Lauren's Locales: Enjoy New Eats at Justin's
By Lauren Bonney
As college students, it can sometimes be difficult to slow down and enjoy a meal. While there are reasonably priced and delicious fast food restaurants in the area to feed our instant-gratification lifestyle, a good meal at a nice restaurant offers a much needed break in our fast-paced lives. A visit to a sit-down restaurant typically warrants a trip to Santana Row; fortunately, a new restaurant recently opened on the corner of Homestead Road and Monroe Street.
Justin's is a delectable new addition to the Santa Clara community and offers its growing local clientele an "Appetite for Expression."
This sleek restaurant was established by Justin Perez who claimed that to him "food is art." Perez stated that each of his dishes has been carefully and thoughtfully crafted in an attempt to share his love of food with the public.
Upon entering the restaurant, guests are greeted by a very warm and refined atmosphere. Above the sitting area hangs a glass bottle chandelier as well as a unique view into the restaurant's wine cellar. The tables are a great size and set up to avoid making guests feel claustrophobic.
After being seated, guests are given a side of bread with a twist. Waiters pass out little terracotta pots filled with soft, warm rosemary olive oil bread with a roasted clove of garlic in the inside. The taste is "melt in your mouth" good, but if that doesn't get you excited to eat then just wait for the menu.
The establishment offers a full bar for those over 21, as well as a large menu that is sure to please anyone's tastes. The menu is described as a fusion of American and European foods, including artisanal elk, beef, or turkey burgers, sublime thin crust pizzas and heartier entrées like bone-in ribeye and seared scallops.
If you are not a meat lover, not to worry - Justin's also offers a vegetarian menu as well as amazing soups and salads. And of course, an extremely gourmet dessert menu is almost impossible to resist.
After a full flavored and completely satisfying meal, Justin's is sure to make any fast-paced college student slow down and enjoy the evening.