Downtown San Jose Restaurants

American. With two exquisite granite-topped bars, upstairs and downstairs dining and a beautiful rooftop garden patio the Loft Bar and Bistro is Downtown San Jose's newest hot spot. The menu consists of unique and familiar dishes such as Panko Crusted Chicken Breast, Scampi Prawns and Braised Lamb Shanks. Enjoy free Live Jazz every Thursday night and call ahead to reserve a table.

American Chop House. Located in the historic Masson-LeFranc Building in downtown San Jose, A.P. Stump's is a premier destination for fine dining experiences and classic American cuisine. The menu boasts well-crafted steak and seafood dishes, as well as creative appetizers and salads. This highly rated downtown San Jose restaurant also boasts an enviable collection of 4,000 wines in the beautiful cellar, as well as a premium collection of scotches, cognacs and cordials. A.P. Stump's draws in well-heeled nighttime crowds with the posh martini lounge area and elegant ambiance.

Peruvian Cuisine. Located in downtown San Jose, Nazca Peruvian Cuisine is one of the newest additions to the South Bay restaurant scene. A bastion of authentic Peruvian fare, patrons can indulge in tapas, ceviche or traditional Peruvian entrees that exemplify the region's culinary excellence. With happy hour specials and live music on the weekends, this San Jose Peruvian restaurant welcomes diners for more than just lunch and dinner.

Steak, American. Executive Chef Michael Mina describes as Arcadia's cuisine as "modern, innovative twists on classic American dishes." Some of these new takes include entrees such as Dry Aged Slow Roasted Prime Rib or Michael's signature entree the 'Lobster Pot Pie'. Arcadia is located in the San Jose Marriott hotel.

World Cuisine. Downtown San Jose has a plethora of fabulous dining options and Fahrenheit is the only downtown restaurant that serves World Cuisine. From Grilled Cabernet Steaks to Garlic Noodle dishes, dinner reservations at Fahrenheit are truly a treat. Their relaxing atmosphere and tasty menu selections make it hard not to become a regular. Fahrenheit is perfect for banquets, meetings and large group events. Make reservations online or email Fahrenheit’s Private Event Coordinator.

Asian Fusion. E & O Trading Company is a stylish destination for Silicon Valley diners seeking an innovative cocktail and an eclectic menu of Southeast Asian-inspired cuisine. This downtown San Jose restaurant features an inviting dining room decorated with authentic Southeast Asian artifacts and a cozy sidewalk dining area perfect for people watching. The menu of elegantly presented Southeast Asian "street food" includes dishes such as Indonesian corn fritters, Vietnamese lemongrass chicken noodles, Indian-style flatbreads and Mandalay spare ribs. The restaurant's adjacent Dragon Bar draws downtown San Jose's happy hour and pre-party crowds with signature cocktails such as the Thai Basil Lemon Martini and an extensive wine, beer and top-shelf liquor selection. Well-equipped for large parties, E & O Trading Company specializes in private and downtown San Jose business events.

Cajun Fusion. Serving Cajun cuisine in the heart of downtown San Jose, Gumbo Jumbo is a hot new South Bay destination boasting Creole and Cajun favorites ranging from spicy fried catfish to jambalaya to crawfish by the bucket; there are even a few vegetarian items on the menu. This San Jose gumbo restaurant is open for lunch, dinner and late night snacks, and features live music on Friday and Saturday nights.

Spanish. Sabor Tapas Bar and Lounge in downtown San Jose offers a convenient location and tasty Spanish fare for the after-work and weekend crowds looking to unwind. Located in San Pedro Square, this downtown San Jose tapas restaurant is a great place to meet friends after work for a quick drink or light meal. A full bar and extensive cocktail menu put Sabor on the downtown nightlife map, and live entertainment and DJs make this San Jose bar and restaurant a popular choice among the bar-hopping weekend crowd.

Steakhouse. Located just on the edge of downtown San Jose, the Bold Knight Bistro is a family-owned and operated establishment that has been satisfying hungry patrons for over 40 years. Delicious preparations of steakhouse cuisine include pastas, seafood dishes, chicken and veal dishes in addition to certified Angus beef, and the lunch menu offers delicious sandwiches, paninis and half-pound burgers. The early morning menu also makes this a prime San Jose breakfast restaurant.

Dessert and Crepes Café. From rich, savory crepes to swirls of creamy frozen yogurt, Penguin Froyo offers a range of tempting treats to satisfy downtown San Jose appetites. In the spirit of a French neighborhood café, Penguin Froyo is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and offers local students and busy professionals a place to relax and take an afternoon espresso break or indulge in dessert with friends. An elegant and affordable lunch or dinner choice, Penguin Froyo's menu of freshly made savory and sweet crepes, as well as premium gelato, ice cream and frozen yogurt, make this San Jose eatery a popular choice for all ages. One of the few places in downtown San Jose that serves breakfast, the café is also a popular spot to grab a smoothie, coffee or breakfast crepe on the go, or linger with friends for a weekend brunch.

