Best Restaurant (Culinary Excellence)

Alexander’s Steakhouse

Vallco Fashion Park, 10330 N. Wolfe Rd, Cupertino

The Table

1110 Willow St, San Jose

Nick’s Next Door

11 College Ave, Los Gatos

Best Chef

Jim Stump, The Table

1110 Willow St, San Jose

Nick Difu, Nick’s Next Door

11 College Ave, Los Gatos

Jeffrey Stout, Orchard City Kitchen

The Pruneyard Shopping Center, 1875 S. Bascom Ave #190, Campbell

Best New Restaurant

Orchard City Kitchen

The Pruneyard Shopping Center, 1875 S. Bascom Ave #190, Campbell

Hult’s

65 Los Gatos-Saratoga Rd, Los Gatos,

Bourbon Steak and Pub

4900 Marie P DeBartolo Way, Santa Clara

Best French Restaurant

Le Papillon

410 Saratoga Ave, San Jose

Left Bank

Santana Row, 377 Santana Row #1100, San Jose

La Foret

21747 Bertram Rd, San Jose

Best Small Restaurant

Henry’s Hi-Life  

301 W. St John St, San Jose

Poor House Bistro

91 S. Autumn St, San Jose

Oak & Rye

303 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos

Best Dining Value

Bill’s Cafe

1115 Willow St, San Jose

302 N. Bascom Ave, San Jose

2089 The Alameda, San Jose

5631 Cottle Rd, San Jose

1401 Kooser Rd, San Jose

Aqui

1145 Lincoln Ave, San Jose

201 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell

10630 S. De Anza Blvd, Cupertino

5679 Snell Ave, San Jose

Opa!

1100 Lincoln Ave, San Jose

276 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell

325 Main St, Los Altos

27 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos

Best Family Restaurant

Los Gatos Cafe

340 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos

Buca di Beppo

The Pruneyard Shopping Center, 1875 S. Bascom Ave, Campbell

Westfield Oakridge, 925 Blossom Hill Rd, #1529, San Jose

643 Emerson St, Palo Alto

(TIE) Aqui

1145 Lincoln Ave, San Jose

201 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell

10630 S. De Anza Blvd, Cupertino

5679 Snell Ave, San Jose

(TIE) Willow Street   

1072 Willow St, San Jose

1554 Saratoga Ave, San Jose

20 S. Santa Cruz Ave #218, Los Gatos

Romantic Restaurant

La Fondue

14550 Big Basin Way #3, Saratoga

La Foret

21747 Bertram Rd, San Jose

Nick’s Next Door

11 College Ave, Los Gatos

Best Late-Night Eats

La Victoria

140 E. San Carlos St., San Jose

131 W. Santa Clara St, San Jose

5015 Almaden Expy, San Jose

Original Joe’s

301 S. First St, San Jose

A Slice of New York

3443 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose

Best Restaurant Patio

Aqui Willow Glen

1145 Lincoln Ave, San Jose

Opa! Campbell

276 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell

Alexander’s Steakhouse

Vallco Fashion Park, 10330 N. Wolfe Rd, Cupertino

Best Latin American Restaurant

Cascal

400 Castro St, Mountain View

Mezcal

25 W San Fernando St, San Jose

Andale

6 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos

21 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos

Best Cuban/Caribbean Restaurant

Habana Cuba

238 Race St, San Jose

Back a Yard Caribbean American Grill

80 N. Market St, San Jose

1189 Willow Rd, Menlo Park

Los Cubanos

22 N. Almaden Ave, San Jose

Best Cajun Restaurant

Poor House Bistro

91 S. Autumn St, San Jose

Lillie Mae’s House of Soul Food

1290 Coleman Ave, Santa Clara

Cajun Crawfish

1011 E. Capitol Expy, San Jose

Best Italian Fine Dining

A Bellagio

33 S. Central Ave, Campbell

Aldo’s

14109 Winchester Blvd, Los Gatos

Paesano Ristorante

350 W. Julian St #1, San Jose

Best Moderately Priced Italian Food

Maggiano’s Little Italy

Santana Row, 3055 Olin Ave #1000, San Jose

Campo di Bocce

565 University Ave, Los Gatos

Amici’s

790 Castro St, Mountain View

10310 S. De Anza Blvd, Cupertino

880 Santa Cruz Ave, Menlo Park

Best Mediterranean/Greek Restaurant

Agape Grill

845 Stewart Dr, Suite A, Sunnyvale

Dio Deka

Hotel Los Gatos, 210 E Main St, Los Gatos

Opa!

1100 Lincoln Ave, San Jose

276 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell

325 Main St, Los Altos

27 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos

Best Middle Eastern Restaurant

Dishdash

190 S. Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale

181 Ranch Dr, Milpitas

House of Kabobs

161 S. Sunnyvale Ave, Sunnyvale

Arya Global Cuisine

19930 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino

885 Middlefield Rd, Redwood City

Best Steakhouse

Alexander’s Steakhouse

Vallco Fashion Park, 10330 N. Wolfe Rd, Cupertino

Forbes Mill Steakhouse

206 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos

Henry’s Hi-Life

301 W. St John St, San Jose

Best Barbecue

Smoking Pig

1144 N. Fourth St, San Jose

3340 Mowry Ave, Fremont

Andy’s BBQ

2367 El Camino Real, Santa Clara

Henry’s Hi-Life

301 W. St John St, San Jose

Best Vegetarian Restaurant

Good Karma

37 S. First St San Jose

Chaat Paradise

165 E. El Camino Real, Mountain View

Veggie Grill

Santana Row, 3055 Olin Ave, San Jose

565 San Antonio Rd, Mountain View

Best Hawaiian

Hukilau

230 Jackson St, San Jose

Banana Crepe

248 Jackson St, San Jose

Da Kine Island Grill

23 N. Market St, San Jose

Best Asian Fusion

Banana Leaf

McCarthy Ranch Marketplace, 182 Ranch Dr, Milpitas

Straits

Santana Row, 333 Santana Row, San Jose

Blowfish Sushi

Santana Row, 355 Santana Row #1010, San Jose

Best Ramen

Orenchi Ramen

Lawrence Station Shopping Center, 3540 Homestead Rd, Santa Clara

Hana – Sushitomi

4320 Moorpark Ave, San Jose

Kumako Ramen

211 Jackson St, San Jose

Best Dim Sum

99 Ranch Market

Lawrence Station Shopping Center, 3540 Homestead Rd, Santa Clara

1688 Hostetter Rd, San Jose

Cupertino Village Shopping Center, 10983 North Wolfe Road, Cupertino

Dynasty Restaurant

1001 Story Rd #200, San Jose

Dim Sum King

824 W. El Camino Real, Sunnyvale

Best Pho

House of Pho

5353 Almaden Expy, San Jose

1066 E. El Camino Real, Sunnyvale

Beef Noodle #1

1611 E. Capitol Expy # 206, San Jose

Pho Wagon

1712 Meridian Ave, San Jose

1627 Hollenbeck Ave, Sunnyvale

Best Pearl Teas

Black Pearl Cafe

1055 E. Brokaw Rd, San Jose

3245 Sierra Rd, San Jose

Tapioca Express

979 Story Rd #7045, San Jose

2285 McKee Rd, San Jose

Plant Shopping Center, 81 Curtner Ave #40, San Jose

Quickly Tea Cafe

Multiple locations

Best Vietnamese Restaurant

Khanh’s Restaurant

335 S. Winchester Blvd, San Jose

Anh Hong

1818 Tully Rd # 150, San Jose

Calaveras Plaza Shopping Center, 233 W. Calaveras Blvd, Milpitas

Vung Tau

535 E. Santa Clara St, San Jose

Best Korean Restaurant

Bamboo Korean BBQ House

Abel Square Shopping Center, 260 S. Abel St, Milpitas

Burnt Rice

Plant Shopping Center, 121 Curtner Ave #20, San Jose

Korean Palace

2297 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose

Best Thai Restaurant

KrungThai  

642 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose

580 N. Winchester Blvd, San Jose

Blue Mango

San Jose Market Center, 635 Coleman Ave, San Jose

Amarin Thai Cuisine

174 Castro St, Mountain View

4300 Great America Pkwy #180, Santa Clara

Best Seafood Restaurant

Steamer’s Grillhouse

Old Town Los Gatos Shopping Center, 31 University Ave, Los Gatos

Fish Market Restaurant

3775 El Camino Real, Santa Clara

1007 Blossom Hill Rd, San Jose

3150 El Camino Real, Palo Alto

The Bay Fish and Chips

826 W. El Camino Real, Sunnyvale

Best Sushi

Yuki Sushi

1140 Lincoln Ave #8, San Jose

1827 Pruneridge Ave, Santa Clara

Ariake

Riverhill Shopping Center, 1008 Blossom Hill Rd, San Jose

Hacienda Shopping Center, 759 E. El Camino Real, Sunnyvale

Villa Shopping Center, 5190 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose

Sushi Confidential

247 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell

Best Burger

Arcadia

San Jose Marriott, 100 W. San Carlos St, San Jose

St. John’s Bar & Grill

510 Lawrence Expy #110, Sunnyvale

The Counter  

3055 Olin Ave, Santana Row, San Jose

369 S. California Ave, Palo Alto

The Village at San Antonio Center, 2580 W. El Camino Real, Mountain View

Best Pizza (Independent)

212 Pizza  

19998 Homestead Rd #A, Cupertino

A Slice of New York  

3443 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose

1253 W. El Camino Real, Suite D, Sunnyvale

Tony & Alba’s

Winchester Shopping Center, 3137 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose

Best Deli/Sandwich Shop

Antipastos  

3454 McKee Rd, San Jose

La Villa  

1319 Lincoln Ave, San Jose

Ike’s

2235 The Alameda, Santa Clara

75 E. Santa Clara St, San Jose

21000 Stevens Creek Blvd, Suite 100, Cupertino

Best Microbrew Food

Rock Bottom

The Pruneyard Shopping Center, 1875 S. Bascom Ave #700, Campbell

Firehouse Grill

111 S. Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale

Gordon Biersch

33 E San Fernando St, San Jose

640 Emerson St, Palo Alto

Best Desserts

Icing On the Cake  

50 W. Main St, Los Gatos

Nothing Bundt Cakes

1702 Meridian Ave, San Jose

2721 Aborn Rd #10, San Jose

939 W. El Camino Real, Sunnyvale

Alexander’s Patisserie

209 Castro St, Mountain View

Best Donuts

Psycho Donuts

288 S. Second St, San Jose

2006 Winchester Blvd, Campbell

Stan’s Donuts   

Mariposa Gardens Shopping Center, 2628 Homestead Rd, Santa Clara

Christy Donuts

Berryessa Corners Shopping Center, 1150 N. Capitol Ave, San Jose

1291 E. Calaveras Blvd, Milpitas

Best Ice Cream/Gelato

Dolce Spazio   

221 N Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos

Palo Alto Creamery Fountain and Grill

566 Emerson St, Palo Alto

Crema Coffee Roasting

950 The Alameda, San Jose

Best Frozen Yogurt

Willow Glen Frozen Yogurt/Willow Glen Creamery

1100 Lincoln Ave, San Jose

Frozo’s Frozen Yogurt  

1000 Lafayette St, Santa Clara

Yumi Yogurt

3787 Stevens Creek Blvd #102, Santa Clara

Plaza de Los Gatos Shopping Center, 464 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos

Best Food Truck

Baba Kabob

@thebktruck

MoGo BBQ

@MoGoBBQ

Sam’s Chowdermobile

@chowdermobile

Best Caterer

A Catered Affair  

3255 Scott Blvd, Santa Clara

Best Tea Room

Lisa’s Tea Treasures

Santana Row, 1145 Olsen Dr, San Jose

The Pruneyard Shopping Center, 1875 S. Bascom Ave #165, Campbell

Fairmont Lobby Lounge

170 S Market St, San Jose

Satori Tea Company

37 N. San Pedro St, San Jose

Best Ethnic Market

Santo Market   

245 E. Taylor St, San Jose

International Food Bazaar

2052 Curtner Ave, San Jose

Mitsuwa Marketplace

675 Saratoga Ave, San Jose

Best Microbrewery

Rock Bottom

The Pruneyard Shopping Center, 1875 S Bascom Ave #700, Campbell

Firehouse Grill

111 S Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale

(tie) Gordon Biersch

33 E. San Fernando St, San Jose

640 Emerson St, Palo Alto

(tie) BJs

San Jose Market Center, 511 Coleman Ave, San Jose

925 Blossom Hill Rd, San Jose

10690 N. De Anza Blvd., Cupertino

Best Drink Sensation

The “Hennchata” at Chacho’s

87 E. San Fernando St, San Jose

Best Stuffed Toys Shaped Like Fruits & Vegetables

Jumbo Jibbles

San Jose; jumbojibbles.com

Best West Valley Wine Bar

Enoteca La Storia

416 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos

Best Place to Buy a Colorful Pashtun Dress

Little Kabul, Fremont

Best Place to Learn Polo

The Horse park at Woodside

Best Recycling of Old TV Tubes

Glass Tiles at Fireclay Tile

495 W. Julian St, San Jose

Best Photo Lab & Supply Store

Foto Express

304 E. Santa Clara, San Jose

Best Eclectic Farm-to-Table Menu

Hay Market

1185 Lincoln Ave, San Jose

Best New Los Gatos Restaurant

Hult’s

65 Los Gatos-Saratoga Rd, Los Gatos

Best New Los Gatos Cafe

Centonove

109 W. Main St, Los Gatos

Best Kosher Restaurant

Jerusalem Grill & Bar

1740 S. Winchester Blvd, Campbell

Best Car Detail

AJ’s Auto Detailing

702 Coleman Ave, San Jose

Best Downtown Craft Cocktails, sans attitude

55 South

55 S. First St, San Jose

Best Pool Safety Covers

Aquamatic Cover Systems

Gilroy; aquamatic.com

Best Jazz & Indie Music Club

Cafe Stritch

374 S. First St, San Jose.

Best French Sandwiches

La Lune Sucree

116 Paseo de San Antonio Walk, San Jose

Best Adaptive Reuse of an Agricultural Era Plant

The Granary complex

17500 Depot St, Morgan Hill

Best Revival of a San Jose Institution

Lou’s Village

1100 Lincoln Ave, San Jose.

Best Healthy Fast Food in Palo Alto

Lyfe Kitchen

167 Hamilton Ave, Palo Alto

Best Austrian Cuisine

Naschmarkt

384 E Campbell Ave, Campbell

Best LED Lighting Store

Lite Line Illuminations

51 University Ave, Los Gatos

Best New Greek Restaurant

Nemea Greek Taverna

96 S. First St, San Jose

Best Thin Crust Pizza

Odeum Restaurant

17500 Depot St, Morgan Hill

Best Small Italian Restaurant

Paesano

350 W. Julian St, San Jose

Best Kosher Market

Pars Kosher Market

3978 S. Bascom Ave, San Jose.

Best Place to Buy Metal Salvage

Sims Metals

1900 Monterey Hwy, San Jose.

Best Paint Match

Gabriel at South Bay Paints

1749 W. San Carlos St, San Jose.

Best Custom Wood Mill Shop

Southern Lumber

1402 Monterey Hwy, San Jose

Best Fresh Fish

Steamer’s

31 University Ave, Los Gatos

Best Vegetarian Fast Food, San Jose

The Veggie Grill

Santana Row, San Jose.

