Best of 26 hidden restaurants in San Jose

San Jose, California's culinary scene goes beyond its famous landmarks. Uncover the hidden gems tucked away in unexpected corners of the city. "Hidden restaurants in San Jose" provide unique dining experiences, from cozy eateries to exclusive speakeasies. These unsung heroes feature diverse cuisines and innovative menus, awaiting curious foodies to embark on a memorable gastronomic journey.

1. Black Sheep Brasserie

Family-owned and operated with a focus on sustainable and locally sourced ingredients

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Gluten-Free
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots

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2. Poor House Bistro

Cozy atmosphere, Cajun-Creole cuisine, and frequent live music

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Downtown Spots

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3. Orchestria Palm Court Restaurant

Live music every weekend and a romantic, intimate atmosphere.

TOPICS

  • Celebrations
  • American Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots

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4. Paper Plane

Cozy atmosphere, attentive service, and authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • American Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Mid-Range

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5. Mosaic Restaurant and Ultra Lounge

Mosaic Restaurant also features a chic ultra lounge, offering craft cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere for pre-or post-dinner drinks.

TOPICS

  • Fusion Cuisine
  • Social Gatherings
  • Happy Hours

6. Teske's Germania

Cash-only, family-owned, and operates since 1952

TOPICS

  • Fusion Cuisine
  • Social Gatherings
  • Mid-Range

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7. Le Papillon

Featuring live piano music, a temperature-controlled wine cellar, and a beautifully designed garden patio.

TOPICS

  • Holiday Celebrations
  • Italian Cuisine
  • Vegan Options

8. Left Bank Brasserie - Santana Row

Elegant and romantic atmosphere, complete with a lively bar and outdoor seating.

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Downtown Spots

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9. Firehouse No.1

Housed in a historic fire station, providing a unique and cozy atmosphere.

TOPICS

  • Corporate Events
  • Italian Cuisine
  • High-End

10. District

Cozy atmosphere with talented chefs

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • High-End
  • Downtown Spots

11. Good Karma Fine Ales Food & HiFi

Featuring a spacious patio, cozy indoor seating, and a wide selection of craft beers on tap.

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Vegan Options
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Downtown Spots

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12. The Old Wagon Saloon & Grill

Historical railroad car interior, live music, and outdoor patio

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • American Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots

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13. Siena Bistro

Family-owned French bistro with a warm and welcoming atmosphere

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Hidden Gems

14. Mezcal Restaurant

Featuring a wide selection of artisanal Mezcals and a cozy, intimate atmosphere

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots
  • Late Night

15. Palermo Italian Restaurant

Serving authentic Sicilian dishes using family recipes and imported ingredients from Italy.

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Celebrations
  • Downtown Spots

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16. Il Fornaio

Charming patio, extensive wine list, and housemade pasta.

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots
  • Corporate Events

17. 55 - Fifty Five South

Intimate setting, knowledgeable staff, and a focus on locally sourced ingredients.

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • American Cuisine
  • Affordable Nightlife
  • Downtown Spots

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18. Meso Modern Mediterranean

Rotating menu featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and a wide selection of wines.

TOPICS

  • Personal Celebrations
  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

19. La Foret

Family-owned and operated for over 30 years, featuring classic French cuisine

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • High-End
  • Downtown Spots

20. 71 Saint Peter Restaurant

A family-owned Italian restaurant with a rotating menu of daily specials

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots

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21. Oveja Negra

Exquisite Puerto Rican cuisine, cozy atmosphere, and attentive service

TOPICS

  • Fusion Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Mid-Range

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22. Secco Restaurant & Bar

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Mid-Range
  • Vegetarian Options

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23. Encanto restaurant bar

Live flamenco music and dance performances

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Affordable Nightlife
  • Suburban

24. The Province

Warm and cozy atmosphere, knowledgeable and attentive staff, extensive wine list

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

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25. The Nest Asian Bistro

Authentic Asian cuisine, beautifully presented with fresh ingredients

TOPICS

  • Fusion Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Budget-Friendly Eats

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26. Labyrinth Bar & Kitchen

Intimate ambience with live music on weekends

TOPICS

  • Fusion Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots

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