San Jose, California

Nestled along The Almaden is Elements Restaurant. French and Vietnamese fusion finds its way onto the menu to offer guests fine dining in contemporary style. The place itself is unassuming, but don't be fooled.The chefs use only the freshest of organic and locally grown ingredients, which contributes to an ever-changing menu. Elements also bears a wine list of American and European selections, spanning featured names and smaller vineyards. Among favorites on the menu are the butternut squash soup, Tea Smoked Duck Breast and papaya salad with prawns.

While Aqui Cal-Mex has four San Jose locations, the Willow Glen venue has been listed below. Known in the area for its intelligently designed menu and cuisine, Aqui is a fusion of Asian, American Southwest and Latin American cuisine–dubbed “Cal-Mex.” The menu items are created using seasonal herbs, meats and produce so each meal is fresh. Plus, all of the artwork lining the restaurants is by local artists.

The vision of Italy native Chef Umberto Pala and wife Sharlene Pala, Vin Santo is a romantic Italian restaurant. The menu features lunch, dinner, dessert and weekly specials, and there is also a wine list. The wines are mostly boutique names, meaning that each is entirely unique. You may choose to dine in the dining room, bistro, patio or bar.

Henry’s Hi-Life has been in the business of serving steaks, pork chops and chicken to San Jose since 1960. Henry’s also has a full bar with bottled beer and top-shelf cocktails and shots. The ambiance is your typical, friendly neighborhood hangout.