Santana Row Black Friday Shopping Deals

Below is a handy list of the Black Friday deals at Santana Row, which is completely decked out for the holidays already. You can also get free photos with the Nutcracker & Mouse King in front of the Christmas tree from 1pm to 4pm.

• TUMI – Receive 15% off items during Black Friday week.
• Travismathew – Shop TravisMathew’s biggest sale of the year! Get 30% off storewide starting 11/26. Receive 50% off select styles starting 11/24. *Some exclusions apply
• Bluemercury – Receive 20% off of purchases of $799.99, 25% off purchases of $800 or more, 30% off of purchases $1500 or more. Shop the Holiday Gift Guide here.
• Suspiro – Receive 10% bonus on gift cards through 12/31. E.g., buy a $100 gift card, get another complimentary gift card for $10.  Spend $250, get $25, etc.
• El Jardin – Receive 10% bonus on gift cards through 12/31. E.g., buy a $100 gift card, get another complimentary gift card for $10.  Spend $250, get $25, etc.
• Taqueria Parranga – Receive 10% bonus on gift cards through 12/31. E.g., buy a $100 gift card, get another complimentary gift card for $10.  Spend $250, get $25, etc.
• Zazil Cocina Mexicana – Receive 10% bonus on gift cards through 12/31. E.g., buy a $100 gift card, get another complimentary gift card for $10.  Spend $250, get $25, etc.
• KOHLER Signature Store – Refresh your space for the holidays with limited-time savings. 5% off purchases of $800 or more. 10% off purchases of $1,600 or more (offer available November 10-30).
• BoConcept – 15% off all items during the month of November.
• Hot 8 Yoga – 15% off a 10 Class Pack (gift cards are not included). Click HERE to purchase.
• EVEREVE – 10% off storewide Black Friday 11/28 – Monday 12/1. Gift cards are not included.
• The Container Store – November 21–26 – 30% Off Storewide/Sitewide, including Elfa. November 28–30 – 30% Off Storewide/Sitewide.
• Casper – 11/24 to 12/02: 35% off Dream Mattress and Snow Mattress. Black Friday, 11/28:  25% off furniture.
• Nike – Visit Nike Santana Row to save 25% off select styles when you shop 11.13-11.27.
• Veggie Grill – Get more out of Black Friday at any Veggie Grill by Next Level! On Friday, November 28, 2025, receive a $20 bonus gift card for every $100 in gift cards purchased.
• MaiDo Stationery – $5 coupon with every $25 regular-price purchase. Sanrio winter items are 50% off. Hobonichi Covers are 75% off. Hands Craft Hello Kitty Flower Series 3D wooden puzzles are Buy 1 Get 1 Free.
• MaiDo Pop Up Shop – Purchase $25 or more and receive a $5 coupon for main MaiDo Stationery store.
• Straits – Unwind with signature cocktails, small plates, and the best vibes in town! Happy Hour from 3pm-6pm on 11/28. Black Friday Gift Card Special: Give the gift of flavor or treat yourself! Give more, get more ! Buy $100 , get $120. Buy $200, get $250. Buy $500 , get $650 (Offer available through December 31, 2025) Redeemable for dining, drinks, and celebrations at Straits. Perfect for holiday gifting, birthdays, or your next night out.
• PAIGE – 30% off storewide of regular priced items. Exclusions may apply.
• Kendra Scott – On Black Friday, 11/28, enjoy 40% off Fashion Jewelry and Color Bar and 25% off Everything else with a limited edition $25 Elisa necklace Doorbuster while supplies last.
• Vuori – Black Friday Weekend Only! Get a premium cotton canvas pouch with any purchase of $150 or more. Spend $250, and we’ll throw in a matching tote, too (Offer available from November 28 – December 1st) – while supplies last. Only 1 pouch per transaction.
• [solidcore] – 6 month Committed Membership (15% off standard pricing).
• Monthly 4 membership receive + 1 bonus class: $119.
• Monthly 8 membership receive + 2 bonus classes: $212
• 12 month Committed+ Membership (25% off standard pricing)
• Monthly 4 membership receive + 1 bonus class: $105
• Monthly 8 membership receive + 2 bonus classes: $187
• New Balance – The Black Friday / Cyber monday sale is live from 11/25 – 12/3. Same offer of up to 40% off select styles.
• Madewell – Enjoy 40% off your purchase from 11/20-11/26.
• VINCE -Enjoy 25% Off Almost Everything & 30% Off Sweaters. Valid 11/21/2025 – 12/01/2025

Sweet New Arrivals at Santana Row: Gelato and Doughnuts on the Horizon

Santana Row continues to draw crowds with its mix of shopping and dining options, and now two new dessert destinations are set to join the lineup. Bacio di Latte, a gelato brand originating from Brazil, plans to open its doors in early February, bringing authentic flavors to the retail hub that straddles San Jose and Santa Clara. This addition complements the area's growing collection of international tastes, giving locals another spot to indulge in creamy treats made with care.

