Best Hidden Gem Eateries Silicon Valley

Silicon Valley and beyond is known for its numerous Michelin Star-rated restaurants but there are so many hidden gem eateries that offer mouthwatering food in welcoming atmospheres. SFGate recently published a list of the best places to eat in every Bay Area city, giving much deserved kudos to these restaurants that locals know and love. Most also offer catering, take out or delivery via UberEats, GrubHub, DoorDash or similar.

The complete SFGate list highlights about 85 eateries but we’ve focused on eight hidden gems in the areas we serve.

Campbell

Yiassoo
2180 S. Bascom Avenue

This unassuming eatery on South Bascom serves amazing Mediterranean and Greek-inspired foods. Meat eaters and vegetarians/vegans can easily share a meal here. The gyro is by far the favorite menu item while the falafel salad is a hit among veggie-lovers. Of course, fresh pita bread and humus abounds. For those with a sweet tooth, try the Greek donut holes soaked in honey and sprinkled with cinnamon.

Los Altos

State of Mind Public House & Pizzeria
101 Plaza North Los Altos

Inspired by all things California, State of Mind is a relative newcomer to downtown Los Altos but has already made inroads as a favorite hangout for residents. Here you’ll find families and friends gathering for a casual meal of great pizzas, local brews, and appetizers. The arcade is also a huge hit, entertaining kids and adults before, during and after their meal. In case you need another reason to try it out, State of Mind also was awarded the 2017 World Pizza Champion.

Los Gatos

Golden Triangle Cuisine
217 N. Santa Cruz Avenue

Set next to Rootstock Wine Bar and Dolce Spazio, this popular restaurant has been serving lunch and dinner in downtown Los Gatos for about two years. It is small, lively and has beautiful Asian-inspired décor. The service is impeccable and the menu featuring Southeast Asian dishes is extensive with vegetarian/vegan options. A great place for families, a date night or gathering of friends, everyone can find a dish or two to enjoy. Though alcohol isn’t served, you can BYOB with no corkage fee 7 days a week. “Absolutely fantastic food, greatly and stylishly served,” one Yelper proclaims.

Mountain View

Vaso Azzurro Ristorante
108 Castro Street

Serving authentic Northern Italian fare made with fresh ingredients, the menu is filled with savory appetizers, hearty main courses and delectable desserts. The welcoming atmosphere, live music on Friday and Saturday nights and attentive staff make this a go-to for family dinners, large gatherings or date nights. One Yelp review says of Vaso, “Last year we were in Italy enjoying the most delicious Italian food, so in order to try and relive part of that my husband decided to take me out to an Italian restaurant for my birthday. Let’s just say we finally found our go-to Italian spot in the Bay Area.”

Palo Alto

Tea Time
542 Ramona Street

Quaint and cozy, Tea Time is a charming place to enjoy afternoon tea with a friend. Indulge in a proper English-inspired tea complete with finger sandwiches, crumpets, scones, clotted cream and jam beautifully displayed on a tiered dessert tray. Choose from a variety of teas brewed to perfection and served in China cups. Be sure to make a reservation to ensure you get a spot. Voted one of the top 10 best tea rooms in the Bay Area.

Santa Clara

Euro Grill
980 El Camino Real

Though not vegetarian-friendly, Euro Grill’s authentic European menu is bursting with Bosnian comfort food. Their sausage dishes and chicken skewers are incredibly popular. Says one Yelper, “The ambience is very welcoming, The food is mouthwatering, and the service is stellar. I highly recommend this place to everyone.”

Saratoga

Mint Leaf Cuisine
14420 Big Basin Way

Mint Leaf Cuisine has an impressive menu filled with Asian fusion-focused dishes. For those who enjoy a wide variety, this eatery doesn’t disappoint. Thai, Burmese and Malaysian are just a few of the tantalizing cuisines represented. Each dish is beautifully plated, pleasing both the eye and the palate. Alcohol isn’t served but customers are welcome to bring their own wine or beer to enjoy with their meals, and there is no corkage fee, like their counterpart Golden Triangle in Los Gatos.

Sunnyvale

Chelokababi Persian Cuisine
1236 S. Wolfe Road

Family owned and operated since 1979, Chelokababi has grown from a small counter-service menu to the spacious full service, sit-down eatery it is today. The approachable menu of Iranian and Persian dishes allows those with little experience with this ethnic fare to easily find something they like. The kebabs—beef, chicken and lamb—are always a hit among novices and those with a refined Persian palate. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

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