Bell's Books is a family-owned bookstore in Palo Alto that's been passed down from generation to generation. Lot of people will tell you that this bookstore is a treasure. If you love reading or you are a book collector, this is definitely a place to go and stay for hours. Do not expect to find People Magazine or the latest New York Times best-seller; this store only sells used books. They offer an important selection of antique books and historic documents.
Located in the heart of downtown, the San Pedro Square Market is frequented by tourists and locals alike. This is the place to get, up-close and personal with the city; its people, food and all the enthusiasm. This is an adorable place to sit with a large glass of beer and watch the day go by. There are over 20 vendors who sell farm fresh produce, food as well as kitchen wares. The market is graced with restaurant, bars and cafes and once you walk through the market aromas of freshly brewed coffee and roasting meats are bound to feel your senses. Weekly entertainment such as shows and live performances are also hosted by the market. Here, you can explore and appreciate beautiful art created by local artists. The market is a great place to enjoy casual dining, shopping or even for a quiet stroll.
Santana Row is an urban district, a magnet for shopping, dining, entertainment and accommodations in North San Jose. There is something for the entire family: 14 full service restaurants; twice-weekly farmers market; WiFi Internet access zones; Hotel Valencia, a world-class boutique hotel; outdoor cafes, public parks, gardens, plazas and courtyards; and a six screen CineArts complex. Developed by Federal Realty Investment Trust, Santana Row is a project that successfully combines the best elements of an urban plaza with the convenience and variety of a mall. It is a place like no other.
Bella James is popular among the beautiful ladies of San Jose for their elegant dresses and pretty shoes. Every piece of accessories or clothing item on their rack is an immaculate juxtaposition of contemporary styles woven into conventional textures and fabric. Dresses, tops, skirts, pants try anything here, they have got it all right. This is the place to find unique pieces that you will otherwise not find any place else. The employees here are very friendly; trust them on their opinions like you would trust a good friend. At Bella James you will find clothes that you will actually wear and not just hang inside your closet.
If you're tired of shopping for the usual American foods at your usual supermarket, then this store sure is a big treat. Stocking up on European food products not only from the usual suspects such as France and England, but also Poland, Germany and even Eastern European countries such as Russia and Ukraine, in addition to Middle Eastern and Greek influences, this place is akin to a happening party. Although the store is small, one can find plenty of jams and jellies, pita bread, Greek yogurt, hummus, feta cheese varieties, gelato, German cookies and exotic chocolates at this hidden gem.
Palo Altonians flock to Tea Time to purchase tea leaves, to eat Sunday brunch, or to enjoy a relaxing yet elegant full tea service. A variety of scones, pastries, elaborate tea sandwiches, and salads are available, along with a wide selection of teas, of course. Teas run the gamut from basic earl grey, black and green teas, to the more exotic pomegranate white tea, apricot brandy, and Japanese cherry. Iced teas and chai lattes are also available. It's the perfect place to grab a drink to go, or step inside and spend a couple of tranquil hours in conversation with friends amidst the bustle of downtown Palo Alto.
This is an adorable little boutique located at the Waverley Street inside an old Victorian style house. Everything in the store is eclectic and they have given a designer touch to your conventional house pins, chop sticks, plates, bowls, toasters, clocks, etc. The items on their racks are one-of-a-kind and become a great gift or conversation piece. Be it a baby shower or a house warming party of a friend pick up something at the Five Ten Gifts; the recipient will love the gift and will never want to return or exchange it.
Watch in awe as delicate, elegant and artistic pieces take shape from characterless blobs of molten glass at the Glass Hand Studio. This public access art studio often hosts open house events and glass-blowing demonstrations that are nothing short of mesmerizing. The studio itself is available on rent for use by artists who would like to work on projects of their own. Besides rental space and events, the Glass Hand Studio also offers custom glass blowing classes for individuals and groups of up to three participants, suitable for every skill level. The studio doubles up as an art gallery displaying hand made glass art for sale, and even accepts custom orders.
The Aegis Gallery of Fine Art showcases a wide array of fine art works consisting of oil paintings, photographs, acrylic works, glass works, etc. With events and exhibits taking place through the year, you shall be witnessing some of the finest works of local artists. The simplistic layout of the rooms within the gallery and the bright white walls showcase the vibrant colors that emanate from the works of art.
This store is a lot of fun for children as well as adults wishing to relive their childhood, at least for some moments. It's located in downtown Willow Glen, a charming area of San Jose, across the street from an elementary school, so it's common to see children and teachers lounging about. It is mainly a bookstore, carrying hundreds of classic and contemporary titles for ages that range from newborn to preteen years. However, it also sells educational gifts, toys, games and teaching supplies. Independent and dedicated, this shops stocks goods that are well selected and the atmosphere is also very welcoming.
Located near Santa Cruz, Los Gatos is infused with the surf culture and Sprocket's fulfills the town's fashion needs. Men and women love this little independent boutique because it sells labels like Roxy, Quicksilver, Reef, Rusty and Vans. It has the latest styles in casual beach chic, such as flare cords, board shorts, wooden clog thongs, colorful bikinis and an endless selection of hip button-down shirts. Sprocket's also sells high-end accessories like Roxy luggage, watches and alarm clocks. In the back room, find a volleyball pro-shop filled with equipment and gear.