This Race Street legend has been a part of San Jose's dining scene for more than half a decade. The atmosphere is California-style laid-back and casual, and the crowd usually consists of far more locals than tourists ­ so you know it's good. Their fish and chips are a favorite at lunchtime, and nearly all of the menu items are battered and fried. The Race Street Seafood kitchen does not accept credit cards, so make sure you bring cash with you.

This sixth-floor restaurant has some of the best views of downtown of any restaurant in the San Jose area, so be sure to request a window-side seat. The atmosphere is fairly upscale, but the friendly service and well-spaced dining area create a definite air of comfortableness. "Scott's Classics" are the restaurant's signature dishes, and the eclectic menu offers such main dishes as tuna covered with wasabi lemon butter, sea bass, and grilled salmon. Scott's also offers non-seafood alternatives, including some excellent steaks. Reservations are suggested.

OLD TOWN. Rumor has it that this Los Gatos restaurant serves up some of the best clams in the San Jose area. The restaurant's new home features high ceilings, beautiful archways, and an outdoor patio that offers great views of the nearby Santa Cruz Mountains. Among the dishes on their eclectic menu are roasted vegetable rigatoncini, rock shrimp pizza, and fennel-crusted tuna. The restaurant's bar area is a popular destination for the after-work crowd, not to mention those wanting a break from the Los Gatos shopping scene. Reservations are suggested.

The Fish Market, which opened in San Jose in 1997, offers some of best, most reasonably priced seafood in the area. The restaurant prides itself both on its market-like atmosphere and on serving only the freshest seafood available. The menu includes a diverse array of fish and seafood entrées, including Alaskan halibut, Catalina swordfish, and sushi. An outdoor dining area is available. There is also a location in Palo Alto at 3150 El Camino Real. Reservations are required.