You are here: Home > Browse Cities > San Jose & Silicon Valley > Eat Well

Eat Well in San Jose & Silicon Valley

Silicon Valley is flush with athletic-minded options for eating well while on the road. Because we cover a huge amount of territory in this section, we highly suggest using the "set location" function at the right, to hone in on what is convenient and appealing. And don't forget to "toggle" to view the grocery stores and farmers' markets! Often the healthiest meal is a trip to the Whole Foods' salad bar.

Set a location and calculate the distance to these locations.

View an interactive map that shows all the locations listed here.

  • Show:

Restaurant

Calculated Distance

Blossom Valley - Aqui Cal-Mex Grill

Fruit smoothies, margaritas, salsa bar and plenty of healthy Cal-Mex fare. It's order at the counter here. Read more

Set a location (like the hotel you're staying at, or a convention center) and we can automatically compute distances to all the other locations in San Jose & Silicon Valley.

Set a location now

Campbell -- Chez Sovan

Seriously good Cambodian food is what our insider tell us about this very casual eatery. The Campbell location is a step up in décor from the San Jose original with table cloths, murals, and other Cambodian accents. Read more

Cupertino -- It's A Grind

If you are in a hurry for a quick bite and java jolt, then this upscale coffee shop is the place for you. Free wi-fi, comfy chairs, friendly service, and easy parking make it a nice place to park yourself for awhile. Read more

Cupertino -- Olarn Thai Cuisine

This moderately priced Thai restaurant is located in the same plaza as It's a Grind Coffee shop and a few other stores. While the food may not "wow" you, the diverse selection, good service and pleasant Thai decor make it well worth your dining dollars. Read more

Di Lac Cuisine

Di Lac offers a big Vietnamese menu of vegetarian and vegan fare. Located in a mall, the café is bright and spacious but fairly humble in décor with a Buddha stature, mirrors, and a pleasing stone fountain. Read more

E & O Trading Co.

The dining room is urban cool with its blond wood floors, warehouse high ceiling, sleek black tables and chairs, exposed brick and exotic Asian tapestries. Both the bar and restaurant attract an upscale crowd. Read more

Gordon Biersch

Because sometimes you just need something familiar…Gordon Biersch's brew-style ambiance with exposed duct ceilings, wood accents and an overall contemporary feel, offers up a big menu that favors those looking for hearty fare. Light eaters can look to the one or two lighter appetizers, veggie sides and the entree salads (as well as the fish entrees at dinner). Read more

Il Fornaio (downtown SJ)

If you are craving Italian in an upscale and sunny setting, this is the place. The contemporary Italian menu offers a number of lighter dishes, but come for the ambiance and convenience and you will not be disappointed. Read more

Milpitas -- It's A Grind

If you are in a hurry for a quick bite and java jolt, then this upscale coffee shop is the place for you. Free wi-fi, comfy chairs, cozy fireplace, and easy parking make it a nice place to park yourself for awhile. Read more

Milpitas -- Loving Hut

Quick, casual and moderately priced, the Loving Hut chain offers mostly Asian inspired vegan food in an ambiance that encourages the "no-meat" lifestyle. There are TVs, brochures and other suggestions about becoming vegan. Read more

Milpitas -- Mikonos Grill

It's fast Greek food here. The interior is pleasant enough, but we suggest getting your food to go. Read more

Mountain View -- Amarin Thai

This Thai eatery offers a reliable menu of all the favorites in a nice setting with wood chairs, table cloth covered tables and Asian inspired artwork. It's definitely more upscale than your average Thai joint, but you can still wear jeans! There is also a special vegetarian menu. Read more

Mountain View -- Cascal

Located in downtown Mountain View, this lively tapas restaurant also features a big bar area that is perfect for those dining solo. Often there is live Latin music, so if a quiet dinner is what you crave, don't come here. Read more

Palo Alto -- Fish Market

It's a chain, but a reliable one. We like the casual atmosphere, moderately priced (and BIG) menu and dedication to all things fishy. Read more

Palo Alto -- Il Fornaio

If you are craving Italian in an upscale and sunny setting, this is the place. The contemporary Italian menu offers a number of lighter dishes, but come for the ambiance and convenience and you will not be disappointed. Read more

Palo Alto -- Joya

Hip and chic, this place is perfect for those looking for a cool bar scene or a trendy spot to enjoy Latin cuisine. The dining area is open and airy with contemporary furnishings, high ceilings, dramatic, flowing draperies and modern art. Read more

Palo Alto -- Loving Hut

Quick, casual and moderately priced, the Loving Hut chain offers mostly Asian inspired vegan food in an ambiance that encourages the "no-meat" lifestyle. There are TVs, brochures and other suggestions about becoming vegan. Read more

Palo Alto -- Pluto's Fresh Food

Pluto's offers serious salads and gourmet sandwiches in a casual and upbeat space frequented by students and business people alike. When you walk in the door grab a menu slip, and decide what you want before you approach the salad or sandwich bar. Read more

Palo Alto -- Prolific Oven

This place is best known for its decadent treats, however, the small and noisy café/bakery also offers a yummy breakfast and lunch. It's order and pay at the register. Read more