Hawaiian Barbeque. Smoke Tiki has perfected the art of smoking meats. Serving familiar Hawaiian dishes for lunch and dinner, the Smoke Tiki tropical atmosphere is a perfect match for the cuisine. Offering a great catering service to local businesses and residences, this San Jose smoke house can deliver super tasty food to any Silicon Valley location.

Vietnamese. 19 Market serves up Vietnamese cuisine in a luxuriant, modern setting. Join Chef Hanna Pham as she masterfully unites Californian and Asian specialties to create a unique menu of gastronomical delights. This San Jose restaurant chooses only the freshest ingredients from local sources in order to provide patrons with a healthy alternative to dining out. Whether looking for a romantic escape or a place to conduct a business lunch, 19 Market is bound to please.

Contemporary American. Seven Restaurant and Lounge is San Jose’s hip, new resource for French-inspired American cuisine. Located on the picturesque Alameda strip, Seven features a full service bar, booth seating and contemporary design. This San Jose restaurant makes use of the freshest ingredients to inspire a constantly shifting menu. Seven Restaurant and Lounge is also available for private parties.

Latin American. Azucar delivers an eclectic mix of Latin cuisine from Central and South America, Cuba, Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. If this isn’t enough, Azucar provides European and Asian cuisine as well. This San Jose restaurant has an energetic and fun feel to it, with its brightly painted walls and Southern décor. Whether looking for a refreshing Margarita, a spicy dinner or a lively getaway, Azucar Latin Bistro provides it all.

Contemporary American. Billy Berk’s provides a hearty menu of classic American cuisine that includes surf, turf and greens. Located in a picturesque brick and timber dining room, this San Jose restaurant boasts of its amiable and familiar atmosphere. Enjoy a drink during Happy Hour, catch the game on one of the Plasma TVs, or get cozy in a corner with a loved one. Billy Berk’s is a memorable dining experience, whatever the dining experience.

French. Emile’s has been recognized as one of the leading French restaurants in the Bay Area. Located in San Jose’s SoFa district, Emile’s continues to stun visitors with its elegant flair, courteous service and traditional dishes. This San Jose restaurant also serves authentic Swiss and Italian cuisine, all made from the freshest, seasonal ingredients.

American, Steak, Seafood. The Grill is San Jose’s classic steak house, also providing fresh seafood and a wide selection of wine. Located right in the heart of San Jose, The Grill on the Alley specializes in hearty American cuisine in a luxurious setting. With its wood paneling, booth seating and romantic lighting, this San Jose restaurant is perfect for a night on the town. Indulge in Happy Hour or book a private event; The Grill provides endless possibilities.

Italian. Il Fornaio is a classy Italian restaurant providing authentic cuisine. Whether craving some Risotto alla Milanese, Pasta Arrabbiata, fine rotisserie chicken or Filet Mignon, this San Jose restaurant provides it all and provides it well. Il Fornaio’s elegant interior, wide windows and fully stocked bar makes it a cozy venue for curious gourmands. They also provide private banquet rooms as well as catering services.

Italian. Located in the De Anza Hotel, La Pastaia provides contemporary Italian cuisine, and fine wine to accompany it. This San Jose restaurant’s art deco décor and Mediterranean ambiance make it a delightful getaway for a romantic evening or an upscale dining event. Located just minutes away from the Center for Performing Arts, Convention Center and Tech Museum, La Pastaia is centrally located to provide patrons with entertainment resources. They are also available for weddings.

Seafood, Steak, American. McCormick & Schmick features over thirty species of fish from which to choose, as well as steak and other American classic cuisine. Dedicated to fresh ingredients, this San Jose restaurant prints out a new menu daily to reflect what is currently in season. Set in wood and rich colors, McCormick & Schmick provides a traditional and familiar setting to make customers feel welcome and at home. McCormick & Schmick also provides banquet accommodations.

Steak, Seafood. Morton’s The Steakhouse is a Diner’s Choice Winner for its surf and turf specialties. The menu includes contemporary American classics, USDA prime cuts, seafood and a vast selection of wine. Morton’s The Staekhouse is also known for its tableside menu presentations, in which servers display and describe each menu item by rolling it out in a cart to the table.

American, Pan-Asian. Mosaic is located in the historic Hotel Montgomery and offers casual dining in a contemporary atmosphere. With its Asian inspired American cuisine, this San Jose restaurant lives up to its name. Mosaic’s romantic lighting, private seating and warm ambiance make it an intimate escape from the outside world.

