Located in the heart of the SoFa district, Cafe Stritch is an American-style jazz restaurant with a laid-back bohemian feel. It’s diverse menu features mac and cheese, salads, ribs, soups, sandwiches and more along with a full bar that includes beers, wines and specialty drinks. All of this makes it a nice place to chill during or after festival activities. Stritch showcases jazz and indie bands weekly, perfect for enjoying with friends or on a date for the festival. Cafe Stritch will host a VIP Soiree March 2 and a Maverick Meet Up March 9.

Caffe Frascati, known for its cappuccinos and paninis, is an ideal stop for a mid-day refresher or breakfast with bagels and croissants before or throughout a day of Cinequest. Also in the SoFa district, Caffe Frascati is just a block away from California Theater, which showcases the spotlight films of the festival such as “Ma Ma,” a film featuring Penelope Cruz as a woman battling cancer, and Colonia with actress Emma Watson. It’s a dramatic story of two loves trying to reunite during political unrest in Chile.

In the mood for a little tequila and some authentic tacos after a few films Chacho’s has it covered. This Mexican restaurant in the center of downtown has a menu full of tortas, tacos, burritos and more. If you’re enjoying Cinequest on a Tuesday, Chacho’s is definitely the spot to stop by with tacos costing just $1. Chacho’s will host a VIP Soiree March 6.

Bijan Bakery, just walking distance from Camera 12, is home to decadent desserts, from pastries and croissants to cakes and cookies. The European-inspired restaurant moved into its downtown home in 2007 under the Fairmont Hotel, making it easily accessible to those staying in the downtown area for the festival.

If you’re hoping to see a celebrity or just hide from the masses, The Grill on the Alley is the place to be. No matter if you want to grab a burger and cold beer in their bar or enjoy a prime steak and glass of fine California wine in their dining room, The Grill is sure to deliver excellence.

Gordon Biersch Brewery, which prides itself on its 35 locations from coast to coast as well as in Hawaii and Taiwan, offers a fun outdoor setting in downtown San Jose to bring a big group of friends for a beer to chat about that favorite scene. The garlic fries are a must-try, but they can provide whatever kind of food and drinks you prefer to suit your evening. Gordon Biersch will host a VIP Soiree on March 11 and a Maverick Meet Up March 3.

This quaint wine bistro on the Paseo De San Antonio is perfect for mixing and mingling with like-minded moviegoers and creatives attending the Cinequest Film Festival. With a glass of wine and a light entree, guests can cozy up next to the fireplace and connect.

With an all-American menu and one of downtown San Jose’s only rooftop patios, Loft Bar and Bistro serves craft brews and cocktails just steps away from the Camera 12 theater on 2nd Street. It welcomes all Cinequest moviegoers, but for groups larger than six people it is strongly suggested to call ahead for a table.

The Continental Bar and Grill, located in the SoFa district, is in the prime spot for Cinequest. Sitting adjacent to California Theater, Continental is a weekly hot spot for those in search of a quality drink and live entertainment. Their weekly happy hour is a draw for regulars and visiting business professionals, regardless of budget.

This American bistro is spacious inside and out, with its heated patios and cozy couches outside and large communal tables inside. SP2 opens itself up well for those on a night out on the town or after a day of film festival activities. Go big for brunch on Sundays with bottomless mimosas before heading to Cinequest. From seafoods and pastas to ribs, SP2 has a menu to satisfy most tastes. SP2 will host a VIP Soiree March 8 and a Maverick Meet Up March 12.

Located directly behind the St Joseph’s Cathedral, this small Oaxacan restaurant is family owned and operated and creates some of the best Mexican fare available in DTSJ. Aiming to please all palettes, their menu features authentic Oaxacan options along with some traditional Mexican favorites all prepared by a mom and son team in the kitchen.

The SoFA Market is one of San Jose’s newest public markets and home to about a dozen specialty food merchants. Cinequest attendees can find burgers, ramen, poke, a juice bar, a coffee bar, craft beers and cocktails, and a handmade gelato spot. Overall this public market is steps away from the California Theater, casual and comfortable.

Metro’s resident film critic, Richard von Busack is no stranger to the silver screen. He’s been reviewing films for the paper since its founding in 1985. Here are are some of the films he’s looking forward to seeing at the 26th annual Cinequest Film Festival.