Thursday, March 6, 2008

Travel: San Jose

I'm in San Jose on business but I have been able to experience some great dining out at pleasant restaurants. What's great about working at the Convention Center is that there are numerous hotels either connected (ours is one of them) or very close. The restaurants that we've eaten at have been within walking distance which makes for an even better travel experience overall.

Yesterday, we headed out from our hotel and ended up at Bijan Bakery & Cafe - one of San Jose's most Premier European Bakeries known all over the Bay Area for the finest quality pastries, cookies, European style croissants, and hand made sandwiches. I enjoyed a great grilled vegetable panini which was absolutely delicious.

For dinner last night, we headed over to Paragon Restaurant & Bar -
South Bay's destination for lively, casual dining. Located in downtown San Jose within the beautifully renovated Hotel Montgomery, the restaurant features American Brasserie cuisine by Executive Chef Philippe Breneman, a stylish dining room and live jazz, as well as an outdoor lounge and dining areas that invite guests to relax under the olive trees. I enjoyed the chef's special - whole wheat spaghetti with meatballs - along with a side of applewood smoked bacon brussels sprouts. The meal was amazing and I'd definitely go back again.

And finally, tonight we enjoyed Vietnamese cuisine at 19 Market. I was a bit disappointed with the mojito I ordered, but the asparagus soup was fantastic as was the eggplant and tofu curry.

Even though I am satisfied after this last meal, I can't help but think about tomorrow evening, when we will sit down at the Italian restaurant, Il Fornaio to enjoy yet another fabulous meal before we head back to San Diego Saturday afternoon.

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