Tai Er Sichuan Cuisine Opens at Valley Fair Bringing Signature Wok Magic to Silicon Valley

Food lovers throughout the South Bay eagerly anticipate the grand opening of Tai Er Sichuan Cuisine at Westfield Valley Fair in Santa Clara. This marks the brand's second Bay Area location following its successful debut in San Mateo, and it promises to elevate the already thriving dining options right in the backyard of San Jose.

Since launching in 2015, Tai Er has built a global reputation with over 500 locations by obsessing over details like its hallmark 23-day house-fermented sauerkraut fish. The new Valley Fair outpost will deliver that same commitment to bold, nuanced flavors in a modern setting designed for sharing.

The spacious restaurant features an open kitchen where skilled chefs execute high-heat wok dishes that capture authentic smokiness and aroma. Standouts on the expanded menu include location-exclusive creations such as lime-glazed sweet and sour shrimp and truffle vegetarian fried rice with mushrooms and seasonal vegetables. Diners will also savor wok-seared black pepper beef, house special beef fried rice, fresh appetizers, and desserts like fried mochi cubes served with ice cream.

The grand opening is currently slated for the weekend of May 1st. I'm planning to do a full review around mid-May.

Lunaire Returns to Westfield Valley Fair with Vibrant Lunar New Year Displays

Westfield Valley Fair transforms into a floral wonderland this week as Lunaire makes its triumphant return, running from February 11 through 17. This free event fills the mall with over 15 elaborate fresh-flower installations, each one a masterpiece crafted by some of California's most inventive floral designers. The theme honors Lunar New Year and the dynamic Year of the Horse, infusing the space with energy, color, and cultural depth that captures the spirit of renewal.

Visitors can wander among towering floral sculptures and whimsical mannequins draped in blooms, petals, and natural elements that tell stories of tradition. One standout features a majestic horse figure galloping through fiery autumn leaves and intricate woven details, while others evoke moonlit cycles and playful animal motifs.

A highlight comes with the Fan Favorite Contest, inviting everyone to cast votes for their top mannequin. The lucky winner scores a luxurious one-night getaway for two at Rosewood Sand Hill, complete with a gourmet breakfast.

For additional information, visit https://www.westfield.com/en/united-states/valleyfair/events/lunaire-returns/133787

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)

Tai Er Sichuan Cuisine Expands to Westfield Valley Fair in San Jose

Westfield Valley Fair shoppers will soon enjoy authentic Sichuan flavors with the November opening of Tai Er Sichuan Cuisine in the mall's luxury wing. This marks the brand's second Bay Area location following a successful debut in San Mateo earlier this year. With over 650 sites worldwide and existing U.S. outposts in Los Angeles and New York, Tai Er chose the South Bay for its diverse and innovative community, where global tastes find a ready audience.

The new Santa Clara spot features around 100 seats in a contemporary setting that echoes the San Mateo design, selected for its prime visibility among high-end retailers. Diners can expect an immersive experience that transports them to southwest China through bold dishes and welcoming ambiance. Joining other Asian-inspired eateries like Stick & Wok and Din Tai Fung, Tai Er stands out with its focus on traditional preparations that highlight regional authenticity.

At the heart of the menu sits the signature sauerkraut fish, crafted from small-leaf mustard greens and sauerkraut imported from Sichuan province and fermented for 23 days in clay jars with salt and sugar. This base simmers in pork-bone broth with snakehead fish, finished with dry chili flakes for a tangy, spicy profile. Other highlights include tomato fish fillet and clay pot shrimp, offering variety for repeat visits.

This company-owned restaurant will create 60 to 80 jobs in front- and back-of-house roles, contributing to San Jose's thriving economy. As part of a strategic U.S. growth plan, the opening emphasizes quality over quantity, targeting cities that value culture and community. San Jose's inclusion in this expansion underscores its appeal as a hub for international cuisine.

