2024
Welcome to the West Valley Favorites
Welcome to our West Valley Favorites special section, celebrating the cherished businesses, destinations, events, and services across the western region of Silicon Valley. This guide features local favorites from Campbell, Cupertino, Los Gatos, and Saratoga, but we encourage you to explore all the hidden gems throughout the entire region.
The West Valley is rich in histor y and culture, playing a significant role in the development of Silicon Valley. Our community has so much to offer, from fantastic eateries and unique shops to beautiful parks and exciting events. The blend of traditional charm and modern innovation makes this area truly special. Whether you’re a long-time
resident or a newcomer, there’s always something new to discover.
We turned to our local readers for their recommendations on the best places to eat, shop, play, and visit. These beloved spots are where neighbors meet, families create memories, and visitors experience the best of what the West Valley has to offer.
Campbell’s vibrant downtown, Cupertino’s serene parks and top-notch restaurants, Los Gatos’ scenic trails and historic downtown, and Saratoga’s charming village atmosphere and beautiful wineries each contribute to the unique tapestry of the West Valley. We hope you enjoy this collection of local favorites and find your new favorite spot. Happy exploring!
By Monica Lander
Like several West Valley cities, Campbell was covered in orchards and became an important train stop for the industry. Three major canneries, including the J.C. Ainsley Packing Company, made Campbell the center for shipping fruit. John Colpitts Ainsley, a native of England and soon a canning pioneer, arrived
in the States in 1884.
After learning the dried fruit and canning method, he soon shipped canned fruit back to his native country. He and his wife, Alcinda, built their home on their acreage at the corner of Hamilton and Bascom Avenues in 1925. The thatched cottages of England inspired the home’s design. Today, it is a historical museum listed in the National
Registrar of Historic Places. They built a second home of similar design for their son, Gordon, on Wild Way in Los Gatos. According to Campbell Reporter readers, the Tutor Revival style Ainsley House and Carriage House is a favorite historic attraction within city limits. Built on the corner of their 83acre orchard, it took less
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than a year to build at a cost of $50,000. A service bell, electric lighting, two telephones, a refrigerator, a three-car garage, and an electric stove were a few of the “symbols of wealth” in the design.
President Theodore Roosevelt visited
Campbell at the request of J. Fred Smith, the principal of Campbell’s high school. The President planted a redwood tree on the school grounds, which is now the site of the Community Center.
What was once a small farming community of 5,000 is now a small, vibrant city of about 44,000. Its 6.35 square
miles make it the second smallest West Valley city. It is tucked between Saratoga, Monte Sereno, the Town of Los Gatos, and San Jose.
Campbell residents are fortunate to have The Pruneyard within the city limits. This popular shopping and go-to destination for dining, cafes, and entertainment is located on South
Bascom Avenue. It features about 250,000 square feet of open-air shopping with about 236 storefronts. An 18-story tower features commercial office space.
Many popular restaurants and stores are located within The Pruneyard, including the Michelin-star LUNA Mexican Kitchen, a favorite for its food,
outdoor dining, and margaritas. Daily, madefrom-scratch items include braised meats, chorizo, hand-pressed tortillas, chips, desserts, and salsas. Jo Lerma Lopez, chef, and John Lopez proudly serve farm-to-table Mexican food with no additives, preservatives, cans, microwaves, and “no exceptions .”Jo Lerma-
and independent dine-in cinema, it features three movie theaters plus rooms for special events.
Lopez was among 100 local women honored by the Silicon Valley Business Journal in 2023 for “having a major impact as an executive, entrepreneur, and community leader.”
After a delicious meal, head to the Pruneyard Cinemas for the latest releases. A locally owned
For over 50 year s, Campbell Repo rte r readers h ave bee n a favor ite o f Recycle Bookstor e West, which has mor e than 10 0,000 ti tles in stoc k. Eric an d Cyn thia Johnson purch ased th e E Cam pbell A ve nue bookstor e in 1967 fr o m
Pat and Joan Hayes
Their second loca tion, the Campb el l stor e, opened in 20 04 and features more new bo oks and caters to fa mil ies. Stacy Carl on runs a children’s area.
Also in The Pruneyard is the famous Sports Basement. Campbell Reporter readers favor its selection of biking, camping, hiking, running and fitness, racquet
sports, team sports, and swimming equipment, in addition to apparel and footwear. The Sports Basement also offers rentals, which is great for weekends, vacations, or trying out a sport. Its trade-in program also accepts gently used gear for store credit.
Established in 1975, Litherland, Kennedy & Associates, APC serves clients in Campbell and
all over the San Jose area and assists in living trust estate planning, Medi-Cal planning, senior care services, trust administration, and probate.
Campbell Reporter readers enjoy the free educational webinars. The attorneys and staff are trained in estate planning, trusts, probate, tax law,
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Down the street from The Pruneyard is Sola Salon Studios, a team of beauty professionals in fully equipped private salon studios. A favorite of Campbell Reporter readers, Sola was founded in 2004 by Statton Smith and Matt Briger. Today, beauty professionals enjoy customizable studio space, creative freedom, and all the support and tools they need to keep their clients looking beautiful.
Sola Salon Studios is located on South Bascom Avenue and features 32 individual studios for hair stylists, estheticians, eyebrow artists, barbers, nail techs, and more.
According to Campbell Reporter readers, the Mathnasium Method is a winner for tutoring and an exceptional educational center. This location, on Winchester Boulevard, served the Campbell and Los Gatos areas.
Tutors offer a free initial diagnostic assessment during which they identify each student’s specific areas of strength and challenges. Then, a customized learning plan is created for students in grades Pre-K to 12.
Dr. Kobad Bugwadia is the owner and center director of this location.
