Santana Row, West San Jose

This shopping center isn't like most you'll see. There is a combination of residential and commercial property within the same area. You can get a townhouse or flat in the center and live where you shop! A pretty cool concept, but being in the Silicon Valley, a pretty expensive one as well.

There are over 70 stores, almost two dozen restaurants, and a hotel in the center as well. If you like Indian food then don't miss "Amber India" which has some of the best Indian food you'll ever try. Have the 'rogan josh" (lamb curry) if you enjoy spicy Indian food.

And while the "Crate and Barrel" there is one of my favorite stores, it can't top the experience of "The Container Store" which is also located in Santana Row. If you love to organize or if you are in the process of 'nesting' your home, RUN to this store now.

Many of the stores are open until 9:00 with the restaurants open even later. There's also a six screen theater in the center with those nice comfy stadium seats.