Palo Alto -- Sprout Café

Okay salad lovers, this is the place for you! With a build your own option (in two sizes), athletic-minded eaters can customize away. Simply grab a clip board and select from the high quality lettuces, veggies, protein and tasty add-ons. Read more

Palo Alto -- Tamarine

If you're looking for a more upscale venue for a business meal or other special occasion, Tamarine's sophisticated décor, attentive service and Vietnamese inspired menu deliver. The restaurant is contemporary and sleek with art decorating warm hued walls, cushioned bench style seating along one wall accompanies by stylish chairs and cloth covered tables. Read more

Santa Clara -- Amarin Thai

This Thai eatery offers a reliable menu of all the favorites in a setting that is very typical of any Thai joint. The Mountain View location is considerably more upscale. Read more

Santa Clara -- Fish Market

It's a chain, but a reliable one. We like the casual atmosphere, moderately priced (and BIG) menu and dedication to all things fishy. Read more

Santa Clara -- Peet's Coffee

Peet's Coffee is strong, hot and just plain yummy. If you haven't tried it, we highly recommend the high quality brew. Read more

Santa Clara -- Piatti

If you are looking for a nice spot to relax after a long day or need a great business lunch venue, head over to this warmly decorated and somewhat upscale Italian restaurant in Rivermark Plaza. Piatti is better known for its ambiance and service than its food, however we think that athletic-minded travelers will welcome the contemporary cuisine and plentiful options. Read more

Santa Clara -- Prolific Oven

Located in the Rivermark Plaza (several other eateries here too), this place is best known for its decadent treats. However, the small and noisy café also offers a yummy breakfast and lunch too. Read more

SJ -- Amarin Thai

This Thai eatery offers a reliable menu of all the favorites in a nice setting with wood chairs, table cloth covered tables and Asian inspired artwork. It's definitely more upscale than your average Thai joint, but you can still wear jeans! There is also a special vegetarian menu. Read more

SJ -- Hobee's

This Northern California chain is all about providing health conscious fare in a homey and friendly setting. There's a soup and salad bar and the menu is vast with something for everyone. Read more

SJ Airport -- Chez Sovan

Seriously good Cambodian food is what our insider tell us about this very casual eatery. The San Jose location (versus Campbell) is quite humble, but the food is solid. Read more

SJ Airport Area -- Asqew Grill

Asqew offers cheap and healthy eats for vegetarians and carnivores in a casual, cool, order at the counter spot. Read more

SJ Airport Area -- Hobee's

This Northern California chain is all about providing health conscious fare in a homey and friendly setting. There's a soup and salad bar and the menu is vast with something for everyone. Read more

SJ Airport Area -- Sonoma Chicken Coop

Conveniently located off 87, this location is near the airport and like its brethren sticks with the Southwestern style motif and big menu that will satisfy light and hearty eaters. Grab a menu when you enter and peruse the entrée salad, grilled protein, pizza and pasta options and then order at the counter. Read more

SJ Downtown -- La Pastaia

La Pastaia's location in the boutique art deco Hotel De Anza in downtown makes it a popular business lunch spot and/or pre-theatre dining choice. The Tuscan inspired dining room is classy and inviting with rich red walls, vintage posters, stone archways and blond wood floors. Read more

SJ Downtown -- Scott's Seafood

Scott's is right downtown and it's sixth floor location affords city views. The dining room is upscale, contemporary and fairly low-key in terms of décor with wood chairs, bright artwork, and white table cloths. Read more

SJ Downtown -- Sonoma Chicken Coop

Located near San Pedro Square in the heart of downtown, this quick and casual café has an open kitchen, warm yellow walls and Southwestern decor. The huge back patio complete with fountain is perfect for nice weather days. Read more

SJ Downtown -- Sweet Tomatoes

This is not your grandparents' buffet joint. All you can eat salad, soup, pasta, muffins, pizza and more. Read more

SJ Downtown Area -- Asqew Grill

Asqew offers cheap and healthy eats for vegetarians and carnivores in a casual, cool, order at the counter spot. Read more

SJ Downtown Area -- Fish Market

It's a chain, but a reliable one. We like the upscale, casual atmosphere, moderately priced (and BIG) menu and dedication to all things fishy. Read more

SJ West -- Pluto's Fresh Food

Pluto's offers serious salads and gourmet sandwiches in a casual and upbeat space right on Santana Row (next to a Starbucks and other shops). When you walk in the door grab a menu slip, and decide what you want before you approach the salad or sandwich bar. Read more

Sonoma Chicken Coop (Campbell)

The Campbell location is larger than the Pedro Square original and boasts two floors (both with outdoor seating) and breakfast eats. The Southwestern motif is the same as is the big menu that has options for light and hearty eaters such as big salads, grilled fish, and oven fired pizzas. Read more

Sunnyvale -- Great Vegi Land

This little place is hidden in a plaza behind a Walgreen's and gets good reviews from locals who appreciate the cozy atmosphere, fresh ingredients, moderate prices and Chinese cuisine. It's basically a vegetarian Chinese joint and looks as such from the inside and outside. Read more

