Willow Glen Resident
Cover Story
Best of 2006
Our Best of Willow Glen section marks its sixth annual edition. We'd like once again to thank the Willow Glen community, as well as those who don't live in Willow Glen who voted, for taking the time to fill out those ballots. We were surprised so many residents completed their ballots by hand, although submitting ballots through our website was once again a popular option. You'll find there were some surprising new picks this year and some returning favorites.
Your creative answers to some of the categories kept us on our toes, and we also appreciate your suggestions of categories you'd like to see return to the ballot next year such as "Best Letter Carrier." We've added a new "Best Dentist" category, but unfortunately had to do away with the "Best Doctor" category in the People & Professions section due to a lack of votes.
Resident Jan Wingad, who has lived in Willow Glen since 1997, is this year's recipient of our $100 cash drawing. Thanks for voting, Jan!
We hope this special edition inspires new and longtime residents alike to take a walk down Lincoln Avenue and the other streets of this charming San Jose community. We encourage you to visit some of the 95125 winners or discover your own personal "Best of Willow Glen" favorites.
If the good life means wining and dining, then Willow Glen residents definitely live well. Lincoln Avenue alone is home to enough eating and drinking establishments to please any palate and satisfy any appetite.
If that's not enough, there are also intriguing eateries throughout the entire Willow Glen neighborhood. Whether patrons have a hankering for breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee or tea, dessert, a quick lunch, a romantic evening, or post-work drinks, they're sure to find what they're looking for somewhere in the 95125 Zip code.
BEST
Pizza
PIZZA MY HEART
For the third consecutive year, Pizza My Heart and its super-thin New York-style crust took top honors for "Best Pizza." Filled with surf photographs and Hawaiian spirit, the restaurant often has a line for slices of its popular Prima pizza--with tomatoes, feta and olives--and the D'Lex, topped with chicken, mushrooms, smoked bacon, red onions and garlic sauce.
On Oct. 15, the restaurant renamed some of its pies after such surf spots as Linda Mar, Asilomar and Natural Bridges, a point break in Santa Cruz. So don't get confused in line late at night (It closes at 2 a.m. on weekends). Your favorite may just have a new name.
Started in Capitola in 1981, Pizza My Heart has a dozen locations that serve its secret pesto sauce and other creations. The Willow Glen restaurant also delivers in the 95125 Zip code.
Each crust is hand-tossed, heated slowly and baked thin.
"I think a lot of people like that," says supervisor Dynasti Brown. "You can actually taste the ingredients in there."
Pizza My Heart, 1309 Lincoln Ave., 408.279.4441.
BEST
Sandwich
LE BOULANGER
The expanding Bay Area chain has been in Willow Glen for 13 years and
was chosen as the perfect place to grab a sandwich. The menu has a laundry list of deli choices, from the vegetarian offering of a grilled portabella mushroom served on a focaccia roll to the meat-heavy
"Le Club," which is strewn with turkey, ham and bacon.
Patrons can also choose from deli classics such as hot pastrami and Reuben sandwiches. And it's like Thanksgiving any day with the classic turkey and cranberry sauce sandwich, which is a favorite of Leif Harris, an Almaden resident who comes to Willow Glen to work with the Nest interior designers.
The café is child-friendly; youngsters can opt for a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and milk, or a turkey, ham or cheese sandwich served with a drink and a cookie.
The price is right at Le Boulanger; sandwiches cost $5.50 to $6.95, and calorie-conscious diners can go small with the petite size for any option.
Le Boulanger, 1351 Lincoln Ave., 408.288.7095.
BEST
Breakfast
BILL'S CAFÉ
Bill's Café may have changed ownership at the beginning of the year, but the taste and feel of the restaurant has stayed consistent. There is a steady stream of diners every morning, said Penny Zafiris, whose family bought the café from longtime owners Bill and Amalia Rizos.
The café has been a Willow Glen establishment for 29 years, and the new owners don't plan on changing that anytime soon.
"Nothing has changed; I just added my own specials," said Jimmy Zafiris. They have the same staff, decorations and most of the same menu items.
"If it's not broken, don't fix it," he said.
Bill's Café has been voted best breakfast joint numerous times over the years for its extensive morning food selection as well as the restaurant's atmosphere. The cozy 1950s-diner interior and a garden-patio café outdoor area attract customers for Sunday brunch. Menu items such as blue cheese scrambled, Blackstone benedict and Fitness Group omelet are some of the unique options offered until 3 p.m.
