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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Unique food in Santa Clara

Made for those who actively seek out dining experiences that defy standard expectations.

Based on 555 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Madhu Idiyappa Kadai image 1
Madhu Idiyappa Kadai image 2
Madhu Idiyappa Kadai image 3
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Vegetarian restaurant

Food truck setup with outdoor seating creates a casual atmosphere that feels safe and friendly. Evening visits attract those seeking authentic South Indian snacks made fresh with traditional methods. Unique offerings like red rice idiyappam and puttu distinguish it from other options in the area.

Food features Kerala style dishes with excellent texture in idlis, paniyaram, and dosa. The menu offers home-cooked flavors and consistently tasty South Indian food with genuine hospitality.

Fluffy appam offers a unique taste that stands out. Red rice idiyappam and puttu bring a healthy, tasty twist to traditional dishes.

People are saying

"I highly recommend their live dosa counter for any party."

"The food here is so authentic and delicious, especially the idiyappam."

"The friendly staff makes it feel like home, a truly unique experience."

Good to know

1

The dosa costs $9, which is a great deal.

2

Madhu Idiyappa Kadai offers authentic Sri Lankan food.

3

They serve red rice idiyappam and puttu, unique to the Bay Area.

02
GIWA image 1
Diner

Space combines stylish floral decor with private dining rooms and a flower shop corner featuring a tall floral archway. Atmosphere feels classy and effortlessly cool, suitable for brunch or group gatherings. Guests experience a visually appealing setting with thoughtful design and ample photo opportunities.

Food here stands out for its excellent quality and authentic Korean flavors. Dishes come with kind service and a pleasant ambiance that enhances the dining experience.

Offers delicious and unique drinks alongside dishes like the Gochujang-Glazed Bossam, creating a distinctive brunch experience in the area.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots is beautifully plated and delicious."

"The souffle pancakes are perfectly jiggly, light, and airy."

"The Korean Benedict and pork cutlet were unique stars of the meal."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like birthday celebrations.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait on weekdays during peak hours.

3

Parking can be challenging; arrive early for better availability.

03
Star Chaat Cuisine image 1
Indian restaurant

Large space with bold orange walls and a live pani puri counter creates a vibrant setting. Atmosphere is family-friendly with Punjabi music playing, sometimes loudly. Seating is comfortable and the vibe suits small gatherings well.

Food features authentic Indian dishes like paneer makhni, garlic naan, and dahi bhalla with standout flavors. Service is friendly and polite, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Very unique spices and flavors define the dishes here. Monthly specials and quick service add to the distinctive experience. Paneer Makhani, Sev Puri, and the Kala Khatta taste stand out.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the Amritsari Kulcha."

"The Paneer Tikka here is delicious and well-spiced."

"The food here is amazing, packed with unique flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant just opened today, offering a fresh menu.

2

Monthly specials feature unique dishes not available regularly.

3

The restaurant is completely vegetarian, catering to plant-based diets.

04
Stick & Wok 食客汇 image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese restaurant offers a bustling and lively atmosphere with an inviting interior featuring ample light and tasteful decor. The menu includes creative wok-fried specials and flavorful wagyu dishes, attracting diners looking for rich, bold flavors. The setting feels comfortable and homey, with a steady flow of guests and no long waits.

Food comes out quickly and tastes great with simple and delicious Asian dishes. Prices are reasonable and the menu offers unique flavors that keep people coming back.

Food offers unique flavors with a strong focus on originality. The cheese wagyu potstickers stand out as a distinctive dish with a good taste.

People are saying

"I found the food to be great and unique."

"The Wagyu & Truffle Fried Rice is delicious and a must-try."

"The food here is great and unique."

Good to know

1

The lunch special is $18 and includes soup, spring roll, and a main dish.

2

Dishes range from $16 to $24, with good portion sizes.

3

Vegetarian options are available and include fresh vegetables.

05
Le Petit Chef - Santa Clara image 1

Animated table performances create a unique interactive experience that blends storytelling with dining. The setting resembles a conference room with minimal decor and small tables, sometimes requiring sharing space with others. Energy stays warm and inviting, though the atmosphere can feel cramped and less formal than expected.

Food features perfect timing with each course synced to a table projection. Preparation of ingredients like beets and blue cheese offers a fresh take, and the steak stands out among impressive dishes.

An animated show features a tiny chef who preps and cooks the meal right at the table. This adds a fun and interactive element that makes the dining experience truly unique and memorable.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and beautifully prepared."

"It's a unique dining experience with an entertaining animated show."

"This experience is an adventure that kids loved."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.

2

Expect to spend over $150 per person for the full experience.

3

The restaurant validates parking, making it free after a $40 hotel charge.

06
Master Oh 오선생 image 1
Korean restaurant

Spacious Korean restaurant with walls covered in Hangul and kimchi jars by the entrance creates an authentic Korean atmosphere. Warm, cozy lighting and stylish, clean decor make the space welcoming and modern. Mostly Korean diners contribute to a genuine vibe, with an extensive menu featuring rare traditional dishes.