Johnny Doughnuts, known for its handcrafted selections, is also preparing to launch at Santana Row, expanding its Bay Area presence from locations in San Francisco, Larkspur, Santa Rosa, and San Rafael. The chain has garnered recognition from outlets like the Food Network as one of the top doughnut spots nationwide and from the San Francisco Chronicle for its standout offerings in the region. While an exact opening date remains unconfirmed, this move signals more variety for San Jose visitors seeking fresh baked goods.

Source: SVBJ

Westfield Valley Fair Welcomes Exciting New Retailers to San Jose

San Jose’s retail landscape continues to level up, and Westfield Valley Fair Mall seems to be ground zero. This iconic shopping hub, already a go-to for fashion, dining, and entertainment in Silicon Valley, is adding a slew of new stores that are sure to turn heads. Whether you’re a San Jose native or just visiting, these fresh arrivals give you plenty of reasons to stop by and see what’s new.

Here’s a look at some of the standout retailers joining the lineup:

• RH Outlet: Known for its upscale furniture and home decor, RH (formerly Restoration Hardware) is bringing its blend of luxury and affordability to fill a once-empty space with style.
• Dolce & Gabbana: This Italian fashion powerhouse promises high-end glamour, adding a touch of international flair to the mall’s offerings.
• Mango: A global favorite for trendy, accessible clothing, Mango’s arrival makes it easier than ever to refresh your wardrobe.
• Kiehl’s: Skincare fans rejoice—Kiehl’s is setting up shop with its premium products, perfect for a little self-care.
• Nespresso: Coffee lovers can look forward to grabbing their favorite brews and machines from this sleek, modern outpost.
• Columbia: Outdoor enthusiasts will find top-notch gear for their next adventure, courtesy of this trusted activewear brand.
• Asia Live: From the creators of San Francisco’s China Live, this two-story culinary spot will showcase diverse Asian flavors starting in fall 2025.

The mall isn’t stopping there—plans call for 25 new stores by the end of 2025, covering everything from luxury brands to innovative dining experiences.

Source: SVBJ

Rivian is officially coming to Santana Row

Santana Row has played a pretty significant role in the history of electric cars. It had the very first of hundreds of Tesla stores, which has been significantly expanded due to popularity. It's considered a flagship store and is usually the first location to get previews of new products such as the Robotaxi, Cybertruck, and many others. Porsche also has a presence on the Row, often highlighting their EVs such as the Macan Electric. There have even been numerous pop-up events featuring electric cars along the Santana Row park.

Now Rivian is jumping in on the action. They are going to launch a new electric vehicle gallery on the 300 block of Santana Row. This is right in the front near Yard House. They will likely be featuring their newest SUV, the R2. The vehicle launches next year and is designed for the mass-market with a starting price around $45k, putting it right in line with the Tesla Model Y.

Unlike Tesla, Rivian is not planning to do test drivers from the Santana Row location. However, they do have a service and demo center at 660 North King Road in San Jose.

Across the street, Valley Fair also has two EV stores: Lucid and Polestar. The general area has become quite the hotspot for electric cars.

Source: SVBJ

Almaden Plaza in San Jose is getting a couple new stores

Tomorrow will be Barnes & Noble's last day at Almaden Plaza in South San Jose. That space along with the former spaces for Buy Buy Baby, Compass Real Estate, and Tuesday Morning will be merged into a single 81,000 SQFT anchor space. Sports Basement is planning to take that anchor spot later this year.

Tillys is also leaving its 10,500 SQFT store at the end of the month. That was actually the first Northern Californian location of that brand. However, the space is already destined to be replaced by Sephora sometime this summer.

Source: SVBJ

Shopping in San Jose

Visit San Jose has just released a video promoting shopping in San Jose  It's less than 90 seconds long, and highlights Santana Row, Valley Fair, Downtown San Jose, and Japantown. 

