27 Best San Jose Restaurants for 2024
San Jose's restaurants offer a rich culinary experience showcasing all types of cuisines, from Ethiopian and Mexican to Japanese, Italian, French, Asian-fusion and modern European. The city's restaurants offer a world of taste experiences, reflecting its cultural diversity.
There’s no denying that the San Jose Restaurant scene is eclectic and vibrant. In this article, we've selected the 27 best restaurants in San Jose for 2024, ensuring various options catering to different tastes and preferences. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this guide promises to satisfy every palate.
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The 27 Best Places To Eat in San Jose, CA
1. Le Papillon
Among the fantastic array of San Jose restaurants, Le Papillon stands out as one of the finest dining experiences in the area.
The Vibe
Expect a formal and exclusive atmosphere at this fine dining establishment offering exquisite food.
What to Order
Experience the finest French cuisine at this San Jose restaurant with a Dungeness crab soufflé with lemon, saffron and caviar, or the roasted duck breast.
Le Papillon | 410 Saratoga Ave., San Jose, CA 95129 | $$$$
2. Zeni Ethiopian Restaurant
There are many highly recommended San Jose restaurants worth visiting and Zeni Ethiopian Restaurant is top in our list for authentic Ethiopian cuisine.
The Vibe
You’ll get the full Ethiopian experience if you eat around a mesob — a straw table basket typically used for sharing platters. Western-style tables and chairs are also available.
What to Order
Try the kikil kitfo, made from finely chopped cooked beef served with a hot butter sauce and chili, or the vegetarian combo with a selection of vegetable and lentil dishes and collard greens. Both are served with traditional freshly baked Injera — a soft spongy Ethiopian bread.
Zeni Ethiopian Restaurant | 1320 Saratoga Ave., San Jose, CA 95129 | $$
3. Adelita's Taquería
San Jose restaurants provide a diverse range of cuisine and this piece couldn’t be written without mentioning Adelita's Taquería, a popular, family-run Mexican-inspired restaurant.
The Vibe
Dine here for an informal, friendly and cozy atmosphere with a menu featuring an impressive range of authentic Mexican dishes.
What to Order
The fish ceviche tostada and the traditional chimichanga ALC are must-tries.
Adelita’s Taquería | 1896 Curtner Ave., San Jose, CA 95124 | $$
4. Pho Kim Long
The great thing about San Jose restaurants is that they cover a range of budgets. Pho Kim Long makes a great budget-friendly option for diners looking for authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
The Vibe
This San Jose restaurant has a casual vibe, perfect for groups meeting up for a bite in a chilled setting.
What to Order
Savor the combination pho, with rare steak, brisket, flank, tendon, rice noodles, cilantro, basil, bean sprouts and sliced onions, all served in a savory beef broth.
Pho Kim Long | 2082 N. Capitol Ave., San Jose, CA 95132 | $
5. Cocola Bakery
The food found in San Jose restaurants ranges from casual to fine dining with options for everyone. Cocola Bakery is one of the hot spots in town for those who love fresh-baked goods.
The Vibe
A traditional pâtisserie located on Santana Row, where you can sit and casually watch the world go by.
What to Order
This is the perfect spot to enjoy a morning palmier or a ham and Swiss sandwich with coffee.
Cocola Bakery | 333 Santana Row, San Jose, CA 95128 | $$
6. Nomikai
Among the San Jose restaurants that offer Asian-fusion cuisine, Nomikai is well worth a visit to experience its unique pizzas.
The Vibe
This San Jose restaurant has a real hip vibe, decorated with paper lanterns and a bustling atmosphere with dark lights. It’s perfect for date night.
What to Order
Try the banh mi pizza with chicken, pickled daikon, carrots, cilantro and spicy aioli or the bao bun with miso chicken, pickled red onions and cilantro on pillowy steamed buns.
Nomikai | 48 S. 1st St., San Jose, CA 95113 | $$
7. Acopio
Highly recommended by local foodies, Acopio is a San Jose restaurant that supports indigenous farmers. The chefs use a special method to preserve Mexican heirloom corn to make it nutritious and easily digestible.