Readers call Mathnasium the most community minder. A recent donation drive
benefited Child Advocates of Silicon Valley, which supports foster youth in the community by matching foster youth with Court-Appointed Special Advocates.
Readers find many of their favorite foods and snacks in Campbell, including the legendary See’s Candies, located on South Bascom Avenue, open seven days a week. Step into the iconic chocolate shop and pick out your favorite chews, nuts, and dark or milk chocolate treats to create a custom box, or reach for the beautifully packaged boxes ready to go. Always a special gift to give during the holidays, spring, and Valentine’s Day, See’s candies are also the perfect way to treat yourself year-round. See’s Candies has been in business since 1921.
According to Campbell Reporter readers, the best coffee is at Philz Coffee on S Bascom Avenue. Known for customizing coffee blends made from sustainably sourced green beans worldwide, Philz Coffee epitomizes the coffee-focused experience.
The beans are roasted in Oakland, and each cup of coffee is brewed to order using a modified pour-over method. They grind the beans and steep them while the customer waits Special drinks like a Mint Mojito, Gingersnap, or Mocha Tesora are also available.
About 64 of the 70 Philz Coffee locations are in California.
Bill Sincere and his wife, “Kirk,” arrived in California from New York after World War II and
opened his first Kirk’s Steakburgers in 1948 in Palo Alto.
“Good meat served without fanfare” continues to be the basic idea behind Kirk’s Steakburgers. Cooked over an open charcoal flame, these burgers can be topped with all your favorites. The tradition lives on, and the meat is sourced from the same butcher that Bill used in the early days. The family establishment employs some second—and thirdgeneration employees, too Brothers Maurice and Giuseppe Carrubba bought the business in October 2023. They worked to rekindle this community place and focused on creating a family-friendly atmosphere. The place also happens to have a big patio for soccer or baseball post-game gatherings, birthday parties, and other gatherings. Inside, there are 20 televisions to catch every game and a full bar menu with signature cocktails.
If you crave pizza, Blue Line Pizza is a favorite among Campbell Reporter readers. Located in a historic downtown Campbell building on E Campbell Avenue, it is known for its awardwinning cornmeal crust, deep dish, and New Yorkstyle thin-crust pizzas. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere, the large bar, the televisions, and the dog-friendly patio. Named after the Blue Line, a train between
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Sushi Con fi den ti al on E. Cam pbell Ave nu e is a favor ite am ong reader s regar di ng this fresh an d in n ovati ve cuisin e. Op en ed in 2012 in down to wn Cam pb ell, Su sh i Con fid en tial is th e br ai nch ild of Randy Mu ster er, wh o fell in love with sush i a s a teen while worki ng on fishin g boats in the San Diego ar ea. Hi s passion for sush i remain ed strong. He trained wi th a Korean an d Japan ese sush i che f an d gain ed a r epu tati on for his deli ci ous sush i. He cater ed out of h is hom e and cr eate d under gr o u n d sush i parties, aka sush i, con fiden tial.
Complete restaurants are in Campbell, Morgan Hill, and San Jose, with concessions in key venues, including SAP Center, the Shark Tank, the Shoreline Amphitheatre, and The Plex.
Musterer partners with Randy Hahn, the voice of the San Jose Sharks, to raise money for local nonprofits. He continues to teach and mentor younger sushi chefs and cater to corporate, star chefs, and celebrity events
SAGE Veterinary Centers is a 24-hour emergency vet and specialty hospital on Dell Avenue. It is the place
readers favor the most to take care of their pets in need. The facilities feature state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and surgical tools. One of five locations throughout the Bay Area, the SAGE team of board-certified veterinary professionals offers critical care, emergency care, internal medicine, neurology, oncology, surgery, and urgent care.
SAGE partnered with AnimalScan to bring a high-grade Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine to the Campbell hospitals. The Campbell SAGE is also outfitted with a state-of-the-art physical rehabilitation area with underwater treadmills available for hydrotherapy.
SAGE Center is known for being high-tech, but it is also known for being high-touch. Its indoor kennels are comfortable and kept meticulously clean.
SAGE Veterinary Centers was founded in 1992 and is one of the leading veterinary groups. It provides business and clinical support services to veterinary hospitals in Alaska, California, Texas, and Washington. Its veterinarians have “a stellar reputation for clinical expertise and a culture of collaboration.”
Additional Favorites
Mentioned by Our Readers:
Auto Tires
America’s Tire
Bagels
Noah’s NY Bagels
Bakery
Manresa Bread
Bar, Margaritas & Mexican Restaurant
Aqui Campbell
Bathroom Renovation
New Bath Expo
Bookstore
Books Inc.
Breakfast
Stacks
Brew Pub
Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery
Burritos
Taco Bravo
Chamber of Commerce
Campbell Chamber of Commerce
Chinese Restaurant
Blue Sky
Coffee
Peet’s Coffee
Starbucks
Credit Union
Patelco Credit Union
Door Repair
A1 Sliding Door Repair
Fine Dining
Naschmarkt Restaurant –Campbell
Funeral Home
Darling Fischer Campbell
Memorial Chapel
Garden/Nurser y Shop
SummerWinds Nursery
Hamburger
The Habit Burger Grill
Health Food Store
Whole Foods Market
Hot Dogs
Wienerschnitzel
Hotel
Campbell Inn
Ice Cream
Baskin-Robbins
Market/Grocer y: Meats and Pultr y, Produce, Seafood and Shellfish Lunardi’s Markets
Martial Arts
Barron Academy Martial Arts
Massage Elements Massage
Most Community Minded Local Company
Mathnasium
Pet Store
Pet Food Express
Place to Bike
Campbell Park
Seafood Restaurant
Pacific Catch
Steakhouse
BE.STEAK.A
Veterinarian
Reed Animal Hospital
The Cat Hospital
Wine tasting
Tessora’s Barra di Vino
Re ader s’ We st Va ll ey Favo ri te s: Cu pe rtino
By Monica Lander
Synonymous with global tech giants, including Apple Inc.’s headquarters, and known as one of the founding cities of Silicon Valley, Cupertino is ranked among the top ten wealthiest cities in the country.