Best Small Mediterranean Cafe

Cafe Torre

20343 Stevens Creek Blvd., Cupertino

Best Small Mexican Restaurant

Zona Rosa

1411 The Alameda, San Jose

Best Free Concert

Symphony Silicon Valley’s Target Summer Pops

Tower Lawn, San Jose State University

Best Kids’ Rides

Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad & Bill Mason Carousel

Los Gatos

Best Toy Shop, North County

Adventure Toys

173 Main St, Los Altos.

Best Holiday Light Display

Fantasy of Lights

Vasona Lake County Park, Los Gatos

Best Theater Prop Warehouse for Parties

Method 42 Productions

San Jose

Best Architectural Salvage

Buccaneer Demolition’s Secret Warehouse

San Jose

Best Interdisciplinary Art Powwow

Two Buck Tuesdays at KALEID

Third Tuesday of the month, 7-10pm, KALEID Gallery, 88 S. Fourth St,
San Jose

Operated by artist/designers and located at a high-profile urban crossroads, KALEID already stages monthly art exhibits that rival anything else in town. The gallery also provides many spaces and areas for artists to display their work on a daily basis, for which there’s usually a waiting list. Even better, people regularly come in and buy the art. What’s more, the monthly powwow, Two-Buck Tuesdays, usually features music, live demos, local painters setting up easels on the sidewalk, caricature portraitists and more. There are all sorts of activities on the third Tuesday of each month at one of the most eclectic monthly gatherings in downtown San Jose. (GS)

Best Place to Appreciate the Evolution of Your Laptop

Computer History Museum

1401 N. Shoreline Blvd, Mountain View

Housed in server company SGI’s former headquarters (how meta is that?), the Computer History Museum is home to many objects that, if not on display in a computer history museum, might now prove pretty hard to identify as computers. The museum’s replica Babbage Engine, a shiny array of symmetrically arranged gears and levers, is a Victorian-era mechanical calculator that could be easily mistaken for a kinetic sculpture. And 1940s computers that would fill a small room seem the antithesis of an iPhone, and unlikely to be able to process a fraction of the tasks a phone can. However alien, though, such machines had roles in developing the technology that allows us to play Flappy Bird wherever we go. (HZ)

Best Place to Sit In on an Orchestra Rehearsal

Lunchtime@Trianon series

First Friday of the month, 12:10-12:50pm, Le Petit Trianon, 72 N. Fifth St, San Jose

Lunching at one’s desk is a Silicon Valley art form, but one weekday a month Le Petit Trianon theater’s resident arts groups offer a respite from answering emails between bites of Snickers swiped from the candy jar in the common area. Lunchtime@Trianon features free lunchtime performances by small music and arts groups. For the event’s March edition, the San Jose Chamber Orchestra held an open rehearsal for its spring concert, which previewed a program that included two premieres—and those works’ composers dropped by, as well. Coming up April 4, the South Bay Guitar Society presents jazz, classical and Brazilian music by guitarist Samantha Wells and May’s program features readings from Poetry Center San Jose. Audiences are invited to bring their lunches to the theater, and because lunch “hour” rarely works out to a whole 60 minutes, the entire program is always 40 minutes long. (HZ)

Best Comedian

Brendan Lynch

Brendan Lynch’s ability to win over even the most belligerent hecklers in the diviest dives has earned him a cult following in Bay Area comedy, from peers and fans alike. Somehow, wielding a combination of deadpan delivery, awkward pause and acid wit, he manages to woo the crowd while making them the butt of his unrelenting observational humor. For a sample of his style, peruse his Twitter quips (@brendanzig), e.g. “Thanks to Obamacare, thousands of Christian Scientists have been dropped by God” or “Just saw four white guys with different colored gelled hair having drinks together—it was like ‘Non-Consensual Sex in the City.'” But to really get a feel for his standup chops, catch one of his shows, preferably one intimate enough for him to break the fourth wall and hilariously intimidate the audience into laughing out loud against their will. When he’s not entertaining awe-struck comedic underlings and ornery drunks in dingy watering holes, the South Bay native regularly performs at the San Jose Improv (where he headlines June 1), the San Francisco Punchline and Cobb’s Comedy Club. He’s performed at SketchFest, The Great American Comedy Festival and the Santa Cruz Fringe Festival, and was runner-up in the San Francisco International Comedy Competition. (JW)

Best Euro-Revitalization of a Riverside Wasteland

Little Italy San Jose

N. Almaden Ave, between Julian and W. St. John streets, San Jose

Italians have played a role in the growth of San Jose for at least 100 years now, so it makes sense that a suitable neighborhood emerge and be designated Little Italy. Just up the block from Henry’s Hi-Life, which used to be an Italian hotel 100 years ago, a spectacular urban renewal project is making visible progress. One house is being renovated for use as an Italian cultural center. A huge gateway arch is currently being fabricated off-site. New businesses are about to sign leases, if all goes well. A variety of collaborative projects are also in the works, making this a very welcome urban project that offers a textbook lesson in how to raise funds, pool resources, network and collaborate to get stuff done. Viva la Azzurri! (GS)

Best Seats in the House

Cabaret Seating at Tabard Theatre Company

Theatre on San Pedro Square, 29 N. San Pedro St, San Jose

There are good seats, front-row seats—and then there are almost-in-the-middle-of-the-play seats. Cabaret seating at many of Tabard Theatre Company’s productions offers a view of the stage just a couple feet away from the actors—and occasionally, for musical productions, a chance to get up and dance with the cast. And unlike some creaky, stiff theater seats that will test anyone’s will to sit for three hours no matter how good the play, cabaret seating affords audiences comfy chairs and a table, which make it easy to take advantage of the bar and well-stocked concession stand (eating during the show is allowed). Of course, with the theater’s intimate size, no view of the stage is really a bad one and all the seats are cushy. (HZ)

Best New Insight into the Scope of Government Spying

Stanford University’s Jonathan Mayer and Patrick Mutchler

Some unsettling news on the NSA surveillance front came from researchers at Stanford University this spring. Last summer, President Obama assured us that the government wasn’t listening in on our phone calls but simply analyzing the metadata. The comment meant to downplay the extent of information gleaned, to appease a worried populace not to worry about their spoken conversations. But Stanford computer science students Jonathan Mayer and Patrick Mutchler showed just how much information one can glean from metadata—the time, location and recipient of a call. The results were chilling. Mayer says he didn’t expect to find that much information one way or another. “We were wrong,” the pair wrote in conclusion. “We found that phone metadata is unambiguously sensitive, even in a small population and over a short time window.” Surveying call metadata from 546 volunteers, researchers were able to piece together virtually every significant move, including medical calls and Planned Parent appointments and, over the span of a few weeks, another volunteer’s calls to a home improvement store, a locksmith and a hydroponics dealer. Creepy. So yeah, if you’re smart, you might want to get a dumb phone, like maybe a landline from your local thrift shop. (JW)

Best Local Filmmaker

Sean McCarthy

Shawn Flanagan

Jon M. Chu

Best Small/Quirky Museum

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

1660 Park Ave, San Jose

Hiller Aviation Museum

601 Skyway Rd, San Carlos

Campbell Historical Museum

300 Grant St, Campbell

Best Art Gallery

San Jose Institute of Contemporary Art

560 S. First St, San Jose

Anno Domini

366 S. First St, San Jose

KALEID Gallery

88 S. Fourth St, San Jose

Best Holiday Celebration

Christmas in the Park

Plaza de Cesar Chavez, San Jose

Oktoberfest

Downtown Campbell

Fantasy of Lights

Vasona Lake County Park, Los Gatos

Best Film Festival

Cinequest

Downtown San Jose

Classic films at Stanford Theatre

221 University Ave, Palo Alto

San Jose Short Film Festival

Cinearts, Santana Row, San Jose

Best Open Mic Night

Poor House Bistro, Tuesday

91 S. Autumn St, San Jose

Rooster T. Feathers, New Talent Showcase, Wednesday

157 E. El Camino Real, Sunnyvale

Philz, San Jose, Monday

118 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose

Best Theater Company

San Jose Repertory Theatre

101 Paseo de San Antonio, San Jose

Broadway San Jose

San Jose Center for Performing Arts, 255 Almaden Blvd, San Jose

City Lights Theater Company

529 S. Second St, San Jose

Best Small Theater Company

Children’s Musical Theater San Jose

Montgomery Theatre, 271 S. Market St, San Jose

The Retro Dome

San Jose

Dragon Productions

2120 Broadway St, Redwood City

Best Dance Company

Ballet San Jose

San Jose Center for Performing Arts, 255 Almaden Blvd, San Jose

Los Gatos Ballet

630 University Ave, Los Gatos

Los Lupeños

San Jose

Best Concert Venue

Mountain Winery

14831 Pierce Rd, Saratoga

Shoreline Amphitheatre

1 Amphitheatre Pkwy, Mountain View

SAP Center (formerly HP Pavilion)

