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The Metro Bars & Clubs 2003 Guide [ San Jose Central | San Jose Outskirts | Campbell | Cupertino | Los Gatos | Mountain View | Peninsula | Santa Clara | Sunnyvale ] Saratoga The Bank 14421 Big Basin Way, 408.867.5155 Hours: Mon-Wed 3pm-midnight, Thu-Sun 4am-2am Crowd: 20-60 Music: Live music every few weeks, jukebox, rock, alternative/New Wave, vocal standards Decor: Classic Signature Drinks: Chocolate Martini, Cinful Apple Amenities: Darts, private booths, fireplace in the winter "There are probably more degrees in here than on a thermometer," says Jim Sullivan, one of the Bank's owners. "But people also talk about hobbies and books and vacations, and I never fail to learn something during the course of the day's work." Sullivan upholds the PG, "no profanity" policy his father initiated when he bought the former bank and turned it into a bar 33 years ago. Big Basin Bistro 14480 Big Basin Way, Saratoga; 408.867.1764 Hours: Wed 1pm-9pm, Thu-Sat 1pm-11pm, Sun 1pm-6pm Crowd: 20s-50s Music: Live Thu-Fri, 7pm Decor: Light woods Signature Drink: A menu full of wines Known as much for its oysters and tapas as for its wines and beers, the Big Basin Bistro has a definite Mediterranean comfort feel. Both regulars and the staff know their food and spirits but aren't pedantic about it. Crazy Horse Saloon At the Plumed Horse, 14555 Big Basin Way; 408.867.4711 Hours: Mon-Fri 5:30-midnight; Sat-Sun 4pm-midnight Crowd: 30s on up Music: Live jazz weekends 7:30-midnight Decor: Sinatra's country getaway Signature Drink: Cognac Amenities: Fireplace This is one joint where the signature drink really does say something--Crazy Horse, although situated out in the woodsy boondocks, is classy with cosmopolitan cachet. Rich dark paneling decorates the alpine-style bar and restaurant. Metro Bars & Clubs 2003 Features Five Terrifying Minutes of Fame: Friends don't let friends sing, "Dude Looks Like a Lady" ... and other karaoke tips. Caffeine Nation: A list of coffeehouses--the cream of the crop. Thanks, Designated Driver!: An appreciation, and some tips, for the nondrinker. Send a letter to the editor about this story to letters@metronews.com. [ Silicon Valley | Metroactive Home | Archives ]