Los Gatos restaurants are buzzing again, and you’re itching to rediscover that perfect spot. Plus, your former colleagues, old neighbors, and friends who remember your 2010s foodie obsession keep texting about dinner plans. So we’ve curated this list of places (some fresh openings, others timeless classics) ideal for lingering past the 9pm curfew you’ve reluctantly embraced.
Tasting House
$$$$ | (408) 348-1807 | WEBSITE
If you’re in Los Gatos, and you need a place to enjoy a creative meal and hear some piano, go to Tasting House. It’s a cozy, inviting space with dim lighting, live music, and an excellent wine selection. And it’ll probably feel like a little piece of heaven for the food-lover in your life.
We Olive & Wine Bar
$$ | (408) 354-7474 | WEBSITE
This olive oil and wine bar is a charming spot in Los Gatos that offers a unique tasting experience. If you want an excellent zinfandel or some crispy stuffed peppadews to help ease your nerves while you work remotely, this is the place to get them. It’s also great for meeting up for a quick hour-long check-in, since the menu is mostly just snacks like flatbreads and sandwiches. Just be aware you may have to wait for a tasting room spot during peak hours.
Sharetea
$ | (408) 402-3878 | WEBSITE
Sharetea specializes in boba drinks, Thai milk tea, mango green tea, and other refreshing beverages typically enjoyed after school or work. Even with its bustling downtown location, there are plenty of options for both quick takeout and relaxed indoor sipping here. Also, Sharetea offers a pleasant view facing Main after the 17 overpass so you can still have a satisfying experience with a tasty drink even if you’re just passing through.
Oak & Rye
$$ | (408) 395-4441 | WEBSITE
The front patio at this pizza spot has always been one of our favorite outdoor dining options in Los Gatos. It’s got a cozy, unpretentious California chill vibe and a dog-friendly patio area that makes you feel relaxed, a place with indoor and outdoor seating where pizzas come out quickly and hot, and they’ve even got kid-friendly options in case you’re dining with little ones.
Classic Burgers of Los Gatos
$ | (408) 356-6910 | WEBSITE
People can’t resist a Cherry Blueberry shake (or three), and Classic Burgers knows it. In addition to the amazing fried mushrooms, they also serve Zucchini fries, and have a spacious outdoor area that works more for a casual family meal than a super formal affair. But you absolutely should plan to order the Double Cheeseburger and those juicy, flavorful burgers.
Dolce Spazio Gelato
$ | (408) 395-1335 | WEBSITE
At Dolce Spazio Gelato, you can grab a scoop of espresso gelato with chocolate chips and enjoy it at one of the outdoor tables. And unlike the overly sweet frozen treats you’ve tried this year, the gelato here actually tastes authentic. Dolce Spazio is one of our go-to casual dessert spots in downtown Los Gatos, especially since you can also get some tasty treats like cakes, cookies, and coffee in addition to the excellent gelato.
Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Company
$ | (408) 354-3263 | WEBSITE
Now that Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Company has been a local staple for years, they have a cozy indoor space with plenty of seating for you, your laptop, your study group, and maybe even a few friends. You can try around a dozen coffee blends here, including a bunch they roast themselves, and if you stop by over the weekend you might catch the Sunday farmer market across the street.
Check their Instagram before you arrive for the latest seasonal offerings, but in the past baristas like Adrien and Megan have recommended everything from banana lattes and chocolate covered coconut macaroons to batch brewed coffee and gluten-free options.
The American Italian Deli
$ | (408) 399-3354 | WEBSITE
Imagine a deli, but hidden away. That’s essentially what you’ll find at this family-owned spot in Los Gatos, which has a few tables that you might want to claim. To enjoy a sandwich with a few friends at a small indoor table, while pretending to be at a casual lunch spot, or alone at one of the outdoor tables at The American Italian Deli, you’ll have to arrive early during peak hours. They also serve chai tea, just in case you’re bringing someone who considers sandwiches a full meal.
Orens Hummus
$$ | (408) 344-6736 | WEBSITE
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to legal residents of the 50 US/DC, 18+ who are authorized representatives of an eligible business. Ends at 11:59:00 pm ET on 9/29/21. Prize: $2,000 gift card awarded to the winning business to bond with your team over a delicious meal at an Infatuation-approved restaurant. SUBJECT TO RULES. See rules for business eligibility and odds. Void where prohibited. Sponsor: The Infatuation Inc., 424 Broadway, 5th Fl, New York, NY 10013.
La Esquina
$ | (408) 884-8599 | WEBSITE
La Esquina feels like your neighborhood taqueria if your neighborhood taqueria had a secret salsa and a fully-stocked margarita bar. But it’s actually closer to a spot in a small Mexican town, where you might hear Spanish conversations and the sizzle of carne asada on the grill. It’s the kind of place you’d go for a relaxed weeknight dinner, plus there’s a warm, cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for sharing authentic dishes with friends.
The simple, no-frills space has wooden tables and soft lighting that makes you feel welcomed whether you speak Spanish or not. You’ll find classic Mexican dishes prepared with care—like the rich chicken mole and fantastic al pastor street tacos—that stand out from the typical over-the-top dining scene. While it might be a bit pricey for Mexican food, with most dishes around $15-20, the genuine flavors and great portions make it well worth it.
For those who like things really hot, just ask for the secret Habanero salsa in Spanish.
SUSHIE!
$$ | (408) 379-3711 | WEBSITE
SUSHIE is one of our favorite sushi spots in Los Gatos for several reasons. First off, its warm, homey atmosphere and traditional feel make us feel right at home. It also has excellent quality fish and some standout rolls, as well as friendly, attentive staff who often bring complimentary dishes. So if you find yourself craving exceptional sushi longer than expected, you can confidently order the red dragon roll or Jonathan Hamachi for dinner, knowing it will be fresh and delicious.
Icing on the Cake
$ | (408) 354-2464 | WEBSITE
The next time you’re craving something sweet and only want to talk about and eat cupcakes, try Icing on the Cake. This charming bakery in Los Gatos has a cute decor and convenient parking behind the shop, plus they offer both vegan and vegetarian options. There’s even a ‘moist, light, and fluffy banana cake’ that sells out quickly if you don’t arrive early.