Santana Row and Valley Fair have become shopping ground zero for the entire Bay Area. While many malls around the country are closing, "Uptown" continues to reel in exclusive brands and experiences. Anyway, check out the short video embedded below.

San Pedro Holiday Market today

There are only a few days left until Christmas, but there are still many opportunities to buy gifts--especially from local entrepreneurs. The San Jose Downtown Association, City of San Jose, and SJMADE are hosting a holiday market at 60 N. San Pedro Street today in the heart of San Pedro Square. There will be over 20 vendors including:

• Ceramics By Jane
• Maco Decor
• Kyla Camille Candles
• Genevieve Inspired
• AJNA California
• Voyager Leather Crafts
• Yours Truly, Mary Anne
• The Hungry Sloth
• Kawaii Glass Co
• Charlotte Truffles
• SoyFeliz
• Love Through Letterpress
• Jale
• Peachisekai
• Thousand Skies
• A Jar of Pickles
• The Herbal Alchemist
• Dandekie

The event will run from noon to 6pm and you also get 90 minutes of free parking at the Market & San Pedro Garage, conveniently located next to the event.

For more info, head over here.

Shop local this Black Friday

Before you head to Amazon for holiday shopping this year, why not start with local businesses and entrepreneurs? You'll be able to find more unique gifts with local character right in your backyard. The San Jose Office of Economic Development has created handy shopping guides for twelve different neighborhoods across San Jose.

Some have special promotions, like a $50 gift card if you spend more than $150 in Downtown San Jose stores. The featured neighborhoods are The Alameda, Alum Rock, Alum Rock Village, Calle Willow, Downtown SJ, East Village, Japantown, Little Saigon, Luna Park, Tully, Willow Glen, and Winchester. To get started on your hyperlocal Black Friday, head over here.

San Jose's fanciest movie theater shuts down

The ShowPlace Icon movie theater at Westfield Valley Fair has suddenly shut its doors. The theater was one of the many entertainment draws at Valley Fair and featured premium seating, food, and cocktails. The ShowPlace Icon in Mountain View's San Antonio Center has also shut down.

COVID and the writer's strike was not kind to the movie theater business. Even though Icon offered a more unique upscale spin on going to the movies, sadly it wasn't enough.

There is good news though. The space will remain a movie theater and the general manager of Westfield Valley Fair has indicated that there will be a new theater operator soon.

Source: Silicon Valley Business Journal

Santana Row 2024 Lunar New Year Event on Feb 10th

Santana Row is welcoming the Year of the Dragon with entertainment and specials at several restaurants and stores. On February 10th, Santana Row Park will filled with lion dances, cultural performances, and surprise red envelopes containing gifts and offers. The event will be hosted by NBC Bay Area's Mike Inouye.

Scroll on down to see the dining and shopping specials that will only be available on Lunar New Year.

DINING SPECIALS:

Dumpling Time - Visit the pop-up bar outside Dumpling Time for to-go dumplings & drinks.

EMC Seafood - $20 gift card to customers that dine-in Chinese New Year who spend over $20 (before tips & tax) Card valid 2/25-4/30. One card per table, only in store.

Fogo De Chao - $25 Fogo Card for every purchase of a Trilogy Wine Box or purchase of the Seafood Tower Appetizer. 

LB Steak  - To celebrate the Year of the Dragon and the good fortune it will bring, LB Steak is offering a special Wagyu Fried Rice and cocktail offerings during February. Plus, receive a red envelope with your meal, containing a special offer to redeem upon your next visit. Offers include a complimentary dessert, appetizer, or even a Tomahawk steak!  Available for lunch and dinner, from February 10th-February 18th along with regular menus.

Maido - $5 off purchase from 2/10-2/19

Momosan  - Head into Momosan for a special discounted offer on 2/10/24.

Oveja Negra - 20% off 

Ozumo - Complimentary Dragon Crunch Roll with the purchase of a signature roll. Available 2/10/24 from 12pm-5pm.

Palmetto Superfoods - Pop in for an in-store promotion and 10% Off when you order the Just Acai Smoothie with Renude's Chaggaccino (must order with a staff member to receive discount)

Rosie McCann's - Enjoy Lunar New Year Festivities within Rosie McCann's and Chinese dinner special, plus specialty cocktail, Dragon Sour!

