Kudos to our readers! We received a record-breaking number of ballots this year telling us residents' favorite places and people in the Willow Glen community. We want to thank you for a great response.

After a successful run last year with our first "Best of Willow Glen" issue, The Willow Glen Resident wanted to ask readers again what makes their neighborhood such a great place to live.

Our readers' enthusiastic response confirmed that Willow Glen is not just a charming, historic area of San Jose—it's a community whose residents deeply care about each other and are constantly involved in the area's growth and development.

Most of the winners in this year's issue are deserving merchants who work hard to maintain small businesses along Lincoln Avenue. They are members of the Willow Glen Business and Professional Association, which represents their interests of Lincoln Avenue businesses, particularly those located along the shopping district between Coe and Minnesota avenues.

Other winners are individuals who have made a mark on the community with their commitment and expertise—teachers, dentists, neighborhood activists and political leaders, such as well-known San Jose City Councilman Ken Yeager.

We want to congratulate them for earning our readers' votes.

Project Director: Sheila Sanchez

Project Designer: Karen Taylor

Online Production: Stephanie R. Woehrmann

Writers: Elaine Bartlett, I-chun Che, William Jeske,
Moryt Milo, Jana Seshadri

Photographers: Sean Penello, Jacqueline Ramseyer,
Grant Wernick

Photograph by Jacqueline Ramseyer Buen Gusto: Aqui's executive chef, Rob Francis, offers up a grilled tuna kalamata olive tostada. Next to it is tortilla lasagna with grilled chicken and a Caesar salad, topped with blue corn chips.

Quality food at reasonable prices is what Willow Glen residents care about, as evidenced by the winners of this year's dining categories.

A drive down Lincoln Avenue quickly reveals that all kinds of fare are available to please even the most demanding of palates.


Best Italian Food, Restaurant Ambience

Vin Santo

While the distinctive terra cotta­colored building that houses Willow Glen's favorite Italian restaurant may appear completely Old World, with its European-style patio, vaulted ceilings, and warm yellow walls that evoke images of chef Greg Russi's native Tuscany, Vin Santo stays true to its roots. After all, Russi and his wife, Susan, co-owners, have lived about a block away for more than 12 years. Photographs of historic Willow Glen on the walls of the lively bistro show the Russis' pride in their neighborhood—and it would appear that area residents are equally enamoured of Vin Santo.

Modern yet familiar Italian-style dishes paired with a sophisticated selection of wines have made Vin Santo one of the most popular dinner spots on Lincoln Avenue for more than a year. Six pasta dishes—ranging from a light pasta primavera, with grilled vegetables, goat cheese and olive oil, to orecchiette bolognese, an ear-shaped pasta with a rich ragout of veal, pork, and beef—exhibit the subtle, fresh flavors that are the hallmark of Tuscan cuisine. As secondi, roasted chicken with sweet and sour bell pepper relish and garlic mashed potatoes and a lightly breaded pork chop with lemon caper sauce, roasted potatoes and baby vegetables satisfy the craving for comfort food while indulging gourmet sensibilities. Classic desserts, such as tiramisu, with coffee or port add a sweet finishing touch.

For a romantic dinner for two, or an intimate gathering of friends and family, Vin Santo is the choice for Willow Glen residents with a taste for wine, upscale Italian fare, and a warm, elegant ambience.

Vin Santo, 1346 Lincoln Ave., 408.920.2508.


Best Pizza

Pizza My Heart

With about a half-dozen options for pizza on or around Lincoln Avenue, a pizzeria's got to do what it can to distinguish itself—and it's Pizza My Heart that's found its way into the heart of Willow Glen. The winning factor? Could be the seemingly endless number of choices. With the 12-inch, 14-inch or 18-inch New York­style crust or a thick-style "Sicilian," plus 19 pizzas to select from or the "build your own" option, no one can claim this pizzeria isn't out to please. Slices, sold individually in the $2.50 range, are as large as most personal-size pizzas.

Then again, the secret might be the surfer theme. Black and white photos of Santa Cruz, the enormous surfboard that spans an entire wall, and pizzas with names like "Maui Wowie" and "Classic Long-Boarder" bring to landlocked Willow Glen a taste of beach fun.

And for those who just can't brave Lincoln Avenue traffic, free delivery is available.

