BEST OF MOUNTAIN VIEW 2003 BEST OF MOUNTAIN VIEW 2003 (March 28, 2003)

The votes are in!

By Samay Gheewala

From Margaritas to movie theaters and florists to fast food, our readers know just what they like and where to get it. Of course, Mountain View's many choices led to multiple winners in some categories, showing that there's plenty to like in town.

But the votes have been counted, and the winners are...

EPICUREAN DELIGHTS

Bagel

Posh Bagel

Mountain View residents prefer their bagels with a touch of class, as Posh Bagel rolled to the top of the heap in this year's poll. Whether you prefer your bagel plain, with a schmear or loaded with toppings, Posh Bagel has a tasty treat to help you through the day. 444 Castro St. Mon-Fri 6:30 am-7:30 p.m., Sat 7:30 am-5 p.m., Sun 8 am-3 p.m.

Barbecue

Austin's

Austin's says its barbecue is as Texan as a hill country longhorn. Owner Richard Clark regularly travels to Austin to keep up on his smoking technique, ensuring that Austin's holds its hat high as the best barbecue in these here parts. Try the baby back ribs for a mouthwatering and belly-filling feast. 1616 W. El Camino Real, Mountain View Mon.- Thu. 11 am-10 p.m.; Fri. 11:30 am- 11 p.m.; Sat. noon-11 p.m.; Sun. noon-9:30 p.m., 969-9191

Best bang for your buck/ taqueria

Taqueria Los Charros

If you're feeling hungry but a little short on cash (that's most of us these days), head down to Dana Street and chow down at Los Charros, where the portions are generous and prices stingy. Voters liked the super tacos and burritos, but those who want to splurge go for the fajitas, which still aren't too expensive. The selection of nine different kinds of meat, as well as seafood selection, can make a low-key lunch into a banquet. 854 W. Dana St. Mon-Sat 6:30 am-10 p.m., Sun 8 am-10 p.m.

Breakfast/brunch

Hobee's

With its local spin on breakfast classics, perennial winner Hobee's has everything the early diner is looking for. The restaurant celebrates its Silicon Valley origins with delicate omelets, named for local places (the Mountain View Special, Stanford, Campbell, Santa Cruz, and San Jose are favorites). And the desserts, like the famous blueberry coffeecake, are not to be missed while you're there. 2312 Central Expressway., Mon.-Fri., 6:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.. Sat. & Sun., 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 968-6050

Burger

Clarke's Charcoal Broiler

For the 11 years Best of Mountain View has been counting, Clarke's has been voted the best burger in town. The Clarkes burger -- a juicy one-third of a pound of beef grilled over real charcoal -- provides the perfect solution for any burger craving. With custom burger options ranging from the commonplace (six different cheeses) to the unique (pineapple and guacamole, among others), Clarke's diners can choose combinations of 17 toppings every time they visit. There are also chicken sandwiches and turkey and garden burgers for the beef-averse. 615 El Camino Real, Mon.-Thurs., Sat.-Sun., 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri., 11 a.m.-10 p.m., 967-0851

Burrito

La Costena

After Sunset Magazine named La Costena's burrito the "Best in the West" in 2000, it's no surprise that the unassuming burritoria takes first place in our poll. La Costena's loyal customers know that the custom-made burritos, with their plethora of ordering options, are sure to please, and fulfill with generous sizes and a diverse selection of fresh ingredients. Even the "chico," the smallest option, is enough to satisfy a voracious appetite. 2078 Old Middlefield Way, Mon.-Sat., 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sun., 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., 967-4969

California cuisine

Global Village

The definition of California Cuisine is as wide and varied as the state itself. At Global Village it manifests itself as a fusion of Mediterranean, Pacific Rim and American cuisines. Even the design of the restaurant belies this idea, with starkly different styles blending together. If you can't decide on just one of all the different food types on Castro Street, Global Village offers just about all of them. 209 Castro St. Open for dinner daily. 965-4821

Chinese restaurant

Kirin

We aren't sure whether Kirin, the dragon of ancient Chinese myth, was a big fan of seafood. But if he was, he wouldn't be disappointed in his namesake restaurant. Hong Kong-style seafood is Castro Street mainstay Kirin's specialty, and the tanks of live shrimp, fish and lobsters up front testify to Kirin's commitment to quality. Serving a good assortment of non-seafood items as well, Kirin pleased voters looking for excellent Chinese food in a friendly, casual atmosphere. 485 Castro St. 11 a.m. - midnight daily. 965-1059

