Cielo

This intimiate rooftop bar is AMAZING. I got the pleasure of enjoying this 7th floor bar with a private party for a business social so I didn't have to deal with waiting to get a drink. The staff was really polite and willing to do whatever it takes to get you what you want.

The view is AWESOME in the nice city of San Jose and there are heat lamps and nice lounge couches/seats. This place seems ideal for a nice night out with a small group of friends.

I really really really want to come back during normal hours with a group of girl friends so that we can have a nice chat around a heat lamp. I can't wait to go back.

"Wine and Cheese Exploration" $20 per person, reservations required.

The lounge is located at Cielo on the 7th floor of Valencia Hotel. I never knew that this wine bar was here in Santana Row - definitely a hidden secret with a great view. TIP - Arrive early to get lounge seats, otherwise you'll end up standing around all night.

What you get for $20 - unlimited California wine tasting, variety of cheeses, crackers, some live music. Even though the tastings were unlimited, the pours were a bit tiny imo. This means conversations last about two minutes before you have to head back for another taste of wine. The variety of cheeses included smoked mozzarella, cheddar, pepper jack, and I think about two other ones I had forgotten. We also purchased some happy hour appetizers, which were about $5 each plate.

-Tuna Tartare - pretty good, would have liked some more Nori Chips.
-Chicken Quesadilla - nothing too special, typical.
-Truffle-white bean hummus with pita bread - honestly did not taste any of the truffle oil, plus the texture is not what I'm used to for hummus. Probably because of the "white bean".

HH Appetizer portions are good, wine tastes not so much. I'd definitely come back for the view.

One of the best high-rise views in the Bay Area.

I always bring out-of-town visitors here, so they can get a sense of the Silicon Valley geography.

Service is not great. It usually takes some effort to get a drink. I often just go when I am not that thirsty.

It's always colder than I expect, so bring jackets.