Hot food happenings in Silicon Valley.

Mountain View now has Kobe Curry, a hidden gem off the well-trodden Castro Street. With a straightforward menu centered on aged Kobe and Angus beef sourced from Niman Ranch, the toughest decision is whether to order curry or Katsu. Plus, there's a hearty lunch plate for bigger appetites, and chicken and pork for those who prefer the other white meats. Seating is plentiful on the sunny patio, perfect for nursing Japanese suds of the Asahi or Kirin variety. For dessert, try the house green tea crème brûlée. 180 Castro Street, Mountain View

Score vegetarian Indian lunch, dinner, and more at the homey Kamakshi's Kitchen, which opened last month right by the San Carlos Cal Train station. Here, the South Indian lunch plate option change daily and can be washed down with a sweet traditional drink known as Panagam, made with jaggery, lemon, and ginger over ice; it's meant to bring your body temperature down and is traditionally served during festivals. But, you can opt for the more familiar mango lassi instead if that hits your sweet spot. In typical South Indian style, the menu also carries idli, sambar, and dosa. A helpful "dictionary of deliciousness" menu section gives detailed clues on the ingredients and spice levels for many of dishes. 601 Old Country Road, San Carlos

On Page Mill Road in Palo Alto, a new casual spot called Beet Cafe carries East European food from pirogi to borsht (a soup made with beets), salads, sandwiches, and snacks, for the breakfast and lunch hours. The coffee is reportedly strong and good, as it should be. 395 Page Mill Road, Palo Alto 

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