My friend has been telling me to try Anise Cafe for the last two years.  Finally, I have a chance to try it.   I did not know what to expect.   I was told it is on West San Carlos.   At first I thought it was in down town San Jose, it is not. It is in the middle between Down town and Valley Fair by Bascom avenue.   I was a nice surprise to find such a wonderful restaurant in such an unlikely location.   I was seated promptly by a really pretty hostess.   It was a good start.   Shortly after I was greeted by a really nice waitress that explain the menu throughly to me, an added bonus for someone who has dined at Anise fro a very first time.   I ordered a mango mojito.   It was the best mojito I have ever tasted.  It was muddled with fresh mint, fresh mango, and fresh lime.  The same way that I would made for my friends.   By now I can't wait to eat.   I ordered the corn fritters, what a simple amazing dish.   I also tried the Banana blossom salad, the same salad that I have tried over Straits Cafe, this one was incredible, full of texture and the the flavors were amazing.   I then ordered the Royal Tiger prawns with tamarind sauce, it is so tasty.   Lastly I ordered the flambee banana springroll.  Again lots of flavors, saba banana, coconut and jackfruit, I would never thought of that combinations.   I love it.  Can't wait to bring my friends and family back to try other dishes.
Pros:  Flavors, Ambience, and Cocktails!
Cons:  Hidden space!
                        
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