World Cuisine. This San Jose restaurant and nightclub offers not only delicious, worldly cuisine, but it also hosts events on a weekly basis. Motif’s modern décor and personal ambiance make it an enticing venue with an eclectic array of dishes from which to choose.

Italian. Paolo’s serves authentic Italian cuisine and various regional dishes. With a menu that reflects seasonal ingredients, Paolo’s is constantly redefining good food. This San Jose restaurant’s elegant setting and amiable service make it a memorable venue, cherished by locals and visitors alike.

Seafood, American. Scott’s Seafood offers a variety of fish as well as USDA prime cuts, a full bar and classic American cuisine. Visitors can indulge in this San Jose restaurant’s inviting ambiance or enjoy views of the city from the sixth floor. Some delicacies include Sesame Crushed Ahi, Prime Dry Age New York Steak and Australian Lobster Tail.

Italian, Contemporary American. Spiedo is located in the heart of San Pedro Square and offers contemporary Italian cuisine. Spiedo’s spacious two levels and rich, inviting atmosphere make it a fine choice for either casual or elegant dining. With a full bar, mesquite rotisserie and grill, and fire oven pizza, this San Jose restaurant succeeds in wedding style with taste.

German. Teske’s Germania Restaurant offers authentic and delicious German cuisine in a cozy, familiar setting. With live music and dances, this San Jose restaurant takes dining and turns it into an event. Delicacies include Hunter Steak, Breaded Veal Cutlets and Pork Medallions. Teske’s Germania is a delightful bit of Germany in the heart of San Jose.

French, Italian. Cozy 71 St. Peter restaurant has a worn charm that draws you in right away. Steamed mussels and clams, roasted garlic and bacon vinaigrette, spinach salad with goat cheese and pears, and pan-seared foie gras all make great appetizers. Wild mushroom risotto, dry-spiced grilled lamb sirloin and roasted duck are all great, too.

New California. Housed in a downtown landmark, Agenda features a fully-appointed restaurant at street level. Entrees include buttery filet mignon perched atop potato puffs, and roasted rosemary chicken expertly paired with a mushroom risotto. Call for reservations and mention this SanJose.com ad to receive $15 off your next meal at the Agenda in Downtown San Jose.

Italian-American. One of downtown San Jose's most attractive eateries, Bella Mia serves regional dishes with flair. Located between Santa Clara Avenue and San Fernando Street on First Street, there is a convenient parking garage across the street from Bella Mia. Call fro reservations and mention SanJose.com.

Mexican. Enjoy delicious Mexican cuisine at Chacho's. Serving traditional Mexican dishes and like chile rellenos and flan, Chacho's is open for lunch and dinner. Flowers, murals and friendly servers provide an equally enjoyable ambiance. Closed on Sundays, reservations are not required.

American. This upscale Downtown San Jose restaurant prepares All-American classic meals unlike any other. Located on the ground floor of the Hilton hotel, the City Bar and Grill serves breakfast lunch and dinner seven days a week and has fantastic catering menus. Parking validation is available or the Hilton garage. Mention SanJose.com when making reservations.

Chinese. Pagoda Restaurant in the Fairmont offers an elegant dining room and world class Chinese cuisine. Reservations required.

American. Fountain Restaurant in the Fairmont is open for breakfast and lunch and serves traditional American favorites. From their delicious breakfast buffet to a full al a carte menu, the Fountain in San Jose is sure to please everyone.

Brewery. With a wonderful garden patio, cozy dining room and beautiful banquet facilities, Gordon Biersch in San Jose is perfect for all occasions. Serving creative brew-house favorites, like Oven-Fired Pizza, Barbeque Burgers and Jambalaya Pasta, Gordon Biersch aims to satisfy the craving customer. Regularly hosting local bands on their patio stage, G.B. is a wonderful restaurant for live music and scrumptious eats.

Seafood. Next door to the San Jose Rep Theatre, Hawgs Seafood Bar offers simple seafood and convenience for theatergoers. Hawgs offer many seafood and pasta combinations. The linguini clams and sautèed scallops are full of garlic and rich flavors.

Thai. This popular establishment runs the gamut of Thai treasures. Decorated with intricately carved wood and traditional Thai artifacts, the House of Siam is casual and elegant. The quiet atmosphere is a perfect setting to enjoy some of the tastiest Thai cuisine San Jose has to offer. From fried sweet potatoes to curry dishes, House of Siam is delicious for lunch and dinner.

Japanese, Sushi. Located in the Japantown region of downtown Kubota has a beautiful dining room that serves exquisite rice, luscious ribs and top-notch sushi. Known by the locals as one of San Jose's finest Japanese restaurants, Kubota serves great Bento Box lunches and exquisite entrees for dinner. Call for reservations and don't forget to rub the over-sized polished boulder in the middle of the dining room for good luck.