Coffee house

Red Rock Coffee Company

Pushing the big chains out of the way, Red Rock has used its local roots to adapt and attract all types to a small, friendly coffeehouse that the most diehard beatnik would feel comfortable and at ease in. In addition to offering fresh-roasted coffee, espresso drinks and tea, Red Rock also has begun selling the popular Pearl Teas (see our Wild Card category). With live music on weeknights, voters cited many reasons to like this cafe. 201 Castro St., Mon.-Fri., 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sat.-Sun., 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Fast food restaurant

In-N-Out Burger

With its short, functional menu (only three burgers, fries, drinks and shakes listed) and quick turnaround time, In-N-Out is the embodiment of fast food. The high quality of the food (the company brags about its use of whole potatoes to make fries on-site) and the popularity of the "hidden menu" (animal style, protein style, wish burger, etc.) attract hungry souls in droves at meal times. Whatever the length of the line, the burgers are well worth it. 1159 North Rengstorff Ave. (at Highway 101) and 53 West El Camino Real, Sun.-Thurs., 10:30 a.m.-1 a.m., Fri.-Sat., 10:30 a.m.-1:3- a.m. (800) 786-1000

Fine dining

Chez TJ

Still the top place to go for elegant dining after more than 20 years, voters say Chez TJ just gets better and better every year. The converted Victorian house provides the perfect setting for five-course prix fixe dinners, all served with more than a touch of class. One trip to Chez TJ, and you'll see what had the Zagat guide calling it a "magical dining experience." 938 Villa St., Tues.-Thurs., 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m., Fri.-Sat., seating at 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m., 964-7466.

Ice cream/frozen dessert

Gelato Classico

On a warm summer night, the best way to enjoy the ambiance is to take in a scoop or two of gelato, the creamy Italian ice cream that comes in a vast assortment of flavors. Gelato Classico, which features gourmet and authentic flavors such as Nocciola, Spumoni, and Coppa Mista, along with American favorites like Chocolate, Vanilla, and Strawberry, is a great place to stop after a meal downtown. Enjoy watching people on Castro St. wandering by, wondering what flavor it is that you're enjoying so much. 241 Castro St., Mon.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Fri.-Sun., 11 a.m.- midnight, 969-2900

Indian restaurant

Amber India

Featuring the best in Northern Indian cuisine, Amber prides itself on rich curries, from the staple butter chicken and spicy chicken vindaloo to the delicate flavor of Pasanda Avadh. "We pride ourselves in innovative Indian dishes which are not common at other Indian restaurants," said manager Arif Mir. Amber's modest exterior gives way to a delightful display of finery inside, although the food certainly takes center stage. Popular with Mountain View's sizable Indian community, Amber is fast becoming a favorite among non-Indians as well. 2290 West El Camino Real, open daily 11:30 a.m. -1:30 p.m. for lunch and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. for dinner, 968-7511

Italian restaurant

Frankie, Johnnie, & Luigi Too!

Despite the recent flood of Italian restaurants into downtown, il migliore remains Frankie, Johnnie, & Luigi Too!, which has been at its El Camino Real location since the 1950s. The warm, familial atmosphere and classic Italian fare, including much-lauded pizzas, propels patrons of Frankie, Johnnie, & Luigi Too! their own version of Dante's Paradiso 939 West El Camino Real, Mon.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-midnight, Fri., 11 a.m.-1 a.m., Sat., 12 p.m.- 1 a.m., Sun., 12 p.m.-11 p.m., 967-5384

Mexican restaurant/margarita

La Fiesta

Owned and operated by the sister of seafood category winner Fiesta Del Mar, La Fiesta has long established itself as the place to go for authentic Mexican cuisine. The mole poblano, featuring a sauce made from almonds, raisins, prunes, chocolate and chili peppers, is a can't miss dish, as is much of the Guadalajaran cuisine. The margaritas, made with the a variety of blue agave tequilas (La Fiesta offers about 300) are sure to catch your fancy as well. Voters say that although it may be off the beaten path, the trip to La Fiesta is worth it. 240 Villa St., Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. for lunch, 5 p.m.-10 p.m. for dinner. Sat.-Sun., 11 a.m.-3 p.m. for lunch, 5 p.m.-10 p.m. for dinner, 968-1364

New restaurant

Pasta?

