Former Safeway Space in Downtown San Jose Finds New Owner Through Auction

A key retail spot in the heart of Downtown San Jose changes hands as the former Safeway storefront at 100 S. Second St. sells at auction for $1,950,000. This 24,090-square-foot ground-floor space, part of a 23-story condominium complex with 197 residential units, has sat vacant for years but now holds potential to reinvigorate the bustling corner. The sale signals growing interest in Downtown properties, offering a chance for fresh concepts to take root amid nearby homes and daily foot traffic.

Safeway operated in the location for a decade starting in 2009 before closing, with city officials pointing to the end of subsidized underground parking as a factor. The building also features a separately owned parking garage, adding convenience for future tenants and visitors. As Downtown San Jose works through retail and office vacancies, this transaction aligns with broader efforts to fill spaces and create lively street-level experiences for residents and shoppers.

Recent market data shows promise, with Silicon Valley retail vacancies reaching 5.2 percent in the second quarter of 2025, and the submarket including San Jose at 5.4 percent. City initiatives continue to focus on drawing businesses and events to the core, making spots like this ideal for groceries, cafes, or community hubs. With its high-visibility position, the site could soon host something that draws crowds and supports the neighborhood's growth. I'm hoping for another grocery store, but beggars can't be choosers.

Source: SVBJ

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

Park Habitat Brings Housing and Innovation to Downtown San Jose

A revised vision for Downtown San Jose emerges with the proposed Park Habitat development at 180 Park Ave., where developer Westbank shifts from an office tower to a mixed-use project featuring 391 housing units alongside a data center. Positioned next to The Tech Interactive museum, this initiative promises to blend residential living with cutting-edge technology, potentially allowing for museum expansion. The setup captures waste heat from the data center to supply low-cost, low-carbon energy to the homes, showcasing smart sustainability in the heart of the city.

This project aligns with efforts to create vibrant, walkable urban spaces, placing residents near Plaza de Cesar Chavez, cultural centers, and transit options. By intermixing housing and tech infrastructure, Park Habitat contributes to a dynamic downtown environment that supports both daily life and economic growth. The added housing aims to increase the nighttime population, fostering a lively atmosphere for shops, restaurants, and events throughout the area.

As demand for data centers rises across the Bay Area, this development strengthens San Jose's position as a hub for innovation while addressing housing needs. With PG&E adapting to growing energy requirements, projects like Park Habitat demonstrate forward-thinking solutions that benefit the community. Residents and visitors can look forward to a more connected and efficient urban landscape, enhancing the appeal of Downtown San Jose as a place to live, work, and explore.

Source: SiliconValley.com

Vibrant Unicorns Light Up Post Street in Downtown San Jose

Community spirit filled the air on Post Street as volunteers gathered to paint a striking street mural, transforming the pavement into a canvas of color and unity. The San Jose Downtown Association partnered with the Qmunity, the LGBTQ+ district centered on Post Street, to create this artwork, building on the success of last year's mural in San Pedro Square. Local artist Danny Feliz Hanson, a San Jose native with deep roots in the area, designed the piece featuring two unicorns reaching toward each other amid swirling rainbows, infusing the space with joy and inclusivity.

Hanson, who grew up near San Jose State University, drew from personal experiences as a queer artist to craft this large-scale project, marking it as the most ambitious undertaking yet. The bright hues and whimsical theme reflect a commitment to celebrating diversity, making the mural a beacon for visitors and residents alike. Even Mayor Matt Mahan rolled up his sleeves to contribute, highlighting the city's dedication to collaborative efforts that enhance public spaces.

This initiative aligns with ongoing work to invigorate Downtown San Jose, turning it into a lively hub for culture and connection in the Bay Area. Projects like this mural not only beautify the streets but also foster a sense of belonging, drawing people to explore the shops, dining, and nightlife in the Qmunity district.

Source: SVBJ

Santa Clara Street Shines Brighter with New Beautification Efforts

San Jose has launched an $800,000 initiative to refresh a key section of Santa Clara Street, bringing together the city, the San Jose Downtown Association, and other partners. This project includes 17 targeted improvements, such as repainting buildings, adding murals, and reactivating storefronts. These changes aim to create a more cohesive feel in Downtown San Jose, linking its diverse neighborhoods through thoughtful updates.