Historically, vineyards yielded to prolific orchards bearing prunes, plums, apricots, and cherries in the city’s 11 square miles and the necessity for a railway connecting Cupertino to the rest of the bay.
Today, its more than 60,000 residents enjoy excellent public
schools, tree-lined neighborhoods, state-ofthe-art services, a twostory, 54,000-square-foot library, and a wealth of shopping and dining options. Located west of San Jose, Cupertino is only 46 miles from downtown San Francisco, 13 miles from Stanford University, and about 11 miles to the San Jose International Airport
The community is also richly steeped in tradition. The annual Cherry Blossom Festival, in its 40th year, honors the city’s relationship with its sister city in Toyokawa, Japan, with a spotlight on
Cupertino » PAGE 12
Cupertino
FROM PAGE 11
Japanese food, culture, art, and, of course, cherries.
Cupertino Courier readers rank this festival among their favorites. Held at Memorial Park and the Quinlan and Senior Centers, this weekend event each April offers enticing food courts, live entertainment and performances, cultural exhibits and demonstrations, children’s activities, and even the introduction of the NorCal Cherry Blossom Queen and her court. After a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, students participating in the exchange program with Toyokawa were introduced.
Cupertino Courier readers have several favorite dining options in a variety of cuisines Favorite fine dining and steakhouse is Alexander’s Steakhouse on Stevens Creek Boulevard. The award-winning restaurant opened in 2005 and offers lunch and dinner menus with “hints of Japanese influence.”
Alexander’s is a partnership between executive Michelin Star chef Jeffrey Stout, a graduate of the California Culinary Academy, and general manager James Chen, who adopted the middle name Alexander upon emigrating from China He is a secondgeneration restaurateur. The extensive menu includes steak options, Wagyu beef, seafood, hot and cold appetizers, cocktails, and an expansive
wine list. An exclusive six-course Omadase is also on the menu. Designed for entire tables, Omadase is the Japanese word for “chef’s choice.” At Alexander’s, it is a sixcourse prix fixe menu that includes dessert. Wine pairings are also available with Omadase.
According to readers, the Lazy Dog restaurant has a favorite “allAmerican” menu and is the most dog-friendly restaurant with its outdoor seating.
Lazy Dog is the brainchild of Chris Simms, Southern Californiaborn and educated in hotel administration at Cornell University, and his dad, Tom Simms. They opened the first Lazy Dog restaurant in 2003 in Huntington Beach. Chris has been around the restaurant business all his life. His grandfather founded Mimi’s Café.
His recipe for success combines “creative scratch cooking, gracious hospitality, and unrivaled value” in a warm, lively, and contemporary rustic atmosphere.
There are Lazy Dog restaurants nationwide, including 26 in California.
The classic flavors of Aqui Cal-Mex, the cilantro, cumin, chile, and citrus, satisfy the taste buds of many Cupertino Courier readers.
Aqui Cupertino is a favorite destination on De Anza Boulevard. Reading its menu makes your mouth water with delight and your mind swirl with indecision The weekly chef special or Adobo Chicken Lime-Avocado bowl, Cuban pork carnitas or Oaxaca Chicken Parmigiana, Chipotle corn Mahi, or Firecracker Shrimp? There are vegetarian and vegan options, tacos, burritos,
children’s plates, beer and wine.
It’s the “Swirls” that get the attention at Aqui CalMex. The housemade mix is natural fruit juices and mid-shelf liquor with a frozen blended “industrial strength margarita.”
Founded in 1994 by David O’Mara and executive chef Rob Francis, a Culinary Institute of American graduate, Aqui Cal-Mex has five locations in the San Jose area.
For Mediterranean food, Cupertino’s Dish N’ Dash on Stevens Creek Boulevard is a favorite among readers.
Owner Emad Ibrahim immigrated to the United States in 1988 from Jerusalem and brought family lessons and “culinary savvy” with him. Restaurant experience and a business degree later, he and his wife, Nadiah Mshasha, opened
their first Dish N’ Dash in 2001 in Sunnyvale and have now expanded to seven locations, including Cupertino.
Eat in and enjoy a fine dining experience, or take your items to go. Either way, customers can enjoy carefully selected ingredients, from cage-free chicken to domestic lamb, locally sourced vegetables, and more, all delivered fresh daily. Diners can expect a five-star quality experience each time.
Experience the authentic taste of Italian cuisine at La Pizzeria, a favorite among Cupertino Courier readers.
Mother and son Antonella MuratoriSaccani and Simone Saccani came to California from Rome, Italy, and settled in the Bay Area, where she pursued her desire to become a chef.
After college, Simone
Cupertino » PAGE 13
been a mainstay on S. De Anza Boulevard in Cupertino for more than three generations.
started working in the restaurant industry The duo leaped at the chance to purchase La Pizzeria in 2016 in Campbell’s historic downtown and eventually opened their second location on N Wolfe Road in Cupertino. Inspired by the flavors of Rome, they offer traditional recipes like Spaghetti, Caccio, and pepe and Roman-style pizza. They also have a full bar, Italian special cocktails and drinks, and Italian espresso.
