What do you call a place where you can confidently raise a family and where growing older is an absolute pleasure? All of these benefits plus an annual stroll along Santa Cruz Avenue—without vehicles, while sampling a variety of tasty morsels, listening to live music and sipping divine local wines and beers? We call it home, Los Gatos.
This past Saturday afternoon, with part of North Santa Cruz Avenue closed, 47 locations were offered tastes during Taste of Los Gatos, put on by the Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce. There were 27 participating restaurants—and nearly as many wineries—with a beer truck pouring brews.
Los Gatos has an amazing array of restaurants, unique shops and bars. There was plenty of time to meander into and out of businesses without having to deal with vehicle traffic. It was delightful to wander over to the Old Town area for a taste at Teleféric Barcelona, try some Michi Catering and grab a cool ice cream at Salt & Straw. And for the dedicated wine sippers, a stroll all the way to Highway 9 offered some extraordinary wine tasting opportunities (not to mention the beer truck on the way back). Los Gatos really “put on the dog.” And with the live music, there was plenty of dancing.
The Chamber chambers
“Taste of Los Gatos is more than a festival—it is a showcase of the flavors of Los Gatos, both literally and figuratively,” said Jennifer Lin, CEO of the Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce. “It’s an opportunity for attendees to savor the best of Los Gatos on one beautiful afternoon.”
The event was free and open to all. However wristbands were sold in different categories. You could get a “Bites Only” wristband, or the more expensive “Bites and Libations” option. The Chamber is non-profit so isn’t this tax deductible? Early into the afternoon the crowds did seem a bit thin this year. High-heeled sneakers were the shoes to wear.
Golden Spoons recognition
Mayor Matthew Hudes presented the inaugural Golden Spoon awards in a short ceremony on the Main Stage. Between the live music, Hudes, Teri Hope and Lin offered this newly created recognition to recognize the restaurants and chefs demonstrating creativity, community spirit and innovation enriching Los Gatos’ vibrant dining scene.
The Chamber also noted that honorees got points for their engagement with the Chamber.
Their innovation has helped to elevate Los Gatos’ culinary reputation, per the organization.
The short ceremony honored The Pastaria & Market, who since 1995 has been serving up traditional Italian dishes, homemade pastas and sauces. The frosé machine, with its refreshing pink wine smoothie, at the entrance, entices one to investigate this trattoria.
The Tasting House was also awarded a first Golden Spoon. Please note, if you have not had high tea there, you do not know what you are missing. Dress up and plan on several hours of indulgence, enjoying elegant teas or some exotic bubbly. The gourmet dinners are an adventure.
And, if you need any help to pair wines with your dinner, a knowledgeable staff is there to assist. Do not be surprised if a Michelin representative pays a visit here soon.
Activities for everyone
A family fun zone featuring carnival games and crafts was a welcome inclusion.
Good to keep the kids engaged and away from their electronic devices, even if just for a short time.
Also the rock climbing wall, sponsored by El Camino Health, went 30 feet straight up, near Hanna Noodle Bar.
At Town Plaza Park, Good Samaritan Hospital offered a rest and relaxation area, where folks could sit down in the shade and cool off with fans and water.
Kids took part in family giveaways, played with bubbles or got their face painted nearby.
Note: our children’s fountain is still without water—since April!
The current word from our Town’s assistant town manager is it may be working by late September.
Netflix at the cinema
Netflix offered freshly popped popcorn at Cinelux Theater—the Art Deco-style picture show destination. This cozy venue is a great place to catch up on what is happening in Hollywood, and beyond.
Bands like Livewire, R50 Tribute, Chain of Fools, Identity Problem, Samuel D Marshall and Phil Arney & Rob set the musical backdrop. Attendees rocked on—or just sat for a spell and listened.
(Dinah Cotton / Los Gatan)
Saturday afternoon was a time when downtown came alive with music, drinks and munchies. Locals were able to check out those restaurants that they just hadn’t gotten to yet. Visitors were let in on some best-kept secrets.
(Dinah Cotton / Los Gatan)
The next time Santa Cruz Avenue will be closed will be for the Children’s/Christmas Holidays Parade, coming up in early December.
“Taste of Los Gatos 2025 was a resounding success—relaxed, elevated and family-friendly—earning high praise from attendees, businesses, partners, and volunteers,” Lin said. “Guests participating in the Tasting Experience overwhelmingly raved about the high quality and variety of tastes offered. Our new main stage headlined by Livewire, the inaugural Golden Spoon Recognition, Good Sam’s Rest & Relax Zone, an expanded Family Fun Zone, a Porsche Power showcase, and many other new (and free of charge) features elevated the day—cementing Taste of Los Gatos as the Bay Area’s premier food, wine, and community festival.”