525 W. Santa Clara St, San Jose

Best Comedy Venue

San Jose Improv

62 S. Second St, San Jose

Rooster T. Feathers

157 E. El Camino Real, Sunnyvale

ComedySportz

288 S Second St, San Jose

Best Use of Goat Cheese

Brown Chicken Brown Cow

397 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell

Finally someone said to themselves, “You know what would make my life better? Goat cheese!” And then they put it on—Every. Single. Dish. The creamy deliciousness takes us back to those lazy days spent in Yemen, wistfully writing poetry while tending to a herd of friendly goats who would bestow wondrous milk and cheese, whether they were eating old Coke cans or leaves of grass. (JK)

Best Japanese Curry

Muracci’s

244 State St, Los Altos

Don’t be fooled by the Italian-influenced moniker; family-run Muracci’s in downtown Los Altos is a go-to place for generous plates of steaming rice (your choice of white or brown) and thick, hearty Japanese curry. If the menu seems modest it’s only because Muracci’s focuses on what they do best—curries made from a soup stock that has simmered for 20 hours along with vegetables, enough spices to tingle the palate without overwhelming it (although the cooks are happy to add more heat), and your choice of protein, including beef, katsu and seafood (vegetarian option available). They also offer other traditional Japanese dishes, but we’re convinced that the curry is the reason why the dining room is always packed with customers, many of whom are Japanese speakers. (MS)

Best Secret Sandwich

Chris Combo at Bertucelli’s

La Villa

1319 Lincoln Ave, San Jose

You don’t mess around with the perfection of the Chris Combo. You don’t ask for “no mayo,” or a Dutch crunch roll or extra mustard or—shut up. You just order a Chris Combo and step your ass to the side so the next person can order a sandwich that is nothing short of sublime. Take a number and shut up. (JK)

Best Gin Gimlet

First to Market

399 S. First St, San Jose

Normally we don’t bestow honors on restaurants that have been in existence all of a month, but First to Market’s clean and simple aesthetic can be no better conveyed than in its crisp, sweet-but-not-too-sweet gin gimlet, served up in a squat martini glass. The best drink we’ve had in months. (JK)

Best Hangover Cure

Mo’s The Breakfast + Burger Joint

278 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell

Steak-and-eggs tacos, bacon pancakes, burgers under omelets and the “colossal” carrot cake waffle are all worthy options, but Mo’s has a trump card few can match. Combining a little of all of the above, Lucky’s Ultimate Bloody Mary is a mason jarred cocktail that starts with a stiff blend of tomato juice, spices and rice wine (think sake), but then explodes above the rim with a stalk of celery, olives, a slice of bacon and a thick onion ring tossed around the roughage. If that wasn’t enough to chase off the tremors, it comes with a Stella back. (JK)

Best Out-of-the-Way Winery

Picchetti Brothers Winery

13100 Montebello Rd, Cupertino

One of the oldest wineries in California sits on an oak-tree-shrouded knoll in the western hills of Cupertino. A light stream trickles behind the tasting room while hens perch in trees and roam the grassy picnic glen at Picchetti family winery. There’s a peacock here, too, though he’s more elusive. Established in 1896, the grounds and old farmhouse remain aesthetically unchanged by the tech-driven civilization that sprung up around it. For $10, enjoy the tastings. For free, enjoy the nearby hiking trails. (JW)

Best Offal on a Stick

Gaku

5152 Moorpark Ave, Suite 40, San Jose

Silicon Valley has no shortage of authentic ethnic dining options, thanks to its diverse denizens and ongoing waves of new immigration. Gaku, a Japanese yakitori grill tucked in a narrow nook of a San Jose strip mall, is a standout among them for its back-home authenticity. This year, Bizarre Foods host Andrew Zimmern named it one of the best off-the-beaten-path dining spots in the nation. The casual eatery offers a small plate menu that boasts sundry meats and animal parts, most of which are seared over smoke- and chemical-free charcoals imported straight from Japan. During a visit last year, Zimmern drooled over the perfectly crisped skewered pork intestines, the cold and crisp baby octopus salad, grilled chicken offal, raw meat plates, and generous range of beer and sake options. (JW)

Best Incognito Lunch

Wing’s

131 E. Jackson, San Jose

In our post-privacy world, it seems impossible to do anything without getting caught. The bigger the risks, the more likely the chance of a huge public shaming complete with Facebook dogpile and trial-by-hashtag. But this landmark 89-year-old Chinese restaurant provides more than just inexpensive MSG-free food: it has private booths in which you can buzz for a discreet waiter. And (within reason, for pity’s sake) what goes on in those booths stays sub-rosa: co-worker conspiracy against an evil boss; a discreet lunch between a couple of friends who are closer than their mutual spouses would like; maybe a city official singing like a canary to some eager reporter. Even just being alone is tough these days; Wing’s is quiet in a world of industrial-chic restaurants that resound like bus-barns. (RvB)

Best Scotch Egg

The Table

1110 Willow St, San Jose

Larger than a softball, this delicious ball of brunch combines the home-cookin’ goodness of deep fried sausage with a runny egg core, along with tasty romesco sauce and arugula salad. (JK)

Best Cocktails with Provenance

Lexington House

40 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos

Stephen Shelton and Jimmy Marino have long been local fixtures behind the bar, so it was with great anticipation that their inventive gastropub, Lexington House, opened in Los Gatos last September. Despite the restaurant’s early success, customers can expect to find one or both of the co-owners tending the bar on a typical night, serving up their original, spirit-driven concoctions or adaptations of drinks they’ve had elsewhere. The menu reads like a recipe anthology, crediting the mixologist behind each drink and listing its components. In keeping with the theme of the restaurant, they don’t skimp on ingredients: think house-made syrups and rare, barrel-aged bourbons. (MS)

Best Unusual Bar Snack

Fried grasshoppers at Mezcal

25 W. San Fernando St, San Jose

Anyone looking for gringo go-to’s like liquid cheese-drenched nachos and grease-bombed chimichangas might not appreciate Mezcal. The downtown restaurant known for its distinct dining room with exposed brick walls and richly carved, dark wood furnishings specializes in the kind of authentic Oaxacan fare the general public doesn’t associate with Mexican cuisine, like sesame-crusted salmon, breaded chicken and crispy fried grasshoppers. The garlic-and-lime-spiced insects pair well with the place’s namesake—mezcal, a type of agave liquor that’s smokier and more full-bodied than its blue agave variant, tequila. Try an order of the protein-packed hoppers with a side of tortilla chips, crema and green tomatillo salsa. (JW)

Best Veggie Omelet

Sara’s Kitchen

1595 Franklin St, Santa Clara

A diner breakfast is often a carnivorous affair: bacon, sausage, ham, chorizo, maybe even a steak for the daring. A nap is usually in order afterward. But through a combination of sporadic vegetarianism and a firm belief that breakfast should be less a specific time of day and more a never-ending journey, we’ve sampled a wide range of veggie omelets across our wide sprawl. And Sara’s Kitchen kills it every time. It’s the seemingly simple combo of the #8 garden omelet: sauteed spinach and tomato wrapped in egg and topped with feta cheese and avocado. But the juicy/sweet tomato contrasted with the creamy/tangy feta plus the just-right sauteed spinach and subtle nutty avocado make this omelet complex—and delicious. (SL)

Best Animatronic Shark

Blue Water Seafood & Crab

860 Willow St, San Jose

So inspired by the moving dinosaurs he saw while visiting the Smithsonian Museum, Blue Water owner Craig Guynes hired the same people to build him the 15-foot, 800-pound animatronic shark that hangs inside the doorstep of his crab shack and bar, which opened in late 2012. The sea monster might frighten some, but an expert from the Monterey Bay Aquarium made a visit and confirmed the shark’s movements and design actually indicate it’s a lady. “We just call it Sharky,” Guynes said. (JK)

Best Restaurant (Culinary Excellence)

Alexander’s Steakhouse

10330 N. Wolfe Rd, Cupertino

Arcadia

100 W. San Carlos St, San Jose

Nick’s Next Door (formerly Nick’s on Main)

11 College Ave, Los Gatos

Best Food Truck

MoGo BBQ

mogobbq.com

Sam’s Chowdermobile

samschowdermobile.com

BBQ Kalbi

http://bbqkalbi.com/

Best Coffee Roaster

Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Company

101 W. Main St., Los Gatos

Barefoot Coffee Roasters

15567 Union Ave, Los Gatos; 1819 S. Bascom Ave, Campbell; 2475 De La Cruz Blvd, Santa Clara

Chromatic Coffee Co.

