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.

Super Bowl 60 Epic Pre-Game with the Players Tailgate

Super Bowl 60 was one of the most successful South Bay events of all time, bringing activity to all corners of San Jose and Santa Clara. However, on game day there was one experience that really stood out. I was lucky enough to attend the Players Tailgate. This exclusive pre-game gathering draws over 50 active NFL players, celebrities, and guests for a mix of food, drinks, and entertainment right before kickoff. Hosted by Nate Burleson with DJ Irie on the decks, the event turned game day into a full celebration, complete with open premium bars and all-you-can-eat gourmet dishes from celebrity chefs.

Attendees got to enjoy unique activations like the Delish Showdown, where top chefs compete in a high-energy cooking battle, and Solo Stove's Squash the Beef setup for smashing burgers over open flames to settle rivalries. The lineup featured chefs such as Aaron May, Marc Murphy, Kelsey Murphy, Aarón Sanchez, Tristen Epps, Shota Nakajima, Josh Capon, Adam Sobel, Catherine McCord, Leah Cohen, Chris Cosentino, and Damaris Phillips, alongside the 10/10 Burger team.

Pro athletes including Puka Nacua, Jahmyr Gibbs, Tyreek Hill, Rome Odunze, Najee Harris, Brian Robinson Jr., Trey McBride, Deebo Samuel, and many others. They were mostly just out and about enjoying the awesome food like everyone else.

Players Tailgate is sponsored by Ortega, Skinnygirl, Organic Valley, Molson Coors, Columbia, Verizon Visa Card, Ballers Champagne, XCLSV, Solo Stove, Desnuda, Worth Magazine, the NFL Alumni Association, Delish Showdown, Square, Food Recovery Network, Simplicity Cold Pressed Juice, and Meta. Guests can sample the debut of Nature Calls, a beverage made with Montana bear poop (no joke) in partnership with Columbia Sportswear and Battle Creek Coffee, focused on sustainability.

The food was simply put, spectacular. My favorites included Chris Cosentino's Montreal-style Pastrami & Caviar Creme Fraiche Sandwich, JJ Johnson's Jerk Lamb Ribs with Plantain Puree, and Shota Nakajima's Katsu Sando Pork Cutlet. However, my absolute favorite was Belle English's 48 Hour Pork Rib with Fish Sauce Caramel and Sesame Brittle. Photographs are in order of mention below.

The sponsors had their own booths setup with food and surprises. As previously mentioned, they even had a limited edition beer called "Nature Calls" that is brewed with purified bear poop, something I wish I read before I drank it. Spoiler alert, it just tastes like beer.

After packing away several thousand calories and heading home for a pre-game nap, I realized that for a foodie this epic tailgate might be better than the actual Super Bowl. The next Players Tailgate takes place on Valentine's Day 2027 at SoFI Stadium in LA. It's pricey but you'll get an unforgettable experience.

Celebrity Chefs Elevate The Players Tailgate Ahead of Super Bowl 60

The Players Tailgate is the ultimate pre-Super Bowl VIP experience on February 8, 2026. This pre-game event, organized by Bullseye Event Group, features a lineup of renowned chefs and live entertainment.

The chef roster includes Aaron May for bold flavors, Marc Murphy as a respected restaurateur, Kelsey Murphy from MasterChef, Aarón Sanchez of Johnny Sánchez and Chopped fame, Tristen Epps as a Top Chef champion, Shota Nakajima with multiple James Beard nods, Josh Capon of VCR Group, Adam Sobel from AETHER GROUP, Catherine McCord behind Weelicious, Leah Cohen of Pig & Khao, Chris Cosentino for whole-animal expertise, Damaris Phillips with Southern influences, and 10/10 Burger for smash burgers. These talents will create multi-station offerings that range from gourmet specialties to creative comfort foods.

DJ Irie provides the soundtrack, delivering high-energy sets that keep the atmosphere lively as guests prepare for kickoff. Known as a top pre-game destination, The Players Tailgate draws celebrities and enthusiasts, making it a standout way to experience the Super Bowl, even if you don't have tickets to the big game.

For tickets and more information: https://bullseyeeventgroup.com/super-bowl-60-in-santa-clara/2026-players-tailgate-santa-clara

Asia Live Set to Elevate Dining at Westfield Valley Fair

An expansive new restaurant named Asia Live is preparing to open at Westfield Valley Fair, bringing a wide array of flavors from across the continent to the San Jose area. This two-story venue spans about 13,000 square feet and offers seating for 350 guests, featuring dishes inspired by Southeast Asia, Japan, Korea, and India. The concept builds on the success of its San Francisco predecessor, China Live, expanding the focus to celebrate a broader range of Asian culinary traditions in a marketplace-style setting.