Yamagami’s Garden Center for gardening supplies and plants is a favorite among Cupertino Courier readers. It has
Taro Yamagami started his nursery in a fruit stand among the surrounding orchards, and he and his brother, Jiro, got to work designing and installing area landscapes. One of the first to be awarded a license in Landscape Architecture in the state, Yamagami sold the nursery to Mas and Betty Oka in 1963, and they proudly kept the name and his way of doing business. The Oka’s son, Preston, took over the company in 1983 when they retired, and today, his daughter, Brittany Sheade, and her husband, Mike, are continuing the tradition with a burst
of energy and the same commitment to providing their customers with the best plant material and best gardening advice.
Since 1981, Vardy’s Jewelers has created unique jewelry in timeless styles for every occasion Cupertino Courier readers favor this family-owned business on S. De Anza Boulevard and appreciate the Old World European craftsmanship melded with contemporary technology. The result is a collection of stunning handmade designs sparkling with diamonds, gems, pearls, and precious metals.
Vardy Shtein, a master goldsmith in the European tradition,
Cupertino
writes, “Working with people to capture their wishes and desires in fine jewelry is very satisfying.” About 90 percent of his business is repeat or referral business. Shtein works with his family and staff to provide unequaled customer service so every customer leaves with a smile.
Established in 1968, Cupertino Florist has been a part of many celebrations and milestones, providing high-quality floral designs, blooming orchids, and azalea plants. The florist started as an “off-shoot” of the Cupertino Nursery, a retail garden center near the Apple corporate headquarters. Owned and operated for three generations by the Uenaka family, Cupertino Florist is now owned by Seyed Javad H., who has been around the family-owned business for years.
Cupertino Florist is open six days a week and delivers throughout the South Bay area, from Palo Alto to Milpitas. It takes pride in offering unique and creative floral designs using the highest-quality flowers.
West Valley Community Services, Inc.Inc. (WVCS), founded in 1973, is a community-based, nonprofit agency that serves low-income and unhoused individuals and families in the West Valley, including Cupertino.
Cupertino Courier readers favor this agency for assisting families and
individuals with food. Named Nonprofit of the Year and given the STAR Award by the Cupertino Chamber of Commerce in 2020, WVCS opened and expanded its Vista Village Office and Food Market in 2021. That same year, it launched its mobile food program, the WVCS ParkIt-Market. This service assists those who have transportation barriers, bringing a mobile market to them. That market is an 11-ton, 37-foot long, 14-foot wide custom food truck that can feed up to 100 households daily. It offers fresh fruits and vegetables, bakery goods, meats, canned foods, and dairy products to its clients free of cost. The truck was made possible by the generous donations of Kaiser Permanente, Bank of America, and Sutter Health, among others.
According to Donald Akimoto, WVCS’s Assistant Manager of Mobile Operations, the ParkIt-Market allows clients “to shop with dignity, keeping their integrity without embarrassment or judgment.”
Volunteer opportunities for all ages are also available at the WVCS. Email them at volunteer@ wvcommunityservices.org.
Additional Favorites
Mentioned by Our
Readers:
Bagels
House of Bagels
Baker y La Patisserie Bakery
Barbecue
South Winchester BBQ
Barber Shop
Haircut
Breakfast
Sweet Maple
Breakfast & Dining
Restaurant
Holder’s Country Inn –Cupertino
Burritos
Rio Adobe Southwest Cafe
Burritos, Health Food
Store, Market/Grocer y: Organic Grocery & Overall Market/Grocer y Whole Foods Market
Chamber of Commerce
Cupertino Chamber of Commerce
Coffee
Peet’s Coffee
Credit Union
Alliant Credit Union
Credit Union
Star One Credit Union | Cupertino
Dining Restaurant
Pacific Catch
Fine Dining
Birk’s
Fitness Club
Northwest YMCA
Flooring
S&G Carpet and More
Golf Course
Blackberry Farm Golf
Coursee
Deep Cliff Golf Course
Hamburger
The Habit Burger Grill
Hardware & Home
Improvement Store
The Home Depot
Homestead Ace Hardware
Hot Dogs Costco
Hotel
Juniper Hotel Cupertino, Curio Collection by Hilton
Ice Cream
Baskin-Robbins
Japanese Restaurant Gochi Cupertino
Liquor Store
Coach House Wine & Spirits
Market/Grocer y: Meats, Poultr y & Florist
Trader Joe’s
Mexican Restaurant Red Pepper Bar and Grill
Music School
Bravo Conservatory Of Music, Cupertino
Nonprofit Organization
Rotary Club of Cupertino
Overall Market/Grocer y Marukai Market
Safeway
Party Rentals
Party City
Pet Emergenc y Hospital Cupertino Animal Hospital
Pet Store
Pet Club Cupertino
Pharmac y CVS Pharmacy
Pizza
Luigi’s Campbell
Pizza My Heart
Private School
Fusion Academy Cupertino
Sandwich
Ike’s Love & Sandwiches
Lee’s Sandwiches
Sushi
Azuma Japanese Cuisine
Tap Room
The Halford Sunnyvale
Thrift Shop
Goodwill of Silicon Valley
Veterinarian
Acadia Veterinary Clinic
Re ader s’ We s t
By Monica Lander
A popular destination for visitors, a sanctu ary for its roughly 32,000 residents who call it home, Los Gatos retains that small-town ambiance that many crave with its charming and historic downtown, annual festivals, parks like Vasona Lake County Park, home of the Billy Jones Wildcat Railroad and Caro usel, uniq ue boutiques, cafes, finedining restaurants, about a dozen wineries and, top-rated schools like Los Gatos High School, home of championship athletics, and picturesque
neighbor h oods showc asing arch itectur ally stun ni ng homes fr o m craftsm an bun galows to gr an d estates. The 14-squar emil e town h as it all tucked in am on g the hills on the way to the gor geous San ta Cr uz beach es an d Mon ter ey Bay. It is c o nven ien tly close to c o m mu ti ng in to Sili con Valley , ab ou t 60 mi les sout h of San Fr an cisco, and withi n 12 mil es of the int er nati onal air port.