Source: SVBJ

Westfield Valley Fair Welcomes COS and More Exciting Stores to San Jose

San Jose's Westfield Valley Fair Mall expands its appeal with the recent opening of COS on October 3, marking the London-based brand's first location in Northern California and third in the state overall. Owned by H&M Group, which already operates a store in the mall since last year, COS brings contemporary fashion options that blend timeless designs with modern touches. This addition draws shoppers seeking quality pieces, enhancing the mall's reputation as a premier destination in Silicon Valley where variety meets convenience.

Several other brands prepare to join the lineup, including FP Movement as the activewear extension of Free People, which maintains an existing presence at Valley Fair. Beyond Yoga arrives with its workout apparel, building on its single Bay Area spot in Walnut Creek to offer comfortable, stylish gear for fitness enthusiasts. MANGO also gears up for an October debut in a spacious 9,000-square-foot storefront created by combining four units, promising fresh trends for diverse tastes. These arrivals build momentum, inviting locals and visitors to explore evolving retail experiences.

The momentum follows summer highlights like the Hello Kitty Cafe and Alamo Drafthouse, which have already added fun and entertainment to the mix. Such developments position Westfield Valley Fair as a vibrant hub that combines shopping, dining, and leisure, reflecting San Jose's dynamic growth. With these enhancements, the mall strengthens community ties and attracts crowds eager to discover what the city offers.

As San Jose continues to thrive, spots like Westfield Valley Fair showcase its ability to adapt and innovate in retail. The new stores provide reasons for repeated visits, more so than traditional shopping.

bizjournals.com

Source: SVBJ

Innovation Drives into San Jose with Afeela Studio

Afeela Studio has just opened its immersive pop-up from from Sony Honda Mobility at Westfield Valley Fair. This immersive pop-up showcases the Afeela 1, blending Honda's engineering expertise with Sony's technological innovations. Available for six months, the studio lets visitors explore the Core Black Signature Series and Calm White editions up close. Located near Lululemon and Sunglass Hut, it positions the city as a key spot for experiencing next-generation mobility.

The Afeela 1 stands out with its array of features designed for modern drivers. An AI-powered personal assistant handles tasks intuitively, while up to 40 sensors including 18 cameras, one LiDAR, nine radars, and 12 ultrasonic sensors enable advanced driving assistance. Entertainment options include a media bar and 360 Spatial Sound, turning the interior into a dynamic space for music and media. Reservations for the vehicle start online with a $200 deposit, and deliveries are set to begin in California.

Since its grand opening on September 20, the studio has drawn crowds eager to interact with this EV brand. As the first such location in Silicon Valley, it builds on previous displays at the mall, offering hands-on demos that highlight the fusion of automotive and entertainment worlds.

Valley Fair also has retail stores for other EV manufacturers like Lucid and Polestar. The first Tesla store is also across the street at Santana Row, along with a new Rivian store. The area has become a destination for pure EV brands.

Source: SVBJ

Great Big Game Show Now Open at Westfield Valley Fair

San Jose just welcomed the arrival of the Great Big Game Show at Westfield Valley Fair. This interactive experience lets you step into a real game show setting, complete with a live host, bright lights, and lively music. Two teams compete in a variety of fast-paced challenges, from trivia and chance games to creative tasks involving props. Whether you’re drawing, building, or guessing your way to victory, this attraction delivers all the thrills of a televised game show without the stress of a huge audience.

To mark their grand opening, the Great Big Game Show is hosting a special competition packed with free games and fantastic prizes. If you’re eager to join the action and test your skills, head to their website to join the waitlist and secure your spot.

Nestled in Westfield Valley Fair, a go-to spot for shopping and dining, the Great Big Game Show adds a new layer of fun to an already popular destination. One of the reasons why Valley Fair continues to thrive while most malls across the US are on life support is their willingness to add nontraditional stores and entertainment into the mix. Valley fair also has escape games, Bowlero, Immersive Gamebox, and a new high-end movie theater (Alamo Drafthouse).

Alamo Drafthouse to Elevate Silicon Valley’s Movie Experience

Movie lovers in Silicon Valley have something to look forward to this summer. Alamo Drafthouse, the Austin-based cinema chain known for its unique approach to film and dining, is opening two new theaters in our backyard. One will debut at The Village at San Antonio Center in Mountain View on June 16, while the other is slated for Westfield Valley Fair in summer 2025. They are both replacing the recently closed ShowPlace Icon locations.