Bill's offers enough seating so customers don't have to wait too long.
"There's never more than a 10-minute wait," Penny Zafiris said.
Bill's Café, 1115 Willow St., 408.294.1125.
BEST
Asian food
TAIWAN RESTAURANT
As far as best Asian food goes, readers voted hands down for Taiwan Restaurant. The family-owned and -run restaurant has received positive reviews since it opened in 1982.
The restaurant's feel is friendly for all types of diners, and the fare is friendly to carnivores, those with eclectic tastes and vegetarians.
"We have things you might not find at every Chinese restaurant," says the restaurant's general manager, Sophia Niu, daughter of owners Jimmy and Nancy Niu.
The long menu includes traditional Mandarin, Szechwan and Taiwanese dishes such as broccoli and beef and sweet and sour pork, but customers are most impressed with the chef's suggestions, Niu said, such as "sliced duck Peking style."
Taiwan Restaurant, 1306 Lincoln Ave., 408.289.8800, www.taiwanrestaurantsj.com.
BEST
Mexican food, Bar,
Quick lunch,
Restaurant
for kids
AQUI MEXICAN GRILL
Aqui is a versatile place. It can serve a fast lunch on the patio and satisfy kids with simple quesadillas and chicken bowls, and star bartender Carlos Tovar can whip up a mojito or a shot of one of 40 tequilas.
The careful presentation of dishes such as Southwest chicken taquitos ($7.79) and chicken enchiladas ($8.49) is beyond the call of duty for a stand-up-and-order place. These aren't amateur chefs, either--they invent four specials (such as a crispy eggplant sandwich) by about 11 a.m. every day.
The crab cake salad ($7.39) and Southwest Caesar salad ($5.29) are in style, and the Caesar tosses romaine with corn, black beans, pumpkin seeds, tortilla strips and asiago cheese.
In January or Febuary of 2007, Aqui No. 3, which will also be called Aqui Mexican Grill, is expected to open at 201 E. Campbell Ave., Campbell. The new building will be similar in size to the 150-person capacity restaurant in Willow Glen. Luckily, top bartenders Hugo and Rachel will still pop an icy Corona with lime aqui.
Aqui Mexican Grill, 1145 Lincoln Ave., 408.995.0381.
BEST
Italian food
BERTUCELLI'S LA VILLA
It's not on the menu, but the ever-popular Chris Combo sandwich ($7.95) is a big reason readers voted La Villa the best Italian food in Willow Glen. Owner Patty Bertucelli's son, Chris, first made one for himself, then for a few friends, and it soon became the most popular (yet unlisted) menu item.
"It's a hot sandwich on a sweet roll, that's all I can say," Patty Bertucelli said. "Once you have one, you're hooked."
Starting around Nov. 1, the southern Sicilian Christmas cookies cuccidatti will also hit the shelves.
House made ravioli and other Italian specialties such as arancini ($3.95 each)--a meat or vegetarian rice ball--set La Villa apart. It has served food in the same building since 1947, making it one of the oldest businesses on Lincoln Avenue.
"It's an icon," Bertucelli said.
Bertucelli's La Villa, 1319 Lincoln Ave., 408.295.7851.
BEST
Coffeehouse
PEET'S COFFEE AND TEA
For Willow Glen resident Colleen Crane, Peet's Coffee and Tea is a morning destination and favorite reading spot.
"I walk down here in the morning," Crane said. "I'll knit here, I'll read here; and the coffee is the best."
There are many like her who come to the coffee shop to work on their laptops, read the newspaper and get together with friends.
Hollister resident Charlie Scott makes his way to the Willow Glen Peet's location for a pound of Italian roast and to sit down for a cup of joe whenever he's in the area.
"It's a very good dark blend," Scott said.
The shop's reputation for good brews doesn't stop at coffee: The shop has rare and special teas such as "ancient trees organic pu-erh." Assistant manager Jennifer Harris serves as one of the shop's many coffee and tea experts.
Peet's Coffee and Tea, 1140 Lincoln Ave., Suite C, 408.975.9281.
BEST
Place for a first date
VIN SANTO RISTORANTE
Outside seating, a menu that changes daily, a bubbly hostess who will greet you with a smile and online reservations are some of the reasons readers elected Vin Santo as the most desirable first date destination. Owner Susan Russi says the wine bar also adds a certain je ne sais quoi to the restaurant.
