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

New 737-Unit Housing Project Boosts North San Jose's Growth

San Jose has greenlit a major residential development that will bring 737 new homes to a long-vacant site in North San Jose. This multi-phase project from Valley Oak Partners turns nearly 10 acres between River Oaks Parkway, Iron Point Drive, and Cisco Way into a vibrant community. With proximity to key tech employers like Cisco, Intel, and Broadcom, the development supports the area's role as an innovation center by providing housing options close to work.

The project features a seven-story building with 505 market-rate apartments, ranging from studios to three-bedroom units. A separate five-story structure will house 132 fully affordable apartments, available at up to 80 percent of the area median income for Santa Clara County. Additionally, 100 for-sale townhouses in 14 three-story buildings will offer variety for families and individuals looking to put down roots.

This approval comes as San Jose works to meet its goal of 62,200 new housing units by 2031, despite past challenges with permitting and construction costs. North San Jose stands out with several large-scale projects advancing, including the Facchino Family's mixed-income neighborhood near the BART station and Hanover Company's Coyote Creek Village, which will add nearly 1,500 homes.

Community feedback shaped the final plans, leading to preserved redwood trees where possible and public improvements like enhanced crosswalks, wider sidewalks, and contributions to bike lanes on Cisco Way. These elements address concerns about pedestrian safety, traffic, and greenery, ensuring the development integrates well with the neighborhood.

Source: The Mercury News

San Jose Dance Theatre's 60th Anniversary of The Original San José Nutcracker

San Jose Dance Theatre brings back its cherished holiday tradition with the 60th anniversary of The Original San José Nutcracker, running from December 13 to 21, 2025, at the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts. This production stands as the longest-running holiday show in Silicon Valley, drawing families and visitors to experience a blend of classic storytelling and fresh artistic elements. Over 100 dancers from the theatre's academy join professional guests on stage, accompanied by the Cambrian Symphony under conductor Scott Krijnen, creating a vibrant display of talent right here in the heart of San Jose.

Artistic Director Nicole Haskins steps in for her first Nutcracker with the company, introducing new touches to familiar scenes like the shimmering snowflakes, marching soldiers, and the elegant Sugar Plum Fairy. The show highlights local guest artists in key roles, upholding a tradition started by the founders that fosters mentorship between seasoned performers and young students. This approach not only showcases the city's deep pool of dance talent but also strengthens community bonds through shared artistic endeavors.

To mark the milestone, the theatre rolls out themed performances that encourage audience participation. Options include a Sweaters & Sparkles Matinee on December 13 at 2:00 PM, where attendees can wear festive outfits; an Alumni Night that evening at 7:30 PM for past participants; a Candyland Matinee on December 14 at 2:00 PM with sweet surprises; Tutus & Tiaras on December 20 at 2:00 PM for young fans; Family Pride Night that evening at 7:30 PM featuring a pre-show meet-and-greet; and Storybook Sunday on December 21 at 2:00 PM with lobby activities tied to the ballet's tale.

Since its start in 1964, The Original San José Nutcracker has woven itself into the fabric of San Jose's cultural life, with many former dancers now bringing their own families to the shows. Executive Director Elizabeth Sweeney notes the gratitude toward the community for sustaining this tradition across generations. The production serves as a reminder of the city's commitment to arts that inspire and connect people year after year.

Beyond the stage, the event offers lobby carolers, a holiday boutique, and VIP options like backstage tours and character interactions. For a full San Jose holiday experience that celebrates local creativity and joy, this Nutcracker delivers.

For tickets and details, visit www.sjnutcracker.com

New Planet Fitness Location Opens in San Jose

Planet Fitness expands its presence in the South Bay with a new gym opening on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 1462 Monterey Road. This spot takes over the former Teletron electronics store within the Sun Garden shopping center, anchored by Walmart and home to tenants like Big 5 Sporting Goods, Jack in the Box, and Chevron. Operated by Taymax Group, which runs over 160 locations across North America including 55 in California, the gym aims to serve the active San Jose community with accessible fitness options.

The nearly 13,000-square-foot facility operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with staff on site around the clock. Members find a range of strength and cardio equipment, a dedicated high-intensity interval training area, spa features, massage options, and tanning beds. Free WiFi and TVs with wireless connections to cardio machines add convenience for workouts.