5237 Stevens Creek Blvd, Santa Clara

Best Chocolate Maker

Schurra’s Fine Confections

840 The Alameda, San Jose

Sugar Butter Flour

669 S. Bernardo Ave, Sunnyvale; 1875 S. Bascom Ave, Suite 152, Campbell

Snake & Butterfly

191 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell

Best Tea Room

Lisa’s Tea Treasures

Santana Row, 1145 Olsen Ave, San Jose; 1875 S. Bascom Ave #165, Campbell

Satori Tea Company

37 N. San Pedro St, San Jose

Mountain View Tea Village

275 Castro St, Mountain View

Best New Restaurant

Blackbird Tavern

200 S. First St, San Jose

SP2 Communal Bar + Restaurant

72 N. Almaden Ave, San Jose

Ciano’s Modern Latin

280 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell

Best Chef

Nick Difu,Nick’s Next Door (formerly Nick’s on Main)

Scott Cooper, Le Papillon

Thomas Ricci, LB Steaks

Best Cajun Restaurant

Poor House Bistro

91 S. Autumn St, San Jose

Lillie Mae’s House of Soul Food

1290 Coleman Ave, San Jose

Crawdaddy

779 Story Rd, Suite 1, San Jose

Best Seafood Restaurant

Fish Market

1007 Blossom Hill Road, San Jose; 3775 El Camino Real, Santa Clara; 3150 El Camino Real, Palo Alto

Hawg’s Seafood Bar

1700 W Campbell Ave, Campbell,

By Th’ Bucket

4565 Stevens Creek Blvd, Santa Clara

Best Ramen

Orenchi Ramen

3540 Homestead Rd, Santa Clara

Kumako Ramen

211 Jackson St, San Jose

Maru Ichi Japanese Noodle House

368 Castro St, Mountain View

Best Small Restaurant

Naglee Park Garage

505 E San Carlos St., San Jose

Henry’s Hi-Life

301 W St. John St, San Jose

Nick’s Next Door (formerly Nick’s on Main)

11 College Ave, Los Gatos

Best Thai Restaurant

Krung Thai

640 S. Winchester Blvd, San Jose; 580 N. Winchester Blvd, San Jose

Thai Orchid

866 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell

House of Siam

150 S. First St, Suite 151, San Jose

Best Korean

Burnt Rice

121 Curtner Ave, San Jose

SJ Omogari

154 Jackson St, San Jose

Korean Palace

2297 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose

Best Ethnic Market

Mi Pueblo Food Center

1731 E Bayshore Rd, East Palo Alto; 1745 Story Rd, San Jose; 235 E. Julian St, San Jose; 40 S. Rengstorff Ave, Mountain View

Ranch 99

10983 N. Wolfe Rd, Cupertino; 1350 Grant Rd, Mountain View; 1688 Hostetter Rd, San Jose

International Food Bazaar

2052 Curtner Ave, San Jose

Best Pearl Teas

Tapioca Express

multiple locations

Fantasia Coffee & Tea

10933 N Wolfe Rd, Cupertino; 528 Barber Lane, Milpitas; 3969 Rivermark Plaza, Santa Clara; 39055 Cedar Blvd, Newark; 378 Santana Row, Suite 1115, San Jose

Quickly Tea Cafe

multiple locations

Best Dim Sum

Dynasty Chinese Seafood Restaurant

1001 Story Rd, San Jose

China Stix

2110 El Camino Real, Santa Clara

Dim Sum King

824 W. El Camino Real, Sunnyvale

Best Latin American Restaurant

Cascal

400 Castro St, Mountain View

El Chalateco Salvadorian

multiple locations

Isabella’s Restaurant

700 S. Winchester Blvd, San Jose

Best Cuban/Caribbean Restaurant

Habana Cuba

238 Race St, San Jose

Back A Yard Caribbean American Grill

80 N. Market St, San Jose; 1189 Willow Rd, Menlo Park

La Bodeguita del Medio

463 S. California Ave, Palo Alto

Best French Restaurant

Le Papillon

410 Saratoga Ave, San Jose

La Fondue

14550 Big Basin Way, #3, Saratoga

Left Bank

377 Santana Row, Ste 1100, San Jose; 635 Santa Cruz Ave, Menlo Park

Best Italian Fine Dining

Original Joe’s

301 S. First St, San Jose

Il Fornaio

302 S. Market St, San Jose; 520 Cowper St, Palo Alto

A Bellagio

33 S. Central Ave, Campbell

Best Moderately Priced Italian Food

Maggiano’s Little Italy

3055 Olin Ave, Suite 1000, San Jose

Giorgio’s

1445 Foxworthy Ave, San Jose

Buca di Beppo

1875 S. Bascom Ave, Suite 155, Campbell; 643 Emerson St, Palo Alto; 925 Blossom Hill Rd, Suite 1529, San Jose

Best Mediterranean

Dishdash

190 S. Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale; 736 N. Mathilda Ave, Sunnyvale

Cafe Artemis

1875 S. Bascom Ave, Suite 300A, Campbell

Thea

3090 Olsen Dr, San Jose

Best Middle Eastern Restaurant

Falafel’s Drive-in

2301 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose

Dishdash

190 S. Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale; 736 N. Mathilda Ave, Sunnyvale

Kabul

833 W. El Camino Real, Sunnyvale

Best Greek Restaurant

Opa!

1384 Lincoln Ave, San Jose; 276 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell; 27 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos; 325 Main St, Los Altos

Yiasso

10660 S. De Anza Blvd, Cupertino; 2180 S. Bascom Ave, Campbell

Dio Deka

210 E. Main St, Los Gatos

Best Malaysian Restaurant

Banana Leaf

182 Ranch Dr, Milpitas

Straits Cafe

333 Santana Row, Suite 1100, San Jose

Layang Layang

1480 S. De Anza Blvd, San Jose; 181 W. Calaveras Blvd, Milpitas

Best Pho

House of Pho

5353 Almaden Expy, Suite 50, San Jose

Pho Wagon

1712 Meridian Ave, San Jose; 1627 Hollenbeck Ave, Sunnyvale

Pho 24

747 S. Winchester Blvd, San Jose

Best Steakhouse

Alexander’s Steakhouse

10330 N. Wolfe Rd, Cupertino

Forbes Mill

206 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos

Henry’s Hi-Life

301 W St. John St, San Jose

Best Barbecue

Smoking Pig

1144 N. Fourth St, San Jose; 3340 Mowry Ave, Fremont

Blue Rock BBQ

3001 Meridian Ave, San Jose

Sam’s Bar-B-Que

1110 S. Bascom Ave, San Jose

Best Hawaiian

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue

multiple locations

Hukilau

230 Jackson St, San Jose

Grub Shack

93 E. Santa Clara St, San Jose

Best Asian Fusion

Straits Cafe
333 Santana Row, Suite 1100, San Jose

Elephant Bar

19780 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino; 499 E. Hamilton Ave, Campbell; 39233 Fremont Blvd, Fremont

Blowfish Sushi

355 Santana Row, San Jose

Best Asian Vegetarian

Blue Mango

635 Coleman Ave, San Jose

Good Karma

37 S. First St, San Jose

Vegetarian House

520 E. Santa Clara St, San Jose

Best Vietnamese

Khanh’s Garden

335 S. Winchester Blvd, San Jose

Pho Wagon

1712 Meridian Ave, San Jose; 1627 Hollenbeck Ave, Sunnyvale

Pho 24

747 S. Winchester Blvd, San Jose

Best Vegetarian Overall

Good Karma

37 S. First St, San Jose

Falafel’s Drive-in

2301 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose

Vegetarian House

520 E. Santa Clara St, San Jose

Best Restaurant Patio

Aqui Cal-Mex

1145 Lincoln Ave, Willow Glen

El Burro

1875 S. Bascom Ave, #570, Campbell

Gordon Biersch

33 E. San Fernando St, San Jose

Best Desserts

Icing on the Cake

50 W. Main St, Los Gatos

Nothing Bundt Cake

multiple locations

Kara’s Cupcakes

multiple locations

Best Donuts

Psycho Donuts

288 S. Second St, San Jose; 2006 S. Winchester Blvd, Campbell

Stan’s

2628 Homestead Rd, Santa Clara

Manley’s

1592 Meridian Ave, San Jose

Best Pizza (Regional Group)