Pizza My Heart, 1396 Lincoln Ave., 408.279.4441.


Best Breakfast (tie)

John's Xlnt Food

Bill's Cafe

With two area restaurants specializing in hearty, home-style breakfasts for the whole family, voters had a hard time deciding which was their favorite—so Bill's Cafe and John's Xlnt Food were both winners.

Bill's Cafe, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, serves classic morning fare, including omelettes, Belgian waffles, pancakes and French toast, every day of the week. Weekday specials feature smaller breakfasts targeted at working folks without the time to linger over a cup of coffee. Weekends bring a different crowd—families and friends gathering for a leisurely conversation in the roomy booths, at the table for six under the expansive front window, or at the outside tables on the attractively landscaped patio. A familial atmosphere prevails at Bill's, with customers and waitresses greeting each other by name, making it clear why Bill's is considered a Willow Glen institution.

John's Xlnt Food, a relative newcomer compared to Bill's, brings an international flavor to its omelette selection—the Chef's Special, with its feta cheese, diced ham, chopped onions and bell peppers, is a nod to the Greek heritage of owner John Kouretas, while the Mexican omelette, with spicy sausage, fresh tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños, is sure to wake up all but the most jaded of palates. The Gilroy omelette does its name justice with a healthy dose of garlic, and displaced Southerners can find familiar fare on the menu as well—chicken-fried steak and eggs as well as biscuits and gravy. And for those who don't feel that Sunday brunch is complete without a mimosa, John's is the place to go.

Bill's Cafe, 1115 Willow St., 408.294.1125.

John's Xlnt Food, 1283 Lincoln Ave., 408.998.1440.

Photograph by Sean Penello The Crew: The staff of the Taiwan Restaurant, a favorite in Willow Glen for 20 years, includes (from left) waitress Cathy Lian, hostess Elaine Low, waitress Cindy Liu, Chef Viengthong Lee and owner Jimmy Niu.

Taiwan Restaurant

Taiwan Restaurant has been a favorite in Willow Glen for 20 years, offering a seemingly endless menu that leans toward the spicy, pungent Hunan and Szechuan cuisines with which Americans are most familiar. Taiwanese specialties are available as well. The traditional Kung Pao chicken, Hunan beef and won ton soup can all be found here, along with dishes more exotic to the Western palate, such as tea-smoked duck and winter melon soup. The extensive wine list might have been developed by a Napa insider, with a Charles Krug zinfandel among the many selections offered by the bottle or the glass. The Sunday champagne brunch is amazingly priced at under $8.

Take-out is available, though the restaurant, with its lacquer chairs, red tablecloths, and stunning flower arrangements is almost too good-looking to pass up in favor of home.

Taiwan Restaurant, 1306 Lincoln Ave., 408.289.8800.


Best Mexican Food, Bar/Cocktails, Sidewalk/Patio Dining, Restaurant for Kids

Aqui

It's officially a sweep, with Aqui as the favorite in no fewer than four categories. But where else can you go to get an expertly mixed margarita and a generous serving of healthy Cal-Mex cuisine with a gourmet twist—all just minutes from home? A place where you can come with your friends or your children and feel equally at home?

With all entrees under $8 and kids' plates averaging $2, Aqui is an economical yet tasty choice for the family. Innovative takes on Mexican dishes include the Thai soft taco, with chicken, ginger slaw, spicy peanut sauce and rice wrapped in a white corn tortilla, and the salmon "knife and fork" burrito, drizzled in a chili verde sauce that adds a tangy touch to the grilled salmon, spinach, onions, rice and sour cream.

Over at the Saddle Bar, more than 40 "sipping tequilas" await, as well as a variety of blended beverages well-suited to quench a serious thirst—sangria, the hurricane, and the Aqui Margarita (a virtual legend in Willow Glen for its medicinal qualities). Martinis, wines and a good selection of beers are also available.

An attractively decorated and spacious interior, with the occasional ponyskin-covered seat or bench thrown in for a cowboy-esque theme, makes for comfortable, casual dining, although most diners seem to prefer the walled-in patio. A small fountain near the center is a favorite with toddlers, and tables are comfortably spaced for privacy. Heat lamps take the edge off a chilly night, and the bus staff is vigilant about keeping the patio clean.

