metroactive.com | sanjose.com | metrosiliconvalley.com | FEBRUARY 14-20, 2018
John Dyke
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BITES
NOM NOM Vietnoms is the newest addition to the SoFA Market.
Five to Watch
S
IX MONTHS IS usually considered the earliest a new restaurant, bar or coffeeshop can receive a fair review. But who’s got time for that? Each month, Metro spotlights five of the newest places we think are worth a look-see.
Vietnoms 387 S First St Ste 121, San Jose 408.827.5812. vietnoms.com Vietnoms features a multitude of bases ($7-11) to build diners’ personalized creations, including French baguettes to make a custom bánh mì sandwich, or choose a more traditional rice, noodle or salad bowl. Select pork, beef, chicken or tofu, plus veggies and sauce it up.
Haidilao Hot Pot 19409 Steven Creek Blvd Ste 100, Cupertino. 669.230.3117. haidilao.us This modern and trendy Chinese chain is known for their Sichuan-style (i.e. spicy) hot pots and quality meats. Diners can’t go wrong with any combo of their spicy pork broth ($4-8), USDA prime rib-eye ($26/7oz.) or abalone on ice ($21).
LuLu’s 1875 S Bascom Ave Ste 165, Campbell. 408.559.8226. lulusmexicanfood.com LuLu’s chicken mole rojo ($15) is simmered in a sauce that includes three different chilies, chocolate, peanuts and a host of spices to make one incredible, mouthwatering meal. Combine that with LuLu’s caramel flan ($6) and you’ve got a little slice of Mexi-heaven.
Tasty Indian Pizza 2850 Quimby Rd Ste 140, San Jose. 408.622.8880. tastyindianpizza.com This local chain has one of the most comprehensive Indian toppings for an Indian pizza that I’ve ever encountered—with everything from saag (spinach) and paneer (Indian cheese) to everyone’s favorite, butter chicken. They do also have traditional American toppings (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, linguiça, etc.), but that would be like going to Morton’s and not getting a steak.
Mesquite and Oak 856 N 13th St, San Jose. 408.418.3180 Brunch is what’s on the menu here, because what barbecue junkie hasn’t woken up dreaming of having beef ribs and waffles, or brisket and pancakes? A pulled pork “Frito Bandito” ($12) and brisket hash ($13) are on the menu. While they also serve up the standard barbecue joint lunch and dinner fare, their brunch menu will be what puts them on the map. —John Dyke