The location at 2855 Stevens Creek Boulevard places Asia Live next to Shake Shack and across from Eataly, in the space once occupied by iChina. This addition enhances the mall's lineup of international eateries, drawing more visitors to explore the shopping and dining hub that serves as a key attraction for San Jose residents and those from surrounding communities. With a bar offering upscale cocktails similar to the original's popular spot, the restaurant aims to create a dynamic environment for meals, gatherings, and evening outings.

Scheduled for a spring 2026 debut, sometime between March and May, Asia Live represents another step in the ongoing growth of high-quality dining options in the region. It complements Westfield Valley Fair's role as a premier destination, where visitors can do more than just shop.

For more information, visit www.westfield.com/valleyfair.

Source: KRON4 (hat tip to usedmedia from Skyscraper City)

Empire Armadillo BBQ Set to Open New Location in San Jose

A new barbecue spot arrives in San Jose in a few days, carrying forward a local tradition with Empire Armadillo BBQ & Deli. The restaurant takes over the former Armadillo Willy's space at 878 Blossom Hill Road, with a planned opening on November 20. This marks the second outpost for the concept, following a successful launch in Sunnyvale just over two months ago.

The new venue covers nearly 3,000 square feet and seats 60 indoors, plus a 10-table outdoor patio. Its position next to Westfield Oakridge, one of Silicon Valley's major retail hubs, promises steady foot traffic. Visibility from busy Santa Teresa Boulevard adds to the appeal, making it easier for locals and visitors to spot and stop by.

Diners can look forward to favorites like the brisket sandwich or plate, which have proven popular at the Sunnyvale site. Fresh additions include a refined pastrami sandwich and seasonal pumpkin cheesecake, alongside staples such as New York-style cheesecake and house-made banana pudding. The team also pursues a beer and wine license to expand offerings at both locations. This expansion creates 14 to 17 jobs, with wages starting above minimum levels and tips for roles like cooks.

Source: SVBJ

Entre Comales Opens Its Doors in Downtown San Jose

A new addition to the food scene has arrived in Downtown San Jose with the soft opening of Entre Comales at 330 S. Third St. This taqueria and pupuseria steps into the space once occupied by the well-known Iguanas Burritozilla, bringing a wave of Latin flavors to the neighborhood. Residents and visitors now have a new spot to explore authentic Salvadoran dishes right in the heart of the city.

The menu focuses on handcrafted pupusas made the traditional Salvadoran way. These thick cornmeal griddle cakes come stuffed with a variety of fillings, offering something for everyone. Choices include revuelta with pork, beans and cheese, as well as options like chicken, potatoes, chicharron, beans and jalapeño. Vegetarian selections such as spinach, garlic and calabaza provide flavorful alternatives without meat.

During the soft opening phase, orders are available in person or through Instagram direct messages from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. This flexible approach makes it easy for people to try the new offerings. As Downtown San Jose continues to grow its diverse culinary landscape, Entre Comales adds to the mix of international eats that draw crowds to the area.

Details on a grand opening remain under wraps for now, but the early buzz suggests this could become a go-to destination for casual meals. Silicon Valley's food enthusiasts have another reason to venture the Downtown San Jose and discover what makes the city's dining options stand out.

Source: SVBJ

Dave's Hot Chicken Adds Heat to San Jose's Village Oaks Neighborhood

Dave's Hot Chicken is now open at 5670 Cottle Road inside the Village Oaks Shopping Center. The ribbon-cutting ceremony on September 26 featured remarks from Councilmember Pamela Campos, celebrating the third location in the city alongside spots on Brokaw Road in North San Jose and Prospect Road in West San Jose. This Nashville-style spicy fried chicken franchise, which began in a Los Angeles parking lot in 2017, has grown into the nation's fastest-expanding chain, bringing bold flavors to local diners.

Local owners Sam and Trina Wong, who raised their four children in the Evergreen area, bring a personal touch to the venture. Sam graduated from Gunderson High School in 1988 after immigrating to the United States in 1983 and settling in the Blossom Hill area. The couple worked in fast food and retail as teenagers nearby, making this ownership a long-held aspiration. The Village Oaks area has seen significant growth with new restaurants, shops, and businesses, and the Wongs aim to contribute through community involvement, including partnerships with schools, youth sports, and various organizations for fundraising.