Pizza My Heart

multiple locations

Blue Line Pizza

415 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell; 146 Castro St, Mountain View

Patxi’s Chicago Pizza

1875 S. Bascom Ave, Suite 405, Campbell; 3350 Zanker Rd, Suite 30, San Jose; 441 Emerson St, Palo Alto

Best Pizza (Independent)

Tony & Alba’s

3137 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose

A Slice of New York

3443 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose; 1253 W. El Camino Real, Sunnyvale

Jake’s

1074 Lincoln Ave, San Jose; 12175 Saratoga-Sunnyvale Rd, Saratoga; 174 E. Fremont Ave, Sunnyvale

Best Burger

The Counter

3055 Olin Avenue, Santana Row, San Jose; 369 S. California Ave, Palo Alto; 2580 El Camino Real, Mountain View

St. John’s

512 Lawrence Expwy, Suite 110, Sunnyvale

Mojo Burger

6041 Snell Ave, San Jose; 1401 Foxworthy Ave, San Jose; 1411 Bird Ave, San Jose

Best Ice Cream/Gelato

Dolce Spazio

221 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos

Palo Alto Creamery & Grill

566 Emerson St, Palo Alto

Snake & Butterfly

191 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell

Best Frozen Yogurt

Willow Glen Frozen Yogurt & Ice Cream Company

1100 Lincoln Ave, San Jose

Yogurtland

multiple locations

Pinkberry

multiple locations

Best Sushi

Kazoo

250 Jackson, San Jose; 10 E Hamilton Ave, Campbell

Yuki Sushi

1140 Lincoln Ave #8, San Jose; 1827 Pruneridge Ave, Santa Clara

Sushi Confidential

247 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell

Best Deli/Sandwich Shop

Ike’s Love & Sandwiches

multiple locations

Bertucelli’s La Villa Gourmet Delicatessen

1319 Lincoln Ave, San Jose

Zanotto’s

1421 Foxworthy Ave, San Jose

Best Late Night Eats

La Victoria

140 E. San Carlos, San Jose; 131 W. Santa Clara St

Original Joe’s

301 S. 1st St, San Jose

Taco Bravo

5469 Snell Ave, San Jose; 1950 S. Bascom Ave, Campbell; 43472 Grimmer Blvd, Fremont

Best Microbrewery Food

Los Gatos Brewing Company

multiple locations

Rock Bottom

1875 S. Bascom Ave, #700, Campbell

BJ’s Brewery

multiple locations

Best Dining Value

Aqui Cal-Mex

multiple locations

Blue Rock BBQ

3001 Meridian Ave, San Jose

Bill’s Cafe

302 N. Bascom Ave, San Jose; 1115 Willow St, San Jose; 2089 The Alameda, San Jose

Best Family Restaurant

Sonoma Chicken

multiple locations

Bill’s Cafe

302 N. Bascom Ave, San Jose; 1115 Willow St, San Jose; 2089 The Alameda, San Jose

Aqui Cal-Mex

multiple locations

Best Caterer

Blue Rock BBQ

multiple locations

Sam’s BBQ

1110 S Bascom Ave, San Jose,

Parsley, Sage, Rosemary & Thyme

795 S Second St, San Jose

Best Local WInery

Testarossa Winery

300-A College Ave, Los Gatos

J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines

1000 Lenzen Ave, San Jose

Mountain Winery

14831 Pierce Rd, Saratoga

Best Microbrewery

Gordon Biersch

Restaurants: 33 E. San Fernando St, San Jose; 640 Emerson St,Palo Alto; Brewery: 357 E. Taylor St, San Jose

Rock Bottom

1875 S. Bascom Ave, Campbell

Los Gatos Brewing Company

130 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos; 163 W. Santa Clara St, San Jose

Best Wine Bar

Tessora’s Barra di Vino

234 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell

Wine Affairs

1435 The Alameda, San Jose

Grapevine

1389 Lincoln Ave, San Jose

Best Romantic Restaurant

La Fondue

14550 Big Basin Way, Saratoga

Plumed Horse

14555 Big Basin Way, Saratoga

Le Foret

21747 Bertram Rd, San Jose

Best Cupcakes

Frost Cupcake Factory

199 E Campbell Ave,Campbell

Kara’s Cupcakes

Santana Row, 3055 Olin Ave, Suite 1010, San Jose; 855 El Camino Real, Suite 50, Palo Alto

Sprinkles

393 Stanford Shopping Center, Palo Alto

Best Monday Night Party

Motown Mondays, 55 South

55 S. First St, San Jose

55 South went from being one of the best cocktail bars in downtown San Jose—OK, probably the best—to also providing the best first-of-the-week party. Motown Mondays are not your average industry nights. As many as a dozen DJs spin while the booze flows free, well, not free but you get it. (JK)

Best All-Ages Rock Shows

San Jose Rock Shop

30 N. Third St, San Jose

More than a decade after the Cactus Club shuttered for good, the Rock Shop has filled the void it left behind by offering an all-ages venue.The 8,000-square-foot space at Sperry Station on Third Street includes rehearsal space, a repair shop, retail shop and stages for live shows. David Nevin, 33, started the whole thing in his garage six years ago, and says he’s still reeling from the success of the homespun endeavor. The age aspect is important, he notes, because it gives teens a chance to invest time and interest in live music and offers a sanctioned place to perform and practice. This summer, Nevin plans an ambitious 90-day festival where he hopes to showcase as many as 270 bands. He hopes the event raises the profile of his shop, but more importantly, of San Jose’s up-and-coming music scene. (JW)

Best Burbank Bar

7 Stars Bar and Grill

398 S. Bascom Ave, San Jose

In a boom-town real estate market, places like the Burbank neighborhood stand ready to be mulched and infilled by identical three story townhouses. For the time being, the Burbank has its soul—it is, as yet, a repository of misfits, green-cross clinics, rickety second-hand shops and tattoo parlors. The 7 Stars Bar and Grill serves a number of functions—happy hour microbrews, a breakfast burrito and a pint after a night shift, trivia and karaoke. It’s both a good neighborhood pub with a sci-fi bent (Star Wars decor and a 1/10th or something scale statue of Jabba the Hut) both a friendly bar and an easy going luncheonette where you can bring a kid or two. Come here, bring San Francisco friends, and prove to them that there is life outside the Mission. (RvB)

Best Place to Geek Out on Vinyl

Wax Wednesdays at Cafe Stritch

374 S. First St, San Jose

Among DJs, it’s an argument that will never be settled: whether one needs to spin actual vinyl records in order to be a real DJ or not. But for those that fall on the vinyl-or-nothing side, Cafe
Stritch offers a wax-only weekly show. The DJs will play anything, so long as it’s on vinyl: soul, funk, garage, psychedelic-rock, indie, hip-hop—really, whatever the DJ of the night feels like spinning. There are sometimes live bands on a Wax Wednesday bill, but regardless there’s always plenty of vinyl geekery to be had throughout the night. (AC)

Best Old-Fashioned Old Fashioned

singlebarrel

43 W. San Salvador St, San Jose

Unsurprisingly, the original San Jose old-fashioned speakeasy makes a rather old-fashioned Old Fashioned. Also unsurprisingly, it’s the bomb dot com. The Old Fashioned is named such because it most closely approximates what the cocktail originally was: liquor, water, sugar and bitters. But ask for an Old Fashioned at many bars and one will receive a concoction of fruit, soda and maybe some bourbon in there somewhere. At Singlebarrel one gets bourbon or rye whiskey with simple syrup and bitters, plus a lemon peel run around the rim—which seriously makes a difference—and a sphere of ice, to minimize melting. It’s simple, and it’s hard to beat. (SL)

