Restaurant Review: Left Bank, Santana Row, San Jose
Went with some friends to Santana Row tonite for dinner. It is the entertainment heart of San Jose, owing to clever planning and a void in San Jose nightlife. It combines residential apartments with retail and restaurants in a European-style plaza environment. There are numerous places to relax in lounge chairs along with WiFi and free music concerts in a park.
We had dinner at the Left Bank French restaurant. Mussels, French onion soup, escargots, coq au vin, steak - it was all gourmet. Service was better than average.
This was a Friday nite and it was busy, but we were not rushed.
Bill for 3 was under $200 including one bottle of wine and desserts, taxes and tip. Reservations recommended.
Afterwards we walked around Santana Row. There was a Carnaval-type atmosphere, with throngs of young people. Private parties were being hosted on the balconies of the residents overlooking the square. People-watching is the main reason most come here.
Maggiano’s Little Italy was recommended, and I will have to try Blowfish Sushi/Fusion dance bar and the Hotel Valencia ($$$) V-bar later.
The 6 screen Century Theatre is a movie theater with SOTA sound that plays popular and indie films.
Left Bank French Restaurant
377 Santana Row
San Jose, CA 95128
408 984 3500