Sunnyvale -- Merit Vegetarian

Warm yellow walls, wood tables and chairs along with vinyl booth seating give this vegetarian restaurant a homey, diner feel. Don't be scared away by the location on a busy thoroughfare. Read more

Sunnyvale -- Sweet Tomatoes

This is not your grandparents' buffet joint. All you can eat salad, soup, pasta, muffins, pizza and more. Read more

The Counter

Custom built burgers with exciting and fresh toppings are what it's all about here. Vegetarians will appreciate the veggie burger and low-carb adherents can get their protein and topping in a bowl on greens! This unique and casual quick serve joint will satisfy light and hearty eaters with its very simple menu brimming with yummy protein add-ons. Read more

Willow Glen -- Aqui Cal-Mex Grill

Fruit smoothies, margaritas, salsa bar and plenty of healthy Cal-Mex fare. It's order at the counter here. Read more

Willow Street Wood-Fired Pizza

This casual gourmet pizza joint is a great option for those looking for a mix of impressive salads, pasta, pizza and grilled protein at affordable prices. The exposed brick and vintage posters give it some character and there is an outdoor patio. Read more

Willow Street Wood-Fired Pizza

This casual gourmet pizza joint is a great option for those looking for a mix of impressive salads, pasta, pizza and grilled protein at affordable prices. Located right downtown Los Gatos this Willow features wood floors, high exposed duct ceilings, a colorful wall mural and an overall airy feel. Read more

Grocery/Prepared Food

Campbell -- Trader Joe's

TJ's offers prepared foods, produce, trail mix, energy bars and more. Read more

Campbell -- Whole Foods Market

Come for the healthy prepared foods and fresh salad bar. This location boasts a juice bar. Read more

Cupertino -- Trader Joe's (Bollinger)

TJ's offers prepared foods, produce, trail mix, energy bars and more. Read more

Cupertino -- Whole Foods Market

Come for the healthy prepared foods and fresh salad bar. This location has plenty of seating for those who prefer to eat in. Read more

Cupertino/Campbell -- Trader Joe's (Westgate West)

Located in the Westgate Shopping Center, TJ's offers prepared foods, produce, trail mix, energy bars and more. Read more

Cupertino/Los Altos -- Trader Joe's

TJ's offers prepared foods, produce, trail mix, energy bars and more. Read more

Los Altos -- Whole Foods Market

Come for the healthy prepared foods and fresh salad bar. Read more

Los Gatos -- Trader Joe's

TJ's offers prepared foods, produce, trail mix, energy bars and more. Read more

Los Gatos -- Whole Foods Market

Come for the healthy prepared foods and fresh salad bar. This location boasts a café. Read more

Mountain View -- Trader Joe's

TJ's offers prepared foods, produce, trail mix, energy bars and more. Read more

Palo Alto -- Whole Foods Market

Come for the healthy prepared foods and fresh salad bar. Read more

SJ Airport Area -- Trader Joe's (Coleman Ave.)

TJ's offers prepared foods, produce, trail mix, energy bars and more. Read more

SJ South -- Trader Joe's (Old Almaden)

TJ's offers prepared foods, produce, trail mix, energy bars and more. Read more

Sunnyvale -- Trader Joe's

TJ's offers prepared foods, produce, trail mix, energy bars and more. Read more

Trader Joe's

Located in the Westgate Shopping Center, TJ's offers prepared foods, produce, trail mix, energy bars and more. Read more

Trader Joe's

TJ's offers prepared foods, produce, trail mix, energy bars and more. Read more

Farmers' Market

Blossom Hill Farmers' Market

Over 40 California certified growers sell their goods here which include produce, fresh fish, baked breads, pastries, and flowers. The market is held in the Princeton Plaza Mall. Read more

Campbell Farmers' Market

In peak season this year round farmers' market boasts nearly 60 vendors in historic downtown Campbell. Count on fresh produce, baked goods, flower and more. Read more

Cupertino Farmers Market

This is a small market that offers local produce and vendors, located adjacent to the Cupertino Square Mall . Read more

Palo Alto Farmers Market

The market is located behind the post office and has been serving up local goods and produce for over 27 years. The volunteer-operated non-profit donates proceeds to a local agency serving the senior population. Read more

Santa Clara Farmers’ Market

Part of the Urban Village Farmers’ Market Association family, the Santa Clara market is dedicated to connecting the community through fresh, seasonal and local produce cultivated by area farmers. Read more

SJ -- Cambrian Park Farmers' Market

Part of the Urban Village Farmers’ Market Association family, the Cambrian Park market is dedicated to connecting the community through fresh, seasonal and local produce cultivated by area farmers. Read more

SJ Downtown Farmers' Market

Located right downtown San Jose at San Pedro Square, this Friday market offers flowers, crafts, gourmet foods, produce and live music. Read more

Sunnyvale Farmers’ Market

Part of the Urban Village Farmers’ Market Association family, the Sunnyvale market is dedicated to connecting the community through fresh, seasonal and local produce cultivated by area farmers. Read more