Pan Asian. For Silicon Valley residents looking for a quality eatery in the Santa Clara area, look no further than Oryza. The Pan Asian restaurant blends multiple distinct regions of cuisine together, most notibly Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam. Their menu features a host of delicious dishes for both lunch and dinner (in addition to an all day menu; all three are also available to order for takeout). The restaurant's happy hour specials are perfect for San Jose folks who find themselves needing a quick pick-me-up after a long day of shopping at the Valley Fair mall. With a modern decorated interior that's both refreshingly professional and approachable, Oryza is the perfect stop for San Jose foodies looking to expand their palates beyond their neighborhood.

Italian. Located in the modern and bustling Rivermark Village Center, Piatti Ristorante is a warm, stylish Santa Clara Italian restaurant offering flavorful fare, a welcoming atmosphere and friendly service. A thoughtfully scripted list of Italian and Californian wines compliments the enticing menu of rustic yet flavorful preparations of classic Italian cuisine. Piatti in Santa Clara also boasts chic private and semi-private dining areas for gatherings and events.

American, Steakhouse. A stylish interpretation of an old city grill, Birk’s is one of the finest steakhouses in Silicon Valley. What makes Birk's stand out from the rest is a commitment to quality, freshness and class. Experience culinary innovation by concentrating on the specials, find reliable excellence in one of the traditional steakhouse dishes, or enjoy creative selections from the appetizer menu. The full bar features a select wine list, not to mention micro-brews, an array of single malt scotches, cognacs, brandies and cigars.

American, Californian. A contemporary Santa Clara restaurant, Café Amelia provides a casually stylish setting for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menus for each meal are massive, with options to satisfy everyone from meat-lovers to vegetarians. The cuisine is American, and options include both traditional and more innovative dishes.

Mediterranean, Greek. Chef Angelo Konidis, two-time Bay Area Iron Chef winner and adviser to the Greek Olympic Culinary Team, weaves together an excellent menu of innovative Mediterranean fare at La Fontana. This Santa Clara restaurant, located in the Hilton Hotel, features a bright, upscale setting and a casual attitude.

American. Innovative, locally and sustainably sourced cuisine is the focus at Parcel 104. This stylish restaurant in Santa Clara consistently receives awards of excellence from Wine Spectator, as well as favorable recognition from local publications like The Metro News, The Wave Magazine and San Jose Magazine. The ever-changing menu features vibrant and flavorful creations of globally influenced American fare.

American, Californian. Located inside the Embassy Suites hotel in Santa Clara, the Valley Plaza Café is a venerable choice for American and International fare. At this handsomely appointed restaurant, patrons can sup on well-crafted dishes from as close as American backyards to as far away as France and Southeast Asia. Sandwiches, rich entrees, house-made pastas and creative salads make for enjoyable lunches and dinners.

American. The menu has been modernized but this landmark has not lost its soul. All walks of humanity rub shoulders here, enjoying just about everything that can be baked, fried, broiled or steamed. Full bar.

Korean. This is the real deal, the first authentic Korean diner in suitsville, priced to keep patrons coming back for bowls of spicy beef, seafood, pickled vegetables, chili soup and, yes, bean curd in its many permutations.

Asian Noodle House. A good and friendly destination when one's stomach screams for a three-course meal but one's wallet has but $10, Pho boasts an ambitious menu of nearly 100 Vietnamese and Chinese items.

Vietnamese Noodle House. This diner's pho (beef noodle soup) rates among the top three in the South Bay. Dry rice noodle specials are topped with fresh vegetable, pickled daikon and grilled meats. Casual. Beer.

Japanese. A family-friendly ambience prevails here, full of community hubbub, good food, generous portions and super chefs. Yuki keeps it simple, but always interesting with dishes that are well thought out and presented in a manner that is visually appealing, but not overstated or silly.