coming weeks. This kind of development keeps pushing Downtown San Jose closer to its full potential as a vibrant world-class destination.

Source: The Mercury News

Downtown San Jose Breakfast Just Got Much More Exciting

Downtown San Jose received a fantastic new addition earlier this month with the opening of Pretty Good Advice. This fast-casual spot from Michelin-starred chef Matt McNamara brings ingredients harvested from his own Santa Cruz Mountains farm right into the heart of the city.

The signature OG Spicy Boy sandwich has already won fans. It stacks a fried egg, crispy hash brown, roasted jalapeños, caramelized onions, and spicy aioli between slices of ciabatta. The farm-to-table focus ensures every bite tastes fresh and full of flavor.

McNamara, who spent his childhood in Cupertino, deliberately picked Downtown San Jose for the new location. He designed the menu around accessible pricing and mostly vegetarian options that still appeal broadly.

San Jose continues building momentum in its food scene. Spots like Pretty Good Advice contribute meaningfully to the goal of making this city an outstanding place to live and explore every single day.

Pretty Good Advice is open from 9am-5pm Monday through Friday at 125 Paseo de San Antonio.

Source: SFGATE

Create Lasting Easter Memories with the Easter Bunny at Santana Row

Santana Row will host a free family event featuring photos with the Easter Bunny. Mark Saturday, March 28, 2026, on the calendar for the noon to 3 p.m. appearance at Oak Tree Lounge, located just outside Blue Bottle Coffee. Everyone can drop by without reservations to capture those special moments in this prime San Jose destination.

Children will light up upon meeting the Bunny while parents collect photos full of Easter joy. The no-cost opportunity allows groups of all sizes to participate and build new traditions.

Symphony San Jose Prepares Landmark 25th Anniversary Season Filled with Historic Celebrations

Symphony San Jose will commemorate its 25th anniversary while simultaneously honoring the 100th anniversary of the California Theatre and the 150th anniversary of the first orchestral ensemble ever presented in San Jose. These converging milestones will infuse the entire 2026/2027 season with special significance.

Under Executive and Artistic Director Robert Massey entering his fifth year at the helm, the orchestra will deliver 43 performances stretching from October 2026 through June 2027. The lineup will maintain the group's signature balance of enduring classical works, bold new compositions, popular selections, and dynamic collaborations. Standout innovations will include a fresh December classics offering, an additional fully staged ballet partnership with New Ballet, the first-ever performance utilizing the California Theatre’s Mighty Wurlitzer organ, and the brand-new My Very First Symphony aimed at introducing families to the orchestra.

Enthusiasts can anticipate programs spanning Dvořák’s triumphant “From the New World,” Mussorgsky’s vivid “Pictures at an Exhibition,” and a spectacular live-to-picture rendition of Star Wars: A New Hope. You will savor seasonal highlights featuring The San Jose Nutcracker along with a joyful Holiday Spectacular, leading toward a stirring close with Beethoven’s monumental Ninth Symphony. Meanwhile, education outreach will expand through additional Students at the Symphony performances, ensuring the next generation connects with live music.

Subscriptions priced from $90 have become available now via www.symphonysanjose.org or by calling (408) 286-2600. Single tickets from $35 go on sale in mid-August.

Billiards and Big Games Set to Arrive in the Clara District

The Clara District has kept evolving at a rapid pace. Zoning clearance came through last month for a billiards-centered sports bar and restaurant at 2272 Calle Del Mundo. This 10,200-square-foot building has occupied a prime spot directly beside the newly opened Mainline North apartment complex in an area that once featured mostly single-story industrial structures.

Multiple billiard tables will serve as the central attraction there. You will enjoy a full food and beverage program with approachable bar-style dishes along with plenty of screens ready to broadcast major sporting events. The space will create an inviting atmosphere for both occasional players and dedicated enthusiasts.

Redevelopment has completely reshaped this part of Santa Clara in recent years. Dense housing projects have risen throughout the area while new dining spots have appeared alongside the residential buildings, including Clara’s Junction and its popular beer garden. The upcoming sports bar will join this growing collection of local destinations.

Source: SVBJ

Google Bolsters San Jose Presence Through Alviso Office Acquisition

Google has completed the purchase of a substantial office property in San Jose's Alviso neighborhood for $25.2 million. The two-story, 83,000-square-foot building at 4500 North 1st Street has joined the company's expanding collection of facilities in the area.

The acquisition has placed the new property directly beside the Meadow Point campus where Google already maintains nine buildings. Constructed in 2018, the facility came equipped with surface parking and will deliver immediate operational advantages through seamless integration with the surrounding infrastructure.