Anyone who has strolled through the iconic downtown, which is on the national register
Los Gatos » PAGE 17
Los Gatos
of historic places and even features a historic movie theatre with its iconic marquee, knows they are experiencing a special place.
The downtown, from North Santa Cruz Avenue to University Avenue, is also within walking distance from many neighboring neighborhoods and a popular location for some of its residents’ favorite places.
A fixture in the Los Gatos downtown landscape is the Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Company, “A Traditi on in Good Taste since 1982,” founded and
owned by Teri Hope. On any day of the we ek, you will find its lo yal patrons and newcome rs filling the café tab les a nd spilling out in fron t of the storef ront as they sip delicious hot and co ld brews, chat with fr ie nd s, and take a break.
Not only do es Hope offer the bes t coffee, pastries, li ve music, and a wel coming downtown gath er ing venue, but she is al so known fo r her ge nerous spirit and community involveme nt from serving as a Lo s Ga tos Cha mber of Comme rce boa rd memb er and president of th e nonprofit Los G atos Music & Arts Found at ion . She founded the annua l Ja zz on the Plazz su mmer
concert series in its 22n d year and ser ves on the Los Gatos Monte Se re no Police Foundation.
The food sc ene in Las Gatos is unfo rge ttable and offers a varie ty of favorite s. Open for b reakfast and lu nc h only , The Los Gato s Café Uptown has bee n a part of th e Los Gato s community for 37 ye ars. Its in viting an d casual atm osph ere, consistently good food, indo or and outdoor se ating, and friendly se rvic e ha ve its custome rs co ming bac k again and again. Maybe the exte nsive menu of omelets, burgers, or sandwich es makes it a favorite amo ng all ages, but it cou ld also be th e fresh ly bake d tre ats. Regular cus to me rs
kn ow if they want the signature cinnamon rolls, th ey have to co me on the weekends an d early because th ey sell out fast.
The Loma Brew ing Company on No rth Santa Cru z Avenue is a friendly plac e wh ere great beer and food pair with an inviting environme nt th at even wel comes fou r-le gged friends. Los Gato s residents favor th is brew pub owne d by Kevin Youkilis, a forme r MLB play er, becau se they find it most do g-frie ndly. Still, th e menu of mouth-watering sliders, appetize rs, wi ngs, tacos, burgers, and mo re , as well as on -tap be ers and cocktails, ke eps them coming bac k.
One of Silicon Valley’s best sports bars is also a Los Gatos favorite. On the corner of Highway 9 and North Santa Cruz Avenue, Double D’s Sports Grille, owned by brothers Dean and Darin Devincenzi, is the place to go to watch the “big game” or any game on dozens of big screens and enjoy delicious food, craft beers, and cocktails in a familyfriendly atmosphere.
Since 1996, Double D’s has also been a popular venue for private events and will cater for your special events.
The Tasting Room on Village Lane checks all the boxes for fine dining, wine tasting, romantic ambiance, and fabu lous
Los Gatos » PAGE 19
Los Gatos
cuisine by a young Michelin-star chef. Many Los Gatos residents look to The Tasting Room, a “casual elegant wine bistro” where ch ef Julian Silvera, the young Ne w York-traine d ch ef, brings his brilliant culinary repertoire to Th e Tast ing Room with a focus on “hyperloca l ingredients” and “sust ainability .”
Opened in 2022, The Tasting Room is the creative product of Mike and Denise Thornberry, wine experts who launched the awardwinning wine bar and bistro focused on food pairings and education. More than 50 wines by the glass and more than
550 by the bottle, plus a champagne bar, are featured. Inspired by their travels through France, they opened The Tasting Room to replicate the unforgettable experience of combining atmosphere, a knowledgeable staff, and delicious wine and food pairings.
The Japanese cuisine at Kamakura Sushi & Sake House is another favorite dining choice for Los Gatos residents. Located on North Santa Cruz Avenue, it has a casual lunch and dinner atmosphere, outdoor seating, and dine-in or take-out options. The selections range from hibachi to Teppanyaki, and there is a fine variety of sake.
According to local residents, the family-
owned French bistro Chez Philippe offers a rustic French atmosphere, some of the best French cuisine, and an authentic Paris experience.
Owners Chef Philippe and Deen a Leroy happened up on the North Santa Cruz Avenue locatio n thanks to their son ’s lab rador. It seems like Sydne y wanted to enter th e store that was available fo r subleas ing. They sp ent the next year and a half converting the sto re front into this favorite French res taurant.
Chef Philippe, a 1984 graduate of the fam ed Le Cordon Bleue in Paris , France, saw few Frenc h dining options when he moved his family from Palo Alto to Lo s Gatos “My passion and what
I love to do is to bring the French experience to peopl e without necessarily the high cost,” writes Chef Phil ippe.
If you’re not eating or walking along the Los Gatos Creek Trail, chances are shopping is on your to-do list, and local residents share their favorite places to buy what they need.
Pet People of Los Gatos is dedicated to providing premium natural products, including pet foods, treats, and grainfree options for your family pet. Stop by the North Santa Cruz Avenue store to shop for leads, collars, dog and cat toys, carriers, climbing posts, and more. Los Gatos pet owners favor this charming shop and its knowledgeable staff and
look forward to many special events, including dog training classes and rabbit adoption.