Best Place Where Everyone Knows Your Name

Rookies Sports Lodge

1535 Meridian Ave, San Jose

OK, they probably don’t know your name—yet. But hang out enough times at the sports bar whose slogan rings, “Friends don’t let friends drink in Los Gatos,” and you’ll be able to get a personalized mug with your very own number that hangs above the bar. (JK)

Best Dive Bar Serving Prime Rib

Redi Room

4340 Moorpark Ave, San Jose

This hole-in-the-wall spot recently brought back their Tuesday prime rib dinner special: 13 bucks for prime rib, a salad, potato and garlic bread. It’s first-come, first-served and the service can be slow, but the drinks are cheap and strong, and the vibe is chill. Just go there expecting to hang out for a while, shoot some pool, throw some darts and enjoy the steak. (SL)

Best Source of Cutting -Edge Latin Music

Sonido Clash

Various venues

San Jose has direct access to the new up-and-coming Latin scene thanks to Sonido Clash, who are on one hand, a collective of local Latin artists (Philthy Dronez, Raul y Mexia, Turbo Sonidero Futuristico), and at the same time a promotion company that has been bringing amazing cutting-edge Latin acts to San Jose—some from right here in the United States (like Oakland hip-hop duo Los Rakas), and some all the way from Latin America (Like Argentina’s wild, all-female Las Kumbia Queers). For most of 2013, Sonido Clash was a regular monthly event at the Pagoda Lounge. Now their shows are more sporadic—and at different venues. (AC)

Best Pho and Blues

Little Lou’s BBQ

2455 S Winchester Blvd, Campbell

The name doesn’t mislead—Little Lou’s BBQ is indeed a barbecue joint, but if anything, the name undersells the place’s offerings. In addition to barbecue fare, Little Lou’s menu includes a nod to Vietnamese cuisine with dishes like pho and spring rolls, but given the twist of Western ingredients such as brisket and tri-tip. And most every night of the week there’s live music, featuring local blues and country artists, such as Chris Cain, Terry Hiatt and Fred McCarty. To bring it all together: a selection of craft brews, including Santa Clara Valley New Almaden Red and beers from Lagunitas, Hangar 24, Knee Deep, North Coast and other small breweries. (HZ)

Best Free Concert Series

Daydream Nation at San Pedro Square Market

87 N. San Pedro St, San Jose

For going on two years, Daydream Nation has taken place in the spacious, bustling San Pedro Square Market. Every month, promoter Eric Fanali brings the best talent from San Jose and beyond—acts like The Bang, Judgment Day and Foxtails Brigade, that would normally be playing at some of the neighboring, not-free venues. During the warm summer months, the shows take place on the outdoor patio, where people can relax and drink a glass of wine or a cocktail while they enjoy the tunes. Plus, unlike a lot of other live music venues, there are plenty of great dining options to indulge in. (AC)

Best Dance Club

The Blank Club
44 S. Almaden Ave, San Jose

Charley’s LG

15 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos

The Cardiff

260 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell

Best Live Music Club

The Blank Club

44 S. Almaden Ave., San Jose

Poor House Bistro

91 S. Autumn St, San Jose

Charley’s LG (Mountain Charley’s)

