Brunch Blooms in Downtown San Jose

Reza Manion, the mastermind behind the beloved Bloom Eatery brunch spot in Santa Clara, is bringing his vision to 225 W. Santa Clara St., with an anticipated opening later this year. This expansion marks a new chapter for Bloom, a restaurant that’s been winning hearts since its debut in 2020, and it’s a sign of exciting things brewing in the city’s core.

Manion’s journey into the restaurant world started early, shaped by his upbringing in his family’s café, Sara’s Kitchen, a Santa Clara staple for over three decades. That experience fueled his dream of creating his own space, and Bloom Eatery was born. The Santa Clara location quickly gained a following for its standout dishes like croissant French toast and chicken and waffles. Now, Downtown San Jose gets to experience that same magic, with a 4,000-square-foot space that Manion describes as perfect thanks to its natural light and lack of brunch competition nearby.

The move to Downtown wasn’t Manion’s first instinct—he initially leaned toward smaller towns like Campbell or Los Gatos. But when a real estate opportunity arose, he saw the potential for Bloom to shine in an area he believes is on the upswing. Challenges like parking and Downtown’s reputation don’t faze him; instead, he’s eager to contribute to the area’s growth. With the interior build-out underway and permits in progress, he’s aiming to open by late summer or early fall, setting the stage for a cozy brunch haven just before the holiday rush.

What makes Bloom special is its commitment to keeping things simple yet exceptional. The menu stays focused, letting the quality of the food and the care in its presentation take center stage. Whether it’s the flaky layers of croissant French toast or the crispy perfection of chicken and waffles, freshness is key. Manion wants Bloom to feel like a neighborhood gem—approachable, elegant, and rooted in community. 

Source: SVBJ

Voyager Craft Coffee Brews Up a New Chapter in Downtown San Jose (Including an Underground Jazz Club)

Located at 111 W. St. John St., this 4,500-square-foot café, complete with a patio, is breathing new life into a space that sat empty for five years after Scott’s Chowder House closed in 2020. The new shop is a feast for the senses, blending eye-catching design with the rich aromas of freshly roasted coffee and homemade pastries. It’s a welcome addition that’s already drawing crowds eager to enjoy its unique vibe.

Step inside, and you’re hit with a burst of color—multi-colored benches and chairs line the space, while an abstract mural of Brazil stretches across the front wall. Another mural, a heartfelt tribute to the owners’ late three-legged dog Margie, adds a personal touch to the décor. Beyond the visuals, Voyager is all about the craft. They roast their own coffee, whip up milks and syrups in-house, and bake pastries fresh every day. Fan favorites like the Tokyo and Valencia lattes—nodding to the owners’ global adventures—pair perfectly with treats like raspberry oat bars, strawberry conchas, and pull-apart muffins.

The excitement doesn’t stop at coffee. Tucked beneath the café is a 900-square-foot lounge that the owners are transforming into a jazz club. Soon, you’ll be able to enjoy live jazz in an intimate setting, maybe even with a glass of wine if their beer and wine license comes through. They’re also planning to enclose part of the patio for live music, comedy acts, and more, shining a spotlight on Downtown San Jose’s talent and culture. 

This isn’t just a spot to grab a latte, it’s an unofficial expansion of the San Pedro Square Market to the other side of the street. Voyager’s team is set on creating a space where people connect, creativity thrives, and the city’s spirit shines. It's open today, but mark your calendars for the ribbon-cutting on May 30. Whether you’re a coffee lover, a jazz fan, or just someone hunting for a lively hangout, Voyager’s latest venture has you covered.

Source: SVBJ

New Paris Baguette coming to East San Jose / Evergreen

For those who haven’t yet met Paris Baguette, it’s a worldwide sensation known for blending French baking traditions with creative twists that delight every palate. The menu boasts an array of signature goodies: buttery croissants, crusty baguettes, and pastries.

The newest Paris Baguette location is going to be a 3,500 SQFT space at the site of a former paint store near the Target on East Capitol Expressway. The restaurant chain has been staking out this area for three years and finally has a future location between East San Jose and Evergreen.

Currently, the goal is to open its doors at 1650 E. Capital Expressway in July or August of this year. Check out the article below for more details.

Source: SVBJ