Straits- Receive a free glass of sparking for dine in guests only with your food order. 

SHOPPING SPECIALS:

Amour Vert - Year of the Dragon Sip & Style event , 2024  promotion and 15% off.

Atelier Studio - Receive $20 off for any new service.

BoConcept - 20% off 2/10/24-2/11/24

Fjällräven - End of season sale, select items 30% off.

Le Labo - 1.5 Ml Fragrance samples within red envelopes (while supplies last).

Optical Illusions - 35% off Trunk Show Items 2/10/24 only. 

Vince - 15% off entire purchase on 2/10/24 only. 

Some restrictions apply, see merchant for details.  Valid Saturday, February 10, 2024 only.

San Jose Winter Wonder Market this weekend at Westgate Center

A unique SJ Made event is going down this weekend inside of Westgate Center. Instead of taking place in a convention center or outside in a parking lot, they are utilizing all of the free space within the mall (see map below).

San Jose Winter Wonder Market will feature 150 makers, artists, designers, and creators. All of the Westgate Center stores will still be open, so you can do the rest of your Christmas shopping in one convenient place and support local small businesses at the same time.

Hours for the event will be from 11am-5pm on Dec 16th and 17th. Attendance and parking is free. There is also a VTA Bus Station on-site called "Campbell & Saratoga." Below you can find a hand map sorted both alphabetically and by booth number. For more info, head over here.

Vendor Lineup (sorted alphabetically)

