Best Santa Clara Restaurants for Summer 2025: Tacos, Rooftops, Fire-Grilled Flavor, and more

By Ben Landis, Marketing Manager

Summer’s in full swing—cue the golden hour selfies, patio hangs, and “just one more” round of margaritas (because hey, you earned it). In Santa Clara, the sunshine doesn’t just bring the heat—it brings the flavor. From bold tacos and coastal Italian seafood to fire-grilled steaks and rooftop patios, Santa Clara summer restaurants are delivering the kind of energy that tastes like vacation.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend escape, hitting a summer work conference, or just vibing with friends after hours, these dining spots bring serious seasonal flair. And if you’re a local? Consider this your sign to finally try that place you’ve been eyeing—or fall back in love with an old favorite. Either way, grab your sunnies. It’s time to sip, savor, and soak it all in.

Top Santa Clara Summer Restaurants You Have to Try

1. JOEY Valley Fair: Modern, Chic, and Always Happening

Get ready, Santa Clara JOEY Valley Fair is the city’s newest go-to for global flavors with a fashionable edge. This two-story hotspot at Westfield Valley Fair blends sleek design with laid-back luxury. Think central staircase, moody lighting, and a patio that begs for a sunset toast.

JOEY’s menu brings the world to your plate with bold, globally-inspired American eats that just get it. Think Seared Salmon Sushi that melts in your mouth, the savory and creamy Ravioli Bianco, and the ultimate comfort-meets-couture dish: Truffle Udon Carbonara. Pair it all with one of their handcrafted cocktails—hello, Spicy Passionfruit Margarita and you’ve got yourself a night.

Whether you’re dressing up for a summer date night, vibing through happy hour, or just treating yourself because it’s Tuesday (we support it), JOEY Valley Fair brings the flavor, the flair, and the fun.

Location: 2855 Stevens Creek Blvd Suite 1840, Santa Clara, CA 95050

Best Santa Clara Restaurants for Summer 2025: Tacos, Rooftops, Fire-Grilled Flavor, and more

Courtesy of JOEY Valley Fair

2. Puesto Santa Clara: Tacos, Tequila & Colorful Vibes

Walk into Puesto and you’re immediately hit with the vibe: wrap-around patio, vibrant decor, and a tequila list that means business. Located at Santa Clara Square, Puesto brings street-chic energy to modern Mexican dining.

Let’s taco ’bout the food: legendary Filet Mignon Tacos, Tamarindo Shrimp with sweet heat, and Guacamole Nogada topped with pomegranate and candied walnuts. And yes, the Puesto Perfect Margarita lives up to its name. This is your go-to for group hangs, stadium pre-games, or spontaneous taco cravings.

Location: 2752 Augustine Dr #110, Santa Clara, CA 95054

3. Terra at Eataly Silicon Valley: Rooftop Dining with Fire-Kissed Italian Flavors

Up on the third floor of Eataly at Westfield Valley Fair, Terra is bringing rustic Italian elegance to new heights—literally. The open-air rooftop, olive trees, and centerpiece wood-fired grill make it one of the best Santa Clara summer restaurants for ambiance alone.

Signature dishes like Grilled Yellow Tail Tuna and Snake River Farms Wagyu are flame-kissed and flavor-packed. Pasta your thing? Try the Cavatelli al Ragù di Terra or the Pappardelle Cacio e Pepe e Funghi. Sharing with friends? Order the Fornello Pugliese or Grigliata di Pesce—both are family-style feasts built to impress.

Location: 2855 Stevens Creek Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95050

Courtesy of Clara’s Junction. Photo Credit: Benedicte Castillo

4. Clara’s Junction: The Ultimate Indoor-Outdoor Hangout

Near Levi’s Stadium, Clara’s Junction is your laid-back summer dream. It’s a massive indoor-outdoor venue with lawn games, picnic tables, live music, and a full bar. The food? New American faves, rotating specials, BBQ and taco days, and all the casual charm of a backyard party.

Whether it’s a big group outing or just catching up with coworkers over drinks, this place encourages lingering, laughing, and living your best summer life.

Location: 2221 Tasman Dr, Santa Clara, CA 95054

Tips for Making the Most of Summer Dining in Santa Clara

Explore nearby attractions. Plan your meal around a local event, Levi’s Stadium concert, or shopping trip to make the most of your visit.

Book it, baby. These hotspots get packed, especially on weekends. Secure that “ressy” so you’re not stuck hangry and scrolling OpenTable in the parking lot.

Don’t sleep on the specials. Summer’s the time chefs get playful—ask about limited-edition dishes or cocktails that are only around while the sun’s out. Your taste buds will thank you.

Stalk their socials (in a cute way). Instagram is your BFF for catching surprise happy hours, patio parties, and drool-worthy menu drops.

Your Santa Clara Summer Culinary Adventure Awaits

From rooftop views to tacos worth a standing ovation, Santa Clara summer restaurants are bringing the heat—and the flavor. These aren’t just meals, they’re mini-vacations. Whether you’re out with coworkers, besties, or someone special, it’s the season to linger longer, order another round, and let the city’s culinary scene surprise you. So bring your appetite and let the feast begin—summer never tasted so good.