DOWNTOWN. This Second Street restaurant sets a very high bar for excellence in San Jose. When you sit at one of Swiss chef Emile Mooser's tables, expect to be swept away by a truly unique contemporary European dining experience. The menu includes such dishes as peppered salmon, crusted scallops, and their famous house-cured gravlax. For dessert, try Emile's fabulous "Grand Marnier Soufflé," a delight you will never forget. Special events include Wednesday Murder Mystery Nights, masquerade dinners and much more. Reservations are required.

A part of the restaurant scene for more than two decades, Gervais is critically acclaimed for its elegantly charming atmosphere and stunning French cuisine. Located in a 150-year-old Victorian house in the downtown area, this restaurant continually wows patrons with such entrées as bouillabaisse, quail stuffed with fois gras and mushrooms and covered with cognac sauce, and the braised rabbit in red wine sauce. Of course, the highlight of an evening here has to be the presentation of the homemade pastry tray. #13;#10;A tasting menu is available. The restaurant will serve lunch for private parties of 10 or more. Afternoon tea is served Thursday to Sunday. Reservations are necessary.

NEW ALMADEN. Located about 15 miles southwest of downtown in the New Almaden area, La Forêt is the recipient of a fair amount of national attention. The restaurant is housed in a beautiful building that dates from the mid-19th century and mixes refinement (tuxedoed waiters) with charm (cushioned chairs and white tablecloths). Chef Davoudi's specials include innovative game dishes like ostrich or wild boar. La Forêt also offers such gourmet staples as cold-water lobster or rack of lamb. Reservations are required.#13;#10;Banquet $33.75; five-course tasting menu #1 $58; six-course tasting menu #2 $75; six-course tasting menu #3 $95.#13;#10;

This Los Gatos bistro serves traditional French cuisine in a dining area that is reminiscent of a French country home with its latticed walls, Impressionist artwork, candles and several plants. Owner/chef Valdez offers truly sublime fish and seafood entrées, and his fillet of lamb covered with a Portobello sauce offers a nice alternative. For dessert, save a little room for their excellent cappuccino crunch. Reservations are required.

For more than 20 years, Le Papillon has provided the San Jose area with superb Nouveau French cuisine. This elegant restaurant is only a few minutes drive from downtown and provides a welcome respite from the bustle of the city. Appetizers include foie gras and Oestra Caviar; steamed salmon served with citrus and Open Ravioli of Wild Mushroom are among their tasty entrées. Le Papillon also offers a superb lobster menu. Tasting menu $90; with wine pairing add $45. Reservations are required.