(the) Lisa Inez - N02

2pomelo - K16

9 Lunas Accessories - B03

A Jar of Pickles - D01

A Jar of Pickles - D02

A Miyako M - Q03

Accessories NAGAOKA - Q01

Alice Yang - A21

Alpine Soapery - A15

Art by Julia - R02

Aubluvion - O02

Bad Art by Nice - H04

Bad Witch Crystals - Q02

bananabbean - D03

bb mad designs - P09

Boho Moon Art - F05

Browned Butter Babe Co. - P06

Bunniejing Studio - P10

Buppydogs - H01

BVanSoi - D05

Candy Paint Cafe - R04

CasaPlants Bay Area - P08

Ceramics By Jane - B15

Charlotte Truffles - K18

cherrypugpie - O01

Chibi-Oneechan - Q10

Christine's Cookie Co - M04

CloverLeafPie - A17

Cocochoon - K13

CositasContreras - G09

crochetwhispers - Q05

Cupcakes for College - Q07

Deercassette - Q08

Derptiles - P11

Dezireecustoms - F12

Draw Jess Draw - B14

DrawnbyIvy - B05

Dream Fields Indigo - K03

Earthside Candles Co - F07

eelsilog - A20

Eizel’s Bakery - K22

EnV Bags LLC - F01

Escama Studio - E03

Eternal Trinket - G08

Euphoric Sun - B10

Exhilo Apparel - A19

Fern Flower Studio - K11

Fine Art & Illustration by Tabitha Jensen | Pabkins - O04

Florabel - F03

Fluffed Animals - F11

Fonzie's Artisanal Goods - H08

Franci Cakes - H03

Future Bloom Apparel - F08

fuwaffy - A22

Fuzzlecat - R03

Gabbie Gallery - A12

Gabriel Edwards - E08

Galaxsea Emporium - K07

Girthybobastraw - K15

Golden Circle - P01

Golden Lemon Studio LLC - Q06

Golden Luxe Jewels - K04

goyangii - G07

Hachi Bit - F13

Hannah Hillam Illustration - G02

Happy Goods - E02

Hello Lily - E04

homeyviis - F06

Homie SF - A06

Huang Pottery - A07

ItsKleine - G11

Jale - K02

Jaliren - A09

JaneLi.Co - B02

Jellybee Jewelry - A08

Joce - O03

Jodi408 - J03

Joy Blossoms Clay - G01

Kawaii Glass Co - B13

Kelsiekishidraws - P04

Kindred Caramels - G04

Krafttee - C04

Kristine Chen Ceramics - K05

Kuailin Studio - K12

La Paloma Imports - B04

Le Petit Elefant - M02

Leila's Divine Designs - F10

LettucePunch - K10

Limpachi - K01

Linked By Trini - K09

Magnote - J01

McKinnon Collective - B01

Meelee Art - H05

Menmin Made - P05

Midori Chan - A14

MiGi Cera Candle Co - P07

MIMOPUFFS - K19

mintimelon marbles - K21

Misul Studios - A10

momofresh - K14

Motif's Art Studio - D04

Munespice - A05

Naptime Doodler - C01

Naptime Doodler - C02

Neko-Oi - Q11

No Thread No Life - A11

Nyaomikyu - K08

Out of the Woods - K24

Painting With James - B16

Panty Cat - H09

Paper Picture Mama - G06

Parasol Paper - P02

Peachirou - K23

Pink Little Clouds - A18

PinoyShotArt - A13

Prachie Studio - Q09

Prosecco Rose - H06

RainandJas - H10

rinihimme - K25

Rolilomi's Market - F04

Ronin Decals - F14

Rose Gold Jelly - Q12

Sakai Harts & Crafts - G03

sakuradragon - B18

sakuradragon - B20

Sam's Gourmet Jams - G10

Same Same Goods - E07

sanshocat studio - N01

Seto Arts - E01

Sherry Lou Studio - H07

shoyuscribbles - E06

SJMADE INFO BOOTH - I01

SJMADE INFO BOOTH - I02

SMOOCH - B08

Snippet Studios - B17

Snippet Studios - B19

soobiumi - A16

SoyFeliz - B09

Starry Droplets - K17

Sudibear - G05

Sundrop Studios - G12

Sweeter than Honey Bakery - H02

Teappo - P12

thanksxu - B12

The DLT Jewel Co. - K26

The Hungry Sloth - F02

The Joyful Thoughts - Q04

The Knotty Corgi - F09

The Little Forest Ceramic Shop - P03

The Little Red House - R01

Thrive Culture - E05

Treasure California - K06

Two Thicc Asians - B11

VinoBurrito - J02

Wild Rina - C03

Woofboard LLC - A24

Yanchako - B06

Yinaya - B07

Yours Truly, Mary Anne - A23

---

Vendor Lineup (sorted by booth number + row)

