The 9 Best Restaurants in San Jose

June 06, 2021

Need to grab a bite while you’re in San Jose?

Did you know that San Jose is recognized as the cultural, political, and financial center of Silicon Valley? It’s also the largest city in Northern California based on the area and the population. Given the size of San Jose and the number of people living there, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a spot to eat at.

It doesn’t matter if you’re in the mood for a spicy Mexican cuisine or a steaming hot bowl of ramen. You’ll find this and more to satisfy your hunger in San Jose. The city features an establishment for every type of dining experience that you can think of.

But how do you know what restaurants are worth your time? There’s no need to bother any locals for recommendations. This list will provide you with everything you require to enjoy a tasty meal in San Jose.

Olla Cocina

Olla Cocina

You can’t help but get into the festival feeling once you step inside Olla Cochina. The bright, vibrant colors and the buzzing atmosphere will make it seem like you’re partying in the streets of Mexico.

The meals are just as colorful. Whether it’s the tacos or enchiladas, everything on the plate stands loud and proud. It also goes best with one of their signature cocktails like the traditional margarita or sangria.

District

District

Sharing is caring at District. The menu features small plates and pizzas that are designed to be enjoyed as a group, so no one gets envious of someone else’s meal. You can also pair most of them with something from the drink menu.

You can’t miss the bar as it’s literally in the center of the establishment. There are over 40 wines to choose from and 60 premium whiskeys from places around the world. The mixologists are experts at using these liquors to produce refreshing cocktails for your pleasure.

Luna Mexican Kitchen

Luna Mexican Kitchen

All of the meals developed at Luna Mexican Kitchen have been handed down for generations. Despite advancements in technologies, the chefs prefer to use the same techniques and methods that their ancestors used.

After your first bite, you wouldn’t want it any other way. Their holy trinity of corn, chili, and beans is used to develop unforgettable meals that are suitable for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone with allergies or other dietary requirements.

Ramen Nagi

Ramen Nagi

The term nagi means calmness before the waves, and the only waves they want you to experience here are that of pure flavor. The ramen at this restaurant is known throughout the world and is a must-try while you’re in the San Jose area.

Start your experience by choosing your ramen base and then pick a flavor. If you can’t decide, the chef will happily assist. Finally, select your noodles and garnishes. Then let your mouth savor the flavors of these unbelievable creations.

Starbird

Starbird

You haven’t really had fried chicken until you’ve been to Starbird. The chefs here believed that the popular dish hadn’t been perfected and made it their mission to create the perfect piece that could not be rivaled.

They came up with their own secret recipe, and the result is one of the best pieces of fried chicken to exist. The only problem is deciding how to eat it. Do you have it in a boxed meal with sides or on one of their signature sandwiches? There’s no wrong answer as everything tastes fantastic.

The Table

The Table

There are two aspects that The Table is renowned for. The first is their high-quality ingredients that they source locally and use to create a selection of stunning dishes that can’t be experienced anywhere else.

The second is their drinks menu. Featuring a collection of progressive wines and unique, handcrafted cocktails, they are obsessed with their beverages and want to ensure you have the perfect accompaniment to your meal.

Meso

Meso

Friends, families, and co-workers are regulars at Meso. It’s the perfect place to gather around a table and share a meal or two. They even provide smaller plates, so no one misses out on anything they serve.

They also host an extensive selection of wines that are not available in a lot of locations. Meso sources from tiny spots in Spain, Portugal, Lebanon, Slovakia, Greece, and even Israel. If wine isn’t your drink of choice, there are just as many cocktails and spirits to choose from as well.

Maurizio’s

Maurizio’s

Since he was 15 years old, Maurizio has been perfecting his culinary techniques so that he could share them with as many patrons as possible. The end result is some high-quality fine dining Italian cuisine that’s one of a kind.

No matter whether you visit for lunch or dinner, you’re in for a treat. The house-made gnocchi is a favorite amongst the locals, as is the cheese-filled tortellini. But just make sure to dine on some dessert before you leave as it’s unlike any other sweets you’ve ever had.

Rubio’s Coastal Grill

Rubios

You’ll immediately know why Rubio’s Coastal Grill has won awards for their meals when you take your first bite. Everything is freshly made and prepared with so much care that you almost feel guilty about eating it.

But this feeling immediately diminishes once you start chowing down. The fish tacos are one of the most popular items on the menu. However, you can’t go wrong with the nachos or quesadillas either. Even the warm cinnamon churros are worth grabbing before you leave, as the smell of them is enchanting.

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