The Vibe
Modern food in a simple yet contemporary setting, this San Jose restaurant makes the ideal choice for diners looking for a considered menu and chilled vibe.
What to Order
Try the ostiones en su concha — the chef’s selection of Pacific oysters served with habanero, mignonette and lime at this San Jose restaurant.
Acopio | 399 S. 24th St., San Jose, CA 95116 | $
8. La Foret
For fine dining in San Jose, La Foret has been providing exceptional cuisine since 1978 to locals and visitors alike.
The Vibe
Situated in a historical building of significance and surrounded by a lush forest, everything about this San Jose restaurant is exclusive.
What to Order
Created with Greenview Farms beef, potato truffle cream and crispy potato julienne, the beef tartare is highly recommended as a starter. To follow, try the sage-crusted wild boar medallions in a roasted garlic cabernet sauce.
La Foret | 21747 Bertram Road, San Jose, CA 95120 | $$$$
9. A Slice of New York
Enjoy an authentic New York pizza experience in this San Jose restaurant. Known for its classic, hand-tossed crust and flavorful toppings, A Slice of New York brings a taste of the Big Apple to the West Coast.
The Vibe
In San Jose restaurants, the vibe is as important as the food and this place has encapsulated a true NYC feel with the style and the food.
What to Order
Go for one of the classics such as pepperoni pizza while you're here.
A Slice of New York | 3443 Stevens Creek Blvd., San Jose, CA 95117 | $
10. Walia Ethiopian Cuisine
If you're looking to try something different from traditional American food, try Walia Ethiopian Cuisine. Experience the rich, flavorful dishes of Ethiopia in this San Jose restaurant.
The Vibe
Warm, cozy and authentic, visit this restaurant for its friendly atmosphere and delicious food.
What to Order
One of the best ways to enjoy this San Jose restaurant is to order a few different plates to share. Try the lentil sambussa flavored with jalapenos and herbs.
Walia Ethiopian Cuisine | 2208 Business Circle, San Jose, CA 95128 | $
11. Rollati Ristorante
If you're looking for places to eat in San Jose with a touch of class but a casual atmosphere, Rollati Ristorante is a great choice.
The Vibe
Bright, modern and spacious, this San Jose restaurant is a perfect place to celebrate a special occasion.
What to Order
If you want something truly special, order the thousand-layer lasagna with beef short rib ragu, both rich and delicious.
Rollati Ristorante | 181 E. Santa Clara St., Ste. 10, San Jose, CA 95113 | $$
12. The Farmers Union
Looking for San Jose restaurants with cool vibes and buzzy atmospheres? The Farmers Union will not disappoint.
The Vibe
Exposed brick walls, leather seats and rustic tables give this San Jose restaurant a cool industrial feel that feels cozy and informal.
What to Order
Get your meat fix with the beef brisket from the smoker — tender meat braised with bourbon cola barbeque sauce and served with buttermilk biscuits, frijoles charros and potato salad.
The Farmers Union | 151 W. Santa Clara St., San Jose, CA 95113 | $$
13. Zona Rosa
For an inviting dining experience around San Jose, Zona Rosa should be high on your priority list.
The Vibe
Small with rustic tables and exposed brickwork. If you’re looking for warm and cozy restaurants in the U.S., this contemporary venue is a great place for catching a bite to eat, be it with your friends or on a date.
What to Order
Try the chimichurri hanger steak tacos with Yukon potatoes and the tortilla soup.
Zona Rosa | 1411 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 95126 | $$
14. 55 South
One cannot mention San Jose Restaurants without giving a shout-out to 55 South, a lively bar and eatery with casual food and an impressive cocktail menu.
The Vibe
It’s the perfect place to enjoy decent cocktails. If you’re looking for fun and eclectic date ideas in San Jose, this lively spot is a top choice.
What to Order
While you’re here you have to try the stuffed avocado with chili pasilla and the olive tapenade and scallions. The mouthwatering cheesy olive bread is also a must.