No question about it, Pasta? is the restaurant that's got our voters buzzing. With its modern decor and hip style, Pasta? -- whose first location is in downtown Palo Alto -- has established itself as the new kid on the block fighting off its older competition in the now-crowded Italian dining arena. While it's now known for being the best new restaurant in town, Pasta? seems fit to become one of Mountain View's favorite places, period. 160 Castro St. daily, 11 a.m.-10 p.m., 938-4147

Noodles

New Tung Kee Noodle House

The efficient service, reasonable prices, and great tastes combine to make Tung Kee a favorite among voters. The abundance of choices makes repeat visits to New Tung Kee almost a necessity, as deciding what to pick often takes longer than receiving your order. Select from a long menu of vermicelli, rice noodles, and beverage options. 520 Showers Dr. (inside San Antonio Shopping Center) daily, 9 a.m.-9 p.m., 947-8888

Pizzeria

Amici's East Coast Pizzeria

While California may have the advantage in terms of weather, quality of life and ethnic cuisines, East Coast natives often point out the "superiority" of their pizza. Enter Amici's, which produces pies that even the most loyal New Yorkers would admire. Amici's manager Richard Allum cites the restaurant's more-than-just-a-pizza-place atmosphere as a key selling point. "Everybody likes pizza, but not everybody likes eating at a hole-in-the-wall place," he said.
790 Castro St., Mon.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sat., 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., 961-6666

Place to buy fresh produce

Mountain View Farmers' Market

Who says you can't get farm-fresh produce in the middle of Silicon Valley? Despite the conversion of orchards to office parks, Northern California is still the country's most productive vegetable-growing region. A trip to the Farmers' Market on Sundays is a reminder that locals can pick up the freshest in locally grown fruits and vegetables, seafood and flowers. Parking lot behind 100 block of Castro Street, Sun., 9 a.m.-1 p.m., (800) 806-FARM

Restaurant for kids

Fresh Choice

When it's time to let the kids decide what they want to eat, the best place to take them is Fresh Choice, where you can be sure that whatever they pick, it won't be junk food. With a wide variety of salads, soups, pastas, and bread, there's sure to be something to please even the fussiest of eaters. And the all-you-can-eat menu will fill up hungry, growing youngsters. 2540 El Camino Real, Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m., 949-4901

Sandwich

Le Boulanger

As its name suggests, Le Boulanger's skill with sandwiches stems from one thing: "It's the bread," says retail administrator Alan Gerston, who helps oversee all of Le Boulanger's restaurants . "You could put the best ingredients on mediocre bread, and something would be missing," said Gerston. With the perfect base, Le Boulanger's sandwiches blossom into culinary works of art. 650 Castro St., Mon.-Sat., 6 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun., 7 a.m.-6 p.m. 961-1787

Seafood

Fiesta Del Mar

Fiesta Del Mar has become a destination for people searching for the best fresh fish, served with a Mexican twist. Try the generous assortment of shrimp dishes, like Shrimp Charlee, jumbo shrimp sauteed with fresh sliced jalapenos, capers, fresh garlic, red bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, cilantro and wine. Voters enjoy the land-bound cuisine as well, with traditional favorites like enchiladas and burritos sure to whet any appetite. 1005 N. Shoreline Blvd, 735 Villa St. Shoreline: Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. for lunch, 5 p.m.-9 p.m. for dinner, Sat.-Sun. 11 a.m.- 10 p.m. Villa: Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sat.-Sun., 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Small grocery store

The Milk Pail Market

Locals appreciate the The Milk Pail's small, European-style open-air market's charm. In fitting with its name, the Milk Pail offers a wide assortment of hard-to-find cheeses as well as dairy staples like butter and milk, often at lower prices than the supermarket. Fresh produce, fresh bread and bulk grains make up much of the market these days. 2585 California St., Mon.-Fri., 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat., 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun., 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m., 941-2505

Sushi/Japanese restaurant

Sono Sushi

Our readers said that for nigiri and maki that's sure to delight and fulfill, Sono is the place. Go beyond the usual tuna and shrimp to try the Spider Roll, made with soft-shell crab. While the sushi is top-notch, there's also tempura and teriyaki for those in a mood for something cooked. 357 Castro St., Tue.-Fri., 11 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. for lunch, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Sat-Sun., 11 a.m.-10 p.m. 961-9086