The enhancements focus on boosting foot traffic and supporting local businesses that have anchored the area for decades. Establishments like Ngan Tailoring and AK Liquor Store, both operating for over 30 years, receive special attention as a way to recognize their lasting contributions. By drawing more people to the corridor, the project also promotes public safety through increased activity and visibility on the streets.

Downtown San Jose continues its strong recovery from the pandemic, with nighttime visitor levels nearing pre-2020 figures. Initiatives like this corridor upgrade provide the momentum needed to restore and exceed that earlier energy. City leaders view it as the beginning of wider efforts to weave together the various parts of Downtown, fostering a unified urban experience.

With major events on the horizon, including Super Bowl LX and the FIFA World Cup in 2026, these beautifications position San Jose to welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors. The refreshed street will showcase the city's offerings, encouraging exploration and investment in local spots. As more projects unfold, Santa Clara Street stands as a promising example of how targeted improvements can elevate the entire community.

Source: SVBJ

San Jose Jazz Summer Fest 2025 Promises Three Days of Musical Magic in Downtown

San Jose gears up for the 35th San Jose Jazz Summer Fest from August 8 to 10 at Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park, where nine stages will host jazz, blues, salsa, Latin, R&B, and global music. This annual celebration draws music lovers to Downtown San Jose for a weekend filled with performances, food options, and family-friendly activities that showcase the city's lively arts scene. The festival kicks off with events like the Noche de Alebrijes Gala on August 6, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Silicon Valley.

The lineup features standout artists such as Lalah Hathaway, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Jose James, Andre Cruz, Chris Lujan, Bennett Roth, and the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, among others performing across various stages including the California Theatre Stage and Montgomery Theater Stage. Attendees can enjoy sets at venues like the ASML Next Gen Stage at the San Jose Museum of Art, starting at noon, with opportunities to discover emerging talents alongside established names. This diverse array of music reflects San Jose's inclusive spirit, offering something for every taste from soulful rhythms to energetic beats.

Tickets remain available at various levels to suit different preferences, ensuring accessibility for all ages to join the festivities. Special elements include the festival app for schedules and updates, plus interactive zones that enhance the overall experience. For more information and tickets, head over here.

Downtown San Jose Demonstrates Solid Economic Progress in New City Report

A recent report from the San Jose Economic Development and Cultural Affairs Office reveals encouraging signs of recovery and growth in Downtown San Jose over the 12 months ending in June. Jobs in the area reached an estimated 27,400 during the 2025 fiscal year, marking an 8.3 percent increase from the previous year's 25,300. This uptick reflects ongoing reinvestment efforts as the city navigates post-pandemic challenges, with employment figures climbing back toward the pre-2020 level of around 43,000 jobs. Such advancements signal a strengthening foundation for businesses and workers alike in the heart of Silicon Valley.

Foot traffic in Downtown San Jose rose 7 percent in the year leading up to April, indicating more people are returning to enjoy the area's offerings. The resident population held steady at about 23,000, a figure higher than in mid-2023 and consistent with recent years. Office vacancy rates edged up slightly to 29 percent, yet average asking rents improved significantly to $4.37 per square foot, a 21.7 percent jump from the prior year. These metrics paint a picture of a district adapting and attracting interest amid broader economic shifts.

San Jose State University's growing presence enhances Downtown's vitality, with developments like the Spartan Village on the Paseo providing 700 beds in a repurposed hotel tower since August 2024. This integration supports student life while boosting local activity. The report defines Downtown as the zone from Google's Downtown West near SAP Center and Diridon Station to areas bounded by Julian Street, Fourth Street, and Interstate 280, highlighting a mixed-use environment ready for expansion.

Looking ahead, Downtown San Jose prepares to host major events including the Super Bowl, FIFA World Cup matches, and NCAA men's college basketball games. These occasions will draw visitors and spotlight the city's evolving appeal. New business openings and public space enhancements further contribute to a welcoming atmosphere that invites exploration and investment.

By focusing on these positive trends, San Jose continues to build momentum as a dynamic urban center where innovation meets community. Residents and visitors have ample reasons to engage with Downtown, supporting its role in the region's prosperity.

