It doesn’t take a local to know that our city is widely known for being an culinary hot spot.

Our foodie culture is second to none, so we’re highlighting some of the most prominent influencers making waves through the South Bay food scene.

Meet Esther Lee, the foodie behind @sanjosefoodmap. | Photo via @sanjosefoodmap

🍴 @sanjosefoodmap

You may have seen this SJ native — Esther Lee bartends for 55 South and began documenting her food journey in 2020. Get the digs on the best breakfast burrito in town, where to find Korean groceries, and the newest eateries opening up. Her recommendations focus on casual, tasty grub.

It's hard work being a foodie. | GIF via @siliconvalley.foodies

🍴 @siliconvalley.foodies

Sometimes, pictures don't do it justice. Enter: Rachel Ahn. Her Reel-forward account — which boasts 66.5K followers, BTW — gives you a look into the vibe of local restaurants and her must-get dishes, which generally surround pastries, Asian cuisine, and dinner date spots. Her favorite part about SJ's food culture? "Its working class roots and authentic cuisine made by immigrants."

That's one of the largest ribs we've seen. | GIF via @missfoodiebayarea

🍴 @missfoodiebayarea

Have you ever wondered if that one food stand you pass by on Capitol is any good? Well, Alejandra Gonzalez has probably tried it. She highlights small Latino businesses that don't usually get the recognition of other SJ eateries. But, she's still inclusive — discover new seafood boils, premium meat markets, and even some homemade post-workout meals.

Do you think he ate all of that? | GIF via @sjfoodies

🍴 @sjfoodies

Meet Jonathan Sahoo, the man behind the mouthwatering shots of this foodie account. Find great boba recommendations, cuisines you may not be familiar with, and ginormousbirria tacos. His favorite part about SJ's food culture? "Its diversity. You can find virtually any cuisine from anywhere in the world right here in San Jose!"

Recommend your favorite SJ influencer to us for a chance to feature them in a future newsletter.