Dine Downtown San Jose returns July 11-21 with dozens of restaurant deals

Chef specials, prix fixe dinners, food-and-wine pairings and more

The San Jose Downtown Association’s huge Dine Downtown promotion — a summer tradition in the South Bay — is back for its 16th annual year.

From Thursday, July 11, through next Sunday, July 21, dozens of restaurants, coffeehouses, lounges and bakeries — 40 at last count — will offer specials that range from fixed-price meals and chef specials to food-and-wine pairings and savings on casual bites.

It’s an opportunity for South Bay residents to discover new restaurants, revisit old favorites and support the hospitality industry downtown.

“I look forward to seeing our vibrant community of food enthusiasts support the local small businesses that make Downtown San Jose so special,” Alex Stettinski, CEO of the San Jose Downtown Association, said in announcing the promotion.

One downtown mainstay, Mezcal, has participated in all 16 years of Dine Downtown. This year, owner Adolfo Gomez is offering a three-course, $45 prix fixe that features a housemade chorizo appetizer, entree choices of New York steak or halibut or vegan enchiladas. and tres leches cake or churros for dessert.

Other longtime participants include Loft Bar and Bistro, Farmers Union, Nomikai Social Food + Eatery, Habana Cuba and Scott’s Seafood, all of which have been involved for 10 or more years.

Newcomers include Angkor Chef, Rollati, Urban Putt and the Club on Post as well as the newly reopened Elyse and ISO Beers.

Want more savings? The city’s ParkSJ garages at Market and San Pedro Square, Second and San Carlos, Third Street, Fourth Street and Third and Santa Clara streets all offer 90 minutes of free parking.