The hand-selected wine list boasts fine wines from Italy and California, including local wines. But wine isn't the only thing that draws people to the romantic restaurant. The husband-wife duo Susan and Greg Russi live in Willow Glen and have been running the traditional Italian establishment since July 2001. The restaurant maintains a warm and inviting atmosphere, especially when Russi personally greets the guests at the door. When weather permits, the windows are opened in order to create an indoor/outdoor atmosphere that is reminiscent of an Italian café. Even the menu is romantic--full of insalata, fettucine con funghi e tartufi and pesce--and every day new items are featured.
Vin Santo Ristorante, 1346 Lincoln Ave., 408.920.2508, www.vin-santo.com.
BEST
Dessert
BASKIN-ROBBINS
The number 31 is misleading--the ice cream shop has 50 flavors and then some. Customers can choose from chocolate peanut butter to sugar-free pineapple, and the store serves more than just ice cream. Custom party cakes are all made on site from favorite ice cream flavors and adorned with detailed decorations such as beloved sports team colors and personalized birthday messages.
And for the customers who don't want to clean up after a party at home, parents can opt to have a catered party for celebrants right inside the Willow Street store and buy balloons and other party supplies onsite. It's a one-stop party shop and full-service ice cream store all in one.
"We are a top Baskin-Robbins store," says Michael Levine, the ice cream store's co-owner, who lives in Willow Glen, and readers agreed.
Baskin-Robbins, Willow Glen location, 1060 Willow St., Suite 1, 408.275.0301.
This year's winners in the People & Professions category deserve a pat on the back. Their dedication to the Willow Glen community makes this a better, more enjoyable place for residents to live, shop, dine, work and visit. Among those honored are teachers, a bartender, a server, a priest, a dentist and a tireless community volunteer. Due to its popularity last year, we've also kept the best community-involved business category.
For the "Best Teacher" accolade, voters couldn't pick just one teacher, so we combined the votes for the kindergarten teachers at Willow Glen Elementary School into one.
BEST
Teachers
WILLOW GLEN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
KINDERGARTEN TEACHERS:
JASON ALVARADO, MOLLY-BRATTON GARDNER, LYNDA JENSEN, TERESA OCHOA, DEBORAH ROBERTSON
At Willow Glen Elementary School, the following is posted in one of the five kindergarten classes: sit cross-cross, applesauce, with your hands in your lap, and always wait your turn.
"If you visit these classrooms, you get a great feeling your children are in good hands," said Alex Hoppe, president of the school's PTA.
Students are offered a well-rounded education in an engaging and enjoyable atmosphere. They learn vocabulary, sentence structure, math and science. The walls are decorated with animals, numbers and the children's art. Song and dance is part of each day's lesson.
The teachers understand their students' needs, too. Jason Alvarado teaches in Spanish, and every instructional tool is also in the students' native tongue. The class has daily English lessons as well.
A caring environment pervades each class. Lynda Jensen gently told one student who interrupted his neighbor, "I need your quiet voices so you don't disturb your friends from learning."
Willow Glen Elementary School, 1425 Lincoln Ave., 408.535.6265.
BEST
Bartender
CARLOS TOVAR
AQUI MEXICAN GRILL'S SADDLE BAR
Mojitos. Margaritas. Sangria. Carlos Tovar and his fellow liquor-slingers make them all with flair at Aqui's Western-themed Saddle Bar, named for Oliver's Saddlery that once stood next door.
"Carlos is just an amazing bartender," said Claudia Caballero, who has worked with Tovar for six years. "He's been up there three years in a row, so I think that speaks for itself."
Whether you're a rough rider or a desk jockey, Tovar's Orange Agave Margarita ($7.25) melts away the day. It blends fresh- squeezed orange juice, lime and Herradura Tequila. Then there's Carlitos' Cadillac--named after Carlos, of course--mixed with Sauza Hornitos tequila, Grand Marnier, freshly squeezed lime juice and sugar.
Tovar has a knack for remembering his customers' names and stories. Even on a packed Friday night, he tries to find time to connect with people. Tovar has a 2-year-old daughter, and he needs one more credit to finish a mathematics degree at San Jose State.
Caballero teases that Tovar "has a little dark side that customers don't see." But people respond to him, she says, because "he's not a robot, he's a real person."
Aqui Mexican Grill, 1145 Lincoln Ave., 408.995.0381.
BEST
Dentist
DR. DOUGLAS ROTH
Family dentist Douglas Roth has built his practice around loyalty and results. The Saratoga native hung his shingle in Willow Glen in 1992.