Food features authentic flavors and high-quality fresh ingredients, especially in the seafood soup. Portions offer great value and the service is attentive and efficient.

Wide variety of dishes includes raw marinated options that stand out. The restaurant features unique and pretty lighting that adds to the atmosphere.

People are saying

"The fish roe soup is super fresh and sweet."

"I found the food here to be authentic Korean comfort food."

"The soy sauce marinated crab here is amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour offers 15% off the entire bill on weekdays from 7:30 to 9:30 PM.

2

Current discount of 15% off the entire menu from Monday to Thursday, 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM.

3

Reservations are necessary on weekends due to high demand.

07
Ondam image 1
Korean restaurant

Interior blends traditional Korean home style with modern design, featuring thoughtful decorations and curated menus. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting, often busy with a lively energy. Ordering happens via table kiosks, allowing a relaxed pace, and the place welcomes private gatherings and families with kids.

Food features fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and generous portions. Dishes consistently deliver delicious Korean cuisine.

Dishes feature unique Korean flavors like cheese kimchi fried rice and seafood jjamppong kalguksu. The cypress wood steamed dish and marinated raw crab stand out for their distinct character.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always tastes freshly made."

"The Korean food here is so authentic and packed with soul-warming flavors."

"The unique Korean dishes here are so flavorful and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

The restaurant enforces a one-hour eating limit only when it gets busy.

2

Parking is limited, so consider arriving early or using public transport.

3

Expect a crowded atmosphere during peak hours, especially on weekends.

08
Chandni chowk image 1
Indian restaurant

Decor mimics a classic Indian street corner with truck dhaba vibes, Bollywood posters, and colorful wall art. Atmosphere feels nostalgic and lively, enhanced by cricket and Bollywood music. Small, cozy space suits groups of 3-4, offering an immersive cultural experience.

Offers classic dhaba atmosphere with cricket and Bollywood music. Serves excellent North Indian food with great selection and preparation, though food quality can vary.

Unique blend of spices flavors the Mumtaz Chicken, while the Seekh Kabab arrives in a distinctive presentation. The spot's decor and wall designs create a strong desi vibe that stands out.

People are saying

"The Chandni Chowk theme's decor is stunning and immersive."

"The decor and 90s ads made it feel so nostalgic."

"The chaats here capture Delhi street food's vibrant, unique flavors."

Good to know

1

Chandni Chowk is open till 1am on most days.

2

There is a decent amount of parking available, making visiting convenient.

3

Chandni Chowk is one of the only restaurants open late in the area.

09
Jashn image 1
Food and drink

Modern and elegant Indian restaurant with unique decor and stunning mural sets a warm, inviting atmosphere. Tables spaced generously for intimate dining and a full bar offers creative cocktails alongside classic drinks. Lighting and interior design create a comforting vibe suited for relaxed dinners.

Food offers outstanding taste and flavors with impressive presentation. Service complements the excellent dining experience alongside a great ambience.

Dishes feature unique and flavorful combinations, including a Vada Bao that offers a fun twist on the classic vada pav while keeping traditional flavors. Cocktails present interesting and well-thought-out mixes. Decor shows a unique and tasteful design.

People are saying

"The Indian food here is so innovative and visually stunning."

"The food here is cramped, with tables too close together."

"The fusion vegetarian options here are amazing and unique."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially for larger groups.

2

The restaurant offers limited vegetarian options on the lunch menu.

3

Expect small portion sizes relative to the price.

10
Voyager Craft Coffee - Santa Clara University image 1

Coffee shop offers modern decor with wood grain accents and large windows that create a bright, cozy atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes dog-friendly shaded areas, attracting a lively crowd especially on weekends. Space supports studying and work, though it can get crowded and parking is challenging.

Coffee, pastries, and food all stand out as excellent here. The food quality is above average for a coffee shop, making it worth trying alongside the drinks.

Drinks feature unique flavors and follow distinct themes. The menu offers inspirational combinations that stand out.

People are saying

"The coffee here is excellent and tastes great."

"The food here is great; the staff are super friendly."

"I loved their inspirational drinks with unique flavors."

Good to know

1

Finding parking at Voyager Craft Coffee is very difficult, especially around noon.

2

The coffee shop is often busy, with expected wait times of 10 to 15 minutes.

3

They don’t serve any food after 3 pm on Sundays.

11
Milyar Coffee house image 1

Bright, open space with marble paneling and Middle Eastern decor creates a unique setting. Comfortable seating and many power outlets support long stays for work or socializing. Arabian music plays softly, adding to a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.

Food includes shawarma wrap and sambusa that taste very good. Tea and other drinks complement the delicious meals well.

Iced Rose Latte stands out with its distinct scent of roses and captivating flavor. Marble paneling and crystal-encased lighting add a unique touch to the interior.

People are saying

"The cafe's drinks are delicious and perfectly made."

"The food and drinks here were delicious."

"The unique lattes here have a distinctive fragrance and taste."

Good to know

1

The cafe is open 20 hours a day, from 8 am to midnight.

2

Street parking is limited, but there is a nearby parking lot.

3

Expect long wait times for service, especially during busy hours.

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