Best Restaurants Santana Row
Credit: Santana Row

How to Spend a Deliciously Packed Day at Santana Row in San Jose

From Morning Coffees to After-Dinner Treats, This Is Your Guide to a Foodie-Packed Adventure

San Jose is known as the heart of Silicon Valley, where innovation thrives and tech giants rule the landscape. But beyond the headquarters of Google, Apple and Adobe, there’s a lively, open-air destination that’s perfect for those who love to shop, dine and indulge in a day of pure leisure. Welcome to Santana Row—San Jose’s bustling hub for fashion, food and entertainment.

YouTube video

Lined with palm trees, charming cafes and designer boutiques, this walkable district makes it easy to soak up the California sunshine while enjoying a perfectly curated day of culinary delights and retail therapy. It doesn’t matter if you’re a local looking for a new weekend routine or a visitor wanting to experience the best of San Jose. We’ve mapped out the ultimate foodie-friendly itinerary to help you savor every moment at Santana Row.

 

10 a.m.
Morning Brew at Blue Bottle Coffee

Credit: Santana Row

The best way to start a delicious day at Santana Row? With a perfectly crafted cup of coffee, of course. Head to Blue Bottle Coffee, a charming, white-brick cafe tucked between bustling storefronts. Their Iced NOLA—a New Orleans-style cold brew infused with roasted chicory, milk and cane sugar—is a must-try for coffee lovers who enjoy a hint of sweetness in their morning ritual. Grab your drink and head to the Oak Tree Lounge. This shady outdoor nook is perfect for people-watching and easing into the day. Take a deep breath, sip slowly and soak in the laid-back luxury of this San Jose destination.

 

11 a.m.
Build-Your-Own AƧaƭ Bowl at Palmetto Superfoods

Best Restaurants Santana Row
Credit: @eringgg

After your morning brew,, it’s time to fuel up with something healthy—and Palmetto Superfoods is just the place. Specializing in authentic Brazilian aƧaĆ­, this plant-based, naturally sweetened superfood haven lets you build your own dream bowl with an array of vibrant bases, toppings and nutrient-packed add-ins.Ā 

Start with their 100% real aƧaĆ­, a rich and fibrous blend straight from Brazil, then customize your creation with toppings like fresh fruit, crunchy granola, chia seeds and drizzles of raw honey or coconut condensed milk. Whether you’re craving a protein-packed boost or a light, fruity treat, the endless combinations ensure there’s something to satisfy every craving.

 

12 p.m.
Retail Therapy at EVEREVE + SƩzane

Credit: Santana Row

No trip to Santana Row is complete without a little boutique-hopping, and with over 50 stylish shops, there’s no shortage of ways to refresh your wardrobe. Start your shopping spree at EVEREVE, a contemporary boutique designed for women who want effortless, on-trend fashion that fits seamlessly into their busy lifestyles. With a curated selection from beloved brands like Rails, Citizens of Humanity and Faherty, plus expert styling services, this boutique makes it easy to find pieces that blend casual chic with modern sophistication. Whether you’re in the market for a perfect pair of jeans, a sundress or the latest Birkenstocks, EVEREVE’s selection delivers real trends for real life.

Next, take a fashionable detour to Paris—right in the heart of San Jose—at SĆ©zane’s newest ā€œAppartementā€ pop-up. Founded in 2013, this cult-favorite Parisian brand is known for its effortlessly elegant essentials, from tailored blazers and breezy blouses to its signature leather bags and accessories. This spring pop-up brings a taste of French-girl style to Santana Row. This makesĀ it the perfect place to shop for timeless pieces with that signature je ne sais quoi.

 

2 p.m.
Pie Time at Pizza Antica

Best Restaurants Santana Row
Credit: Ed Anderson

After a successful shopping spree, it’s time to refuel with a laid-back yet elevated lunch. Pizza Antica, a long-standing favorite at Santana Row, offers artisan pizzas, seasonal salads and housemade pastas that will hit the spot.

Snag a seat on the sunny patio, order a glass of crisp prosecco and dive into their fennel sausage pizza. It comes topped with portobello mushrooms, caramelized onions and mozzarella. It’s the perfect blend of rustic flavors and casual sophistication, making for a relaxed yet delicious midday meal.

 

4 p.m.
Happy Hour at Meso Modern Mediterranean

It’s (almost) 5 o’clock somewhere, which means it’s time for happy hour! Meso Modern Mediterranean is the perfect place to unwind with flavorful small plates and handcrafted cocktails. Inspired by the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean Basin, Meso’s menu is designed for sharing. On it, you’ll find crispy falafel, saffron-kissed seafood, smoky eggplant dips and warm housemade pita.

Sip on vibrant, herb-infused cocktails or explore Sommelier Serena Harkey’s wine list. It features hidden gems from Greece, Spain, Lebanon and beyond. With its elegant atmosphere, breezy patio and expertly crafted drinks, Meso offers a happy hour that feels like a quick escape to the Mediterranean—right in the heart of Santana Row in San Jose.

 

6 p.m.
Dinner at Augustine (new!)

Credit: Ed Anderson

For an elevated dining experience, head to Augustine, the newest addition to the San Jose culinary scene. Brought to life by Bacchus Management Group—the team behind Michelin-starred favorites like The Village Pub and Selby’s—this 8,000-square-foot restaurant at Santana Row features a family-style Mediterranean menu, a cocktail lounge and a stunning 3,000-square-foot patio designed for an elegant indoor-outdoor dining experience.

Expect elevated yet approachable dishes meant for sharing, paired with expertly crafted cocktails and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely meal in one of the dining rooms or sipping a pre-dinner drink at the bar, Augustine is set to become Santana Row’s newest hotspot.

 

7:30 p.m.Ā 
Dessert at Smitten Ice Cream

Even after a day of indulgence, there’s always room for dessert. Wrap up your delicious day at Smitten Ice Cream, where liquid nitrogen is used to make fresh ice cream. Choose from classic or seasonal flavors. Then, customize your scoop with toppings like chocolate Rice Crispies, toasted almonds and rainbow sprinkles. Pro tip: The malted brown sugar ice cream with cookie dough, chocolate chips and pretzels is an absolute must-try.

Take your frozen treat to go and enjoy a final stroll down Santana Row, soaking up the twinkling lights and vibrant energy of San Jose’s bustling neighborhood.

Want to explore more of Santana Row? Check out this itinerary!

 

Santana Row
377 Santana Row
San Jose, CA 95128
408.551.4611
@santanarow

+ posts