It's a rare restaurant that's both kid friendly and has a great bar, delivers on an excellent menu at a bargain, and offers equally attractive patio and indoor seating—fortunately for Willow Glen, Aqui's all that and more.

Aqui, 1145 Lincoln Ave., 408.995.0381.


Best Coffee

Peet's Coffee and Tea

According to data compiled by the Peet's Coffee and Tea research team, more than 60 percent of Americans are drinking stale coffee—and they don't even realize it. Luckily Peet's is on a "freshness mission," with an ongoing "Freshness Education Campaign" and annual "Coffee Freshness Week" activities. At the Willow Glen Peet's, beans are kept no longer than 10 days after roasting.

And what of flavor? Peet's representatives trawl the premier coffee-growing regions of the world, offering more than 30 varieties for their discriminating customers. Among the choices: the popular Major Dickason's Blend, a complex, silky-smooth blend of Peet's top beans.

While the morning line at the Willow Glen Peet's is almost always a dozen strong, the curiously serene staff keep the java coming at such a brisk pace, pre-caffeine temper tantrums are rare. And the staff members do love their faithful customers—every week the management features a photo of a customer who especially embodies the "Peet's spirit."

Peet's Coffee and Tea, 1140 Lincoln Ave., 408.975.9281.


Best Delicatessen, Sandwich

La Villa Delicatessen

While La Villa Deli may be most famous for its ravioli, but its sandwiches have won favor with Willow Glen residents as well. Behind the counter of this classic East Coast­style deli are ingredients for more than a dozen sandwiches—American favorites such as turkey, tuna fish, roast beef, and the indomitable meatball sandwich, as well as fixings for a more Italian flavor: mortadella—a cured meat from Bologna, hot or mild coppa—a salami that's also a favorite on the antipasto plate, and prosciutto—a dry-cured spiced ham. With a wide selection of cheeses, plus the optional fresh lettuce, tomato, onions, mustard, mayo and pickled peppers stuffed into a chewy fresh baguette, partaking in this deli fix is a bargain at approximately $5. Customers can get their sandwiches to go or take advantage of La Villa's great people-watching spot: the covered tables out on the patio beneath the distinctive mural that's been a Willow Glen landmark for decades.

Dave and Patty Bertucelli bought the store 14 years ago.

La Villa Delicatessen, 1319 Lincoln Ave., 408.295.7851.

Photograph by Jacqueline Ramseyer Great Grad: Willow Glen dentist Matthew Bernal graduated from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in 1991, and is one of fewer than 250 accredited members of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

San Jose District 6 City Councilman Ken Yeager

"It's simply not enough to just say you're for or against something," says San Jose District 6 Councilman Ken Yeager. To become an activist, he says, "you really need to get involved."

Yeager got so involved in neighborhood activism that he was elected to the San Jose City Council in 2000. Does becoming a politician make one a better activist?

"As a council member what you bring to the table is the power to direct city staff in a way that other community activists can't," he says.

Yeager says he is an activist "for improving the quality of life" in District 6. To become one of the best activists, he advises: "Attend neighborhood meetings, get involved with the neighborhood associations, know the issues. The more informed and articulate you are, the more willing people are to pay attention to you."

San Jose District 6 City Councilman Ken Yeager, City Hall, Room 600, 801 N. First St., San Jose, 95110; 408.277.5166; ken.yeager@ci.sj.ca.us.

Photograph by Sean Penello The Postwoman: Debbie Madsen's responsible delivery of the U.S. mail has won her the praises of Willow Glen residents.

Debbie Madsen

Willow Glen postal route 2523 has had its pavement pounded for the past 18 years by the same postal carrier. Neither rain nor sleet nor gloom has kept Debbie Madsen from completing her assigned rounds. Her route takes her to 350 houses a day, as well as some businesses.

Madsen knew Willow Glen well before becoming a letter carrier.

"My family moved to Willow Glen in 1941, so we have roots here." Madsen says. "In fact, one of the businesses I deliver to—when I was a toddler I was pushed in a stroller to this place. It used to be a grocery store on Lincoln and Byerley avenues."

Willow Glen's best letter carrier is preparing for what she calls the job's most challenging time.

"The toughest time is election year," Madsen says. "Because everyone gets house-to-house political mail." She says she has no plans to deliver mail elsewhere.