The city's support extends beyond the opening, with funding for a new Business Improvement District in Village Oaks. This special district allows business owners to pool resources for enhancements like street cleaning, security, and marketing to draw more visitors and boost economic activity. San Jose has added two such districts in the past year for the Monterey and Tully business neighborhoods, with plans for four more in the coming months covering The Alameda, Story Road, East Village, and Alum Rock/Santa Clara Street corridors.

Looking ahead, the new location hosts events like a Free Slider Giveaway on October 23, alongside ongoing efforts to create jobs and participate in local charity initiatives.

Empire Armadillo BBQ & Deli Set to Carry On Armadillo Willy's Legacy

A beloved Silicon Valley barbecue tradition finds new life through the passion of a local engineer. John A. Vink, a longtime fan of Armadillo Willy's chicken sandwich, stepped in to purchase the bankrupt chain and relaunch it as Empire Armadillo BBQ & Deli. The concept soft opened in Sunnyvale this August, preserving the essence of the original while introducing New York-style deli elements to fill a gap in the local dining landscape.

The menu at Empire Armadillo keeps all the classic Armadillo Willy's items, from wood-fired barbecue to signature sides, while expanding with pastrami sandwiches and house-made banana pudding inspired by renowned New York spots. This fusion of Texas barbecue and East Coast deli creates a unique offering that caters to diverse tastes. The Sunnyvale location at 161 East El Camino Real has already welcomed back dedicated customers, and the entire staff consists of former Armadillo Willy's employees, maintaining continuity and expertise.

Plans are underway to bring Empire Armadillo to San Jose, taking over the former Armadillo Willy's site at 878 Blossom Hill Road. This expansion promises to revitalize a familiar spot in the city, providing a convenient destination for barbecue enthusiasts and deli lovers alike. San Jose's growing food scene gains another layer with this blend of traditions, inviting families and friends to gather over hearty meals.

The venture highlights the community's resilience, as Vink's investment saves jobs and keeps a 42-year-old legacy alive. Longtime patrons have expressed gratitude for the revival. With a grand opening in Sunnyvale scheduled for September 18, the momentum builds toward the San Jose launch.

Source: SVBJ

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

Flavor Showdown in Little Italy San Jose's Boss of the Sauce Event

San Jose will host a lively competition today with the fourth annual Boss of the Sauce tournament in Little Italy. From noon until 4 p.m. at 323 West Saint John Street, Italian restaurants present their signature sauces for attendees to sample and judge. This gathering celebrates the city's rich culinary traditions through direct participation from visitors who decide the winner.

General admission costs $25 and includes unlimited pasta tastings paired with the competing sauces, along with live music to set a festive mood. The event draws food enthusiasts eager to explore diverse flavors, from classic marinara to inventive twists, all crafted by local establishments. Such occasions highlight San Jose's growing reputation as a hub for authentic Italian experiences right in the heart of the city.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant Little Italy district, where the tournament fosters community connections over shared meals. Events like this add to San Jose's dynamic calendar, offering memorable ways to spend a Sunday afternoon while supporting neighborhood businesses.

For more info and tickets, click here.

The Stand is Coming to San Jose

San Jose is welcoming a new addition to its vibrant food landscape as The Stand opens its doors at 503 W. Capitol Expressway. This marks the chain's second spot in Silicon Valley, building on the success of its Santa Clara location. The 3,600-square-foot space includes a spacious enclosed patio that seats up to 185 guests, complete with a full bar for those seeking a relaxed meal or evening out. As the city continues to grow its culinary offerings, this arrival adds accessible American favorites that appeal to families and food enthusiasts alike.

The menu delivers a range of options designed to satisfy varied tastes, from signature burgers like the Stand burger and bacon jalapeno burger to sandwiches, salads, hot dogs, and wraps. Recent additions include bowls such as the miso salmon bowl, Tex-Mex bowl, and teriyaki chicken bowl, reflecting the chain's attention to evolving food preferences. Specials rotate every few months, ensuring repeat visits bring something new. With an emphasis on quality ingredients and affordable prices, The Stand positions itself as a go-to for casual dining in San Jose.

Beyond the food, The Stand commits to community involvement, having raised about $250,000 for local organizations in 2024. The San Jose site employs 40 team members and prioritizes personal service, avoiding kiosks in favor of direct interactions. Plans for handheld reordering from tables will enhance convenience while maintaining that human touch. The downloadable app allows guests to earn rewards, skip lines, and access delivery, making it easy to enjoy from anywhere in the city.

