Luxury Takes Flight: A New Boutique Hotel at SJC!

San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) could soon become home to a boutique hotel, a development poised to elevate San Jose’s hospitality game. With plans to transform some of the airport’s surface parking into a luxurious retreat, this project aims to cater to upscale travelers, including those jetting in on private planes or chartered flights. 

The concept is straightforward yet exciting: SJC would lease the land to a private developer tasked with building a hotel that stands out from the crowd. Planners see this as a chance to fill a gap in San Jose’s offerings, where high-end, 5-star-adjacent accommodations are scarce. Unlike the typical hotels near the airport, this boutique property would offer a unique experience, appealing to discerning visitors who value exclusivity and style.

The hotel promises a standout experience with private meeting rooms and a rooftop pool. It would sit across from Terminal B, just south of the rental car center, on a 75,000-square-foot plot with room to grow. Developers could even double that footprint, though the project is capped at seven stories due to FAA rules and 300 rooms by city limits. 

Beyond the allure of luxury, the hotel holds big potential for San Jose. It could draw high-spending visitors who boost local shops, restaurants, and attractions, especially in Downtown San Jose. While the timeline isn’t set, the possibility of this addition keeps the excitement alive. SJC deserves a standout feature like this.

Source: SVBJ

Tequila and Tacos: A San Jose Summer Party

This Saturday, June 28th, 55 South in Downtown San Jose will host the Tequila Barrel Pick BBQ Party, a collaboration between MACBBQ and the 55/110 private bottle club. This event celebrates the release of an exclusive Corazon Reposado Tequila, aged 22 months in a Stagg Bourbon barrel, paired with some of the best BBQ and tacos the city has to offer. From noon to 5pm, dive into a day packed with bold flavors, live music, and community vibes.

The star of the show is the Corazon Reposado Tequila, hand-picked by MACBBQ and 55/110 for its standout profile. Aged in a Stagg Bourbon barrel, this tequila brings fruity and floral notes upfront, followed by layers of honey, caramel, pineapple, and tropical fruit. It finishes with a subtle touch of slate and black pepper, offering a bright yet rich sip that bourbon and tequila fans will appreciate. Guests can taste this unique release and even grab bottles to take home, priced at $50, alongside a Sazerac Blanton’s pick for $100.

Food takes center stage with MACBBQ and Cajetas joining forces for a Mexican-inspired BBQ spread. Think smoked brisket, pork, and chicken thighs tucked into handmade serrano/jalapeño yellow corn tortillas, topped with a custom salsa made just for this event. VIP ticket holders get early entry at noon and exclusive bites like cold smoked oysters and langostino tostadas, adding a gourmet twist. Paleta Planeta’s desserts and Phin Bar’s coffee drinks round out the menu, ensuring every craving is covered.

Live DJs Scotty Fox and Jay Biz will keep the energy flowing at 55 South, a Downtown San Jose staple known for its whiskey culture and top-notch cocktails. Exclusive giveaways throughout the day add a fun surprise element. With general admission at $50 starting at 1pm and VIP at $75, tickets include seven food and drink vouchers for tacos, desserts, and coffee. The full bar will be open for additional purchases, making this a perfect way to spend a summer Saturday.

Tickets are limited, so acting fast is key. Head to Eventbrite to secure your spot for this standout celebration of San Jose’s food, drink, and community spirit. Whether you’re a tequila aficionado, a BBQ lover, or just looking for a great time, this event delivers it all in the heart of Downtown.

Garden's Gate Cafe: A Fresh Addition to San Jose’s Culinary Landscape

San Jose welcomes a delightful new spot with the opening of Garden's Gate Cafe at 1530 Southwest Expressway. Leading this venture is Elizabeth Rivera, a San Jose native and San Jose State University alum, who brings her love for food and community to her second restaurant. Following the success of The Breeze Cafe in Newark, Elizabeth envisioned Garden's Gate as a cozy haven where fresh meals and friendly service create lasting connections. Open daily from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm, this cafe promises to become a cherished part of North Willow Glen.

The menu shines with breakfast and brunch favorites that celebrate quality and flavor. Diners can enjoy fluffy buttermilk pancakes crowned with fresh berries, savory omelets packed with locally sourced ingredients, or hearty sandwiches paired with artisan coffee or tea. The garden-inspired decor enhances the experience, offering a warm and inviting space that feels both refreshing and familiar. Elizabeth’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients reflects her dedication to building something meaningful for San Jose, one delicious dish at a time.