"Patients who move away still come in," said wife and office manager Carrie Roth. "People come from Sacramento, Long Beach, even Idaho."
Roth, 46, serves both children and adults. He treats them with crowns, root canals, fillings and extractions, and also does cosmetic work.
Dental hygienist Kathy Barraza started as his assistant in the late 1980s. At the time Roth shared office space on Moorpark Avenue. Barraza left for hygiene school but, upon graduating, came back to work for her old boss.
Roth uses a pen-size camera that displays his patients' teeth and gums on a flat-screen TV. The picture comes through in crisp color and clarity, giving patients a better view and understanding of their teeth.
"It's incorrect to suggest he's the best only in Willow Glen," said patient Dale Leslie, a Willow Glen resident. "He's the best in the state."
Dr. Douglas Roth, DDS, 1688 Willow St., Ste. F, 408.978.2060.
BEST
Waiter/waitress
CINDE DAVIS
SIENA,
A MEDITERRANEAN BISTRO
Cinde Davis' perennial success in the "Best Waitress" category comes from chatting with her customers--and their dogs, who often come to Siena together on Thursday nights. Davis is a dog person who has two yellow labs, and she jokes that it's actually easier to remember the dogs' names than the customers'.
Her boss, Siena owner Martha Duke, says her attitude is key.
"I don't think she does it for the money; she does it for the social side of it," Duke said. "She's not focusing on how much money she's getting, and we try to get all our waitresses in that frame of mind."
Davis has served such dishes as venison, Cornish game hen and ahi since Siena opened in 2002, and she also worked at its predecessor, Café Primavera, for about eight years. About three-quarters of Siena's customers are regulars.
Advice for servers starting out? "I'd say the best thing is to remember your customers," Davis said. "People like to be remembered."
Siena, A Mediterranean Bistro, 1359 Lincoln Ave., 408.271.0837.
BEST
Community-involved business
ELVA'S COFFEE STOP
Walking into Elva's Coffee Stop is like stepping into your own kitchen.
Fresh coffee and tea are served in colorful, homey mugs; children's art decorates the walls; pictures of customers and their children adorn the serving counter.
Clearly, Elva's is more than just a coffee shop. It is a destination for the community, a place to gossip, knit or catch up with one another.
The shop reciprocates support to its loyal customers. Local artists sell and display their work, including paintings, photographs and handcrafted bowls and jewelry boxes. Children who attend a nearby nursery school, and whose parents make daily trips to the shop, made the art on display through October.
Elva's also recently kicked off a turkey drive, where customers may purchase raffle tickets to help buy Thanksgiving turkeys for food banks.
And, just like home, in between the sugar and sweeteners, there is a big candy jar.
Elva's Coffee Stop, 2206 Lincoln Ave., 408.269.2245.
BEST
Member of the clergy
MONSIGNOR
JAMES WALSH
People often turn to religion for guidance or direction. In Willow Glen, this path often leads to Monsignor James Walsh of St. Christopher Church.
Walsh, 62, took the reins at the 4,000-plus member church in 1989. He speaks in a calm, soothing voice that reflects his native Ireland, and exudes a friendly, approachable air.
St. Christopher's is a true community gathering place. At Sunday mass, parents teach religious values to their children; young couples new to the area meet the community; many reconnect with old friends.
Walsh is part and parcel of this community.
He greets churchgoers both on their way in and out of services, and parishioners line up to greet him. His sermons connect scripture to the complexities of today's world. It is common for members who identified with the message to proudly claim Walsh was really speaking about them.
St. Christopher Church,1576 Curtner Ave., 408.269.2226.
BEST
Community volunteer
FRED OLIVER
Fred Oliver continues to impress and amaze with his commitment to Willow Glen.
This year Oliver, a Willow Glen Business and Professional Association board member, headed efforts to plan and organize Dancin' on the Avenue, an association-sponsored event.
Thanks to his efforts, more than 25,000 people squeezed onto Lincoln Avenue on June 17 to hear live music, socialize and eat. He has already signed up to coordinate next year's event.
Oliver's community involvement extends beyond the association. He is an active member of Stone Church on Lincoln Avenue, where he sits on committees and sings in the choir. He also raised money to renovate the church with earthquake safety reinforcements. In addition, he works full-time as a Realtor.
"Fred has a big, big heart," said longtime friend John Lococo. "He cares about people, and he cares about this community."