Thai restaurant

Amarin Thai

For seasoned Mountain View diners, Amarin, which recently moved into renovated digs next door to its old location, is the place to go for the most enchanting in Thai cuisine. Whether they were seeking spicy curries or simple noodle dishes, readers said Amarin satisfies all their desires. Don't forget the Vegetarian menu, popular for those who don't want meat with their spice. 174 Castro St. Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-3p.m. for lunch and 5p.m.-10 p.m. for dinner, Sat.-Sun., noon-10p.m.

THE RIGHT STUFF

Auto Repair

Kevin's Auto

Even for those who don't treat their cars like a member of the family, it's still important to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape. And as the cost of gas rises, regular tune-ups are more than worth the cost. For needed repairs or just a check-up, our voters say they head over to Kevin's Auto where they service Minis, Suburbans and everything in between. 1968 Leghorn Ave., Mon.-Fri., 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., 965-7112

Bookstore

Books Inc.

Books Inc. retains its charm despite a recent remodel, with a selection catering to readers of all tastes and persuasions. Its convenient downtown location on Castro St., as well as the profusion of books, makes Books Inc. the place to go to meet friends, browse the shelves, or to grab a coffee at Cafe Libro upstairs. 301 Castro St., Mon.-Thurs., 8 a.m. - 11 p.m.,Fri. 8a.m.-midnight, Sat 9 a.m.-midnight, Sun 9 a.m.-11 p.m.

Child care

Primary Plus

Voice readers say Primary Plus is the place for a young child to get a good start in education. The preschool emphasizes a 'semi-structured' learning environment in order that their students develop the skills to learn on their own. Primary Plus' after-school programs make sure kids are learning while their parents are busy at work. 333 Eunice Ave. Call for enrollment information, 967-3780

Dry cleaners

Blossom Valley Cleaners

When dealing with those super-special formal outfits, or simply a stain that just won't go away, Blossom Valley Cleaners is the place to go out to get it done quickly and thoroughly. With same-day service, Blossom Valley is a favorite among locals to take care of their delicates, wools and other unwashables. 1782 Miramonte Ave. Mon.- Fri., 7 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat., 9 a.m-5 p.m. 968-1321

Financial institution

Wells Fargo Bank

Wells Fargo, one of the West's oldest banks, is still the one preferred by Mountain View. The friendly service and convenience of the many Mountain View locations certainly helps, as does the knowledge that Wells Fargo ATMs are easy to find throughout California. And when looking for a loan to buy a house or start a new business, Wells Fargo certainly knows how to 'lend' a helping hand. 590 Castro St., Mon. --Fri., 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Florist

Robert Moore

As winter turns to spring, and young men and women's hearts turn to love, our readers turn to Robert Moore for floral arrangements. Exquisitely designed bouquets are done in traditional European and Japanese designs, as well as more modern creations. And since Robert Moore is a member of FTD, they can deliver flowers, plants, and other gifts as far as you wish. 279 Castro St., Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.- 6 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Greeting cards/ party supplies

Diddam's

No matter what the occasion or season, Diddams is sure to have just about all the inedible goods you need to throw a fantastic party. And if you need to let somebody special know how you feel about them, or are just in a rush to get Christmas cards out, Diddam's supply of greeting cards has something for everyone. 1952 W. El Camino Real, Mon.- Fri., 9 a.m. - 8 p.m., Sat., 9 a.m. - 7 p.m., 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 965-0138

Hardware

Minton's Lumber & Supply

Minton's has been selling hardware, building supplies and the tools builders and handypeople need for nearly a century. And according to Best Of voters, Minton's provides something the big retail chains don't: personalized service.

