Diners' Choice: Neighborhood gem restaurants in San Jose / Silicon Valley

OpenTable

Updated June 05, 2025

Looking for the best restaurants that are the best neighborhood gems in San Jose / Silicon Valley? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favorite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

VinoVero

5.0

5 (5)

$30 and under

Wine Bar

Los Gatos

About the restaurant

There’s no sign screaming for attention — just the glow of a few tables inside, the clink of glasses, and the scent of something good coming from the kitchen. With just 28 seats and a small patio out front, this little Italian spot keeps things simple: fresh local ingredients, hand-made food, and a genuine sense of hospitality that doesn’t follow a script.

The focaccia comes out warm. The wine list leans thoughtful, not flashy. And the mood is relaxed — the kind of place where strangers end up talking across tables and no one’s in a hurry.

Locally owned and operated, the motto here is simple: we close when the guests leave.

No rush. Just good food, good wine, and a space that feels like it’s always been there.

Top review

Erika

Dined on Jun 22, 2025

We always have an amazing time at VinoVero, it’s our first choice spot every time! Plus the owner is just the most amazing person, he’s always taking wonderful care of everyone!

Willow Street Wood-Fired Pizza - Los Gatos

4.8

4.8 (510)

$30 and under

American

Los Gatos

About the restaurant

Reservations are for indoor dining only. Patio is first come, first served.
If no times are available, we have tables set aside for walk-ins. Per County guidelines, we can only take parties of 6 or less.

Top review

TinaVIP

Dined 7 days ago

Our server Kristen was fabulous. We hadn't been to Willow Street in ages, and we had a wonderful family meal to celebrate a birthday. Highly recommend the Pistachio Spaghetti and the Vodka Prawns.

Willow Street Pizza & Taproom - San Jose

4.7

4.7 (283)

$30 and under

American

San Jose

About the restaurant

If no times are available-we have tables set aside for walk-ins.
Call the restaurant for parties larger than 6.

Top review

SteveVIP

Dined on May 17, 2025

The happy hour was perfect. The hot wings were on point and the beers hit the spot.

Pacific Catch Sunnyvale

4.7

4.7 (233)

$30 and under

Seafood

Sunnyvale

About the restaurant

Pacific Catch Sunnyvale features an open air cocktail bar, covered patio, intimate booths and communal tables for happy hour!

Our Sunnyvale location is adjacent to Target, Whole Foods, and the AMC movie theater.
We are also within walking distance to the CalTrain station and the historic Murphy Ave. District.

Top review

MarkVIP

Dined 2 days ago

Great casual place with fresh fish and good drinks. Fresh easy and friendly.

Odeum

4.6

4.6 (2582)

$31 to $50

Mediterranean

Morgan Hill

About the restaurant

At Odeum Restaurant, Chef Calisi combines Roman and Greek cuisine with Spanish influences, and includes his creative and fun flair to traditional dishes. The Chef spares no expense with the best octopus imported from Spain and the salmon imported from Scotland, fresh local organic vegetables, and grass-fed beef from Australia and the Midwest, yet provides his customers with a reasonably priced menu, fit for every budget. Chef Calisi has not only trained with the very best in his field at the finest restaurants in New York and Italy, but also has a Michelin star to tuck in his toque, which he received during his tenure as Executive Chef and Partner at Dio Deka in Los Gatos. At Odeum, Chef Calisi gives each customer a Michelin Star experience, from his personal welcoming at the door, to his phenomenal culinary masterpieces, and exquisite plating and presentation.

Top review

Dean

Dined on Jun 24, 2025

Great food. Was told by more of the few locals that it was the best restaurant in town and it did not disappoint and the price was reasonable for the great quality.

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4.6

4.6 (469)

$30 and under

Seafood

Morgan Hill

About the restaurant

Come in and enjoy the relaxed, beach like setting in downtown Morgan Hill. Specializing in coastal seafood along with Pasta and a Californian centric menu. We offer monthly wine and food pairing events. Check our website for our daily specials.
We have been in Downtown Morgan Hill for over 25 years. Our goal has always been to bring our customers to the Beach. Not literally but when you step into our restaurant you will notice the beachy music playing the fun cocktails being crafted and the servers in their fun floral attire, its hard not feel like you are at the beach. Our chef's have been with us for more than 20 years. Everyone here is very dedicated in ensuring the quality of the food, the ambiance and the service is of top quality while ensuring our customers are having a great time at Rosy's at the beach. We offer Catering and Event Space rentals.

