When new kid on the San Pedro Square Market block reached out to invite a group of South Bay Yelpers to partake in an intimate tasting event, the response was a resounding "YES!" This hotspot had been Bookmarked by more than a few communty members… Didn't have to ask us twice.
SP2 Communal Bar + Restaurant presents delicious, locally sourced, American bistro cuisine from premier chef Ola Fendert and house made hand-crafted cocktails from passionate bartenders. Adjacent to the newly developed San Pedro Square Market and a slap shot away from the SAP Pavilion; lounge out on the open patio for a sunny day brunch or spend the night with SP2 and the other cool kids on their newly designed venue in downtown San Jose.
On the night of the Yelp tasting event, 40 lucky Elites were invited to dine in the private back room, complete with handmade communal table. Right away, guests were blown away by the San Francisco vibe, unlike any place they've seen in downtown San Jose. "SP2 was definitely an unexpected surprise," declared Lorrie M. "I have walked by here many times when it was the 'closed down' Sabor and wondered if anyone was going to do anything about it. I love the interior decor, modern, but at the same time rustic and relaxing. Very Novela feel without the pretentious crowd and the super busy bar scene."
The tasting menu consisted of Sangria Blanco, Shrimp & Arugula Flatbread, Rack of Ginger Soy Glazed Baby Back Ribs w/mini Roasted Beet and Arugula Salad. For dessert, we each had a Cucumber Basil Gimlet alongside mini Rum Bread Pudding. The verdict?
"I loved the food so much I can't wait to come back to try other items on the menu. Ginger soy glazed baby back ribs – Delicious! Literally fell off the bone and it wasn't too salty. I'm already craving more." – Tammy N.
"Highly anticipated dessert, Mini Rum Bread Pudding, was delivered along with the Cucumber Basil Gimlet to wash it down with. The bread pudding was made with caramelized bananas and creme anglaise, presented in a shape of a perfect tiny square (1/4 scale from the real thing). The flavor was awesome and more delicate in texture than most bread puddings, which made it sophisticated." – Adam D
"Shrimp & arugula flatbread: my favorite!! I still wished they offered chili flakes on the side so we could add more to our heart's delight. Light and flaky" – Ly D
After we were done with our meals, Chef Ben greeted our group and shared some of his culinary secrets. In addition, he made himself available to answer Yelper questions about the restaurant, their location and his backround/experience. "It was great to hear from the cook and owner about their process of opening this specific place and the vision they have in mind for the location, design, and food," said Stefany V. "It's a beautiful space that is 'less clubby, more loungey, more foodie' with an organic and sustainable menu. Great opportunity to hear directly from the staff, very unique aspect of tonight's event."
Read the 5-star reviews from our Yelp attendees and view photos from Waitman Gobble on the Yelp Flickr page. Kudos to the SP2 team for hosting such a special, intimate event for our group! We'll be back…
Cheers!
Abby S, Community Manager