Willow Glen may be a neighborhood rather than a town, but when it comes to the goods and services available to local residents, well, the service is good and so are the goods.
In fact, readers told us there's something downright "small town" about the friendly service and quality merchandise they find in Willow Glen. They love the consistent and punctual service, an eclectic and sophisticated mix of shopping options, choices that fits budgets and needs, and opportunities for plenty of pampering.
One doesn't have to live here to enjoy the special attention of local merchants, but isn't it nice to know high quality and great customer service are a part of the neighborhood?
BEST
Eclectic shop
FLEURISH
There's no rhyme or reason to what's in Fleurish, winner of this year's best eclectic shop. This is the third year readers have recognized its unique collection. Right before Halloween, the shop is filled with scary knick-knacks such as hairy spiders and a 5-foot-tall witch who cackles and whose eyes light up.
And after Halloween, an equally diverse array of items will take over the front of the store, said owner Natalie Thompson. She sells many seasonal whatnots for holidays from Christmas to Valentine's Day to Easter to Halloween.
But the fun doesn't stop there. Thompson tries to keep it fun and creative when choosing items to sell in her store. There are shiny chandeliers, beaded curtain panels, candles, picture frames, lamps, metal stars and vintage jewelry that she buys from local artists.
"It's kind of all over the board," Thompson said. "It's such an eclectic mix of stuff."
Fleurish, 1335 Lincoln Ave., 408.294.5557.
BEST
Dry cleaners
MOON'S BEST CLEANERS
Picking up the dry cleaning can be as easy as taking a trip to downtown Willow Glen for Moon's customers. The service is consistent and punctual.
A regular order in by 10 a.m. should be ready by 5 p.m. the next day, said the store's manager Charlene Wilson, who has worked for Moon's for 13 years. Its top-notch service has been recognized by patrons for 17 years.
Moon's employees dry clean leather and suede, comforters, sleeping bags and wedding dresses, which they box and preserve as well. They also have a laundry service and do all types of alterations within a two-day turnaround.
Anything not done onsite is taken to the corporate headquarters at 1124 Branham Lane, where any order can be completed within two hours, according to Wilson.
The Willow Glen spot is one of four South Bay locations, making Moon's one of the biggest dry-cleaning services in Northern California. The other shops are at 1362 Meridian Ave. and 14040 Blossom Hill Road.
Owner Ki-Chun Moon likes to use his business for more than just cleaning. He often donates coupons to local schools such as Leland High School. The coupons are then auctioned off to raise money.
Moon's Best Cleaners, 1275 Lincoln Ave., 408.287.7778.
BEST
Boutique/
clothing store
DETAILS
The very latest haute couture can be found right in downtown Willow Glen at Details clothing store, where husband-wife duo Robyn and Bernie Levine keep ahead of fashion.
The Levines have been in the retail clothing industry in Willow Glen since 1972, when their store, People's Pants, occupied the spot where Kragen Auto Parts is now. They've been doing something right; they have earned the honor of "Best boutique/clothing store" by readers year after year. Robyn serves as an expert buyer and features matching jogging outfits and sweaters straight off the catwalks from Paris.
She will work with a customer to find a perfect outfit to match the person's individual style. Labels from around the United States and Europe fill the racks and can carry a hefty price tag, but more thrifty customers can find refuge in the back sales racks.
Details, 1322 Lincoln Ave., 408.286.5555.
BEST
Manicure/
pedicure
VOGUE NAILS
Readers chose Vogue Nails as the best place to get their nails done for the second year in a row, but some customers have thought this for 16 years.
Owner Pan Pham bought the nail salon in 1990 after six months of working there, and has since built a rapport with her clients. The salon's seven employees stay busy, and Pham's appointments are booked six months out.
"She's one of the best there is," said longtime client Diane Craig, who drives from Santa Clara every two weeks for a manicure with Pham. She said her sister drives even further. There is no shortage of nail salons, but Craig trusts Vogue Nails to be clean and consistent.
Pham uses disposable pedicure equipment for every customer, such as buffers and foot bath bins. This reputation for being clean has built a loyal following for the salon, and Pham said the regular customers often socialize while getting their nails done.
"It's kind of like a little club here," Pham said.
Vogue Nails, 1702 Meridian Ave. M, 408.723.5409.
