San Jose’s nightlife often gets overshadowed by the glow of San Francisco to the north, but the capital of Silicon Valley holds its own with a surprisingly diverse and sophisticated drinking scene. From historic dive bars that have survived the tech boom to sleek rooftop lounges overlooking the skyline, the city offers a venue for every mood and occasion.
Whether you are a local looking to break out of your routine or a visitor navigating the urban sprawl of the South Bay, finding the right spot can be overwhelming. The city’s geography is vast, stretching from the historic downtown core to the tree-lined neighborhoods of Willow Glen and Japantown.
This guide cuts through the noise by focusing on quality, atmosphere, and authenticity rather than just hype. We have curated a mix of craft cocktail havens, beloved beer gardens, and cultural institutions that define San Jose’s unique social fabric.
You will find options perfect for a first date, a casual after-work hangout, or a celebratory night out with friends. Every entry on this list has been selected for its consistency in service, quality of drinks, and the distinct experience it offers.
To make your decision easier, we have categorized the venues based on their primary strengths, whether that be mixology, live music, or a relaxed patio setting. No matter what you are drinking, these are the places where San Jose truly comes alive after dark.
Keep reading to discover the definitive list of the best places to grab a drink in the city. After the list, be sure to check out our local insider tips for navigating the San Jose bar scene like a pro.
Paper Plane
| Address | 72 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (408) 713-2625 |
Nice environment, with low light and spacious floor. Large, medium and small tables as well as the bar sitting. Plenty of different options for different group sizes. Staff was courteous and helpful. Big props for their drink chart in the menu! Wonderful help in deciding what to have. Overall, nice spot for some drinks! Make sure to get in before 7pm, so you can partake on some of the special happy hour deals. PS: It's a bar, ID is REQUIRED.
Visited in December specifically for their Miracle holiday pop up bar. The place is decked out from head to toe in holiday cheer with blow up santas and gingerbread men, hanging stockings, wreaths, and snowflakes, and lights and tinsel strewn everywhere. A bit of a wait on a Saturday to get in around 7:30pm but the line moved fairly quickly. We ordered the koala lalala and the one that came in the Santa trex mug, which I think might have been Rudolph's replacement. Drinks were quite good and it was nice that each one was served in a fun mug! They have quite a bit of space though people tend to congregate near the front so it's best to head towards the back if you're looking for seating.
Another great bar in the San Jose cocktail scene. They have great drinks on the regular some of which have an Asian influence. The bar menu here is also great and the koji fried chicken is a must try. They are super addicting and go great with the drinks. A must try at Paper Plane is the Ring of Fire, which is like a whiskey sour with extra depth of complexity. It’s also awesome to visit during Christmas time when they have the Miracle pop up. They go hard with the Christmas decorations and the drinks are pretty good! Most of pop-up drinks are on the sweeter side though. Love this bar, must try if you’re in the area.
Cocktail bar with some snacks didn't get to try since only stopped in for 1 drink. Was fine but could use some logistical improvements.
Food: n/a didn't order Atmosphere: 4 Service: 3
Cost to worth it rating: 3 ($17 per cocktail)
Opentableable: no
Return worthiness: maybe
Highlights:
- Very large open space
- Impressive looking long bar with shelves lit up and packed high with liquor bottles
- Food menu: things like charcuterie, wings, guacamole, burger etc served til 11pm
Midlights:
- Creative map of a cocktail menu but bit hard to navigate even with the quadrants trying to give direction on type of drink (adventurous, bold, refreshing, familiar).
- Thought it was odd to not have a paper plane drink on the menu since that's the name of the place
Lowlights:
- Even with the open space, there's limited seating so there weren't any open seats after 9pm
- Not much seating at the long bar either
- One line for ordering food or drinks at bar and no table service. Since menu is online would benefit from ordering that way too and would be nice if you are able to grab a table to have a server cone around.
Drinks range from super notable and well balanced to sorta meh. They pretty expensive, but some of their pre batch things are a good deal for what you get. I like the Where there's smoke.
Food is okay. Only got some small plates but they aren't too bad but nothing worth craving.
Service really depends on the day of the week and how busy they are, but overall it's reasonable for the ammount of customers they have
Still O.G. & Alter Ego Cocktail Club
| Address | 66 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (408) 703-2084 |
Went with my husband for drinks & dinner at Alter Ego. We made a reservation for soon after opening and arrived early yet were seated anyway. We had the place to ourselves for about 15 minutes and even when we left it wasn’t very noisy beyond the great music playing so we were still able to chat throughout. Ordered delicious cocktails and quite a few equally delicious bites. My favorite was probably the bao but I was also pleasantly surprised at the takoyaki, as usually the octopus pieces are too big and that texture takes away from my enjoyment; this was not the case at all here! I ordered a second cocktail which was out of stock but the bartender asked my preferences then offered to make me something off-menu, and to even make something else if I didn’t like his first attempt. But he nailed it! Last note is that the dessert is pretty small but given all the food we had ordered and eaten, it was perfectly split between my husband and I without either one of us feeling overly full upon leaving. All in all, loved this spot and hope to be back!!
Still O.G. & Alter Ego Cocktail Club has a really fun dual-concept setup. The front space has this funky, artsy cocktail bar energy while the back lounge feels darker, moodier, and more classic. There’s even a small DJ setup that keeps the vibe lively without making the place feel overwhelming.