"I love Willow Glen. It's a nice place to deliver mail."

Best Waitress

Cinde Davis

After 25 years as a waitress, Cinde Davis knows her stuff. And after nine years at Siena, A Mediterranean Bistro, and its previous incarnation, Café Primavera, Davis knows this restaurant inside out. Add to that a first-rate work ethic and a winning personality and you've got a waitress who's made a lasting impression on the neighborhood. Not only do regulars specifically request to be seated in her section, they voted her their favorite waitress in all of Willow Glen.

But that comes as little surprise to Christine Kelly, manager of Siena. "She's professional, outgoing, friendly," says Kelly. "And she really knows her job."

Whether she's introducing customers to Siena's innovative Italian- and Mediterranean-influenced cuisine, or ensuring that regulars have the kind of excellent dining experience they've come to expect, Willow Glen residents clearly consider Davis to be one of a kind.

Cinde Davis of Siena, A Mediterranean Bistro, 1359 Lincoln Ave., 408.271.0837.


Best Dentist

Matthew Bernal

When Willow Glen residents are finished enjoying the "best pizza" from Pizza My Heart or the "best Mexican food" from Aqui or the "best sandwich" from La Villa Deli, they're going to want to keep their teeth in good shape for more. So they'll probably go to the man they've voted Willow Glen's best dentist: Dr. Matthew Bernal.

Bernal, who graduated from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry in 1991, is one of fewer than 250 accredited members of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

Matthew J. Bernal, 1680 Westwood Drive, Ste. B, 408.269.4484.


Best Real Estate Agent

Phil Costanza

Willow Glen homes are some of the most sought-after in Silicon Valley, and Realtor Phil Costanza knows this all too well.

"Personally, I love the varied aspects of real estate—the personal and emotional aspects. You're dealing with people buying their first home, people leaving homes they grew up in, and sometimes people are going through a divorce," Costanza says.

Costanza has also paid very close attention to trends in housing design in Willow Glen.

On so-called "monster houses," he says, "Certainly there are houses that have overreached their neighborhoods. It can be expected for people to want to expand their houses, but it's important that the design be in good taste within the designs of the neighborhood."

Phil Costanza, Re-Max of Santa Clara County, 1530 Parkmoor Ave., San Jose, 95128, 408.286.6799.

Photograph by Jaqueline Ramseyer Family Affair: Nancy Biagini (bottom left,) and her daughters Katie Goforth (top) and Meg Picanco (right) opened Willow Glen's Casa Casa 10 years ago.

A variety of businesses were nominated this year in these categories, but the winners were voted the best by readers because they have proven they can consistently deliver quality goods and services.


Best Home Furnishings, Eclectic Shop

Casa Casa

From the outside looking in, Casa Casa appears to be an upscale retail establishment catering to Willow Glen's epicurian residents. Upon entering, that lofty impression changes to a sense of familiarity and invitation.

Owners Nancy Biagini and her daughters Meg Yeargain and Katie Goforth constantly succeed in keeping their ever-changing inventory at a comfortable balance between rustic and refined.

The array of merchandise ranges from scented candles to exotic cookbooks; from large mirrors to hardwood cabinets and drawers; from patterned carpets to hand-painted kitchenware.

Casa Casa stocks a wide range of home furnishings, such as blankets and pillows, chairs and reading desks—just about everything Willow Glen residents would need to transform their high-tech urban houses into more basic, organic domiciles.

Casa Casa, 1355 Lincoln Ave., 408.298.2272.

Photograph by Sean Penello Recycled Clothing: Our Secret's owner Julie Painshaw offers designer merchandise at discount prices.

Our Secret

Residents of Willow Glen have voted Our Secret the best women's clothing store because they can get quality, designer merchandise at discount prices.

"A $3,000 Escada suit is priced at $395," says Julie Painshaw, who has owned the store for the past 10 years.

However, the trade secret is that Painshaw is selective about her merchandise. Although it is a consignment store, the quality of the "gently used" clothing and accessories is high-end, she says. Carrying clothing made by world-renowned designers—including St. John, Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Escada—Painshaw makes sure her customers get the quality that they are looking for even if they do pay discount prices.

"We turn away more than we accept," Painshaw says. "But we still put out at least 100 pieces of clothing every day."