The grand opening celebration tomorrow was just last week. Snap a photo, share your experience with #GardensGateSJ on Instagram, and help spread the word about this gem in San Jose’s evolving culinary scene. They are already getting rave reviews on Yelp.

San Jose Pushes for More Homes

City leaders recently greenlit over $10 million in tax and fee waivers for two major housing projects, proving that San Jose is serious about getting more homes built. With high interest rates and rising costs slowing construction across the Bay Area, this incentive program is a lifeline for developers and a big win for residents eager for more housing options.

The two projects cashing in on these perks are the Coyote Creek Urban Village at 2620 Seely Avenue and Federal Realty’s development at 358 Hatton Street near Santana Row. Together, they’re saving developers more than $10 million, with Coyote Creek slashing over $6 million and Federal Realty pocketing nearly $4.5 million in savings. This will move forward a projected 1,278 new units, including 64 affordable ones, bringing much-needed homes to both market-rate buyers and lower-income families.

The city’s incentive program offers a 50% cut in taxes and fees for projects that lock in permits by the end of this year, with a second phase kicking in 2026 offering a 25% reduction. It’s a practical approach that’s already jumpstarted other developments, like The Hanover Co.’s 345-unit project and The Aquino apartment building in Downtown San Jose. With only 2,700 permits issued last year against a state goal of 62,200 new units by 2031.

Source: The Mercury News

Breeze of Innovation Update

This is a significant update coming related to a major new landmark in Plaza de Cesar Chavez called "Breeze of Innovation." The notification, which you can read in full below, drops a few hints. Elements that celebrate Cesar Chavez and enhanced infrastructure for live events will be incorporated into the design. I can't wait to see what the final proposal will look like!

Dear Friend,

"Great cities have iconic structures... Great cities do great things—they do big things." — Chappie Jones, Former San Jose City Councilmember and Vice Mayor, Urban Confluence Silicon Valley Board Vice Chair.

We're excited to share a pivotal update on our mission to gift San Jose with a transformational landmark at Plaza de César Chávez, California's oldest public space and San José's most historic treasure.

After widespread discussion, design exploration, and community feedback, we are charting an inspiring new direction.

San José's leaders and project partners remain united in the desire to create a physical landmark worthy of our city's stature as the urban heart of Silicon Valley.

Our original Breeze of Innovation concept generated global interest and showcased our city's ambition. However, after confronting some practical realities in our process, we've made the strategic decision to evolve beyond Breeze of Innovation toward an even more comprehensive vision that still appropriately honors Plaza de César Chávez. This reimagined approach will feature a new landmark design with meaningful park elements that celebrate César Chávez, enhance infrastructure for live events, and transform the park into San Jose's front porch, outdoor living room, and community gathering space.

"This is a reimagining." said Sean O'Kane, Urban Confluence Silicon Valley Board Chair. "It's a moment to reaffirm San José's identity—creative, diverse, resilient—and to shape something truly meaningful for future generations."

From Day One of our mission, we have collaborated with public agencies, engineers, artists, environmental experts, and community stakeholders. We are continuing to do so during our pivot. We remain fully committed to delivering a world-class public landmark that reflects San José's innovative spirit, creating a welcoming space for community connection and cultural expression, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability, and partnering with the public to shape this visionary project's next phase.

Throughout this revision process, we've received strong support from key City of San José leaders. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with them when the city is ready to empower community-based management and greater activation of the park.

"Art and architecture are vital to civic life." said Richard Ajluni, Urban Confluence Silicon Valley Board Secretary. "We're excited to collaborate on a landmark that future generations of San José residents will take pride in."

Our journey has encountered frustrations and unexpected challenges, but we still believe San Jose deserves a world-class landmark. Urban transformations require time and patience. The Eiffel Tower, Gateway Arch, and Millennium Park all faced similar challenges before becoming beloved icons. The most memorable public places result from sustained vision, collaboration, and relentless commitment. We're honored to be part of this transformative journey.

We'll share updates soon, including preliminary concepts for our new Plaza de César Chávez vision. Thank you for your continued support, patience, and trust. Please reach out with questions, ideas, or partnership opportunities.