Source: SVBJ

Mazza Pizza N Grill Brings Fresh Flavors to the SJSU Area

San Jose's food landscape keeps evolving with local spots like the newly rebranded Mazza Pizza N Grill at 484 E. San Carlos St. This pizzeria, previously known as San Carlos Pizza, has undergone a thoughtful transformation under the same family ownership. Manager Yousef Latifi led the effort to update the over 20-year-old establishment, drawing from its roots while introducing a name that nods to the Farsi word for tasty. The result is a welcoming space that blends familiar comforts with new energy, perfectly positioned near San Jose State University to serve both longtime residents and incoming students.

The renovations touch every corner of the restaurant, from a freshly painted interior and upgraded patio to modern kitchen equipment like a new drink cooler, thermometer, and digital scales. At a cost of about $30,000, these changes support an expanded menu featuring a revamped pizza sauce, in-house garlic chicken strips, tri-tip steak toppings, and Grande-branded mozzarella cheese. Plans for Mediterranean-inspired wraps add even more variety, complementing the Italian staples and creating options that reflect San Jose's diverse tastes. Customers have responded positively to the updates, with initial confusion over the new signage giving way to enthusiasm for the refreshed concept.

Yousef Latifi has focused on building connections with the nearby university community, partnering with sororities and fraternities to promote the shop through flyers and potential philanthropy events as the fall semester approaches in late August. A strong social media presence on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook helps spread the word, showcasing the vibrant offerings to a wider audience. Core favorites remain unchanged, including the $9.99 one-topping 10-inch pizza, various pastas like chicken alfredo, halal chicken and steak kabob platters, and beer alongside the meals.

Open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Mazza Pizza N Grill offers convenient delivery through apps such as DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Postmates, with in-person and phone orders available too.

Source: SVBJ

Chayakada Brining Custom Chai to San Jose

San Jose gains a unique spot for tea lovers with the opening of Chayakada at 117 Bernal Road, Suite 80, where each cup of chai gets brewed from scratch on the stovetop to match individual tastes. Owner Aleena Thomas, hailing from Kerala in southern India, brings the concept of a traditional chayakada to life as a dedicated tea shop with snacks and bistro food, marking what she describes as the first of its kind in the United States. After leasing the 4,000-square-foot space in November 2024 and securing permits in May, the cafe welcomed guests starting June 1, filling a gap in personalized chai options often overlooked in favor of standard recipes at restaurants.

The menu extends beyond drinks to include dozens of homestyle meals and baked snacks, all prepared in-house by a five-person team without outside investors. Thomas envisions the space as more than a quick stop, incorporating a kids library, game room, lounge area, and multipurpose hall for events to encourage lingering and connection. On opening day, around 500 visitors arrived, leading to nearly 600 free cups of chai served, while the first week saw 1,000 people, five catering events, and hundreds more cups poured, as shared on their Instagram.

This addition highlights San Jose's growing diversity in culinary experiences, drawing from global traditions to create welcoming environments. With its focus on accessibility and customization, Chayakada invites residents to explore new ways to enjoy chai while fostering a sense of belonging in the community.

Source: SVBJ

Savor the Flavors of Brazil: Show De Carnes Brings South American Flair to San Jose

San Jose’s dining scene is heating up with the arrival of Show De Carnes, a Brazilian steakhouse chain expanding its footprint in the South Bay. Starting with its first location in Sausalito in 2023 and a second in Palo Alto in late 2024, the chain has now doubled its presence by adding two new spots in San Jose. This growth, happening within just three months, highlights the city’s growing reputation as a hub for diverse and exciting culinary experiences.

The new West San Jose location, set to open in October, will transform a former Red Robin at 1000 El Paseo de Saratoga into a 7,900-square-foot space seating about 250 guests. Meanwhile, Downtown San Jose will welcome Show De Carnes at 167 W. San Fernando St., where it has taken over the former Taurinus Brazilian Steakhouse. Already operating under the new brand, this location will soon update its signage, fully integrating it into the chain’s vision of bringing Brazil’s gaucho traditions to California.

