Previously dated sections of downtown San Jose are now revitalizing and connecting to reflect a sense of neighborhood continuity, dovetailing with the San Jose McEnery Convention Center expansion. A micro-renaissance of independent, locally owned restaurants emerged just this year. Each eatery is within walking distance of the convention center and each one is ripe for corporate groups, off-site events or complete buyouts.
Meghan Horrigan, director of communications for Team San Jose, says the recent wave of new openings only adds to the close-knit feel of downtown San Jose.
“It’s definitely a selling tool for us,” Horrigan says. “These newer places are important. Our downtown is compact and that is a huge sell for attendees as well as meeting planners and decision makers.”
Owned by the native San Joseans who also operate the Naglee Park Garage, the Blackbird Tavern is a brand-new American bistro and live music venue. Open just a few months, the eatery even presents specials paired with the particular style of music presented. Blackbird also includes a banquet room and can accommodate up to 150 for seated meal parties and up to 350 for a standing or seated reception across all spaces.
One block down the street, Cafe Stritch opened last spring and resembles a European art and jazz cafe, replete with ultra-cheap comfort food ordered from the counter and live jazz almost every night. Stritch can handle up to 200 for a complete buyout.
Another brand-new establishment is Orchestria Palm Court, featuring antique mechanical musical instruments and mechanical music machines, all in a restaurant setting with bluesy jazz, catchy show tunes, pieces from operettas and novelty songs. The eatery is also available for groups.
For a much higher-end experience, Nemea Greek Taverna also opened earlier this year in the old space formerly occupied by E&O Trading and features an open kitchen, wine-filled shelves and plenty of flexible options for private or corporate events. With elaborate decor and outdoor seating, the venue has made a serious impact in just a short amount of time.