BEST
Spa/salon
LA CONCHA SPA SALON
La Concha Spa Salon offers a variety of massage and facial options as well as hairstyling, manicure and pedicure services, cosmetics, aromatherapy and skin care. The salon carries its own skin-care line as well as a variety of brand-name products. Gloria Maciel, the salon's owner, attributes the success of her business to her dedication to the needs of her customers. She and her staff have expanded the business so much in the past 12 years that a new, larger facility is being built two doors down from the current location. Maciel's large base of regular clients and her habit of accommodating their needs have made La Concha a local favorite, according to the staff.
The salon takes walk-in clients as well as appointments and is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week to make it easier on customers with hectic schedules.
La Concha Spa Salon, 1042 Lincoln Ave., 408.286.8612, www.laconchaspa.com.
BEST
Place to get fit
BALLY TOTAL FITNESS
Bally Total Fitness allows Willow Glen residents the chance to work out in a place with all the amenities of a national chain and all the atmosphere of a neighborhood gym. Assistant general manager Wendy Petulla said many of the gym's members are local residents and have been coming to work out there for years.
Among the more popular options at Bally are the cardio-kickboxing classes and pilates, but there are plenty of other choices, such as the treadmills, weight machines and cross-trainers.
A children's play area gives parents a place to leave their youngsters while they attend a class or a session with a personal trainer.
There is a range of membership options at Bally, and Petulla said most people can find a choice to fit their budget and needs.
Bally Total Fitness, 1570 Hamilton Ave., 408.267.1900, www.ballyfitness.com.
Willow Glen is kid-friendly. It's full of spacious parks with everything from plenty of playground equipment and water fountains to grassy fields and picnic tables--good for an afternoon of exercise and a perfect venue for a birthday party or barbecue for active children.
This community also caters to families with a variety of quality daycare and preschool programs for various age groups, athletic programs and coaches, as well as some great stores and restaurants that are just right for youngsters.
Children may be fickle when it comes to their favorite things, but it's their parents who voted. Here are the results!
BEST
Place to take kids
HICKLEBEE'S
Owner Valerie Lewis named Hicklebee's after a creature she couldn't quite describe. It was a customer who finally defined what a Hicklebee is: the fairy a bookworm changes into.
The bookstore is filled with images of the tiny mascot, as well as a collection of objects that represent some of the most famous stories in children's literature. Lewis said she loves to tell children about the various "artifacts" and the stories behind them. The store also contains dozens of messages written on the walls and doors by the authors and illustrators who have visited, such as one by Eloise illustrator Hilary Knight that says, "Getting bored is not allowed. That's why I come to Hicklebee's."
Hicklebee's has won many awards both locally and internationally. Most recently, the Women's National Book Association named the store the best children's bookstore in the United States.
Lewis attributes the store's success to her customers' loyalty and the hard work and extensive knowledge of she, her employees and her sister and co-owner Monica Holmes bring to the business.
Hicklebee's, 1378 Lincoln Ave., 408.292.8880. www.hicklebees.com.
BEST
Playground
RIVER GLEN PARK
River Glen Park is equipped with two playgrounds with enough monkey bars, slides and swings to occupy even the most rambunctious children. Games can be played on the grass beside the playground, while youth and adults can take advantage of the basketball and tennis courts or hit a few balls on one of the two softball fields.
Soccer players have a grassy field of their own, and an exercise course is also available, as well as a track that runs around the perimeter of the park for joggers. Those seeking to relax have lots of shady grass on which to spread out.
The surrounding neighborhood is quiet, with minimal traffic, and there are plenty of places for families to hang out. A large picnic area with 11 tables is equipped with grills for barbecues and parties, and chess and checkers players can sit at tables printed with game boards and test their skills. The park also has restrooms and water fountains, and a low fence will keep children from running off.
River Glen Park is at the corner of Bird and Pine avenues.
BEST
Daycare/
preschool
WILLOW GLEN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH PRESCHOOL AND
PRE-KINDERGARTEN
Behind the main church building, Willow Glen United Methodist Church Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten is surrounded by trees and filled with colorful crafts made by the children who attend. Director Lorene Sheridan attributes the school's success to the developmental program she and her teachers use to allow children to learn at their own pace through play as well as the warm, loving atmosphere she and her staff try to foster.
The preschool focuses on preparing youngsters for kindergarten and seeks to bolster communication and social skills as well as self-confidence and spirituality through the Christian-based program.
As a nonprofit, the school boasts some of the lowest rates in the area, ranging from $205 a month to $500 for full-time enrollment plus a one-time registration fee of $50. The school is at near capacity, with only seven openings in the afternoon pre-kindergarten session. Other sessions have a waiting list.