Thousands of Googlers will relocate to the Meadow Point campus this spring and bring more activity to northern San Jose. Google has restructured other real estate holdings at the same time by moving its cloud computing division to Sunnyvale and reducing subleased spaces. These steps have underscored a focused commitment to core locations here.

Anyone passionate about San Jose's future will see the benefits ripple outward as activity increases around Alviso. While it's not the 8 million SQFT Google campus we are all waiting for in Downtown San Jose, it's a step in the right direction.

Source: SVBJ

San Jose Will Transform Vacant Race Street Office Into Thriving High School Campus

A long-vacant three-story office building on Race Street has found a new future. BASIS Independent Schools has proposed converting the property at 525 Race Street into a complete high school campus designed for up to 800 students. The plan calls for turning underused commercial space into a vibrant educational hub complete with new facilities.

Workers will reconfigure roughly 72,700 square feet of existing space into classrooms and advanced learning labs. A brand new 16,600-square-foot gymnasium will complement the campus and bring the total size to nearly 89,400 square feet. The school will also feature around 100 staff members along with a summer session lasting six to eight weeks.

By repurposing empty office buildings, the city will inject new life into neighborhoods while meeting growing demand for quality education. Thoughtful traffic measures including staggered start times will help the campus blend smoothly into the area.

When classes begin in August 2029, families across the South Bay will gain valuable new options for their children’s high school years.

Source: Hoodline

Spring Fling Wine Stroll Awaits at Santana Row

The Spring Fling Wine Stroll takes place on Thursday, March 19th from 5-7:30pm across Santana Row. Attendees will move between tasting stations set up at shops and restaurants throughout the row, sampling selections that range from local California vintages to international favorites, accompanied by lite bites.

Expect to encounter selections from producers such as Cuda Ridge Wines, JMC Cellars, Rosa Fierro Cellars, Sakura Winery, and Steven Kent Winery. The evening unfolds with live music drifting through the plazas, and exclusive shopping perks.

A share of the $50 ticket price goes toward Hunger at Home, aiding meal distribution in the community. For tickets and additional information, visit https://santanarow.com/event/spring-fling-wine-stroll/

2026 Silicon Valley Index Confirms San Jose Region’s Remarkable Innovation Strength

The 2026 Silicon Valley Index has delivered compelling evidence of the powerful growth trajectory running through San Jose. The regional economy expanded 38 percent over the past decade, clearly surpassing growth recorded in California and across the United States. Venture capital investment climbed to $92 billion while local creators filed more than 23,000 patents in one year alone. Productivity has reached $336,515 per worker, standing 75 percent above the national average.

San Jose has anchored this dynamic ecosystem from the start. The city has helped sustain nearly half of the nation’s unicorn companies and attracted exceptional talent that continues driving breakthroughs in artificial intelligence and advanced technologies. Strong productivity numbers and elevated earnings levels have reinforced the area’s global leadership position.

These results have emerged from years of focused collaboration and bold vision. The Index has shown how San Jose has built an environment where ambitious ideas gain the support needed to reach the world stage. The latest data has highlighted a solid foundation capable of propelling San Jose toward even bigger achievements in the coming years.

Download the complete 2026 Silicon Valley Index report here: https://jointventure.org/images/stories/pdf/index2026-jvsv.pdf

San Jose Opens New AI Training Center at Downtown MLK Jr. Library

San Jose launched the AI Center for Civic and Social Good to strengthen its position as a technology leader. The new facility occupies the first floor of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Library at San Jose State University near the south entrance by Tower Lawn in Downtown San Jose. This public hub will provide free classes and workshops tailored for students, job seekers, and city employees eager to build vital capabilities.

Adobe contributed a key grant to develop the space and fund ongoing activities. The city and San Jose State University partnered on the project with a total budget around $800,000. OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google enhanced the offerings through the established AI for All initiative by providing access to specialized online courses, training pathways, and certifications.

OpenAI will roll out in-person workforce training sessions at the center starting in April. This public expansion builds successfully on prior programs that equipped city employees with practical AI tools for their roles. Leaders structured the center to help locals actively participate in the AI growth transforming the region.

This is one more step San Jose is taking to steadily advance toward its goal of becoming the most AI-literate city on the planet. The initiative pairs education efforts with broader initiatives to bring data centers and AI investments into Downtown San Jose.

Source: SVBJ

Easter Pet Photos with the Bunny Arrive at Santana Row

Santana Row will host an adorable Easter tradition tomorrow, March 15th, that welcomes pets and their owners with open arms. Visitors will step into a festive photo setup complete with the Easter Bunny for professional portraits that capture springtime charm. The event will run from 10am-2pm in Park Valencia (in front of Maggiano's). Photos with your pet requires a minimum donation of $10, but all proceeds will benefit the Humane Society Silicon Valley.

