2D0ININ0G HOT SPOTS
Here’s the dish.
Our incomparable SEMIANNUAL
DINING GUIDE
pleases your palate
AFGHAN
for whatever
Kabul, 351 W. Washington Ave., Sunnyvale. 408/245-
4350. Entrees include garlicky spinach stew, charcoaled
meats and leek and onion dumplings. $$
AMERICAN
All Spice, 1602 S. El Camino Real, San Mateo. 650/627-
4303. Michelin-starred restaurant serves New American
cuisine with Indian and other worldly influences. $$
Arcadia, 100 W. San Carlos St. (San Jose Marriott), San
Jose. 408/278-4555. Created by Michael Mina, this stylish
steakhouse puts innovative twists on classic American
cuisine. Also an extensive wine list. $$$
The Basin, 14572 Big Basin Way, Saratoga. 408/867-1906.
This casual neighborhood bistro in downtown Saratoga
serves up a seasonal American menu tinged with Spanish
and Italian influences. Low lighting and inlaid wood tables
give the restaurant an elegant look, but the atmosphere is
come-as-you-are. Dishes are creatively prepared using an
abundance of fresh, wild and organic ingredients from
local sources. Small plates and daily specials are featured,
along with standout entrees, such as wild mushroom rigatoni,
thick-cut short ribs and hearty flavorful Spanish rice.
Specialty martinis are popular at the bar, which also offers
an extensive wine list. Enjoy a relaxing meal on the outdoor
patio or a successful business dinner in the fully equipped
private dining room. $$
Bird Dog, 420 Ramona St., Palo Alto. 650/656-8180.
Inventive small plates featuring crudo and boutique meats
are a specialty at this energetic, sleek spot. $$–$$$
Birk’s, 3955 Freedom Circle, Santa Clara. 408/980-6400.
One of the Bay Area’s premier steak and chophouses, Birk’s
100 South Bay Accent
presents itself as a traditional old-city grill, but then offers a
decidedly contemporary twist. $$
Bourbon Steak & Pub (Levi’s Stadium), 4900 Marie
P. DeBartolo Way, Santa Clara. 408/217-2490. Modern
American steakhouse featuring Chef Michael Mina’s creative
interpretations on classic dishes. $$$
Brandon’s, Sonesta Hotel Silicon Valley, 1820 Barber
Lane, Milpitas. 408/432-6311. American and contemporary
world cuisines served in elegant dining room as well
as on a garden patio. $$$
Buck’s, 3062 Woodside Road, Woodside. 650/851-8010.
Nestled against the hills of Woodside, Buck’s wacky, unconventional
interior is as charming as its food is hearty and
delicious. Breakfast is legendary. $
Café Stritch, 374 S. First St., San Jose. 408/280-6161.
Trendy small plates featuring artisan pizza, chicken and ribs
in a colorful, artsy atmosphere. $
Capers Eat & Drink, 1710 W. Campbell Ave., Campbell.
408/374-5777. A comfortable neighborhood destination
where you can savor exotic drinks and an expertly prepared
meal. $–$$
The Catamount, 50 University Ave., Los Gatos, 408/442-
5533. Inspired by breezy estates of the South, this restaurant
features an inviting atmosphere alongside modern
American cuisine and a refined cocktail program. $$
Chicago Steak & Fish, 330 N. Santa Cruz Ave., Los
Gatos, 408/354-8858. A wide selection of Five Diamond
Harris Ranch beef cuts and seafood make for a classy dining
experience in a casual setting. $$–$$$
The Counter, Palo Alto, 650/321-3900; Santana Row,
408/ 423-9200; San Mateo, 650/212-3200; and locations