Willow Glen United Methodist Church Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten, 1420 Newport Ave., 408.294.6072. www.wgumc.org.
BEST
Youth coach
TIM DINSDALE
Tim Dinsdale has been coaching his son, 6-year-old Nicholas, and daughter, 8-year-old Hannah's soccer teams for about three years, which he says about sums up his soccer experience. He coaches in the Central Valley Youth Soccer League and the South Bay Youth Soccer League.
Dinsdale played a little soccer as a child but didn't get back into it until his daughter switched from T-ball. Dinsdale said he might be getting to a point where his players will surpass their coach, but he uses all the resources he can find to keep them challenged.
Hannah's team is called the Dragons, a name Dinsdale thinks shows how the team has grown.
"They used to be called the Flaming Purple Dolphins," Dinsdale said. "I think they want a name that's a little more intimidating now."
Parents of the players said they appreciate Dinsdale's positive energy and enthusiasm, and Dinsdale said he is just happy to be "doing something fun with a great group of kids."
Photograph by Mark Tantrum
Paint
Project:
Four-year-olds in the pre-kindergarten program at the Willow Glen United Methodist Church Preschool show off their arts and crafts project for the day--a witch's face made using shapes such as triangles, rectangles and half circles.
What do dog-walkers, laptop users drinking lattes, shoppers, people watchers, active senior citizens, park fanciers and aficionados of good architecture have in common?
These groups don't have much in common, except for one important aspect. They all cast their votes for the best places and spaces in Willow Glen.
The luckiest voters actually live in Willow Glen, home of these favorite local and historic spots. For the less fortunate voters, this area is simply a happily anticipated destination that they come from near and far to visit. Either way, they have all been suitably impressed by certain locations in the neighborhood, and they aren't bashful about sharing their favorites.
BEST
Place to people-watch/
Place to remember old Willow Glen/Place to impress visitors
LINCOLN AVENUE
Lincoln Avenue in downtown Willow Glen has it all. The famed commercial strip draws locals and visitors alike with its small-town feel. The street is chock-full of locally owned restaurants and cafes, wine cellars and boutique clothing stores.
Heavy foot traffic can be found at the corner of Lincoln and Willow Street. Local favorites Willow Street Pizza, Willow Street Frozen Yogurt Co. and Aqui Mexican Grill draw customers from early afternoon until late at night.
Outdoor seating at Jamba Juice, Peet's Coffee & Tea and Noah's Bagels, just south of the intersection, provides ample people-watching opportunities. Fashionably dressed patrons pretend to read their book or newspaper, eyes darting back and forth at the barrage of distractions.
Waves of nostalgia wash over Lincoln Avenue. Classic muscle cars from the 1950s and 1960s cruise by, harking back a time of sock hops and letterman sweaters. Picturesque Victorian homes now serve as office space. The old 1930s firehouse, a stunning adobe-colored building, now houses Vin Santo, a popular Italian restaurant. The Garden Movie Theatre, with its time-capsule marquee, and the old Bergmann's Department Store, sign and all, still stand, even though new tenants occupy the sites.
It is, in every essence, the heart of Willow Glen.
BEST
Place to use your laptop
STARBUCKS
Starbucks manager Luna Baker said her location at the corner of Minnesota and Lincoln is full of laptop users almost every evening. Whether they are there to take advantage of the T-Mobile hotspot or just write a paper away from the distractions of home, laptop users can do it all with a latte in hand at one of the many small tables or armchairs in the store.
With a full menu of coffee drinks, pastries and other choices, Starbucks customers won't run out of fuel to work or play, and the large windows looking out onto downtown provide ample opportunity to watch the passers-by for inspiration or amusement.
Baker said she feels Starbucks has been able to successfully integrate itself into small neighborhoods such as Willow Glen by offering a homey atmosphere and friendly, sincere service. Those interested in the wireless Internet can sign up for a T-Mobile account through the provider's website. Prices vary depending on the length of service.
Starbucks, 1396 Lincoln Ave.
BEST
Place to walk the dog
WILLOW GLEN
Willow Glen itself was voted the best place to walk a dog, from the shady, tree-lined streets of the neighborhoods surrounding downtown to the local parks, the Los Gatos Creek Trail and the length of Lincoln Avenue. Voters couldn't pick just one favorite spot to walk their pooches.