A05 - Munespice

A07 - Huang Pottery

A09 - Jaliren

A11 - No Thread No Life

A13 - PinoyShotArt

A15 - Alpine Soapery

A17 - CloverLeafPie

A19 - Exhilo Apparel

A21 - Alice Yang

A23 - Yours Truly, Mary Anne

A06 - Homie SF

A08 - Jellybee Jewelry

A10 - Misul Studios

A12 - Gabbie Gallery

A14 - Midori Chan

A16 - soobiumi

A18 - Pink Little Clouds

A20 - eelsilog

A22 - fuwaffy

A24 - Woofboard LLC

B01 - McKinnon Collective

B03 - 9 Lunas Accessories

B05 - DrawnbyIvy

B07 - Yinaya

B09 - SoyFeliz

B11 - Two Thicc Asians

B13 - Kawaii Glass Co

B15 - Ceramics By Jane

B17 - Snippet Studios

B19 - Snippet Studios

B02 - JaneLi.Co

B04 - La Paloma Imports

B06 - Yanchako

B08 - SMOOCH

B10 - Euphoric Sun

B12 - thanksxu

B14 - Draw Jess Draw

B16 - Painting With James

B18 - sakuradragon

B20 - sakuradragon

C01 - Naptime Doodler

C02 - Naptime Doodler

C03 - Wild Rina

C04 - Krafttee

D01 - A Jar of Pickles

D02 - A Jar of Pickles

D03 - bananabbean

D04 - Motif's Art Studio

D05 - BVanSoi

E01 - Seto Arts

E03 - Escama Studio

E05 - Thrive Culture

E07 - Same Same Goods

E02 - Happy Goods

E04 - Hello Lily

E06 - shoyuscribbles

E08 - Gabriel Edwards

F01 - EnV Bags LLC

F03 - Florabel

F05 - Boho Moon Art

F07 - Earthside Candles Co

F09 - The Knotty Corgi

F11 - Fluffed Animals

F13 - Hachi Bit

F02 - The Hungry Sloth

F04 - Rolilomi's Market

F06 - homeyviis

F08 - Future Bloom Apparel

F10 - Leila's Divine Designs

F12 - Dezireecustoms

F14 - Ronin Decals

G01 - Joy Blossoms Clay

G03 - Sakai Harts & Crafts

G05 - Sudibear

G07 - goyangii

G09 - CositasContreras

G11 - ItsKleine

G02 - Hannah Hillam Illustration

G04 - Kindred Caramels

G06 - Paper Picture Mama

G08 - Eternal Trinket

G10 - Sam's Gourmet Jams

G12 - Sundrop Studios

H01 - Buppydogs

H03 - Franci Cakes

H05 - Meelee Art

H07 - Sherry Lou Studio

H09 - Panty Cat

H02 - Sweeter than Honey Bakery

H04 - Bad Art by Nice

H06 - Prosecco Rose

H08 - Fonzie's Artisanal Goods

H10 - RainandJas

I01 - SJMADE INFO BOOTH

I02 - SJMADE INFO BOOTH

J01 - Magnote

J02 - VinoBurrito

J03 - Jodi408

K01 - Limpachi

K03 - Dream Fields Indigo

K05 - Kristine Chen Ceramics

K07 - Galaxsea Emporium

K09 - Linked By Trini

K11 - Fern Flower Studio

K13 - Cocochoon

K15 - Girthybobastraw

K17 - Starry Droplets

K19 - MIMOPUFFS

K21 - mintimelon marbles

K23 - Peachirou

K25 - rinihimme

K02 - Jale

K04 - Golden Luxe Jewels

K06 - Treasure California

K08 - Nyaomikyu

K10 - LettucePunch

K12 - Kuailin Studio

K14 - momofresh

K16 - 2pomelo

K18 - Charlotte Truffles

K22 - Eizel’s Bakery

K24 - Out of the Woods

K26 - The DLT Jewel Co.

M02 - Le Petit Elefant

M04 - Christine's Cookie Co

N01 - sanshocat studio

N02 - (the) Lisa Inez

O01 - cherrypugpie

O02 - Aubluvion

O03 - Joce

O04 - Fine Art & Illustration by Tabitha Jensen | Pabkins

P01 - Golden Circle

P03 - The Little Forest Ceramic Shop

P05 - Menmin Made

P07 - MiGi Cera Candle Co

P09 - bb mad designs

P11 - Derptiles

P02 - Parasol Paper

P04 - Kelsiekishidraws

P06 - Browned Butter Babe Co.

P08 - CasaPlants Bay Area

P10 - Bunniejing Studio

P12 - Teappo

Q01 - Accessories NAGAOKA

Q03 - A Miyako M

Q05 - crochetwhispers

Q07 - Cupcakes for College

Q09 - Prachie Studio

Q11 - Neko-Oi

Q02 - Bad Witch Crystals

Q04 - The Joyful Thoughts

Q06 - Golden Lemon Studio LLC

Q08 - Deercassette

Q10 - Chibi-Oneechan

Q12 - Rose Gold Jelly

R01 - The Little Red House

R02 - Art by Julia

R03 - Fuzzlecat

R04 - Candy Paint Cafe

Safeway next to Valley Fair Mall finally closing, perhaps opening up expansion opportunities

After 67 years, the anachronistic-looking Safeway next to Valley Fair mall is finally closing. It was only a matter of time given how valuable this land is and how unusual it is to have a Safeway right next to the most successful mall in California.

This opens a pretty significant expansion opportunity for the mall, which has been on a roll with both retail stores and experiences for visitors such as a high-end cinema, bowling, escape games, and foodie destinations like Eataly, Din Tai Fung, and Baekjeong. Perhaps the location could be used to push out Macy's Men's and extend the newest wing. This area is filled with premium outdoor dining, luxury retailers like Lucid Motors and new flagship stores (Apple, Burberry). While most malls are struggling, Valley Fair and Santana Row are both thriving, so now would be a great time to continue to invest.

As for the Safeway employees, they will all be given options to move to other stores in the area.

Source: SFGATE

Sidewalk Shops every Sunday through October 29th at San Pedro Square from 1pm to 5pm

A retail experience highlighting local entrepreneurs is taking place every Sunday in front of Moment SJ (60 N. San Pedro Street). Twelve different makers and artists will set up pop-up shops each week along the four local small business storefronts that already exist there--Woofboard, Tiny Keyboard Shop, Boho Moon Art, and Plant Slut.

You can park free for 90 minutes with no validation needed in the San Pedro Garage on-site. Enter the garage at 45 N. Market Street.

It's all outdoors, admission is free, and it's dog friendly. 

It's also a great opportunity to check out your favorite eateries or some of the newer restaurants on San Pedro such as Serious Dumpling, Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ, Dr. Funk, and Slice of Homage Pizza.