55 South | 55 S. 1st St., San Jose, CA 95113 | $$
15. Wild Rose Eatery & Bar
Just a short seven-minute drive from downtown San Jose, Wild Rose Eatery & Bar offers an assortment of amazing cocktails and mouthwatering dishes.
The Vibe
Dark, cozy and highly Instagrammable, this San Jose restaurant emphasizes small plates, making it the perfect spot for dinner with friends or a stylish date night.
What to Order
For a seafood treat, try the grilled marinated octopus served with Peruvian potatoes, cauliflower, parsnip pureé and topped with herb oil.
Wild Rose Eatery & Bar | 200 E. Campbell Ave. 2010, Campbell, CA 95008 | $$$
16. Olla Cocina
Located in Downtown San Jose on San Pedro Square, Olla Cocina is the perfect spot to take the family. This is one of those San Jose restaurants with something for everyone on the menu.
The Vibe
Casual dining in a light and airy contemporary space with fun Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) inspired art on the walls.
What to Order
The shrimp burrito comes highly recommended and is packed with gulf shrimp, Mexican rice, guacamole, cheese and chipotle crema.
Olla Cocina | 17 N. San Pedro St., San Jose, CA 95110 | $$
17. Mezcal Bistro & Bar
Among the many San Jose restaurants offering high-quality food and great service, Mezcal Bistro & Bar is one of the best choices for those wanting a smaller, cozier atmosphere serving authentic Oaxacan cuisine.
The Vibe
With exposed brick walls, wooden tables and warm tones throughout, this little bistro has a friendly vibe with a nice rustic feel.
What to Order
Try the tlayuda, made with a large toasted tortilla and loaded with intense and savory regional flavors. Top it with the protein of your choice: beef, pork, chorizo or chicken.
Mezcal Bistro & Bar | 25 W. San Fernando St., San Jose, CA 95113 | $$
18. Loft Bar & Bistro
Among the bustling San Jose restaurants, Loft Bar & Bistro offers excellent quality food that can be enjoyed inside amid the buzz or outside on the patio.
The Vibe
This restaurant and bar is pretty lively; it’s a great location for group bookings and larger groups wanting to dance and enjoy a special night.
What to Order
Start with the crispy calamari served with fresh jalapeño peppers, Parmesan and a cocktail sauce. Then opt for the Angus burger which you can top with cheese, bacon, or sautéed mushrooms as an addition.
Loft Bar & Bistro | 90 S. 2nd St., San Jose, CA 95113 | $$
19. Back A Yard
The best San Jose restaurants don’t have to be flashy. Back A Yard is a little take-out and dine-in spot that serves a big flavor punch with its authentic Caribbean cuisine.
The Vibe
A simple no-frills San Jose restaurant that offers private catering and an assortment of mouthwatering dishes to enjoy at home or in-house.
What to Order
Order the juicy jerk chicken and beef oxtail yard combo with fried plantains, rice and beans.
Back A Yard | Multiple Locations | $$
20. Mariscos Costa Alegre
Often the best San Jose restaurants are casual and informal. Mariscos Costa Alegre is one of the venues that you don’t visit for the fancy décor — it’s all about the good quality food, as it should be.
The Vibe
This San Jose restaurant chain has three locations, each offering a casual dining feel. When you visit, it feels like sitting down with family.
What to Order
Opt for the simple asada arrachera from the Platillos Mexicanos menu, which comprises grilled meat, onions and jalapeños with a side salad and rice.
Mariscos Costa Alegra | Multiple Locations | $$
21. Mosaic Restaurant and Ultra Lounge
Known for its Asian-fusion cuisine, Mosaic Restaurant and Ultra Lounge entices guests with fine-dining specials and a tempting happy hour, making it a sought-after destination for both dining and socializing.
The Vibe
Leather sofas and contemporary furnishings create a smart vibe in this San Jose restaurant.
What to Order
Order the ahi tuna tartare to start. Then try the ginger smoked sea bass with butter bok choy, cherry tomato and ginger smoke glaze.