Wendy Vitale, an employee at Gussied Up Dog Boutique on Lincoln Avenue, said many of the store's regular customers can be seen walking their dogs along the downtown sidewalks.
"[Willow Glen] is very accepting of dogs. If you walk down Lincoln, a lot of stores have dog bowls out," Vitale said.
Los Gatos-based dog-walking club Society Dog walks in Willow Glen every Thursday afternoon.
"We love Willow Glen for a number of reasons," said Terri Festa, founder of Society Dog. "We love its charm and the beautiful neighborhoods. We also appreciate the dog-friendly people, stores and restaurants. Its central location helps to pull dog walkers from several locations in the San Jose area and makes it easier for after-work dog walks."
BEST
Park
WILLOW STREET FRANK BRAMHALL PARK
Willow Street Frank Bramhall Park is a true haven to local residents. It offers 18 acres of open grass, picnic tables and peace and quiet in an increasingly hectic city.
It is a place where families have weekend barbecues, children play with their friends and residents bring their dogs. Magnificently shaded areas give cover from the sun. Tucked away in the northwest corner of the park, there is even a small grass amphitheater for theater or music.
The park offers several sporting options as well. There are six tennis and two basketball courts. Lawn bowling is played five days a week on well-trimmed grass; tournaments require formal attire. Baseball fields host Willow Glen Little League games.
Redwood trees ring the park's borders, and acorn piles can be found throughout the park squarely beneath mature oak trees.
Willow Street Bramhall Park is bordered by Willow Street to the north, Camino Ramon to the east, Britton to the southeast and Weaver Drive to the southwest.
BEST
Architectural Beauty
HICKS MANSION
The glimmering white mansion on Hicks Avenue is both commanding and breathtaking.
Its brilliant paint shines in the sun; the front yard is a forest of redwood, pine and chestnut trees; a small waterfall plays gently near the driveway. Two striking columns front the massive Georgian-style home, which is flanked on both sides by pristine balconies on both the upper and lower levels.
The surrounding homes are indeed nice, but in no way do they compare to the 100-year old, city-designated historical landmark.
Richard and Nora Moore, its current residents, purchased the home in 1989. Its original owner was Charles M. Richards, a San Jose philanthropist.
The more than 5,000-square-foot house sits on roughly one acre of land. Incredibly, it has only three bedrooms.
Richard Moore said when they bought the house it was in dire need of repairs. They gutted it and installed new electrical wiring, pipes and plumbing.
As befits a home of this stature, it receives a fresh coat of paint every two to three years.
Hicks Mansion, 1550 Hicks Ave.
BEST
Hangout for seniors
WILLOWS SENIOR CENTER
Willows Senior Center offers a host of programs that challenge the mind, body and spirit.
Seniors can learn Santa Clara County history, play chess or learn English as a second language. Lawn bowling, exercise and nutrition classes get people thinking and acting healthy. The center's book club, meditation classes and a theater troupe offer a variety of creative outlets.
Socializing is of the utmost importance, as evidenced by the ballroom dance held every Wednesday. Bingo, scrabble and movies are daily options, and even square dancing lessons are offered.
The center also has a store that sells handmade quilts, greeting cards, jewelry and trinkets.
Friendly conversations, sometimes between total strangers, are sparked throughout the day. Regulars may participate in a few programs, but many go just to hang out and schmooze.
Some will admit, however, they just go for the food, made fresh every day.
Willows Senior Center, 2175 Lincoln Ave., 408.448.6400.
BEST
Community event
DANCIN' ON THE AVENUE
The 11th annual Dancin' on the Avenue was held this past June in downtown Willow Glen. Once again, it was a resounding success.
The event raised more than $27,000, all of which goes to its main sponsor, the Willow Glen Business and Professional Association. The association puts all proceeds back into the downtown business district.
More than 25,000 people packed Lincoln Avenue to hear live music, eat, dance and have fun.
The event, which is a cross between a block party and a street fair, turns Willow Glen into a small tent city. Booths line Lincoln Avenue from Willow Street to Minnesota Avenue.
The event caters to the entire community. Adults come to enjoy a wide range of music, hot dogs, hamburgers and meals from neighborhood restaurants. There is also a "kids court," an area exclusively for children. Here children can dance, play games and enjoy a variety of snacks and treats.
The festivities are made possible by hundreds of volunteers, who devote countless hours. It's a community effort, recognized by thousands from all over the Bay Area who show up every year.
Willow Glen Business and Professional Association, 408.298.2100.