The comfortable setting and unique presentation attracts customers and awards, Painshaw says.

"We've received best consignment store awards for our presentation," she says. "Even from the Resale Association of America."

Our Secret, 1357 Lincoln Ave., 408.289.9290.


Best Hair Salon

Antoni Paéz Hair Gallery

Antoni Paéz says he offers his customers more than just a basic haircut. His personalized service and attention to detail have caused residents of Willow Glen to rate his establishment as the best hair salon in the area.

"I want quality," Paéz says. "I make sure my stylists offer specialized care."

In order to maintain his unique level of customer service, Paéz has developed an in-house education program, during which time his eight stylists bring themselves up-to-date with the market and learn current hair care trends.

To enhance his service, Paéz carries name-brand products, including Massato from Paris, Bumble and Bumble from New York and Philip B from Beverly Hills.

His salon's website, located at www.antonipaez.com, provides information about the salon and its services, as well as an innovative form that allows customers to confirm and cancel appointments online.

Antoni Paéz Hair Gallery, www.antoni paez.com, 1163 Lincoln Ave., 408.977.0472.


Best Bank

Washington Mutual

Washington Mutual is not merely a bank where customers can do personal banking, make investments and apply for mortgages.

It has been actively involved with the community, sponsoring a score of events, such as Founders' Day and the annual Christmas tree lighting at Willow Glen Elementary School. The bank also works closely with Booksin Elementary School, having established a student savings program in which students can receive a prize as long as they deposit money in the bank throughout the year.

The bank has been in Willow Glen for four years.

"This is a very personal office," says Marian Abrahams, assistant financial center manager, adding that staff treat customers "like family."

Washington Mutual, 1402 Lincoln Ave., 408.998.5444.


Best Dry Cleaner

Elite Cleaning and Drapery Center

Once again, Elite Cleaning and Drapery Center was elected the best cleaner in Willow Glen. Owners Christopher and Joan Yi attribute their popularity to their quality service and good location at the corner of Lincoln Avenue and Willow Street.

Christopher's family has been in the dry cleaning business for more than 20 years. The couple bought the cleaner 10 years ago on their daughter's birthday. Every day, Christopher gets up around 3 a.m. to work on every piece of clothing himself so customers can pick up their clothes early in the afternoon.

Joan says that another attraction of their shop is Santina Caruso, who has been responsible for alterations for 11 years. Customers often drop by to say hi and bring small gifts to the 62-year-old woman.

Elite Cleaning and Drapery Center, 1102 Willow St., 408.292.4929.


Best Women's Clothing

Details

For Details' owner Robyn Levine, going to work is a social activity.

In her spacious shop, regulars can take their time trying on clothes and chatting with other shoppers. Although about 75 percent of the shop's merchandise is for women, men's shirts are also available. Brands such as Tommy Bahama and others are available in shirts, dresses and more.

Part of the shop's success comes with the help of Levine's husband, Bernie, who used to own a paint store. When Robyn opened Details, he shared his expertise on running a small business, gave her some suggestions, and even looks after the shop on occasion.

The couple has lived in Willow Glen for more than 22 years. They say they love Willow Glen for its charm and have been active in keeping the downtown area vital.

"I always feel living and working here is a double bonus for me," Levine says. "I just hope other merchants can keep Willow Glen a beautiful and happy community."

Details, 1322 Lincoln Ave., 408.286.5555.


Best Florist

Posey Garden Florist

In just one year, Kay Wolf has made Posey Garden Florist the best florist in the neighborhood, according to Willow Glen residents.

With fresh, high-quality merchandise from daily suppliers, one of the qualities that sets Posey Garden Florist apart is the unusual flowers it carries, which include delphiniums, Ecuadorian roses, Casablanca lilies and Teddy Bear sunflowers. And by paying close attention to her arrangements, Wolf says, she ensures her bouquets are unique and artistic.

Besides offering a 100 percent guarantee for all her flowers, Wolf has implemented a few more innovative ideas for better customer service. Her "frequent flower card" offers discounts to regular customers, and a website—www.posey garden.com, currently under construction—will soon display digital pictures of bouquets that customers have ordered over the phone. A reminder service emails registered customers of important dates so they can be sure to send flowers in time for that special someone on a birthday or anniversary.

