Café Marcella is a classy Italian bistro that rather conveniently connects to the Wine Galleria. You can enjoy terrific coffee and a pastry or two while chatting away and admiring the artsy décor. Marcella also has a regular menu with options that include their popular Chinese salad, stuffed chicken and pizza. Their wine list is fairly impressive as well. Unless you are out to punish yourself, save room for one of their desserts. Reservations are required.

MINNESOTA. Located in San Jose's Minnesota suburb, Café Primo's atmosphere is refreshing and homey. Their menu is a nice mix of California and Mediterranean cuisine, including hearty breakfasts and lunch time fare such as panini and salads. Try to save room for one of their pastries for dessert or a cup of espresso.

DOWNTOWN. Eclectic Gordon Biersch Brewery is a popular chain brewpub known as much for its flavor-packed menu (great garlic mashed potatoes!) as for its fine selection of German ales and lagers. On weekends, it tends to get fairly loud and crowded and makes for a fun place to hang out, especially for folks between the ages of 21 and 35. During the summer, you'll probably happen upon a little live music when you stop in.

WILLOW GLEN. Monsieur BEANs is a great place to meet up with friends at night and enjoy good coffee and jazz. Everybody here knows the owners ­ and each other ­ and the café is a great place to find out the scoop on what is going on around town. A choice selection of specialty teas is available, as well as smoothies, shakes, boba, pastries, sandwiches, and ice cream. Visit on Friday and Saturday nights and you'll happen upon a little live music. A Pac-Man machine is on site and free wireless internet is available.

DOWNTOWN. The Stratta Grill and Café is a downtown bistro whose atmosphere is stylish and sophisticated, yet intimate. The restaurant is popular with both the young and the young-at-heart, and the best tables are those that overlook the street. This is a good place to enjoy a fine pasta meal, a light salad, or a few drinks before heading off to the theater.