15 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos

Best Underground Music Spot

San Jose Rock Shop

30 N. Third St, San Jose

X-Bar, Homestead Bowl

20990 Homestead Rd, Cupertino

SLG Art Boutiki

44 Race St, San Jose

Best Latin Music Club

Azúcar Latin Bistro & Mojito Bar

71 E. San Fernando St, San Jose

The Rodeo Club

610 Coleman Ave, San Jose

Miami Beach Club/Beso

417 S. Market St, San Jose

Best Jazz/Blues Club

JJ’s Blues

3439 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose

Poor House Bistro

91 S. Autumn St, San Jose

Hedley Club

233 W. Santa Clara St, San Jose

Best Gentlemen’s Club

Pink Poodle

328 S. Bascom Ave, San Jose

Cheetah’s

907 E. Arques Ave, Sunnyvale

Cheetah’s

160 Persian Dr, Sunnyvale

Best Gay or Lesbian Bar

Splash

65 Post St, San Jose

Mac’s

39 Post St, San Jose

The Metropolitan

394 S. First St, San Jose

Best Hotel Bar or Restaurant

Hedley Club

233 W. Santa Clara St, San Jose

V Bar

355 Santana Row, San Jose

Bamboo Lounge

170 S. Market St, San Jose

Best Hookah Bar

Smoke This Hookah Lounge

2271 The Alameda, Santa Clara

Shisha Hookah Lounge

84 N. Market St, San Jose

The Swinging Hookah

386 S. First St, San Jose

Best Sports Bar

Double D’s Sports Grille

354 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos

Britannia Arms Downtown San Jose

173 W. Santa Clara St, San Jose

Britannia Arms Almaden

5027 Almaden Expy, San Jose

Best Pre-Sharks Game Spot

Henry’s Hi-Life

301 W. Saint John St, San Jose

San Pedro Square Market

87 N. San Pedro St, San Jose

Poor House Bistro

91 S. Autumn St, San Jose

Best British Pub

Britannia Arms Almaden

5027 Almaden Expy, San Jose

Duke of Edinburgh

10801 N. Wolfe Rd, Cupertino

Britannia Arms Downtown San Jose

173 W. Santa Clara St, San Jose

Best Irish Pub

O’Flaherty’s

25 N. San Pedro St, San Jose

Katie Blooms

369 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell

C.B. Hannegan’s

208 Bachman Ave, Los Gatos

Best Martinis

The Grill on the Alley

172 S. Market St, San Jose

Original Joe’s

301 S. First St, San Jose

Capers

1710 W. Campbell Ave, Campbell

Best Moscow Mules

55 South

55 S. First St, San Jose

singlebarrel

43 W. San Salvador St, San Jose

Blackbird Tavern

200 S. First St, San Jose

Best Mojitos

El Jardin Tequila Bar

368 Santana Row, San Jose

Cascal

400 Castro St, Mountain View

Azúcar

71 E. San Fernando St, San Jose

Best Margarita

Aqui Cal-Mex

1145 Lincoln Ave, San Jose; 5679 Snell Ave, San Jose; 201 E. Campbell Ave, Campbell; 10630 S. De Anza Blvd, Cupertino

El Jardin Tequila Bar

368 Santana Row, San Jose

Mezcal

25 W. San Fernando St, San Jose

Best Place to Play Pool

South First Billiards

420 S. First St, San Jose

Santa Clara Billiards

4525 Stevens Creek Blvd, Santa Clara

Willow Den

805 Lincoln Ave, San Jose

Best Bowling Alley

Cambrian Bowl

14900 Camden Ave, San Jose

Homestead Bowl

20990 Homestead Rd, Cupertino

Bowlmor Lanes

5420 Thornwood Dr, San Jose; 10123 N. Wolfe Rd, #20, Cupertino

Best Dry Cleaners

Shine Dry Cleaners

1260 Benton St, Santa Clara

Cedar Tree Cleaners

1823 Pruneridge Ave, Santa Clara

Ideal Cleaners, Santa Clara

3170 De La Cruz Blvd, Suite 100,
Santa Clara

Best Baby Store

Kid to Kid

2666 Homestead Rd, Santa Clara

Natural Mom Gear

3400 De La Cruz Blvd, Suite H,
Santa Clara

Best Bridal Store

Bay Area Bridal/New Things West

10123 N. Wolfe Rd, Cupertino

Brides of California

681 Tasman Dr, Sunnyvale

Taal Boutique & Bridal

895 E. El Camino Real, Sunnyvale

Best American Restaurant

St. John’s Bar & Grill

510 Lawrence Expy, Sunnyvale

Hobee’s

800 W. Ahwanee Ave, Sunnyvale; 21267 Stevens Creek Blvd, Suite 310, Cupertino

Armadillo Willy’s

2624 Homestead Rd, Santa Clara; 161 E El Camino Real, Sunnyvale; 10100 S. De Anza Blvd, Cupertino

Best Chinese Restaurant

China Stix

2110 El Camino Real, Santa Clara

Mandarin Gourmet

10145 N De Anza Blvd, Cupertino

Tao Tao Cafe

175 S. Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale

Best Japanese Restaurant

Yuki Sushi

1827 Pruneridge Ave, Santa Clara

Kobe

2086 El Camino Real, Santa Clara

Cherry Sushi

2910 El Camino Real, Santa Clara

Best Business Lunch

Alexander’s Steakhouse

10330 N. Wolfe Rd, Cupertino

Pedro’s

3935 Freedom Circle, Santa Clara

Faultline Brewing Company

1235 Oakmead Pkwy, Sunnyvale

Best Mexican Restaurant

La Paloma

2280 El Camino Real, Santa Clara

Casa Lupe

671 S. Bernardo Ave, Sunnyvale

Aqui Cal-Mex

10630 S. De Anza Blvd, Cupertino

Best Indian Restaurant

Bombay Garden

3701 El Camino Real, Santa Clara

Kabab and Curry’s

1498 Isabella St, Santa Clara

Turmeric

141 S. Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale

Best Thai Restaurant

Thai Basil

101 S. Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale

Jasmine Fine Thai

1211 Franklin Mall, Santa Clara

Dusita Thai Cuisine

2325 El Camino Real, Suite 104,
Santa Clara

Best Taqueria

Chavez Market

666 N. Fair Oaks Ave, Sunnyvale

Mondo Burrito

3300 The Alameda, Santa Clara

Viva Taqueria

444 N. Winchester Ave, Santa Clara

Best Breakfast

Hobee’s

800 W. Ahwanee Ave, Sunnyvale; 21267 Stevens Creek Blvd, Suite 310, Cupertino

Sara’s Kitchen

1595 Franklin St, Santa Clara

Country Gourmet American Bistro

1314 S. Mary Ave, Sunnyvale

Best Independent Coffeehouse

Coffee Society

21265 Stevens Creek Blvd, Suite 202, Cupertino

Bellano Coffee

3985 Stevens Creek Blvd, Santa Clara

Bean Scene Cafe

186 S. Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale

Best Bakery

Nothing Bundt Cakes

939 W. El Camino Real, Sunnyvale

Sugar Butter Flour

669 S. Bernardo Ave, Sunnyvale

Copenhagen and Crown Bakery

2079 El Camino Real, Santa Clara

Best Burrito

Mondo Burrito

3300 The Alameda, Santa Clara

Viva Taqueria

444 N. Winchester Ave, Santa Clara

Aqui Cal-Mex

10630 S. De Anza Blvd, Cupertino

Best Local Festival

Santa Clara Art and Wine

Sep 13-14, Central Park, Santa Clara

Sunnyvale Art and Wine

June 7-8, Murphy Ave, downtown Sunnyvale

Cherry Blossom Festival

April 26-27, Memorial Park, Cupertino

Best Happy Hour

Pedro’s

3935 Freedom Circle, Santa Clara

Firehouse Grill

111 S. Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale

Britannia Arms Cupertino

1087 S. De Anza Blvd, San Jose

Best Karaoke

Normandy House

30 Washington St, Santa Clara

Woodham’s Lounge

4475 Stevens Creek Blvd, Santa Clara

Blue Bonnet Bar

208 S. Fair Oaks Ave, Sunnyvale

Best Dive Bar

Paul & Eddie’s Monta Vista Inn

21619 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino

Blinky’s Can’t Say

1031 Monroe St, Santa Clara

The Hut
3200 The Alameda, Santa Clara

Best Wine Shop

The Wine Club

1200 Coleman Ave, Santa Clara

Bobby’s Liquor

2327 El Camino Real, Santa Clara

Coach House Wine & Spirits

1655 S. De Anza Blvd, Cupertino

Best Hair Salon

Limon Salon

3410 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose

Sanctuary

790 Lincoln St, Santa Clara

Salon Blu

2251 The Alameda, Santa Clara

Best Furniture Store

Russell’s Furniture

2645 El Camino Real, Santa Clara

Scandinavian Designs

19900 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino

Eastern: The Furniture Company

1231 Comstock St, Santa Clara

Best Dry Cleaner

Walnut Cleaners

3367 Walnut Ave, Fremont

Kathy’s Cleaner

526 Barber Lane, Milpitas

Executive Cleaners

1220 S. Abel St, Milpitas

Best Baby Store

Carter’s Children’s Wear

447 Great Mall Drive, Milpitas

Best Bridal Shop

David’s Bridal

217 Ranch Dr, Milpitas

Alterations by Alice

4552 Central Ave, Fremont

Elegant Tailoring & Bridal

103 Serra Way, Milpitas

Best American Restaurant

Country Way

5325 Mowry Ave, Fremont

The Vine

37533 Niles Blvd, Fremont

Mil’s Diner

36 S. Abbott Ave, Milpitas

Best Chinese Restaurant

Ho Chow

47966 Warm Springs Blvd, Fremont

China Chili Restaurant

39116 State St, Fremont

Darda Seafood

296 Barber Ct, Milpitas

Best Japanese Restaurant

Sen Dai Sushi

224 N. Abel St, Milpitas

Satomi Sushi

3655 Thornton Ave, Fremont

Mioki Sushi

3924 Decoto Rd, Fremont

Best Business Lunch

Sen Dai Sushi

224 N. Abel St, Milpitas

Layang Layang

181 W. Calaveras Blvd, Milpitas

Joe the Greek Cafe

1830 Milmont Dr, Milpitas

Best Mexican Restaurant

La Pinata

39136 Paseo Padre Pkwy, Fremont; 7383 Thornton Ave, Newark

Casa Azteca

20 N. Abel St, Milpitas

La Milpa

107 N. Milpitas Blvd, Milpitas

Best Indian Restaurant

Dosa Place

41043 Fremont Blvd, Fremont

Peacock Indian Cuisine

39447 Fremont Blvd, Fremont

Shalimar

3325 Walnut Ave, Fremont

Best Thai Restaurant

Sala Thai

39170 State St, Fremont; 44800 S. Grimmer Blvd, Fremont

Banana Leaf

182 Ranch Dr, Milpitas

Orchid Thai

209 S. Main St, Milpitas

Best Taqueria

Taqueria Las Vegas

1417 N. Milpitas Blvd, Milpitas

El Taco de Oro

5220 N. First St, Alviso

Casa Azteca

20 N. Abel St, Milpitas

Best Breakfast

Original Pancake House

39222 Fremont Blvd, Fremont

Omega Restaurant

90 S. Park Victoria Dr, Milpitas

Minerva’s

37463 Fremont Blvd, Fremont

Best Independent Coffeehouse

Prolific Oven

Pacific Commons Shopping Center, 43337 Boscell Rd, Fremont

Your Coffee Cups

46685 Mission Blvd, Fremont

Community Coffee

1000 S. Park Victoria Dr, Milpitas

Best Bakery

Nothing Bundt Cakes

39052 Fremont Hub, Fremont

Prolific Oven

Pacific Commons Shopping Center, 43337 Boscell Rd, Fremont

Sogo Bakery

46196 Warm Springs Blvd, Fremont

Best Burrito

El Taco de Oro

5220 N. First St, Alviso

Casa Azteca

20 N. Abel St, Milpitas

Super Taco

40798 Fremont Blvd, Fremont

Best Local Festival

Fremont Festival of the Arts

Aug 2-3, downtown Fremont

Autumn Festival

Sept, Milpitas

Best Happy Hour

Jack’s Brewing Company

39176 Argonaut Way, Fremont

Mojo Lounge

3714 Peralta Blvd, Fremont

Kirby’s Sports Bar

42312 Fremont Blvd, Fremont

Best Dive Bar

Kirby’s Sports Bar

42312 Fremont Blvd, Fremont

Mojo Lounge

3714 Peralta Blvd, Fremont

The Back Door Lounge

37422 Fremont Blvd, Fremont

Best Hair Salon

M Salon

39185 Farwell Dr, Fremont

Ma Belle Salon

43625 Mission Blvd, Suite 107, Fremont

Ascend Salon

37140 Maple St, Fremont

Best Furniture Store

Krazy Pat’s Furniture

5555 Auto Mall Pkwy, Fremont

La Bros Home Furnishings

4640 Auto Mall Pkwy, Fremont

Elegant Decor Furniture

40515 Albrae St, Fremont