She charges $35 minimum for an arrangement and can deliver her flowers all over the Bay Area for an $8 fee. However, she offers a 50 percent discount for delivery within the Willow Glen area.

Posey Garden Florist, 1213 Lincoln Ave., 408.286.8106.

Photograph by Jacqueline Ramseyer Best Playground: San Jose's first playground designed for children both with and without disabilities opened May 18 at Willow Glen's Lincoln Park. (From left) Stacey Santa Maria, 15 months; Hannah Noelle Smith, 2; and Hannah Barness, 3; play on the park's seesaw.

Hicklebee's

Hicklebee's is more than just a retail store specializing in books and toys for children. It frequently hosts readings and book signings. Authors occasionally bring artifacts and knickknacks associated with their work, which storeowner Valerie Lewis displays in a corner near the entrance.

The artifacts collection has grown into a small museum, which includes one author's letter of acceptance from a publisher, the original draft sketches to Clifford the Big Red Dog, another letter, typed using an old typewriter, asking an author to make modifications to a manuscript, and props and models for illustrators' drawings.

Hicklebee's has brought in some big-name children's authors, such as Lemony Snicket, of the Series of Unfortunate Events chronicles; Alice Walker, who signed her copy of Langston Hughes: American Poet, and the new heavy hitter in the young readers market, J.K. Rowling, who wrote some book about a kid wizard.

Photograph by Jacqueline Ramseyer Hangout: Gus, an affectionate 8-year-old golden retriever gives a smooch to Gloria Letterman while Elsa Lee looks on. Gus was visiting the popular Willows Senior Center last November as an ambassador for the Senior Pets for Senior People program sponsored by the Humane Society. Its many special programs and classes earned the Willows Senior Center the votes as the best hangout for seniors.

Many Willow Glen residents live in historic homes that they have carefully renovated to preserve the architectural charm of the community. Willow Glen also has one of the best senior centers in the Bay Area—a place where those in their golden years can continue to learn and feel connected to the community. Residents' interest in learning about the city's new blight ordinance this past summer reveals that Willow Glen is a community that cares about aesthetics. Willow Glen residents know that a community that looks good will be an attraction to all.


Best Hangout for Seniors

Willows Senior Center

From gardening to computer classes, seniors can sign up to do anything that interests them at the Willows Senior Center.

Center gerontology specialist Anthony Bryan says that several hundred seniors pass through the center's door on a daily basis to enjoy its diversity of classes.

The center, open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.­4 p.m., has been part of the Willow Glen community for 15 years. At any given time in the center a senior may be enjoying some exercise, sewing or taking a history or nutrition class. The center has an eclectic mix of choices that appeal to adults from their late 40s to 90s, Bryan says.

The center also offers field trips to places like Reno, Monterey and Carmel and often hosts special speakers and events, such as San Jose Mayor Ron Gonzales' November 2000 reelection kickoff campaign.

The center also has daily hot lunches and a nutrition manager.

Willows Senior Center, 2175 Lincoln Ave., 408.448.6400.


Best Park

Willow Street Frank Bramhall Park

If there is anything wrong with Willow Street Frank Bramhall Park, it's that it's too popular.

People from all over San Jose go to the park to play tennis, baseball and volleyball. The park is also home to countless Little League matches and the San Jose Lawn Bowls Club. Its two playgrounds, equipped with tunnel slides and swings, attract families. People who just want to enjoy a lazy afternoon can lie on the spacious lawns. The park has something for everyone.

This year the park lost its title of the "best place to walk the dog" to Lincoln Avenue. Part of the reason may be that the San Jose Police Department started to write citations to anyone who breaks park rules, which include letting dogs off leash. Nearby residents have also expressed concern about illegal drinking at the park and an increase in the number of homeless people. San Jose's Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services is working with residents to keep the biggest park in Willow Glen the community's best park.

Willow Street Frank Bramhall Park, at the corner of Willow Street and Camino Ramon, near Meridian and Minnesota avenues.


Best Architectural Beauty

Maynard Mansion

IThe elegant architectural beauty of the Maynard Mansion makes it one of the most majestic properties in Willow Glen.