A local institution for more than 40 years, Pet People of Los Gatos is a “mom-and-pop” shop ow ned by Gary and Cindy Harw in, also longtime Los Gatos residents. Residents love the conv enience of online ordering and home deliv ery and that they are open sev en days a week.
Pet owners find the Los Gatos Dog & Cat Hospita l on Shelburne Way their fa vorite place to find the best care for their pets. The ful l-service veterina ry medical fa cility offers the convenience of a pharma cy, dayca re,
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Los Gatos
surgical and dental care, and training. Owner and retired veterinarian Kyle Frandle, DVM, MS, took over th e practi ce in 1980, follo wing Dr. Martin Fremont, who founded the hospit al in 1947. A te am of nine doctors, in addition to support staff, is dedicated to providing ca ring an d compassionate care for local cats and dogs.
Los Gatos Dog & Cat Hospital is an accredited American Animal Hospital Association member, an honor achieved by only 15 percent of small animal practices in the United States.
Los Gatos
Tucked along University Avenue, the Los Gatos Meats and Smokehouse has been the favorite butcher shop for Los Gatos residents for generations and is a charming piece of town history. Featuring highquality meats cut to order, house-made marinades, and custom processing, this iconic “butcher” is now family-owned and operated by the Chiala Family, who assumed ownership in 1991. Their fa mily is proud to serve the fam il ie s of Los Ga tos and ha ve a deep conne ction wit h the town and commun ity. Residents enjoy the cooking instruct io ns and
the made-to-order kille r sand wich es filled with homemade sau ces and fea turing fres hly baked bread delivered daily.
Los Gatos residents craving a fresh New York-style bagel and all the fixin’s head to Noah’s NY Bagels at the corner of Blossom Hill Road and Los Gatos Boulevard. Freshly baked bagels come out of the oven at dawn and wait to be topped with those delicious shmears or made into delectable breakfast and lunch sandwiches. A convenient spot to grab an “everything bagel” on the way to work, regular customers say, “Breakfast doesn’t get more perfect than Noah’s NY Bagels.”
Establis hed in 19 89 , Noah’s NY Bagel’s founder, a New Yo rk
native, brought this classic tas ter to the Wes t Coast and opened his first store in Berkeley. Since then, mo re than 55 locations up and down California prou dly se rve a taste of New Yo rk.
Another popular sp ot for local baked go od s is Manres a Bread. The flagship stor e on North Sa nta Cruz has it all: freshly baked sour dough, ciabatta, and Le vains, indulgent Kou ign Amann, crois sants , muffins , and Danis h, breakfas t sandwic hes and delectable qui ch es, salads, and mo re.
A 2020 James Beard finalist, founder Avery Ruzicka, Manresa Bread was conceived in the kitchen of the threeMichelin-star Manresa restaurant. They create
“the best interpretations of classic breads and pastries using highquality organic and local ingredients.” They mill the flour daily and handshape the bread. Los Gatos residents particularly enjoy the convenience of pre-ordering and sameday pick-up as delivery options. They also feature Verve coffee.
After discovering Manresa bread, customers fall in love with the rich, buttery, and flaky pastries and taste the high quality of the ingredients and the talent of its bakers. The charming and relaxing environment is also noted for the perfect breakfast meet-up with a friend or date.
Los Gatos residents’ favorite fitness spot is next on their list. Many opt for
the Addison-Penzak nonprofit Jewish Community Center on Oka Road. Open to the public and all faiths, backgrounds, and abilities, this onestop indoor/outdoor fitness center offers an aquatics center with swim lessons and a youth swim team, group fitness classes, personal training, basketball, pickleball, tennis, a summer youth camp, folk dancing, and pilates. Memberships are priced for individuals, couples, families, and seniors.
The JCC moved to the nine-acre campus at the old Berry School site in Los Gatos in 1984, thanks to a grant from Arnie and Cookie (Penzak) Addison. A community effort and
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Los Gatos
many other donors made the current building possible, which opened in 2005.
When it comes to special occasions and even that everyday kind gesture, flowers can say it all, and Los Gatos residents flock to Bunches owned by Nancy Copolillo. Gorgeous displays and arrangements of fresh flowers and greens adorn the enchanting shop tucked along Santa Cruz Avenue. Fresh flowers are delivered from their farm in Corralitos daily, and they support the local flower growers in the Watsonville/Pajaro Valley.
Bunches is “the best place to get beautiful flowers.”
They are there for all occasions, from weddings, birthdays, graduations, and dinner parties to memorials and proms. They even serve business accounts. They also create custom dry and silk wreathes and arrangements and fresh garlands and wreaths for the holidays.
Additional Favorite s
Mentioned by Our Readers:
Auto Repairs
Bob’s Garage
Bagels
Posh Bagel
Beer Garden Out of the Barrel
Car Wash
Classic Car Wash
Church/synagogue/ house of worship
Congregation Shir
Hadash
Coffee
Great Bear Coffee
Roasting
Event Location
Nestledown
Fine Dining, Steakhouse
Forbes Mill Steakhouse
Gif t Shop
Butter Paddle
Hamburger & Hot Dogs
The Happy Hound of Los Gatos
Happy Hour
Shepherd & Sims
Hardware & Home
Improvement Store
Los Gatos Ace Hardware
Ice Cream
Dolce Spazio Gelato
Salt & Straw
Indian Re staurant
Namaste Indian Cuisine
Italian Re staurant
The Pastaria & Market
Je we lr y Store
Blacy’s Fine Jewelers
Local Community Organinzation
Kiwanis of Los Gatos
Local Re staurant
Sweet Peas Café
Margaritas
Pedro’s
Market/grocer y: organic
grocer y & produce Whole Foods Market
Extended hoursfrom7:30am-6pm
Expanded programfor age 18 months coming soon!