What sets Alamo Drafthouse apart? For starters, you can enjoy full meals and drinks, including alcohol, delivered right to your seat. The Mountain View theater, clocking in at 50,700 square feet, will offer 10 auditoriums and room for over 1,200 guests, complete with an arcade and a third-floor specialty bar pouring 24 draft beers and cocktails. The Valley Fair location ups the ante with 62,228 square feet, capacity for over 1,500 people, and its own themed bar. Forget the old kiosk system of the previous theaters—these spots are all about comfort, convenience, and a personal touch.

Between the two locations, at least 300 new jobs will emerge. Also, Alamo Drafthouse isn’t stopping at blockbusters—they’re known for screening a wide range of films, from indie hits to special events. In 2024 alone, they showed 1,700 movies nationwide, far more than their closest competitors. This will definitely fill the major hole at Valley Fair after ShowPlace Icon left.

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

JOEY Brings Global Flavors to Westfield Valley Fair in San Jose

JOEY, the Canadian-born restaurant chain with a flair for globally inspired dishes, has opened its first Bay Area location at Valley Fair. Led by “Top Chef Canada” winner Matthew Stowe, this two-story eatery promises to elevate the dining experience with a menu that spans continents and a vibe that’s equal parts stylish and welcoming.

JOEY’s menu is a passport to flavors from Japan, Mexico, India, Italy, and China, offering everything from truffle udon carbonara to chargrilled pork chops with Mexican street corn. It’s the kind of place where you can go bold with a Bollywood Butter Chicken or keep it classic with a perfectly cooked burger. And for dessert? Their signature Individually Baked Apple Pie is already calling my name.

What makes this addition so exciting for San Jose is how it fits into the bigger picture of Westfield Valley Fair’s transformation. This isn’t just a mall anymore—it’s a foodie haven. With heavyweights like Eataly, Din Tai Fung, and Baekjeong already drawing crowds, JOEY joins a lineup that’s putting "Uptown" San Jose on the map as a destination for dining. The restaurant takes over the former Bamboo Sushi space, which closed quietly in September 2023, and brings a fresh energy to the mall’s bustling restaurant row.

While the exact opening date has been a bit of a moving target—initial hints suggested April, but details remain under wraps—the anticipation only adds to the excitement. Next time you’re strolling through Valley Fair, keep an eye out for this one.

Source: SFGATE

Lunar New Year Celebrations at Valley Fair in San Jose

Celebrate the Year of the Snake at Valley Fair with a community day that is free and open to the public. They welcome all to come enjoy the family-friendly performances today from 12pm-4pm.

• Enjoy performances of Traditional Lion Dances, Ribbon Dancers, Folk Dance, and so much more. Traditional red envelopes containing chocolate coins and retailer promotions will be passed out during the Lunar New Year performances.
• The traditional lion dance will open the celebration at Grand Court, on Level 1 near Gucci.
• The dragon dance and main stage performances will be held from 1pm-4:15pm at Grand Court.
• Plus, shop the Luxury Collection on Saturday, February 1, 2025 then stop by the redemption lounge from 11am-6pm with your receipts to receive an American Express gift card up to $800. 

SCHEDULE OF MAIN STAGE EVENTS (Located near Gucci, Level 1) *schedule of events subject to change