Santana Row getting first Yeti store in Northern California and 3 new restaurants

Yeti specializes in innovative outdoor gear and apparel. They have a strong following of brand loyalists around the world and this happens to be their first store not just in Silicon Valley, but all of Northern California. The store is open today.

In other Santana Row news, Urban Plates will open on September 4th. The restaurants will focus on health-conscience seasonal dishes made from local ingredients. They have two other locations, Dublin (which I've been to and it's fantastic) and Sunnyvale.

In 2024, Fitoor--meaning passion in Arabic and Hindi--will bring an Indian grill and lounge to Santana Row. The team behind the new restaurant launched the Michelin-rated Indian restaurant ROOH in Palo Alto and San Francisco. They are planning an upscale twist on Indian cuisine with cocktails that have "dramatic flourishes" and ambiance they describe as sultry and luxe.

Last but not least, Suspiro is a new Peruvian and Spanish fusion restaurant by the same owners as El Jardin and Zazil. They are planning to capture the best flavors from both types of cuisine in an atmosphere that is visually captivating.

While many shopping districts are struggling right now, both Santana Row and Valley Fair seem to be more than holding their own. If only we had a solution to bypass the traffic getting into the area.

100 Things To Do In San Jose Before You Die - 2nd Edition

Welcome to the blog post that has stayed in "draft" the longest. I started writing this right as COVID had just started to spread and decided to table it until the pandemic was over. Then last year, life got crazy... so this has been in draft for over three years!

Five Eight years ago I read the first edition of Susannah Greenwood's "100 Things To Do in San Jose Before You Die." As a hardcore San Jose aficionado, I was shocked (and delighted) that I had only done 54 out of the 100 things to do in the book. There is so much to do and see in San Jose.

25% of the entries on the second edition are new, and the rest have been updates with extended tips. I have used the book as sort of a checklist to see how many I can do. The answer is 52. In the 2nd Edition I have been able to do 52/100.

Some of the new entries include:

• Hiking Mount Umunhum
• Having a picnic at the Sierra Vista Open Space Preserve
• Bike, Blade, and Board at Viva CalleSJ
• Letting your taste buds travel with a Little Ethiopian in Little Ethiopia
• Indulge at Adega (I think this will be updated for the 3rd Edition)
• Pair farm-fresh food with gorgeous valley views at the Mount Hamilton GrandView Restaurant
• Celebrating the geekiest week of the year with Star Wars Day and Free Comic Book Day

...and many, many more. It's a great book and still very relevant, especially if you want to get the most out of the beautiful place where you live and uncover as many hidden gems and fun attractions as possible in your own home. San Jose is one of the most underrated cities in the United States, and this book will help explain why.

If I haven't been super clear, I highly recommend the 2nd edition (even if you have the first). You can get the book in paperback or Kindle form over here.

"In sitting down to revise the book, I thought a lot about San Jose, how it has and continues to change, as well as what a successful travel experience for me personally constitutes. I’ve been fortunate enough to travel to 6 continents and I examined what my favorite places were and why they ranked so. Certainly natural beauty, history, cultural offerings and great weather all play a part in connecting one to a destination and creating a positive travel memory, but what it really comes down to for me, are the people. That is the x factor. The people you meet, at least in my experience, can leave as much of a lasting impression in many cases as the food or the views or the activities you engage in. The people you meet have the power to transform a moment into a story and create a shared experience that extends its impact well after you’ve returned home. In short; conversations create connection and that connection is ripe for the picking in San Jose.

They say it’s not about the destination - it’s the journey, but I think San Jose truly proves they’re both very much intertwined. The featured places and events in the book were especially selected to not only represent our culture and highlight our tremendous natural landscape, but to underscore our strong sense of community. Each of the entries certainly qualifies as a stand-alone adventure, but each of them also strives to put the participant directly in the path of our cities most magical asset; San Joseans. These are the places you’re most likely to strike up that all important conversation with the most passionate and knowledgeable secret tour guides, each genuinely eager to enhance and elevate your experience with additional history, tidbits, and previously undocumented advice. It’s less of a guide to physical places perhaps as it is a curation of potential conversations by which one can better understand and enjoy our awesome City.