Child-led and play-based curriculum
TK (transitional kinder)programfor age4+
Nurturingand rich indoor/outdoorenvironment
Low ratios,Mixed-aged classes
Extracurricularactivitiesincluding art, sports, music, petting zoo, reptile show,and more!
Most Community Minded (L ocal)
Company & Social Organization
KPCR 92.9 FM
Movie Theater
Los Gatos Theatre
Office Space
Office Evolution
Pe t boarding/day care
Ruta Roberts
Pe t store
Pet Food Express
Pharmac y Wellness Pharmacy
Thrif t Shop
Happy Dragon Thrift Shop
Toy Store
The Wooden Horse
Wine Tasting
Testarossa Winery
Shir Hadash Transitional Kindergarten embraces wholechildlearning. OurReggioinspiredand child-led curriculum will allowyourchild to exploreand create in an environmentthat promotes social emotional learning
Re ade rs ’ We st Va ll ey Favo rit es : Sa ra to ga
By Monica Lander
Villa Monta lvo, the Bl ossom Fe st ival, the Hi storic Vill age, and the Mounta in Winery are a few of the landmarks tha t d efine the charming town of Saratog a, tucke d along the foothil l s of the Sa nta Cruz moun ta ins. Saratog a, with its popula tion of abo ut 31,00 0, is also the ga teway to the scenic dr ive al on g Highway 9 through picturesq ue Christma s tree farms, wine rie s, and vine yard s, and into the towns of Boul de r Creek and Fe lt on and finally arriving in Santa
Cruz and the gorgeous California coas tline Nestled be tween Cupertino and Monte Ser en o, this South Bay refuge from the bustlin g Silicon Val le y featur es the charming an d historic Saratoga Village and downtown, wher e local ly owned businesses are the norm an d leisurel y strol li ng, meeting f riends , fi ne di nin g, and shopping ar e the favorite pastimes . What began as a sawmill and then a village with fru it orch ards, it was the di scovery of the miner al spr in gs, likened to thos e
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Saratoga
of Congress Spring in Saratoga Springs, New York, that gave th is to wn its name. Soon after, it became the location of sprawling estates as the wealthy from San Francisco arrived, including United States Senator James Phelan who built Villa Montalvo in 1912.
The 175-acre estate’ s historic villa remain s a popular music, comedy, art, and theater venue.
About 50 miles south of San Francisc o, Saratoga is only about 17 miles from Stanford University and 13 miles from the San Jos e International Airp ort.
The culinary scene in Saratoga is thriving and sure to satisfy a variety of taste buds. Readers of the Saratoga News find many of their favorites within the town limits.
Are you looking for a mouth-wa tering burger?
Big Basin Burg er Bar is your best bet. Gourmet artisan burgers elevat e this American staple to a new level using 100 percent all-natural and organic fresh ingredient s.
“A great burg er is the foundation of genuine happiness,” they say at the Burger Bar, and just one bite may be all you need to put a smile on your face. Located in the heart of downtow n on Big Basin Way since 2015, Big Basin Burger Bar is owned by Janice and Steve Albright, who take pride in supporting their community by particip ating in nonprofit
fun draisers, cate r in g even ts, an d spon so r in g youth sports teams.
Readers flock to Jake’s of Saratoga if they crave pizza. South of Big Basin Way along Saratoga Sunnyvale Road, Jake’s has been called a “culinary gem.” It offers tested and approved recipes for pizza dough and its rich red sauce with all the popular toppings. Plus, it offers indoor and outdoor seating, big-screen televisions, and accommodations for private parties.
“Good foo d, plen ty of it, frien dly people , an d a great place for famili es an d frien ds” is Jake’s recipe for succ ess.
Establish ed in 2007, Jake’s h as served
generations of piz za lovers and is stil l lov ed for its “attention to detail ” and generous toppings.
Back in the Vill age is Hong’s Gourmet Chinese Restaurant, another favorite among readers.
Owner Cuong Hong has served del ectab le di shes in this 2,0 00-squar efoot restaurant fo r over 35 years. The convenient location makes it a popular stop on the way to the Mountain Winery for a pre- concert dinner . Readers rave ab out the taste of its cl assic dishes. Hong’s is open f or lu nch and reopens fo r dinner. Casual yet elegant. Romantic yet fit ting fo r a group celebration. In door or outdoor seating. You
can have it al l at Bel la Saratoga, Saratoga News readers’ fa vorite for Ital ia n cui sin e.
Located in a beautif ul Victorian- style home, Bell a Saratoga makes an ordinary day a spe cial event. Its menu features fr eshly made pasta, fis h, chicken, and steak dis hes . The restaurant also off ers private rooms, a fu ll bar, curated wines , and Sunday bru nch.
Mint Leaf Cuisine, also located in the Village, is loved for its selections of Thai, vegetarian, and vegan dishes. The extensive menu makes it difficult to choose, but it certainly has something to satisfy everyone’s taste buds and spice level, from not spicy to extra hot.
Enjoy chef’s recommendations, including auth entic Thai-Mya nma r spicy pork, tropica l lemongra ss lobster ta il, sca llops spinach curry, or a Thai barbecued and ma rinated rib eye stea k. Trout, salmon, tuna , and scallop dishes are also offered, in addition to spicy ga rlic noodles, Pa d Tha i, and a variety of curry di shes.
Known and apprecia ted for “no corkage” fees, Mint Lea f Cuisine welcomes its customers to bring their own wine to dine.