Pet lovers will enjoy a dedicated space designed for dogs, cats and other companions to pose safely and comfortably. Professional photographers will guide each session to ensure everyone looks their best against cheerful Easter backdrops. Afterward, the district's luxury shops and restaurants stand ready for continued exploration and relaxation.

Santana Row is a pro at blending holiday fun with everyday sophistication, This event fits perfectly into the upscale location's calendar of engaging activities that keep the area lively year-round.

San Jose Ghost Tour Brings Eerie Tales to Life in Downtown San Jose

Happy Friday the 13th! A few weeks ago I had a chance to participate in one of the most unique walks I have ever taken throughout Downtown San Jose. I joined the San Jose Ghost Tour: The Scythe, Sacrifice, & Silhouette. The guided one-mile journey takes participants past buildings steeped in decades of dramatic events and reported hauntings while at the same dropping tons of fascinating history of San Jose.

The experience began under the prominent arch at Paseo de San Carlos and wound through areas tied to everything from Wild West saloons and brothels to brewery tragedies to sorrows at San Jose State University. Stories shared included the former Sainte Claire Hotel, where spirits have remained active, and the last public lynching in the US at St. James Park.

I learned so many new things from the tour. I don't want to give too much away, but did you know Trials Pub used to have a jail in the basement where several people died, and the remnants of the cells are still there directly beneath the dart boards? Multiple people have reported ghost sightings at Trials as well as unexplained bruises when collecting darts.

On the other hand I also learned that the concept of quicksilver (mercury) mining actually came from Indian tribes. While there was so much fuss about the gold rush, more money was made mining quicksilver at the New Almaden Mine in San Jose than ANY individual gold mine in all of California.

This tour succeeded in blending in documented local history with accounts of shadow figures and unexplained phenomena. Anyone drawn to unique perspectives on local heritage will find this tour delivers in compelling fashion. The walk has offered distinctive way to experience Downtown San Jose after dark and the tour guide was fantastic!

All of the tours start at 8pm and are relatively kid friendly (ideal for older kids). Reserve your tickets at https://usghostadventures.com/san-jose-ghost-tour/ or https://lizzie-borden.com/ghost-tours/san-jose/

Flora is Blooming in Santana Row

San Jose foodies are getting yet another trio of compelling reasons to head to Santana Row. Flora San Jose will soon transform the long-vacant Rosie McCann's space into a versatile all-day dining destination on a prime corner behind Hotel Valencia.

Russ Fukushima and Jameson Parvizad of Water Tower Kitchen team up with Danny Shafazand of Bell Tower Cafe and NOVA Nightclub in Downtown San Jose to create the new concept. Guests will enjoy a seamless shift from bright morning meals to lively evening dining with an evolving menu that matches the time of day.

At the same time Bacio di Latte is already scooping its high-quality Italian gelato at Santana Row, and Johnny Doughnuts will soon bring its nationally acclaimed handcrafted doughnuts to the neighborhood.

Source: SVBJ

San Jose Advances Plans for 272 Affordable Homes Along West San Carlos Street

Site development permits filed recently have propelled forward an addition of 272 fully affordable apartments at 860 West San Carlos Street. Swenson partnered with Republic Urban Properties to create this seven-story building that will stand 79 feet tall across a 2.2-acre site between Sunol Street and Swenson Drive, completing the final phase alongside the established Silver at Ohlone and Patina@Midtown communities.

A thoughtful mix of residences will cater to diverse needs with 107 one-bedroom units, 96 two-bedroom homes, and 69 three-bedroom options. Shared amenities centered on third-floor podium courtyards will include a fitness center, computer room, multipurpose space, and storage for 76 bicycles. The 242-space garage will support practical living while encouraging use of nearby transit.

Those who settle here will appreciate the short stroll or bike ride to Diridon Station, providing easy access to Caltrain, Light Rail, BRT and eventually BART and California High Speed Rail (maybe). While it's not a high-rise, it is dense for the area.

Source: SF YIMBY

There are Still Some Affordable Homes in San Jose

The median price of Silicon Valley homes just hit the eye-watering $2 million mark, meaning half of all homes in the San Jose metro sold for $2 million or more in 2025. Fortunately, there are still some rare affordable options out there under $1 million in San Jose. Below is one option in particular that is personal to me since a family member is selling it.

The home is a two-unit duplex near Little Portugal that is listed at $979,888. The 1948-built property combines two separate 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom units in a 1,462 square foot building across a 5,250-square-foot lot. The rear unit has a private backyard and detached two-car garage.

You could live in one unit and rent out the other, making it even more affordable, or rent out both as an investment property. I've seen both options for this home in my lifetime.