At Show De Carnes, the menu revolves around rodizio-style service, where servers, known as gauchos, carve an array of grilled meats tableside. Guests can also explore a self-serve salad bar packed with cold meats, vegetables, and Brazilian staples like farofa, a seasoned cassava flour with bacon, and feijoada, a hearty black bean and pork dish. Adding an unexpected twist, the salad bar includes sushi, reflecting a fusion common in Brazilian steakhouses. For dessert, options range from passionfruit mousse and açai sourced from the Amazon to classics like lava cake and cheesecake, all paired with drinks like the Caipirinha, Brazil’s iconic cocktail.

The atmosphere complements the food with green and wood tones that nod to Brazil’s natural landscapes, creating an inviting space for both locals and visitors. With these additions, San Jose now hosts four churrascarias, including Santana Row’s Fogo de Chão and Silva’s Brazilian Steakhouse on Alum Rock Avenue.

Source: SVBJ

Bay Area Michelin Star Restaurants - 2025 Edition

As promised, I was quicker to update the The Michelin spreadsheet this year. The latest Bay Area honorees were just announced about a week ago. The Michelin guide is the most renowned rubric in the for measuring culinary success. Unfortunately, this year was uneventful. There were no changes to San Jose's list and we actually lost one Silicon Valley Michelin Star restaurant: Chez TJ in Mountain View.

Michelin has three different star categories:

• One Star - A very good restaurant in its category with cuisine prepared to a consistently high standard. A good place to stop on your journey.
• Two Stars - Excellent cuisine, skillfully and carefully crafted dishes of outstanding quality. Worth a detour.
• Three Stars - Exceptional cuisine with distinctive dishes and superlative ingredients. Worth a special journey.

"Green Stars" are for restaurants that are at the forefront of sustainable, environmental, and ethical standards.

There are also restaurants in the Michelin guide that do not get a star, but are considered "Michelin Recommended." This is already a significant honor that a very small percentage of restaurants achieve. This distinction has gotten more rare since the guide now covers all of California instead of just the Bay Area. San Jose has a total of 4 Michelin Recommended restaurants, and it's the same list as the past couple years.

San Jose Michelin Recommended Restaurants:

• Downtown
• Petiscos $$ (Bib Gourmand)
• East San Jose
• Adega $$$$ 
• Midtown
• Luna Mexican Kitchen $$ (Bib Gourmand)
• North San Jose
• LeYou $$

I created a Google doc listing all of the star recipients for 2025, along with tabs for all previous years and some general statistics. There is no longer a physical book for California, but Michelin will update their site after new stars are awarded.

Below is an image capture from the doc. This year there were a total of 42 Bay Area restaurants that were awarded Michelin stars. 62% of the restaurants are locating in SF, 12% in Silicon Valley (7% in the South Bay, 5% in the Peninsula), 19% in Wine Country, 5% in the East Bay, and 2% in Marin. There are three new restaurants on the list for 2024 and three that no longer made the cut or were closed down. There were no new Silicon Valley restaurants on the list from last year, but I'm feeling optimistic about next year with Adega (San Jose's only previous winner of a Star), Eos & Nyx, and Augustine.

San Jose Scores a Ramen Win with Tsujita Artisan Noodle

San Jose’s culinary map expanded on June 21 with the opening of Tsujita Artisan Noodle at 4330 Moorpark Ave. This Tokyo-founded ramen chain, already a hit in Southern California, Houston, and New Jersey, is planting its first Northern California flag right here. For ramen fans and curious food lovers, this is a chance to dive into something fresh and authentic without leaving the city.

Tsujita is known for its signature tsukemen, a Japanese dipping noodle dish featuring chilled noodles paired with a rich, thick broth. The menu, still taking shape, will also include tonkotsu ramen and a vegan option to welcome a wider crowd. The team wants to introduce Silicon Valley to the art of dipping-style noodles, a style less familiar in these parts but packed with flavor and tradition.

The location near Mitsuwa Marketplace and other Japanese shops feels like a natural fit. It’s a convenient stop for shoppers, office workers, or anyone craving a quick, quality meal. Open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., plus weekends from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., the space offers six tables and a dozen or so bar chairs for a cozy vibe.

Source: SVBJ

San Jose’s Food Trucks Take the National Stage: Jojo’s Hot Chicken and Joe’s Taco Shop Shine

San Jose’s culinary scene just earned a major spotlight. Yelp’s 2025 Top 100 food trucks list features two local stars: Jojo’s Hot Chicken at No. 4 and Joe’s Taco Shop at No. 94. 