• LION DANCE | 12:00PM - 12:20PM | by Rising Phoenix
• DJ/MC + ambient performers | 12:20PM – 12:30PM
• CHINESE FAN DANCE | 12:30PM – 12:40PM | by Fengye Dance Studio
• CHINESE OPERA | 12:45PM – 12:50PM | by Cathy Pan
• DRAGON DANCE | 1:00PM - 1:20PM | by Rising Phoenix
• DJ/MC + ambient performers | 1:20PM – 1:30PM
• VIETNAMESE DANCE GROUP | 1:30PM – 1:40PM | by Viet Steps
• DJ/MC + ambient performers | 1:45PM – 2:00PM
• BLESSED SNAKE WELCOMES SPRING | 2:00PM – 2:10PM | Full Ensemble
• DJ/MC + ambient performers | 2:15PM – 2:30PM
• GUZHENG SOLOIST | 2:30PM – 2:40PM | by Bei Bei
• TAEKWONDO | 2:45PM – 3:00PM | by Team M
• KOREAN DRUMMING ENSEMBLE | 3:00PM – 3:20PM | by Urisawe
• DJ/MC + ambient performers | 3:15PM – 3:30PM
• MONGOLIAN DANCE | 3:30PM – 3:35PM | by Fengye Dance Studio
• FASHION SHOWCASE | 3:45PM – 3:55PM 
• BLESSED SNAKE WELCOMES SPRING | 4:00PM – 4:10PM | Full Ensembl

DJ & MC: Tigermom Toy

TIGERMOM TOY, Allyson Toy, is a Bay Area born DJ and music tech professional who came of age between NYC and Shanghai. Toy is a classically trained pianist and has been DJing for 15 years, lending her skills to brands including W Hotels, Alexander McQueen, Nobu, and Samsung and performing globally in Tokyo, Paris, Bangkok, Shanghai, and many more. Toy is the co-founder of LIONS SHARE, a creative community and music podcast on a mission to empower emerging Asian artists, and by day works at Twitch leading music community initiatives and the company’s Asian employee resource group. Toy’s greatest passion is bringing people of different backgrounds together through music. 

Source: Westfield Valley Fair

Fleurs de Villes San Jose LUNAIRE

From January 29th to February 2nd, visit Westfield Valley Fair for Fleurs de Villes LUNAIRE, a free 6-day immersive exhibition celebrating San Jose’s floral artistry, inspired by Lunar New Year traditions and the Zodiac focus on the Year of the Snake. 

• This stunning showcase of local floral talent will be freely open to the public from January 29 - February 2, and will feature over 15 incredible fresh floral installations, including Fleurs de Villes’ iconic mannequins.
• Visitors are also invited to extend their LUNAIRE experience by visiting another incredible floral mannequin on display at Hotel Valencia (Santana Row). 
• Each floral display will honor Lunar New Year traditions and the spirit of the Year of the Snake, offering a breathtaking fusion of culture and floral artistry created by the Bay Area’s talented floral artists.

Valley Fair is open from 10am-9pm 

Source: Westfield Valley Fair

 

524 new apartments proposed near Santana Row

A site previously entitled for a 882,000 SQFT office and retail project has pivoted to housing. This proposal by Holland Partner Group is at the intersection of Stevens Creek and Saratoga Ave., just a few minutes drive away from Santana Row and Valley Fair.

The project would have two eight-story residential buildings, both of which would wrap around a central courtyard. Of the 524 proposed units, 5% would be designated as affordable to very-low-income households.

The ground floor would be able to accommodate two fitness centers and plans also include a co-working space. One of the goals would be to enhance the pedestrian experience for the areas fronting Stevens Creek and Saratoga Ave., and part of that would be creating brand new public gathering spaces.

While it may not be as lucrative as an office building long-term, this proposal would be a major improvement for the corner at 3896 Stevens Creek Boulevard.

Source: The Mercury News

Festival for Foodies

Westfield Valley Fair is hosting a foodie event this Friday. You can sample dishes from 14 restaurants while enjoying live music and pop-up shops. Featured eateries include Salt & Straw, Rooster & Rice, and Shake Shack. Each $40 ticket includes 10 food tastings and games/prizes.

For those with bigger appetites, there are also dine-in experiences for a higher ticket price at Eataly, Mastro's, AnQi, Tacomania, and King's Fish House (one of my favorites).

Proceeds of ticket sales will benefit the Hunger At Home non-profit. The event is this Friday, August 16th from 12pm to 8pm. For more information and tickets, click 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

Eye-catching residential towers could rise near Valley Fair and Santana Row

If there ever was an area ripe for high-rise development outside of Downtown it would be right around our shopping mecca of Valley Fair and Santana Row. While it has limited transit, the area is flush with shopping, dining, and jobs.