Mosaic Restaurant and Ultra Lounge | 211 S. 1st St., San Jose, CA 95113 | $$$
22. Gombei
Known for its excellent service and hearty Japanese cuisine, Gombei has earned a loyal following of diners who return time and again for its delightful dishes.
The Vibe
One to add to your casual San Jose restaurants list, Gombei is a relaxed space where you can sample authentic Japanese dishes.
What to Order
There are various specials available each day so the menu is ever-changing. If you get the chance, choose the fried gyoza and the spicy chicken and panko oyster.
Gombei | 193 Jackson St., San Jose, CA 95112 | $$
23. Petiscos
Experience the flavors of Portugal at Petiscos, a contemporary San Jose restaurant that offers authentic dishes blending traditional recipes with modern culinary techniques.
The Vibe
Sleek, modern and classy, this San Jose restaurant is perfect for impressing your date.
What to Order
Savor some juicy grilled prawns, a classic filet mignon and some pork and clams. Alternatively, the corn soup is always a popular choice.
Petiscos | 399 S. 1st St., San Jose, CA 9511 | $$$
24. Green Lotus
If you’re looking for vegetarian and vegan San Jose restaurants, Green Lotus needs to be first on your list. This restaurant makes tofu in-house and serves meat-alternative dishes with authentic Vietnamese flavors.
The Vibe
A great place for catching up with friends and family, this restaurant provides a friendly casual dining vibe.
What to Order
For vegans and vegetarians who miss that meaty texture and flavor, choose a hearty stir-fry made with imitation meat, mushrooms, tofu and fresh vegetables.
Green Lotus | 1143 Story Road, Ste. 180, San Jose, CA 95122 | $$
25. Straits Restaurant
Taking influence from Singapore, Straits Restaurant is an exclusive Pan-Asian restaurant in San Jose offering a tempting menu of delectable dishes in a contemporary setting.
The Vibe
Black walls and gray leather seating create a sleek vibe, making it ideal for any special occasion.
What to Order
If you’re a fan of seafood, start with the chilled seafood platter. For your main, opt for a spicy basil chicken or traditional Malaysian beef rendang.
Straits Restaurant | 1100 Santana Row, Ste. 333, San Jose, CA 95128 | $$$-$$$$
26. Fogo de Chao
Located on Santana Row, Fogo de Chao offers a sophisticated steakhouse experience, specializing in traditional Brazilian cuisine served in an elegant and formal setting.
The Vibe
With comfortable seating, dim lighting and pristine white tablecloths, this San Jose restaurant is a great place to enjoy authentic Brazilian dishes.
What to Order
Indulge in the full churrasco experience. Though pricey, you’ll be treated to various fire-roasted meat cuts, an assortment of sides and access to the market table with a buffet of seasonal salads, exotic vegetables, cured meats, aged cheeses and more.
Fogo De Chao | 1090 Santana Row, Ste. 377, San Jose, CA 95128 | $$$-$$$$
27. Naschmarkt
Nestled in a small and cozy setting, Naschmarkt is a charming Modern European restaurant renowned for its authentic German and Austrian cuisine.
The Vibe
This San Jose restaurant has an informal vibe with exposed brick walls, rustic tables and a light and airy feel.
What to Order
Try the homemade pretzel with double-smoked bacon and a beer-cheese sauce, followed by the wiener schnitzel with lingonberry sauce, lemon and crispy parsley.
Naschmarkt | Multiple Locations | $$
Try Cooking San Jose Foods
To explore San Jose food more in-depth, you can try one of the many cooking classes in San Jose. Instead of looking for places to eat in San Jose, learn the art of cooking the dishes that San Jose restaurants are famous for. These classes offer a hands-on experience, allowing you to discover the secrets behind San Jose's delicious cuisine while honing your culinary skills.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
The restaurants in San Jose provide a wonderful array of options for exploring the region’s diverse cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a sophisticated dining experience or a relaxed get-together with friends, our curated list of San Jose restaurants ensures there’s something to suit every taste. Take delight in discovering the rich flavors of San Jose and uncovering your new favorite dining spot.
For even more ways to explore San Jose and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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