As one of the largest homes in San Jose, this Queen Anne­style residence is hard to miss, catching the eye of Willow Glen residents walking or driving along Minnesota Avenue. The beautifully preserved mansion is best known for its ongoing estate sales and furniture ads. But visitors walking through its front doors are immediately taken back in time by its ornate décor. The house is steeped in splendor, and stories—its basement once allegedly housed a speakeasy. Whether just entering the home out of curiosity or to purchase one of its many antiques, visitors are treated to a yesteryear experience.

Maynard Mansion, 1151 Minnesota Ave., 408.275.9557.

Photograph by Grant Wernick Simple Pleasure: Senior librarian Maurice Stevenson reads at the Willow Glen branch of the San Jose Public Library on Minnesota Avenue.

Willow Glen Library

The quaint, understated 1949 red brick building that sits on Minnesota Avenue feels like home to many local library patrons. Senior librarian Maurice Stevenson says people describe it as homey and having a lot of character. The building endears itself to the community with its charm and reminders of a long-gone past.

The library's programs and services are also inviting. There is a great deal of interest in the Friday morning preschool program and programs for older children and adults, Stevenson says. The seven computers linked to the Internet—which are in constant demand—provide a modern convenience that is in sharp contrast with the building's old-fashioned look.

The library, considered an integral part of the community, was chosen as the site of two Founders' Day lectures on the history of Willow Glen.

Like snuggling up in a big, overstuffed chair, patrons using the library feel a sense of comfort while reading a book or magazine.

Willow Glen Library, 1157 Minnesota Ave., 408.998.2053.


Best Place to Walk the Dog, Shopping Center

Lincoln Avenue

One of the things that separates downtown Willow Glen from many other neighborhoods' business districts is that Lincoln Avenue merchants are as friendly to pooches as they are to people.

Customers with canine friends are a common sight at Lincoln Avenue restaurants with outdoor seating.

The Pizza My Heart restaurant, 1396 Lincoln Ave., has even gone so far as to install three leash hooks to one side of its patio, each at a different height to suit various sizes of dogs.

"We're a very dog-friendly place," says day manager Cynthia Salinas. "People use those hooks all the time."

At the front entrance to Little Things for Children, 1337 Lincoln Ave., a children's clothier and hair salon, a full water dish sits near a water hose with a sign that reads "Water for your Pooch."

Hairstylist Kerri Garcia says, "People let their dogs drink out of that all the time."

The Willow Glen Yogurt Company, 1098 Lincoln Ave., provides a water dish and a bowl of the locally made Henry & Sons vegetarian dog biscuits on the store's patio.

"I love dogs," says assistant manager Erin Carter. "I began working here and noticed that a lot of people brought their dogs, so I figured it would be nice to put something out for them. It's amazing how such a simple gesture can mean a lot to people."

Not only is Lincoln Avenue a favorite with Willow Glen dogs, it's the top shopping destination for residents as well. It hasn't always been the upscale retail mecca it is today, however. The avenue that Willow Glen residents refused to give up on has undergone a major revitalization in the past 10 years.

In 1992, mostly consignment stores and thrift shops populated Lincoln between Coe and Minnesota. There was such a glut that San Jose decreed it illegal to open any more. Bold and enterprising entrepreneurs took a chance on Lincoln Avenue and turned a dilapidated street into a charming, bustling business district with a variety of restaurants and shops for those on a budget—or not. Today 20 Realtors, eight nonprofit organizations and 14 attorneys have offices on Lincoln Avenue. And everybody can look good walking down the avenue when there are about 16 hair salons from which to choose from.


Best Landscaped Street

Cherry Avenue

It's every homeowner's dream—living on a tree-lined street. For the lucky residents living on Cherry Avenue, it's a dream come true, and residents show their pride in their neighborhood with well-manicured lawns and gardens.

The street's name is a reminder of the cherry orchards that used to fill the area and the trees that in the spring had so many white blossoms they resembled snow. It's not surprising that many residents are inspired to plant flowers and vegetation that honor the area's heritage and echo the beauty of the valley in its agricultural days.

In certain locations where Cherry Avenue intersects with Avalon Drive, some of the oldest and tallest gingkoes in the valley line the street.

With its beautiful lawns and gardens and the array of sycamores, sweet gums and ancient ginkgoes along its sidewalks, Cherry Avenue is where many locals would love to live.