Fodor's Expert Review Le Papillon

For those who think that French-influenced fine dining is passé, San Jose’s gastronomic stalwart will change a few opinions. It’s the best of both culinary worlds, where timeless luxury meets a contemporary approach. Here, Burgundy snails are paired with stinging nettle agnolotti (similar to small raviolis) and grilled Hawaiian swordfish is presented with a pinot noir–miso sauce. Diners enjoy a three-course or four-course menu with several options available in each course, or a preset six-course tasting menu. The posh dining room (located at the edge of a a nondescript mini-mall by a liquor store) isn’t overly grand but has a refined aura with closed shutters, floral arrangements, and crisp white tablecloths.