Minton's staff will do custom woodcutting and order specialty items for customers, whether they're commercial builders or backyard gardeners. 455 West Evelyn Ave., Mon.-Fri., 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Sat., 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 968-9201

Health/specialty items

Bumblebee Health Foods

Since 1957, those in need of easing their aches and pains have come to Bumblebee to find what they need. The store's assortment of vitamins, homeopathic remedies, herbs, and skin care helps those with minor and major ailments, as well as those seeking preventive care to ward off illnesses. The Farrell family has run the store since its opening, and continues to provide great service to all their customers. 601 Escuela Ave., Mon-Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat.10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Home furnishings

Cost Plus World Market

Customers flock to Cost Plus for its vast collection of eclectic home supplies, ranging from costly to bargain basement. Whether you're looking for a wine rack, a bookcase or a wicker rocker, you're likely to find something that's inexpensive and looks interesting. With an easy-to-navigate layout, the store is also popular with browsers. And it has a full selection of international wines, some of which go on sale each week. 1910 El Camino Real, Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun., 10 a.m.-7 p.m., 961-6066

Hotel

Pacific Inn

With a jacuzzi in every room, free light breakfast and dinner, and a guarantee that covers everything from customer satisfaction to staff friendliness, voters said it was hard to not like Pacific Inn. If needed, staff will also arrange transportation for guests. And all for a $109 per night corporate rate. 901 El Camino Real, check in time after 1 p.m., 968-8848

Nails

La Monique's Nail Salon

For manicures, pedicures and whirlpool foot spas La Monique's is Mountain View's favorite. The clientele ranges from young to old, male and female. And with prices as low as $10 for a manicure, it's not surprising that many clients bring a friend. 650 Castro St., Suite 175, daily, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., 968-9901

New business

Plumeria

Filling a long-needed niche for womens' apparel downtown, in the last year Plumeria has blossomed into a popular retail shop -- specializing in vintage clothing -- in an area better known for restaurants. For owner Camala Kolseth, the decision to open a store downtown was an easy one. "I love the downtown area, and I just went ahead and did it," said Kolseth. Offering women's clothes in styles hard to find elsewhere, Plumeria is a haven for those looking for their own style. 714 Villa St. Wed., 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., Thurs.-Fri., 11 a.m. - 9p.m., Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Photo developing

Wolfe Camera

Mountain View residents who don't like the look of cheap photo finishing, or are looking to get their digital pics on paper, say Wolfe Camera does the best job for the best price. And since it's a camera shop, its staff is knowledgeable in all aspects of photography, and can answer even the most arcane photography questions. 1898 El Camino Real, Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m., 968-5666

Private school

St. Francis Catholic High School

In line with Holy Cross traditions, St. Francis serves to "educate the whole person." Excellent academics are matched with an effort to develop the spiritual and social potential of the student body. Around town, students are known for their service to the community and making Lancer athletics one of the best youth sports programs around. 1885 Miramonte Ave., 968-1213

Shoe repair

A Minute Man

Taking a walk down Castro Street can be tough when your favorite pair of shoes is broken, or just worn down too much. Luckily, A Minute Man can get you out on the street again, nearly as fast as their name implies. This cobbler doesn't need elves to become Mountain View's favorite. 738 Villa St., 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily, 968-0358

Sporting goods

Play It Again Sports

One man's faded fad is another's pleasure, and at Play It Again, Best Of voters said they find exactly what they need to get out and pick up a game of... whatever it is they're interested in. Featuring both new and used goods, Play It Again is the best place to find balls, nets, hoops, pads, goggles, skates and whatever else you need. 133 El Camino Real, Mon.-Fri, 10 a.m.- 8 p.m., Sat., 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Store for unusual gifts

East West Bookshop

From Aromatherapy to Yoga, East West brings a wide array of alternative and Eastern spiritual and healing traditions to Castro Street. There are books on Feng Shui, healing crystals, music you're unlikely to hear anywhere else in town, and speaking engagements from all over the spectrum. 324 Castro St., Mon-Thurs., 10 a.m.-1- p.m., Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun., 12:30 p.m.-8 p.m., 988-9800

Veterinarian

Miramonte Vet

Those of us with pets know they are an important part of the family. So when they get sick or hurt, they need care as good as anyone else in house would get. Voters said they bring their furry, feathered, or scaled companions to Miramonte when one needs to get better fast. While most of the hospital's patients are cats and dogs, it's not unusual to see ferrets, birds, rabbits, small rodents, or even goats. Doctors are able to perform ordinary care as well as emergency and surgical work. 1766 Miramonte Ave., Mon.-Fri., 7:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Workout/gym

