Sunnyvale’s best restaurants don’t always come with fancy facades or trendy decor. Behind simple storefronts, local food wizards create authentic flavors that keep regulars coming back. These family-owned spots serve up generous portions and genuine hospitality, proving that the best food often comes from the most unassuming places.
Fugetsu Japanese Restaurant
Fugetsu brings authentic Japanese okonomiyaki to Sunnyvale, California. This small restaurant serves traditional Japanese comfort food with a focus on savory pancakes and grilled dishes. The restaurant has built a loyal following for its consistent quality and generous portions, making it a prime spot for casual dining and takeout in Silicon Valley.
Food Highlights
- Okonomiyaki Sampler: Four distinct flavors in one portion, perfect for sharing
- Hamachi Jalapeño Carpaccio: Fresh fish with vibrant vegetables
- Family Platters: Varied selections for 2-3 or 4-5 people
- Pork Belly Deluxe: Crispy edges with rich flavor
- Yaki Onigiri: Crispy exterior with perfect rice and ume filling
Atmosphere
The restaurant offers a spacious dining area with a relaxed setting that sets it apart from typical Japanese establishments. The interior provides comfortable seating and maintains a casual, welcoming environment.
Bottom Line
Fugetsu excels in serving authentic okonomiyaki, a dish rarely found in the Bay Area. The restaurant’s combination of quality food, attentive service, and family-style dining options creates an excellent choice for both casual meals and group gatherings.
Location: 190 S Frances St Rokko Japanese Restaurant Sunnyvale, CA 94086
The Original Caramel & Pretzel Cluster: Silky smooth milk chocolate, creamy (never sticky) caramel, and crunchy pretzels, it’s the perfect crunchy, salty, sweet snack.
Surmai
This small restaurant in Sunnyvale brings authentic Maharashtrian coastal flavors to the Bay Area. Fresh seafood and traditional recipes make Surmai a standout destination for Indian food enthusiasts. The restaurant’s dedication to quality ingredients shows in every dish, with seafood sourced directly from Mumbai.
Food Highlights
- Pomfret Thali: Large Mumbai-sourced pomfret fry, pomfret kalvan, dal, tomato saar, solkadhi, bhakri and rice
- Prawns Thali: Crispy fried prawns with perfect seasoning
- Chicken Tikka: Tender, juicy chicken with unique marinade
- Surmai Fish: Perfectly spiced mackerel
- Burnt Garlic Fried Rice: Flavorful egg fried rice
Atmosphere
The space is intimate with both indoor and outdoor seating options. Clean cutlery and cloth napkins add a touch of refinement. While the interior can feel crowded during peak hours, the outdoor area offers comfortable seating with umbrellas for shade.
Bottom Line
Surmai delivers consistently excellent Maharashtrian coastal cuisine with exceptional seafood dishes. Though prices run higher than average, the quality and authenticity justify the cost. The restaurant’s commitment to maintaining high standards and fresh ingredients makes it worth the visit.
Location: 500 Lawrence Expy Ste C Sunnyvale, CA 94085
Lopez Taqueria 3
Lopez Taqueria 3 brings authentic Mexican flavors to Sunnyvale with its fast service and generous portions. This family-owned establishment has built a strong reputation for delivering consistent quality across its locations. The restaurant’s signature burritos and tacos draw regular customers who appreciate the balance of quality, value, and speed.
Food Highlights
- Super Burrito: Forearm-thick with perfectly seasoned meat and fresh ingredients
- Regular Tacos: Crispy corn tortillas with tender meat options including lengua and chile verde
- Fish Tacos: Well-seasoned with flaky fish and thin breading
- House Salsas: Red and green sauce options complement every dish
Bottom Line
Lopez Taqueria 3 excels in delivering authentic Mexican food with exceptional value. The combination of quick service, generous portions, and consistent quality makes it an ideal choice for both quick meals and satisfying dinner cravings.
Location: 808 W El Camino Real Sunnyvale, CA 94087