25 Essential San Jose Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of San Jose.
Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse
California
Upscale Brazilian chain for all-you-can-eat meat carved tableside plus an extensive salad bar.
Antipasto's By De Rose
California
Known for old-world style ravioli, this homey Italian deli dishes up hot dishes & hefty sandwiches.
Duc Huong Sandwiches
California
Simple takeaway offering Vietnamese sandwiches, snacks & meal loaf, plus pastries.
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
San Jose, California
Family-friendly chain outpost pairs familiar pub fare with an extensive list of house brews.
Jackie's Place - North
San Jose, California
Soul food & Texan-style grilled meats served in an informal dining room with a contemporary vibe.
Sourdough Eatery
San Jose, California
Service options: Outdoor seating, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Serves local specialty. Popular for: Lunch.
BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
San Jose, California
Family-friendly chain outpost pairs familiar pub fare with an extensive list of house brews.
Los Gatos Cafe Uptown
San Jose, California
Buzzing cafe that draws crowds for cinnamon rolls, morning faves & a big menu of homey classics.
LB Steak - Santana Row
San Jose, California
This modern American steakhouse is set in a masculine space with cowhide chairs, wood trim & patio.
Bertucelli's La Villa Gourmet
San Jose, California
Italian deli serving up sandwiches & prepared foods, including its well-known handmade ravioli.
Palermo Italian Restaurant
San Jose, California
Easygoing Southern Italian eatery offering pizza & pasta dishes alongside beer, wine & cocktails.
Ben's Fast Food
San Jose, California
Down-to-earth outlet providing carefully sourced meat & veggie dishes for takeaway or delivery.
Sushi Pro
San Jose, California
Service options: Outdoor seating, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service.
The Last Round Tavern
San Jose, California
Service options: Outdoor seating, Curbside pickup, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great beer selection.
Bazille at Nordstrom
San Jose, California
Wood-fired pizza & other bistro dishes, plus cocktails are the draw at this contemporary restaurant.
Thai Grata Restaurant
San Jose, California
Well-appointed, breezy space with colorful decor focusing on curries & traditional Thai specialties.
TOGO'S Sandwiches
San Jose, California
Counter-service chain offering made-to-order hot & cold sandwiches in straightforward surroundings.
High Five Pizza
San Jose, California
This pizzeria may have a sports bar vibe & multiple TVs, but it's also a family-friendly hangout.
Le Papillon
San Jose, California
Upscale, elegant circa-1977 eatery pairing a contemporary French menu with more than 500 wines.
Habit Burger & Grill
San Jose, California
Charbroiled burgers star at this fast-food chain also offering deli-type sandwiches, salads & fries.
Pho Nhat Minh
San Jose, California
Service options: Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Serves local specialty. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.
Carlitos’ Tijuana Grill
San Jose, California
Service options: Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.
Village Grill
San Jose, California
Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great coffee, Serves local specialty. Popular for: Breakfast.
Hunan Impression
San Jose, California
Spacious establishment specializing in traditional dishes from the Hunan region of China.
Al Castello Ristorante Italiano
San Jose, California
Homey strip-mall find for familiar pasta & chicken dishes, plus pizza on checkered tablecloths.