It has easy access to Highways 101, 680, and 280 and is walking distance to the BRT station on Alum Rock & King. It's also an easy walk to Plata Arroyo Park with soccer fields, basketball courts, a skatepark, playgrounds, and an outdoor gym.

If you or anyone you know is interested, please contact the listing agent at kalina.vu.santos@gmail.com or (408) 888-1178.

Spark Social Brings Bay Area Food Truck Energy to San Jose's Creekside District

Mark your calendars for an exciting new chapter in San Jose dining and entertainment. Spark Social prepares to launch its second location in the Creekside District next spring. Creekside or Downtown West is where Google plans to build their future multi-million SQFT campus around Diridon Station.

Spark Social will occupy 75,000 square feet at 140 South Montgomery Street and will invest nearly one million dollars into the buildout while planning to generate up to 150 local jobs.

You'll gain access to a full community hub that operates seven days a week. A daily-changing lineup of top Bay Area food trucks will join forces with a complete bar, a putt course, fire pits for evening hangs, and live music throughout the week. An active events calendar will keep the energy high year-round. Expect pop-up retail spots and nonprofit programs to round out the offerings and support local creators.

Spark Social adopts a vendor-friendly approach by charging flat daily or monthly fees instead of taking sales cuts. This setup mirrors successful farmers market models and helps small businesses thrive. The strategic placement steps away from SAP Center and Caltrain's Diridon Station and will draw crowds from games and commuters alike.

The Creekside District continues to evolve as part of the broader Downtown West vision for San Jose. Additional fitness studios and retail concepts will join the mix later this year. Hapa Brewing was the first establishment to set up shop in the new district but it's clear they won't be the last.

Source: SVBJ

Santana Row Local Artisans Featured at Monthly Makers Market

San Jose gains another fantastic draw for those who love supporting local talent. The Makers Market turns Santana Row into a creative hub on the second Saturday of every month from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The next one is this Saturday, March 14th.

Attendees will discover a wide selection of handmade items crafted by more than 60 local makers. Elegant jewelry, unique ceramics, apparel, leather goods, and plants fill the stalls and keep the experience fresh and inspiring. Live music adds to the energy as you enjoy food and drinks in a relaxed sip-and-stroll format.

Families and pet owners receive a warm invitation to join the fun at this free event. The open layout in the park creates an ideal setting for everyone to explore comfortably while connecting with the makers behind the products.

After the outdoor market, continue the adventure at the adjacent Makers Market store, which features even more selections from over 100 creators.

San Jose Launches East Village Business Improvement District

San Jose continues focusing on building stronger neighborhoods by establishing the East Village Business Improvement District along East Santa Clara Street. This new district will equip local businesses with dedicated funding for cleaning, safety enhancements, marketing, and beautification projects that will elevate the entire corridor.

Spanning from Sixth Street to 22nd Street, the area features 356 businesses supporting approximately 1,100 jobs. Starting this summer, these businesses will pool resources through modest annual contributions ranging from $125 to $250 based on their zone. The collected funds will deliver consistent services that address cleanliness and visibility while fostering greater collaboration among owners.

The move builds on the success of San Jose’s existing business improvement districts and adds fresh energy to a corridor already gaining recognition. You will notice the positive changes as sidewalks stay cleaner, public spaces look sharper, and new events bring more life to the street. With San José State University nearby, East Village stands poised to become an even more dynamic destination that showcases the best of the city’s entrepreneurial spirit.

San Jose now operates five such districts, demonstrating a proven strategy that keeps commercial areas vibrant and competitive.

Source: SVBJ

San Jose Earthquakes Elevate PayPal Park with Major Upgrades and Grateful Dead Jerseys

San Jose soccer supporters gain a vastly improved experience at PayPal Park this season. The club poured more than one million dollars into a full transformation of the Habbas Law Epicenter that unveiled on February 14. Rank + Rally expanded the team shop by an extra 1,500 square feet and quadrupled its overall size, giving fans far more room to browse merchandise and interact with products in comfort.

New matchday activities invite everyone to arrive early and linger longer. Speed shot, accuracy and passing challenges sit alongside three holes of Mini Foot Golf while the Scoreboard Bar keeps its title as the largest outdoor bar in North America. Fresh food stations now offer birria and chicken tinga nachos, deluxe sandwiches, rotating pizza options and more to fuel the pregame energy.

A special collaboration with the Grateful Dead brings authentic Bay Area spirit straight onto the pitch. The team designed custom Dead Kit jerseys that capture the band’s psychedelic style and honor its first-ever concert right here in San Jose. Players will wear these kits during at least four home games and several road matches, tying the club to local music history.

These enhancements position PayPal Park among the top destinations in Major League Soccer for families and longtime supporters.

Source: SVBJ