24 Hour Fitness

The name couldn't put it any better. Even with the recent tech bust, busy Silicon Valley types know that they can take advantage of 24 Hour Fitness' weight and exercise machines, pool, and sauna whenever they have a few minutes to burn off some newly-acquired calories, or to tone their shapes. The workout center, featuring classes in aerobics, kickboxing, and spinning, and more throughout the day, is probably the most popular part. 550 Showers Dr. (inside San Antonio Shopping Center), daily, 24 hours a day

Yoga

California Yoga Center

Specializing in BKS Iyengar yoga, California Yoga Center attracts patrons from all walks of life, interested in improving themselves spiritually and physically through the various classes offered throughout the week. Mens sana in corpore sana , as the Romans used to say. Given the lasting popularity of Yoga throughout the centuries, they may have picked up that idea from a yoga practicioner. 570 Showers Dr., Suite # 5 (inside San Antonio Shopping Center).Call for class schedule 947-9642

OUTINGS

Park/picnic spot

Cuesta Park

Cuesta, Mountain View's second-biggest park (after Shoreline), proves to be a popular spot for families to enjoy our warm weather. The large grassy expanses provide room for pickup games of volleyball, football or Frisbee. Added to that are the city tennis courts and large barbecue pit-equipped picnic areas, for excellent summer fun.

Free entertainment

Cuesta Park Summer Concerts

Since Cuesta Park is Mountain View's favorite park, it comes as no surprise that people enjoy listening to music there, as well. With the convenience of dropping in to catch great local acts in an idyllic setting, Cuesta's summer concerts are the perfect place to go even if you are running low on cash. On Cuesta Road between Miramonte Avenue and Grant Road

Place to people watch

Castro Street

The heart of Downtown Mountain View, Castro Street is busy and bustling day and night, as Mountain View residents take advantage of the wide, accessible sidewalks and small-town charm. Mornings and lunches, the coffeehouses and restaurants bring in crowds of office dwellers and corporate types doing deals over meals. At night, the multitude of dining establishments and the several bars and nightclubs brings out the hot-to-trot as well as the more casual out to have a good time.

Singles spot

St. Stephen's Green

"The Green," as it's sometimes known, takes a cue from its namesake park in Dublin, as it functions as a comfortable place for singles to congregate, get to know each other, and have a good time. "We try and create a comfortable atmosphere, as an authentic Irish pub," said general manager Des Whelan, citing the friendly staff, excellent drink selection, and musical selections as creating the right ambiance for singles to meet and get acquainted. The drink specials like $2 Cosmopolitans don't hurt, either. 223 Castro St., 11 a.m. - 2 a.m. daily, 964-9151

Place to take first date

Century 16 Movie Theatres

The old "dinner and a movie" routine has never gone out of style, and Mountain View residents know that the Century 16 theatres, which feature all of the latest releases, provide plenty of options for a first date, from romantic comedies to slasher flicks to special-effects extravaganzas. Boasting some of the biggest screens in the lower peninsula, the Century 16 can get a relationship off on the right foot. 1500 N. Shoreline Blvd., 960-0970

Place to take visitors

Shoreline Park/Amphitheater

With one of the Bay Area's best-protected open spaces right near by, it's no surprise that when Mountain View residents take their guests out, they take a trip to Shoreline. Shoreline's lake, with convenient facilities for sailing, windsurfing and paddleboating, is a great place to spend a sunny summer day. Golf fanatics visiting from more wintry climes will certainly enjoy a round or two at the golf course, and there is ample entertainment at the amphitheater, which plays host to the biggest musical acts in the nation throughout the summer. With convenient access to Mountain View's newest attraction, the Stevens Creek trail, visitors will be raving about their trip to Mountain View to all their friends back home after taking a visit to Shoreline. End of Shoreline Blvd., 903-6392 (park) 967-3000 (amphitheatre)

WILD CARD

Pearl tea

Tea Era

As pearl tea (also bubble tea, or tapioca tea) sweeps Mountain View, many readers wrote in Tea Era as the best of the new teahouses serving this treat. Tea Era's cozy and inviting interior is complemented by outdoor seating on Castro Street, a perfect place to suck up the pearls, accompanied by the flavored milk of your choice Voice staffers prefer almond and rose-flavored teas.) And let's not forget, Tea Era's Taiwan thick toast is the thickest in town.

E-mail Samay Gheewala at sports@mv-voice.com