Top review

SteveVIP

Dined 7 days ago

The food was very good. Drinks were as well. The service was excellent. Sitting out front enjoying the Morgan Hill downtown experience was very enjoyable. We will return!

Milan

4.6

4.6 (211)

$31 to $50

Italian

San Jose

About the restaurant

Authentic Northern Italian Cuisine. Full bar and Patio available.

Top review

SandraVIP

Dined on Jun 1, 2025

I do not want this posted!!!!!!!!! I was surprised that a glass of procsecco was actually only 1/2 glass now. I noticed this the last time we dined there as well. Not cool!

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Popular dish

Spaghetti Carbonara

The Club On Post

4.6

4.6 (52)

$30 and under

Californian

San Jose

About the restaurant

Introducing The Club on Post, a culinary gem nestled in the historic district of San Jose. Led by the visionary Chef Antonio, our restaurant embodies the vibrant spirit of downtown, situated amidst iconic landmarks like the San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, California Theatre, San Jose Improv and SAP Center. With a prime location near major hotels and Cesar Chavez Plaza, we offer a haven for locals and visitors alike.

At The Club on Post, indulge in our culinary masterpiece, the signature Club Wagyu Burger, a testament to Chef Antonio's culinary prowess. Pair it with our renowned espresso martini, hailed as the best in San Jose, for an unforgettable dining experience.

Step into our laid-back yet chic atmosphere, adorned with welcoming Roman plaster walls, where every visit feels like a journey into culinary excellence and relaxation. Experience the essence of San Jose's dining scene at The Club on Post.

Top review

Khoi

Dined 6 days ago

Their foods were delicious from appetizers to the main course. Their cocktails were tasty and we really enjoyed the espresso martini

Enoteca La Storia

4.5

4.5 (15)

$30 and under

Italian

Los Gatos

About the restaurant

Enoteca La Storia is a charming restaurant in Los Gatos that invites you to explore rustic Italian flavors and vibrant wine culture. This cozy eatery is perfect for casual gatherings or special occasions. Our menu features exquisite dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Try the signature Lasagna Lorenzo, a rich masterpiece, or the delicate Mushroom Ravioli, full of earthy flavors. Each meal can be paired with a carefully curated selection of wines to enhance your dining experience. The warm ambiance reflects a traditional Italian enoteca, with an intimate setting and a cozy outdoor patio ideal for sharing laughter and stories. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff ensures that your needs are met with a smile. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just looking for a delightful culinary escape, Enoteca La Storia offers an unforgettable experience. Discover the charm of this hidden gem, where Italian flavors and warm hospitality create a memorable dining adventure.

Top review

VictorVIP

Dined on Jun 19, 2025

Great wine bar was exceptional fresh Italian food menu; all dishes are cooked to order so be prepared to wait and enjoy your wine from an amazing wine list. Outstanding neighborhood gem!

Giorgio's Italian Food & Pizzeria - San Jose

4.4

4.4 (225)

$30 and under

Italian

San Jose

About the restaurant

In 1959, Frank and Tina D'Ambrosio decided to start a new restaurant venture along with their "Paisans" Mario and Enza Volpe, after Frank had much success with his first restaurant, the original "Frankie, Johnnie, and Luigi Too! In Mountain View, CA. Named after a good friend of theirs, they opened the original "Giorgio's" in the Foxworthy Shopping Center in San Jose, CA. One year later, cousins Anthony and Louise Dambruoso, affectionately known to the family as "Sash and Lou", took control of the restaurant and ran it for the next eight years. Pictures and paintings of these folks still grace the walls of the establishment today. In 1968, Frank's four sons assumed control of the restaurant and still own and operate it to this day. In 1997 they opened a second location in Milpitas, CA, where they still offer the highest standard of quality food, service, and value to their customers. Bon Appetit!!

Top review

Christian

Dined on Jun 15, 2025

And a good experience for Father’s Day We’ll go back in the future good Italian food

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BBQ Chicken Italian Style

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