With gratitude,

Steve Borkenhagen and the Urban Confluence Team

Affordable Housing Takes Root in Willow Glen Near San Jose’s Tamien Station

A new affordable housing project is coming to San Jose near Tamien Station in the Willow Glen region. The 90-unit building will soon rise on the site of the infamous Agave Sports Bar at 520 and 544 West Alma Avenue. Led by Resources for Community Development and designed by Van Meter Williams Pollack, the five-story structure will offer four floors of residential housing atop ground-floor office and amenity spaces. This project is a meaningful addition to the city, providing much-needed housing options in the heart of the Bay Area.

The building itself is thoughtfully planned. It includes 89 rentable units, with 68 set aside for low-income residents and 21 for very-low-income residents, plus a single manager unit. Residents will enjoy a large community room, laundry services, and a second-floor open-air courtyard. The landscaping features a descending terrace design that flows toward the banks of the Guadalupe River. These details show a commitment to creating a welcoming and functional space.

One of the biggest advantages of this project is its location. Being steps away from Tamien Station means residents have easy access to bus lines, VTA, and Caltrain. This connectivity is a game-changer for anyone relying on public transportation, making daily commutes simpler and helping ease traffic in the area. It's also a 10 minute walk away from Willow Glen Village with a Safeway and four great restaurants and a 20 minute walk from "The Avenue" or Downtown Willow Glen.

Source: SF YIMBY

Summer Nights in SoFA: Discover the Pobladores Night Market

Every Thursday night from June 12 to July 31, 2025, Downtown San Jose’s SoFA District comes alive with the Pobladores Night Market. Held at Parque de los Pobladores (501 S 1st St & William St) from 5:30 to 9 p.m., this open-air event offers a fresh way to experience the city’s creative pulse. Whether you’re a local looking for a new weeknight hangout or a visitor eager to explore, this free market welcomes everyone to dive into a vibrant mix of culture, food, and community.

Wander through the market and you’ll find 20 local makers, artists, and small businesses showcasing their talents. From handcrafted goods to one-of-a-kind creations, these stalls highlight the ingenuity thriving in San Jose. Live music and cultural performances set the tone, while art galleries open their doors for a dose of inspiration. Hungry? Food trucks roll in with diverse, delicious options, and a laid-back beer garden provides a spot to sip and unwind. It’s a snapshot of what makes Downtown San Jose a hub of innovation and connection.

The Pobladores Night Market isn’t just about shopping or eating, though. It’s a chance to feel the energy of the SoFA District and meet the people who shape it. Bring friends, strike up conversations, or simply soak in the atmosphere. Each Thursday offers a new opportunity to discover something unexpected, whether it’s a performance that moves you or a dish you can’t stop talking about.

There is plenty of parking nearby and it's free after 6pm at the First Street & I-280 lot. All street parking spots are also free after 6pm.

Toastique will Bring Gourmet Health Food to San Pedro Square in 2026

A fresh addition is coming to Downtown San Jose’s vibrant San Pedro Square. Toastique, a health-focused cafe known for its gourmet toast, smoothie bowls, and cold-pressed juices, will soon occupy the former Starbucks storefront at 145 W. Santa Clara St. This high-visibility spot, nestled in the heart of a bustling pedestrian zone, promises to elevate the area’s reputation as a culinary hub with its innovative menu and commitment to fresh, responsibly sourced ingredients.

The San Jose location, set to open in 2026, marks Toastique’s expansion into the South Bay through Bay Area-based Well Nourish LLC. The cafe’s arrival fills a vacancy left by Starbucks, which closed its doors on January 5, and introduces a new dining experience to one of Downtown’s most dynamic neighborhoods. San Pedro Square’s mix of restaurants, bars, and community energy makes it an ideal home for Toastique’s fresh approach to fast-casual dining.

Toastique stands out with its creative take on health food. Diners can expect artfully crafted toasts topped with ingredients like avocado, smoked salmon, or peanut butter with fresh fruit, alongside nutrient-packed smoothie bowls and vibrant juices. The menu caters to those seeking convenient, wholesome options without sacrificing flavor. With four existing California locations, including one in nearby Danville, Toastique has already built a following for its visually appealing and nourishing dishes.

This opening reflects Downtown San Jose’s growing appeal as a destination for innovative eateries. The addition of Toastique not only diversifies the local food scene but also reinforces San Pedro Square’s role as a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. As the city continues to evolve, establishments like Toastique contribute to a lively, health-conscious community that celebrates quality and creativity in every bite.

Source: SVBJ