Taymax Group focuses on long-term community integration, bringing high-value fitness to local residents. This addition strengthens San Jose's wellness scene, offering a welcoming space for all fitness levels to build strength together.

New members can join with $1 down and then $15 per month, or opt for the Black Card at $1 down and $24.99 monthly, which includes spa access and guest privileges.

Source: SVBJ

"Help Others Grow" Mural Debuts at Goodwill Almaden

Goodwill of Silicon Valley partnered with Local Color to unveil a vibrant new mural at the Almaden thrift store on November 5, 2025. Titled Help Others Grow, the 171-square-foot artwork adorns the donation drive-through at 3060 Almaden Expressway. Artist Melissa Marzan designed the piece with hand-lettering and illustrations that evoke connection and hope, turning a simple drop-off area into a visual tribute to community generosity.

Symbolic elements fill the mural, drawing from stories of Goodwill program participants. A Western Tiger Swallowtail butterfly represents endurance and new beginnings, while a California Buckeye tree nods to resilience native to Almaden Valley. California poppies symbolize personal growth, the sun brings renewal, a ribbon weaves optimism through the community, and a book hints at life's unfolding opportunities. These images remind donors of the broader impact their contributions create.

Goodwill's efforts extend beyond the artwork, funding job training, reentry support, and workforce development for veterans, unhoused individuals, people with disabilities, and the formerly incarcerated. All services come at no cost, powered by thrift sales and donations that stay local. In 2024, the organization diverted over 35 million pounds of materials from landfills through resale and recycling.

Volunteers from Goodwill's Expandability program assisted with the project, gaining hands-on experience through career services tailored for adults with disabilities. This collaboration highlights how art and community service intersect in San Jose, fostering inclusive spaces that uplift everyone involved.

For more information, visit www.goodwillsv.org or www.localcolorsj.org.

San Jose's Food Scene Hits Record Heights with New Eateries

San Jose has welcomed a remarkable wave of new food businesses since 2022, issuing 933 tax certificates to restaurants, vendors, cafes and bakeries. This growth reflects the city's strong recovery and positions it as a culinary powerhouse in Silicon Valley. Downtown leads the pack with 231 new spots, while areas like Little Saigon, Alum Rock, Willow Glen, Japantown, The Alameda, and Calle Willow follow closely. Early 2025 saw restaurant sales tax revenue climb 21% above pre-pandemic levels, showcasing the sector's vitality and drawing more visitors to explore diverse flavors across neighborhoods.

Standout additions include Bui Vien Street Food in Little Saigon, where authentic Vietnamese dishes from various regions take center stage, such as crispy egg pancakes mixed with rice cakes and scallions served on sizzling clay skillets. East San Jose gained Jorvans Micheladas, a family-run spot offering refreshing drinks and local fare. Near San Jose State University, Sumi Sushi transformed a former hair salon into a welcoming eatery, highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit fueling this expansion.

City initiatives play a key role in this surge, with the Streamlined Restaurant Program halving permit review times and aiding nearly 100 businesses in the recent fiscal year. Support from organizations like Prosperity Lab offers mentoring, business planning and affordable kitchen space, helping newcomers navigate the process. These resources make it easier for aspiring owners to turn ideas into thriving ventures, enriching San Jose's dining options with fresh concepts.

Economic pressures like inflation and rising costs present hurdles, yet business owners adapt by appealing to younger crowds eager for novel experiences and cultural foods that benefit from San Jose's ethnic diversity. Neighborhood corridors now match Downtown's revenue, a shift driven by remote work patterns that keep locals dining closer to home and more evenly distributes our hidden gems across San Jose.

For additional information, visit https://sanjosespotlight.com/san-jose-sees-a-record-number-of-new-food-businesses/

New In-N-Out Proposed for East San Jose

San Jose could soon gain another outpost of the beloved In-N-Out Burger chain as the company explores a location at 2641 McKee Road. The burger spot has submitted a preliminary review to the city, seeking feedback on its concept before moving to formal permits. This potential addition builds on In-N-Out's existing presence in the area, offering more opportunities for locals to enjoy fresh burgers and fries.

The proposed restaurant spans nearly 4,000 square feet with plans for a drive-thru, outdoor patio and dedicated parking. Situated in a shopping center that currently houses a hair salon and cleaners, the site sits next to a Burger King. This setup promises convenient access for drivers and pedestrians alike in a bustling retail area.