Get an early sta rt to your da y at the Bell Tower Ca fé, a fa vorite breakfast de stination
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muc h- loved Sar ato ga desti n ation for br eakfast an d lun ch.
in the Village. Owner Danny Shafazand grew up in Saratoga and has created “a neighborhood café that appeals to families and dog owners and doubles as a hangout spot for teenagers and young adults.” Expect a front patio, heaters in the outdoor patios, and a family-friendly atmosphere
Locally grown produce, fresh baked breads and pastries, and a personal touc h make the Bell Tower Café a
With m ore th an 50 year s in busi n ess, you know yo u ’r e doin g someth ing r ig ht . Su ch is th e case for Th e Ba nk , not th e finan ci al kin d, but th e bar ki n d wh ere, like th e famous Bos ton
Ch eer s, ever yone may know yo u r na me or a t least ever yo n e is ma d e t o feel welc om ed.
Lou an d Len Su llivan open ed Th e Ba nk in 1972, an d today, thei r gran ddau gh ter Donn ette Teeple ru n s th e sh o w while payi ng h omage to the town’s hi stor y wi th
m emorabil ia lining the wall s.
The historic bar, opened daily except Mondays, is one of downtown Saratoga’s many Historical Landmarks. Circa 1918, it housed the town’s first bank. The tiled entry still reads “BANK.”
Are New York- style bagels right here in Saratoga? You can find them at Saratoga Bagel s, where its team fre shl y bakes more than 20 varieties each day.
Saratoga News readers may cal l thi s their fa vorite ba gel
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Saratoga
shop, but dec iding on a favorite flavor will be a challenge, especially with flavors like poppy seed, cinnamon raisin, chocolate chip, Asiago cheese, and Jalapeno.
Located on Saratoga Sunnyvale Road, Saratoga Bagels is open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. Owners Mei Huang and her husband George Chiu purchased the business in 1997 and have greeted loyal customers ever since. They serve breakfast, lunch, and breakfast bagels, or you can take your bagels and cream cheese to go.
Saratoga is an ideal destination for a quiet weekend getaway within the Bay Area. Staying for the weeke nd means finding acc ommod ations at The Inn at Saratoga, a favorite place to stay or host out-of-to wn guests.
The Inn is conveniently located on 4th Street, within walking distance of The Village and the wealth of restaurants, cafes, and shops. Part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton, The Inn is a fullservice boutique hote l that offers 47 luxu rious rooms and suites in a picturesque se tting. Large windows frame views of the tree-line creekside, and several rooms are dog-friendly . The Inn is perfect for wedding parties and group meetings and has several indoor and outdoor venues. The Tapestry Collection is hardly your cookie-cutter hotel. It is a
collection of independent hotels, each with its own vibrant and signature personality that fits the location, and many have historic addresses.
In 2022, the Friends of Saratoga Libraries celebrated its 50th anniversary. That same year, the nonprofit group was named Saratoga’s Volunteer Organization of the Year and is still thriving. The group raises money for the library, much of which comes from the sale of used books at Book-Go-Round. As many as 80 volunteers work at Book-Go-Round and fundraise for the group Th is favor it e bookstor e of Sar atoga News reader s is located in Sar ato ga’s fir st li brar y, The Village Li brar y on Oak Str eet, a buildi ng listed in th e Nati on al Register of Hi stor ic Places. It is sai d th at Olivia de Havi llan d, wh o lived with h er fami ly “up the str eet, ” wou ld dust the ch ildren ’s books in the libr ary.
The building was designed by Eldridge Spencer, the architect who designed Yosemite Lodge. The location is rich in history, having been photographed by Spencer’s friend, Ansel Adams. After the library outgrew this location and moved to Fruitvale Avenue in 1978, The Friends of the Library opened the Book-GoRound in 1983. Money raised by the bookstore goes to purchase new books, media, and children’s programs at the library. The bookstore is run by volunteers who sort donated books at the
Saratoga Library, decide what can be sold at the store, price them, and shelve them
A family hel ping families in their time of ne ed is what Al ame da Famil y Funeral an d Cremation has been doing fo r four generations.
Alan Alameda estab lished the company in 1969 and started the tradition of “S ervice to God, Famil y, and Community,” which the family continues today.
The team gives that “extra ef fort” and exceeds expectations with prof essional , highquality service.
“Taking care of families is our bus ines s,” this is according to the Alameda Famil y.
Families apprec iate the personal care, kindnes s, sensitivity, and profes sionalis m with which they co ndu ct their bu siness. Th e staff is als o availab le to help families plan and understand the be nefi ts of pre-planning.
Ad ditional Favo ri te s Me ntioned by Our Re ader s:
Car was h Classic Car Was h
Ch amber of Commer ce Saratoga Chamb er of Commerce
Ch arity/ No npr ofit Gala & Hi st or ic Attr ac tion Villa Montal vo
Ch ur ch/Sy na go gue/ Ho use of Wo rs hip Saratoga Federated Church
Saratoga
Dining Re st au ra nt
The Her o Ran ch Kit ch en
Ev ent s
Saratoga Farm ers’ Mar ke t (CFMA )
Ey ew ea r Sara toga Vi si o n C enter
Fin e Di ni ng Pl um ed Ho rse
Go lf Cou rse
Saratoga Coun try Club
Ha rdware Store
Ace Hardw ar e
It alian Re st aur ant Floren ti ne Tr atto r ia
Je we ler
Deja & Co. Exq uisite
Jewels
Ov er all mar ke t/groce ry Sa feway
Se afood Re st aur ant & Me al Ov er $15
An chors Fish & Chips and Seaf ood Gril l
Specialty Cocktail Flowers Saratoga
Th ai Re st aur ant Bai Tong
We dding Ve nue Saratoga Foothil l Club
Wi ne Ta st ing
Cooper- Garrod Vineyards at Garrod Farms
Wi ner y House Famil y Vineyards
