Shop local this Black Friday

Before you head to Amazon for holiday shopping this year, why not start with local businesses and entrepreneurs? You'll be able to find more unique gifts with local character right in your backyard. The San Jose Office of Economic Development has created handy shopping guides for twelve different neighborhoods across San Jose.

Some have special promotions, like a $50 gift card if you spend more than $150 in Downtown San Jose stores. The featured neighborhoods are The Alameda, Alum Rock, Alum Rock Village, Calle Willow, Downtown SJ, East Village, Japantown, Little Saigon, Luna Park, Tully, Willow Glen, and Winchester. To get started on your hyperlocal Black Friday, head over here.

Happy Thanksgiving 2024!

Hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Warm wishes to you and your family from your friends at The San Jose Blog! 🦃

524 new apartments proposed near Santana Row

A site previously entitled for a 882,000 SQFT office and retail project has pivoted to housing. This proposal by Holland Partner Group is at the intersection of Stevens Creek and Saratoga Ave., just a few minutes drive away from Santana Row and Valley Fair.

The project would have two eight-story residential buildings, both of which would wrap around a central courtyard. Of the 524 proposed units, 5% would be designated as affordable to very-low-income households.

The ground floor would be able to accommodate two fitness centers and plans also include a co-working space. One of the goals would be to enhance the pedestrian experience for the areas fronting Stevens Creek and Saratoga Ave., and part of that would be creating brand new public gathering spaces.

While it may not be as lucrative as an office building long-term, this proposal would be a major improvement for the corner at 3896 Stevens Creek Boulevard.

Source: The Mercury News

Turkey Trot 2024

The annual Turkey Trot in San Jose has become a Thanksgiving tradition that not only kicks off the holiday with a burst of energy but also underscores the community spirit of giving and wellness. This year, the 2024 Silicon Valley Turkey Trot, held on November 28, continues to be America's largest Thanksgiving Day race, attracting thousands of participants eager to run or walk through the heart of Silicon Valley.

Event Overview:

• Date: Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024.
• Location: Downtown San Jose, starting at Santa Clara Street and 1st Street.
• Distances: Participants can choose between a 5K run/walk, a 10K run, or join in on the fun with the Kids Fun Run for those aged 2-7.

Highlights of the Trot:

• Community Engagement: The Turkey Trot isn't just about the race; it's a community event where local residents, families, and friends gather to celebrate the start of Thanksgiving. The event fosters a sense of togetherness, with many dressing up in turkey costumes or festive Thanksgiving attire, adding a playful vibe to the proceedings.
• Charitable Impact: One of the standout features of the Silicon Valley Turkey Trot is its commitment to charity. All proceeds from the race benefit local organizations like Second Harvest of Silicon Valley, The Health Trust, Healthier Kids Foundation, and Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County. This year marks the 20th anniversary, where the Trot has significantly contributed to these causes, improving lives by providing food, clothing, shelter, and education.
• Course and Experience: The course through downtown San Jose is both flat and fast, ideal for runners looking to set a personal best or for those who prefer a leisurely walk. The route takes participants through diverse neighborhoods, showcasing the city's vibrant urban landscape and historic areas like Japantown and The Alameda.
• Post-Race Festivities: After crossing the finish line, runners and walkers are greeted with a festival atmosphere. This includes a costume contest, post-race snacks, live entertainment, and an awards ceremony for top finishers. The event also provides a swag bag to participants, which includes a long-sleeve tech shirt, a finisher medal, and a reusable water bottle.
• Inclusivity: The Turkey Trot is inclusive to all fitness levels. Whether you're an elite runner or someone who enjoys a brisk walk, there's a place for you. The Kids Fun Run adds an element of fun and encourages the younger generation to participate in healthy, community-based activities.

The last day to register is tomorrow, November 28th, at 8:30am. If you're interested and still haven't gotten your tickets, head over here! 

Eos & Nyx is now open!

The most highly anticipated restaurant in Downtown San Jose for 2024 is now open. Eos & Nyx is the new flagship venue from the proprietors of Original Gravity, Still OG, Alter Ego, Miniboss, and Paper Plane. It takes up 4,000 SQFT across two stories in what used to be the Camera 12 building in Downtown San Jose, and the restaurant looks stunning. It is part of the Paseo Project also brough us Urban Putt earlier this year. This project is quickly transforming this part of Downtown San Jose in the best way possible.

The vibe is described as chic and sophisticated. It looks like careful attention has been provided to every detail. The restaurant has 20-foot-high ceilings, indoor trees, and custom furniture. There is even a lit conveyor belt of spirits. I'm not entirely sure how the conveyor belt will work but I can't wait to find out.

The menu is upscale Mediterranean with influences from many different cultures. Some of the dinner items include prawns in a Moroccan tagine stew, octopus, kofta beef & lamb meatballs, pappardelle duck, tagliatelle lobster with beurre blanc sauce and caviar, bone in pork chops, and lamb chops. The cocktails are going to be the high-end craft variety they are known for at their other establishments.

Hours are Tues-Wed from 5pm-9pm, Fri-Sat from 10am-2pm and 5pm-10pm, and Sunday (brunch) from 9am-3pm. These will likely be expanded after the soft opening period.

You can find Eos & Nyx conveniently located at 201 S. Second Street. It's impossible to miss as you drive or take a Light Rail down second.

Source: SiliconValley.com

Caltrain's switch to electric is already paying off

Caltrain's electric trains are a hit with riders. The electrification project involved swapping out Caltrain's Diesel trains for brand new electric units that are quieter, accelerate faster, and are more comfortable.

In October 753,000 passengers took Caltrain, a 54% year-over-year increase. Saturday and Sunday ridership have risen even more dramatically. Saturday ridership is up 169% and Sunday is up 142% year-over year. That finally brings Caltrain ridership above pre-COVID19 levels.

While their top speed is the same, the acceleration allows for more frequent stops while simultaneously reducing route times. The train can now go between San Jose and San Francisco in less than an hour. Unlike BART it also has restrooms and 2nd floor with a nice view.

If you haven't tried out the new service yet, now's a great time to see the latest and greatest in Bay Area public transit.

Source: SFGATE

The San Antonio Festival

The inaugural San Antonio Festival takes places today from 10am to 5pm on Paseo de San Antonio between 1st and 2nd Street in Downtown San Jose. This is a key corridor that connects San Jose State University to the central core Downtown.

This family friendly event will feature a local pop-up market in collaboration with Moment, community workshops, entrepreneurial resources, live performances, and immersive art experiences. For more info head over here.

Thanksgiving Feast at Scott's Ballroom in Downtown San Jose

Thanksgiving is just a week away. If you don't feel like cooking this year, Scott's Seafood is doing a Thanksgiving Brunch and Dinner Buffet in a ballroom overlooking Downtown San Jose. It'll feature all of the classics plus prime rib and shellfish. You can make reservations on OpenTable.