Whether you're a first time visitor to this biggest little city in the heart of Silicon Valley, a regular traveler to the area, or a local this 2nd edition is a great catalyst to exploring what makes San Jose tick and getting to know the authentic San Jose." -Susannah Greenwood

Valley Fair to become the largest luxury watch retail site in the country

Valley Fair already has a huge list of over-the-top watch stores where you can buy timepieces that cost as much as Teslas. These include IWC Schaffhausen, Panerai, Jaeger LeCoultre and Vacheron Constantin. If you haven't heard of any of those (like myself) they they are probably out of your budget. 

CH Premier Jewelers is planning to build a 16,000 SQFT multi-brand flagship store that will have several different watch boutiques. These would be brands like Patek Philippe, Omega, Blancpain, and Breguet & Piaget. This sounds almost like a department store for watches that should come with free Dom Pérignon and caviar while you're shopping--and perhaps they will off that. New 2023 Patek Philippe watches sell for up to $9,000,000. I had to count zeroes, but yes that is correct.

The new addition will make Valley Fair the top destination in the US for ultra-luxury watches.

Source: Silicon Valley Joe from the San Jose Development Forum

 

SJMADE Fest May 20-21

This weekend SJMADE is hosting their Spring event at History Park. There will be over 300 vendors and several themed areas: Kitty Carnival with a kitten lounge; K-Pop Plaza featuring live performances; Maker Marketplace; Artist Avenue; and food trucks spread across Noddle Fest, Spicy Feast, and Sweets Street.

SJMADE Fest runs from 11am to 6pm both Saturday and Sunday. The first 1,000 people each day will get a door prize. For a full list of vendors and activities, head over here.

Valley Fair is expanding and hitting records

After investing over $1 billion in greatly increasing the square footage of Valley Fair, disaster struck with the COVID pandemic. While many shopping centers are still struggling, Valley Fair is currently hitting its stride with record numbers of visitors and retail activity. Foot traffic and retail sales are both way beyond pre-COVID days.

The recent additions of a flagship Bloomingdale's, Eataly, Showplace ICON cinema, a new Apple Store, and an outdoor upscale dining district were tremendous successes. However, there is already a long list of new retailers coming to Valley Fair in 2023.

Coming up is Bowlero, which has bowling and billiards. It also features several bars and a full menu. There are 3 other locations (South SJ, Cupertino, and Milpitas).

You have a new Escape Game venue coming, one of my favorite things to do with friends and/or coworkers.

For food options, you have Marugame Udon, Killiney Kopitiam (Singaporean cuisine), and the first Northern Californian Baekjeong Korean BBQ. 

Last but not least, if you can afford Swiss watches that cost as much as a car then you'll be happy to hear Vacheron Constantin as the next major retailor coming to San Jose. This will be the 3rd Californian location (the other two are Palo Alto and SF). Also on the retail side you have expansions of Burberry, Louis Vuitton, and Marc Jacobs.

The diversity of what is being added to Valley Fair is impressive--it's going far beyond a typical mall. Now if only we could get mass transit and a better linkage to Santana Row.

Source: The Mercury News

Shop Local Campaign

It's still not too late to do some Christmas Shopping! 🎁

Mayor Sam Liccardo launched a #ShopLocalSJ campaign to encourage people to support San Jose businesses and help keep them afloat in these challenging times. It's a great way to contribute to our local community.

To see a list of Downtown San Jose businesses, head over here. I also have to plug SJMADE, which has a great selection of hyperlocal crafts and foods for purchase here.

Source: SVBJ

Cambrian Park Plaza Proposal

A once popular West San Jose shopping center is slated to be fully redeveloped into a mixed-use urban village. Cambrian Park Plaza is slated to have 58,000 SQFT of retail, a six-story apartment building with 305 units, 25 townhomes, 48 single family homes, a four-story assisted living facility, 229 hotel rooms and generous amounts of park space with include a children's playground, dog park, and community garden.

Weingarten Realty--the developer--was able to cram all of this into 18 acres by placing almost all of the 1,469 parking spaces underground.

The retail spaces are going to be between 1,080 and 5,000 SQFT, which will make it difficult for larger retailers such as BevMo to move back in but will be a convenient size for restaurants and small shops.

Cabrian Park Plaza drawings look pretty darn good so far and remind me a bit of Evergreen Village Square. This is envisioned as a signature project and effectively a downtown area for the Cambrian district. 

There is no ETA yet, but hopefully this moves into demo and construction by the end of 2021.

Source: San Jose Inside, SVBJ