Mexican. La Peñita restaurant serves not only good Mexican standards such as tacos, burritos and enchiladas, but also a number of first-rate specialties that make it a local favorite. The house specialty at La Peñita is the wonderful soup, caldo de camaron, menudo, pozole, albondigas and the excellent cocido de res.

Cuban. Looking for good Cuban food in the Bay Area? Los Cubanos restaurant is the place. Cuban food exudes an earthy, slow-cooked seduction: pork-accented black beans, sweet fried plantains, Spanish garbanzo beans and pigeon rice accompany entrees such as Lechon asado, roast pork that has a tangy, salty flavor, carne asada, and fricase de pollo. To complete your immersion in Cuban food at Los Cubanos, order a bottle of Hatuey beer.

Hawaiian Treats. When the lunch crowd hits downtown, Lollicup is there serving quick bites and tasty specialty teas. Miko Miko Hawaiian barbeque is the answer to any island craving and it's affordable. Located only minutes from San Jose State University and offering catering service, Lollicup is perfect for students and business people alike.

Bistro. Open lunch and dinner, the Naglee Park Garage serves rotisserie meats, smoked seafood and accents each dish with seasonal vegetables. Their bistro style restaurant also prepares wonderful gourmet sandwiches and side dishes for quick bites. The Garage has a fantastic Sunday brunch that includes baked egg dishes and their signature French toast. Tell them that SanJose.com sent you. Enjoy!

Korean. Korean food can be hard to get to know, but the menu at Omogari restaurant includes pictures of many dishes that help give you a better idea of what you're ordering. The menu includes rice dishes, stone pot meals, stews, noodles and soft tofu hot pot dishes.

Italian. Known as a staple for San Jose residences this classy and classic rat-pack-style diner, featuring tuxedo-clad waiters is one of a kind. From the homemade chicken soup to the Veal Scaloppini, Sinatra would be right at home. O.J.'s is perfect for lunch and late night eats.

Italian. Filled with artistic spins on California-meets-Italy, the kitchen turns out elegant entrees spearheaded by seasonal vegetables. The impeccable service compensates for the modest portions. Call for reservations and mention SanJose.com.

New Orleans Style. Poor House Bistro bills itself as a "New Orleans joint" with a low-priced menu that includes po' boys, barbecued shrimp, gumbo, red beans and rice, burgers and Louisiana's Abita Ale on tap. The New Orleans combo includes a sampler of gumbo, red beans and rice and jambalaya. The file-seasoned gumbo of chicken and okra is hearty and good.

Ethiopian. In a nicely converted Craftsman home, the Red Sea presents the soft vegetable stews, legumes and spicy meats of this north African region. Beer, wine. Closed Sun.

Californian. Ordering at the counter is the order of the day at the Chicken Coop, but if you don't mind carrying your own tray and fighting for a table you'll be rewarded with hearty spit-roasted chicken that requires at least six napkins. Pasta, Wine Country duck and hockey-themed desserts round out the menu. The Sonoma Chicken Coop is perfect for dining in or take-out.

Sushi. Offering a wide variety of fantastic sushi, Tengu Sushi is the ideal spot for a quick sushi lunch. From California rolls to tasty Ahi and Yellow Tail sushi, every sushi lover is sure to be pleased. Only moments away from SJSU and several theatres, Tengu Sushi serves affordable sushi for any occasion.

Brewery. Burgers and California cuisine mix well with housemade beers. The Tied House is especially fun during sports events and happy hour. Large banquet facilities indoors and outside on their patio makes the Tied House in the San Pedro Square perfect for big dinner parties with family or friends. Plenty of parking is available at the San Pedro Square garage.

Vegetarian. This restaurant-cum-temple provides a slew of spiritual paraphernalia along with a menu offering vegetarian dishes from around the world. Located moments form San Jose's new city hall, the Vegetarian House is a great lunch idea for conscientious business people.

Vietnamese. Recently remodeled in warm earthy tones with and wood and bamboo details, Vung Tau Restaurant celebrates its 20th year serving traditional Vietnamese food. Shrimp and pork spring rolls are a staple, as is green papaya salad, both of which Vung Tau restaurant does well. Grilled dishes and sweet and sour fish soup are great, too.

Chinese. Wing's belongs in an old movie with gumshoes and low-brimmed hats and cigarette smoke drifting in dark alleyways. The food is complemented by an exotic dining room with sequestered seating equipped with hanging beads and doorbells, and other miscellaneous peculiarities of a bygone era. Always a fun place to visit. Open daily.