Source: The Mercury News

Swades Festival Brings Vibrant Indian Independence Day Celebrations to Downtown San Jose

San Jose hosts the Swades: Celebrate India Festival and Parade on August 9 at Discovery Meadow, marking one of the largest Indian Independence Day events on the West Coast. Organized by the Association of Indo-Americans, this gathering draws thousands to honor India's 78th Independence Day with a mix of culture, patriotism, and community spirit. From 1:00 pm to 10:30 pm, attendees can immerse themselves in the festivities at 180 Woz Way, where entry costs range from free to just $3, making it accessible for families and friends to join in the joy.

The event kicks off with a flag hoisting ceremony and national anthem, followed by live performances featuring top local and national artists. Dance, music, and drama showcase India's diverse heritage, while interactive elements like carnival games, a kids zone, and face painting keep younger visitors engaged. Food stalls offer authentic Indian cuisine, a shopping bazaar displays unique items, and art exhibits add creative flair, creating a full day of discovery and connection in the heart of Downtown San Jose.

This festival strengthens San Jose's role as a welcoming hub for cultural exchange, where events like Swades foster unity among residents from various backgrounds. By participating, locals contribute to a lively atmosphere that highlights the city's commitment to diversity and celebration. Downtown San Jose transforms into a stage for global traditions, inviting everyone to experience the energy and build lasting memories.

For more information and for tickets, head over here.

Playback Coffee Brings Analog Vibes and Fresh Brews to San Pedro Square

San Jose welcomes Playback Coffee, a new spot that blends coffee culture with an analog music theme right in the heart of San Pedro Square Market. Opened by Dave Mulvehill of Nuvo Hospitality and Frank Nguyen of Academic Coffee, the cafe at 87 N. San Pedro St. draws inspiration from the city's rich radio broadcast history. Visitors can enjoy a menu of contemporary drinks in a relaxed setting that nods to vintage sounds, making it a fresh addition to the local scene.

The grand opening on July 26 drew hundreds with live DJ sets that had people dancing under the afternoon sun, while lines formed for orders. This event showcased the cafe's focus on community and entertainment, turning a simple coffee run into a social highlight. Mulvehill's portfolio includes nearby favorites like the Pressroom, Hella Good Burgers and Shakes, Dr. Funk Rum House & Kitchen, Five Points Cocktail Bar, and O’Flaherty’s Irish Pub, strengthening the area's appeal as a hub for diverse experiences.

Nguyen, who started Academic Coffee as a pop-up in one of Mulvehill's venues back in 2017, emphasizes his deep ties to Downtown San Jose, where he raises his family and builds connections with neighbors. Their collaboration fills a space previously held by Voyager Coffee, now relocated, and reflects a shared vision for hands-on involvement in the community. Mayor Matt Mahan attended the opening, noting the importance of such investments in revitalizing the downtown area.

Playback Coffee operates daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., offering a consistent spot for locals and visitors to unwind.

Source: SVBJ

Discover South First Fridays: San Jose's Vibrant Art Walk in the SoFA District

San Jose comes alive on the first Friday of each month with South First Fridays, a celebration of creativity that draws locals and visitors into the heart of the SoFA District. Galleries and museums open their doors wide, showcasing fresh exhibitions from talented artists who capture the essence of innovation and culture. From paintings that explore human connections to immersive installations reflecting diverse heritages, the event offers a chance to engage directly with the works and their creators. This gathering highlights the city's commitment to fostering artistic expression, turning ordinary evenings into memorable explorations of visual storytelling.

The STREET MRKT adds an energetic layer to the experience, transforming South First Street into an open-air marketplace where independent artists display and sell their unique pieces. Food trucks serve up local flavors, while live DJ sets keep the atmosphere lively into the night. Venues like the San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art and MACLA feature standout shows, including explorations of cultural roots through folk-inspired art and textile innovations. These elements combine to create a family-friendly space that encourages everyone to support the creative community and discover new favorites.

Beyond the core area, the event extends to the Historic District and Martha Gardens District, with additional spots hosting photography tributes and poetry performances. San Jose's art scene thrives through such initiatives, building connections among residents and reinforcing the city's role as a hub for cultural growth. Attending South First Fridays not only provides entertainment but also contributes to the ongoing vitality of Downtown San Jose, where every visit helps nurture a brighter future for the arts.

The next South First Friday is... today! Come on down from 5-9pm. The Street Market runs from 5pm-10pm. Admission is free and it is family friendly.

Source: South FIRST FRIDAYS