A two-tower project has been proposed to replace a dilapidated building at 826 North Winchester Blvd. The project would consist of 135 residential units (70 one-bedroom and 65 two-bedroom units), 20 of which would be affordable. There would also be 13,000 SQFT of open space, 6,000 SQFT of terrace space, and 7,500 SQFT of amenity space.

The top floors would have amazing views in all directions, including views of neighboring Downtown San Jose. Another impressive feature is a sky bridge connecting the two towers and likely featuring outdoor and amenity space with views.

If this comes to fruition, it'll be the new standard for development going forward in "uptown" San Jose.

Source: The Mercury News

iChina hires a rockstar chef, obviously aiming for the stars

By aiming for the stars, of course I'm talking about those rare Michelin Stars. As our one and only Michelin Star restaurant--Adega--closed their doors in 2023, iChina is our next best shot.

Yesterday iChina announced that Singapoean Chef Chen Zhinengh is joining the team as Executive Chef. He has worked at multiple Michelin-star restaurants including Hakkasan in New York, Empress By Boon in SF, and 3 Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurants.

Below is the full text from the email blast. I'll look forward to trying iChina soon after his updated menu is live.

Introducing Chef Chen Zhinengh

We are thrilled to announce Chef Chen Zhinengh has joined iCHiNA to lead our kitchens. Because eight is an auspicious number, here are eight reasons we’re lucky to have him.

#1

Born in Singapore, Chef Chen started working in restaurants at the age of 16.

#2

He has cooked at some of the top restaurants in Singapore including the Mandarin Oriental and Ritz Carlton Hotels.

#3

Chef Chen was part of the opening team for Hakkasan New York and went on to help oversee all US locations.

#4

Prior to joining iCHiNA Chef Chen was Executive Chef at the Michelin-starred Empress By Boon, in San Francisco.

#5

A master of Peking Duck—one of our signature dishes—Chef Chen has combined culinary methods from top restaurants around the world to create a Peking Duck with  distinctive taste and a richer texture.

#6

Chef Chen has cooked at 3 Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurants.

#7

This video starring Chef Chen making dumplings has been viewed over 54,000 times. If it doesn’t make you want to try our dim sum, we don’t know what will!

#8

Chef Chen is developing some amazing specials to offer during Lunar New Year including 魚生撈起 (Prosperity Salad) and 红豆汤 (Red Bean Glutinous Rice Soup) to bring you health and prosperity in the new year. 

Book a table now for a taste of Chef Chen’s exquisite cooking. Some of his new dishes include Golden Tofu Lobster featuring lobster, pumpkin, and silken tofu and Black Bean Prawns with housemade black bean sauce and fresh gai lan.

Famous Korean BBQ spot Baekjeong opens first Northern California location in San Jose

Speaking of BBQ (see previous post today), Baekjeong is opening their very first location in Northern California at Westfield Valley Fair. This is a chain owned by Korean celebrity Kang Ho-dong and is extremely popular in LA and New York. San Jose will be one of just a two locations to accept reservations and they are already going fast on Resy.

While many malls around the country are struggling, Valley Fair somehow is continuing to expand and attract compelling restaurants. Eataly, Din Tai Fung, iChina, Maestro's, Kingfish, and Ramen Nagi are some of the other flagship dining destinations within the mall.

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

iChina Restaurant in Valley Fair

Covid hit just as San Jose was beginning a true culinary Renaissance. We even got our first Michelin Star restaurant in 2017. Over this entire decade it feels like expectations have changed and there is a general shift away from cookie-cutter chain restaurants to more unique offerings. Old strip malls from my childhood that were filled with fast food joints like Taco Bell and Little Caesars now have Vietnamese Cafes, Indian Pizzerias, and wine bars featuring tapas.

I was pleasantly shocked when I stumbled across these photos of iChina in Valley Fair. This easily could have been another Cheescake-factory, but instead they hired the same designer from Hong Kong that worked on the top floors at the Burj Dubai (world's tallest building). The aesthetic looks stunning, and hopefully the food will live up to design. I can't wait to visit when all this craziness is over.

Source: Silicon Valley Joe from the San Jose Development Forum