Company representatives noted the early stage of site planning while expressing enthusiasm for serving the East San Jose community through this extra location.

Source: SVBJ

Content Pick-Up Party Celebrates Discovery in Downtown San Jose

Open San Jose will host an engaging evening on November 13, 2025, with Content's Pick-Up Party for Issue 18.1, Discover. Held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at CreaTV San Jose on 38 South Second Street, this free event welcomes all ages to mark the release of Content Magazine's latest issue. Organized by Content Magazine, the gathering spotlights local talent and fosters connections through art and performance.

Attendees can enjoy a DJ set by Arturo Garces, a cash bar for beer and wine, and complimentary beverages plus hors d'oeuvres for Content members from Goodtime Bar. Chopsticks Alley Art presents a CreativiTEA Open Mic Showcase with House of Asha and Chansing Dai. A highlight arrives at 7:30 p.m. with a Hair and Tattoo Runway Show featuring Low Le on tattoos and Ming Schipper as hair artist. A pop-up gallery exhibition, in partnership with Works/SJ, displays works by Hadi Aghaee, Tachiya Bryant, Sarah Bianco, John Contreras, Low Le, Betty Proper, Jasmine Reid and Augie WK.

The magazine issue 18.1 profiles a range of creators, including organic artist Hadi Aghaee, multimedia artist Tachiya Bryant, painter and muralist Sarah Bianco, artist and sculptor John Contreras, DJ and producer Arturo Garces, tattoo artist Low Le, mixed media artist Betty Proper, mixed media canvas artist Jasmine Reid, muralist Augie WK, along with community hubs like Open San Jose and Works San Jose. Partners such as Open San Jose, Chopsticks Alley Art, Filco Events and Goodtime Bar make the night possible. Events of this kind showcase San Jose's thriving arts community and draw people to explore Downtown's cultural offerings.

For tickets and additional information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/content-pick-up-party-181-discover-at-open-san-jose-tickets-1789784867719

Urban Catalyst Downgrades Housing Vision in Downtown San Jose

Urban Catalyst is updating their dual high-rise proposal into two eight-story residential buildings. The project shifts from earlier office and housing concepts to focus solely on apartments, delivering 626 units across sites at 147 E. Santa Clara St. and 95 N. Fourth St. This adaptation uses wood-frame construction for efficiency and cost reduction, allowing the development to progress amid economic realities while addressing the city's housing needs.

The first phase targets the corner of East St. John and North Fourth streets near St. James Park, replacing an empty commercial property. The second phase follows at East Santa Clara and North Fourth, currently a Chevron gas station that may operate a few more years. Each building includes about 300 units and incorporates ground-level commercial and retail space along East Santa Clara Street, enhancing street activity in the area.

Leveraging Senate Bill 330 for streamlined approvals, the development requires around $300 million in investments, with costs per building estimated at $130 million to $150 million. This approach prioritizes feasibility and speed to combat the housing shortage.

Source: The Mercury News

Color Takes Flight with New Mural on San Pedro Street

A large-scale mural by Bay Area artist John Osgood adds vibrant energy to San Pedro Street in Downtown San Jose. Stretching about 650 feet along a temporary construction wall near the parking structure at Market and West St. John Streets, the artwork showcases birds amid graphic clouds and radiant beams. This visual nod to nature's joy transforms an everyday urban space into something uplifting for passersby.

The project started after Osgood placed his art at the District restaurant on San Pedro Street. Coordinated by the San Jose Downtown Association and backed by local businesses, painting began in early September. It ties into broader garage improvements, which will later include a light installation by artist Brian Brush.

As part of the SJDA's Love DTSJ: Barrier Beautification program, the mural turns construction barriers into artistic displays. This approach cuts down on graffiti and vandalism while building ties among artists, contractors, and the community. Osgood's focus on nature provides a fresh contrast to the city setting, encouraging thoughts on adaptation and growth.

Community feedback highlights the mural's bright colors and positive vibe, with residents appreciating how it brings humor and lightness to the area. San Jose benefits from such creative efforts that enhance public spaces and foster civic pride.

It's great to see Downtown San Jose keep evolving through collaborations that blend art with everyday life, making streets more inviting and connected.

For more information, watch this Insta reel.