Jojo’s Hot Chicken, parked at 1587 Kooser Road between Cambrian Park and Almaden Valley, delivers a flavor fusion that’s hard to resist. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., it blends the fiery heat of Nashville-style hot chicken with the aromatic depth of Ethiopian and Eritrean spices. Owner Yohana Gedam traded a steady car dealership career for his love of cooking, creating combos, sandwiches, and bowls that pack a punch. Grab a bottle of Jojo’s signature sauce to keep the experience going at home.

Meanwhile, Joe’s Taco Shop at 1609 Morrill Ave., just north of Japantown, brings nearly 35 years of Mexican food mastery to the list. This long-standing favorite serves up tacos, tortas, burritos, quesadillas, and chavindecas, those irresistible corn tortillas stuffed with cheese and meat, often grilled to crispy perfection. Beyond daily service, Joe’s caters events like parties, weddings, and corporate lunches, weaving itself into the fabric of San Jose’s community. Decades of dedication have made it a local legend.

The Bay Area shines bright on the list too, with Vallejo’s La Piñata (No. 6) and Rumi Kabob (No. 83), Napa’s Tacos El Muchacho Alegre (No. 61), and San Francisco’s El Gallo Giro Taco Truck (No. 81) joining the ranks. This regional strength highlights a thriving food truck culture, but San Jose’s entries stand out for their unique stories and flavors, anchoring the city as a culinary hub. Next time hunger strikes, roll up to Jojo’s Hot Chicken or Joe’s Taco Shop. One offers a spicy, soulful journey while the other delivers timeless comfort.

Source: SVBJ

Farmers Markets in San Jose

Our friends at SJ Today have a handy guide for Farmers Markets in the San Jose metro, a whopping 13 of them. From Evergreen, to Willow Glen, to Alum Rock, and even to surrounding cities, this is a pretty comprehensive list. Have a look in the source link below.

Source: SJ Today

Savor the Flavors: Dine Downtown San Jose Returns in July!

Now in its 17th year, Dine Downtown invites both locals and visitors to explore over 40 restaurants offering special menus, exclusive food and drink pairings, and chef-created delicacies. From July 11th to July 21st, food lovers can indulge in a variety of flavors that highlight the creativity and passion of San Jose's chefs.

This year's event features a wide range of dining experiences, from upscale restaurants to casual eateries, ensuring there's something for every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a three-course prix-fixe meal or a unique food and drink pairing, Dine Downtown has it covered. The event also includes popular cafes like Nirvana Soul and Pastelaria by Adega, each offering special treats for those who prefer a lighter bite or a caffeine boost.

To plan your Dine Downtown experience, visit dinedowntownsj.com, where you'll find a complete list of participating restaurants. Their special menus should also appear within a few weeks. The website is a valuable resource for organizing your culinary adventure, whether you're dining alone, with friends, or with family.

San Jose’s Hot Pot Scene Heats Up with Mumu’s Arrival

San Jose just gained a new reason to gather around the table with the opening of Mumu Hot Pot at Westfield Oakridge. The new restaurant already started welcoming guests this week at 925 Blossom Hill Road, Suite 1515. This is Mumu’s sixth Bay Area location—joining spots in San Francisco, Foster City, Sunnyvale, Pleasanton, and Emeryville.

Mumu stands out with its hands-on approach to dining. You start by picking a soup base—maybe the fiery Sichuan, the earthy mushroom miso, or the warm tomato option—then layer in premium ingredients like Angus beef short rib, sliced lamb shoulder, or shrimp paste. Add Napa cabbage, enoki mushrooms, or winter melon, and you’ve got a meal tailored to your taste. Vegetarians and halal diners aren’t left out either, with plenty of options to keep everyone satisfied. The modern space, decked out with natural materials and seating that works for solo lunches or big groups, makes it a spot worth lingering in.

Beyond the food, Mumu nails the details. An easy-to-use ordering system keeps things moving, while a drink menu with tea-based beverages, draft beer, and cocktails pairs perfectly with the bold flavors simmering in your pot. With over 200 seats, it’s ready for anything from a quiet dinner to a full-on celebration. Alex Hu, the Director of Operations, shared that San Jose’s diverse community and lively energy made it an ideal fit for Mumu’s next chapter. It’s a place designed to bring people together, and it’s landing right where it belongs.

Ready to check it out? Mumu Hot Pot at Westfield Oakridge opens daily from 11:30am–2:30pm and 5:00pm–9:30pm. Swing by 925 Blossom Hill Road, Suite 1515, and keep an eye out for launch promotions dropping soon. For more details, head to www.mumuhotpot.com.