The crowd was super eclectic and honestly made people-watching part of the experience. I personally enjoyed the cocktails from the back lounge much more than the front bar, they felt more balanced and better executed overall. The Old Silk Road & Easy Tiger are really good cocktails.
Definitely a cool late-night spot if you want somewhere social, energetic, and a little different from the typical lounge scene.
This review is for Alter Ego! Had a great time catching up with friends here. The cocktails at this speakeasy are creative and taste great. It was definitely quieter here than at Still OG just outside, which I appreciated because it was a great place to chat. Make sure to get a reservation because they get booked out and it's not a huge space. The drinks are expensive so it's not a weekly type of thing for me, but fun for a special occasion or date night. The surprise standout was actually the milk bread which came out hot with salty butter 👌🏼
This review is long overdue since I've been here multiple times since last year.
It's best to make reservations but we've also gotten lucky and have been able to walk in when its earlier in the evening.
Alter Ego is the speakeasy bar in the back. Previously, I've only tried the drinks and some of the food. This time around, we tried the food that was recommended by the bartenders and chef. Omg...why haven't we tried the other food before?! We've had the smash burger multiple times from Still OG and it's still one of our favorites. This time, we tried the bread and butter, the passard egg, and potato pave.
THE MILK BREAD. Made daily in house and it was so freaking good. I devoured the bread with the butter. Passard egg had such a good flavor profile that went well together. Now the potato pave... was like a huge, crispy French fry with a delicious sauce. I want more of this as I am writing this review.
Now for the drinks, I love the tequila based drinks here. Naked and famous is my favorite for the mezcal drink. I tried 2 new ones based on what I told our bartender, Fernando. Another mezcal drink that was good was Last Word. For a spicier drink, the escape artist was amazing.
Shout out to our bartender Fernando and chef Andre. These two truly made our date night fun and memorable. We can't wait to go back again for more drinks and food!
Environment ⭐⭐⭐⭐½☆
Vintage-style interior with a nice aesthetic.
However, it was quite loud and didn’t really feel like a true speakeasy. The space is split into an inner and outer area—we walked in and were seated outside, which was noisier. I assume the inner section is quieter and more in line with the vibe.
Drinks ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The drinks were great…though I might have had a few too many to remember all the details. That probably says enough.
Courage Anyone
| Address | 399 S 1st St Fl 2, San Jose, CA 95113 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 5:00 PM – 1:30 AM Saturday: 5:00 PM – 1:30 AM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (408) 430-3310 |
Big place with lots of bar seats and cozy booths. Dimly lit at night for a cozy vibe. Rotating/seasonal menu. Cocktails were yummy and the pork belly musubi was fantastic. Ruined regular musubis for me from now on.
I went to this bar while visiting San Jose and it was incredible! The bartender made me a specialty cocktail off the menu that was incredible! And I made a new friend there who helped me navigate the rest of San Jose. Will be returning when I visit the Bay Area again!
A new bar in downtown San Jose. A great list of rotating, seasonal cocktails and excellent decor. Definitely will be coming back!
It's quite loud perfect for a party scene good drinks I tried to order 2nd for about 20 minutes and was completely ignored
We came here during the soft opening and loved the vibes! They currently have a Sippin' Santa Pop Up with their fun, tiki bar drink. There was a good mix of music playing, which was great for a Friday night.
For drinks, I got the pineapple upside down cask, which reminded me of a Mai Tai drink from Hawaii. For the group, we got the punch bowl drink to share, and it was delicious as well. All the mugs that the drinks came in were super cute, and they are also available for purchase.
The silent "nightcap" was also really good, but it does contain espresso. You also get to take home the souvenir cup, which is perfect for the holidays.
The servers and bartenders were all very nice and attentive. Our glasses were frequently refilled with water, with the occasional question of whether we needed another drink.
The theme of the bar will be rotated with the seasons, so now is a good time to check out the holiday offerings. We'll be back soon!
Cash Only
| Address | 78 E Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95113 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 2:00 PM – 2:00 AM Tuesday: 2:00 PM – 2:00 AM Wednesday: 2:00 PM – 2:00 AM Thursday: 2:00 PM – 2:00 AM Friday: 2:00 PM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 2:00 PM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 2:00 PM – 2:00 AM |
| Phone | (408) 288-5252 |
Cash Only is my favorite place. Not only did I meet my boyfriend there many years ago but the staff is always great! The Whiskey Apple is amazing. The music is always good. They carry lots of N/A drinks for your non drinking friends. Bathrooms are clean & fun. Open every day.
It literally is Cash only. Don't be dumb.
Great honkey-tonk vibe and welcoming atmosphere.
Pros- the house drinks are great. The Apple Whiskey is delicious and diabetic friendly ( fresh squeezed apple juice and rye whiskey). If you come, look for Chaelyn- she will take care of you because she's awesome!
Met Cash himself; great guy. Their store picks are tasty- I had the 107 and the Four Roses and enjoyed them both.
Cons- it's Cash Only. It's literally the name. Make sure you bring cash and they dont do tabs. They dont have a kitchen, but they have nice snack foods.
Cash...Johnny Cash theme bar is a cool dive bar with a nice pool table and regulars mixing it up with travelers.
Good mixologists on duty or a shot and a beer before heading downtown for grub.
I have been coming to Cash Only since they first opened and have never had a single issue until last Saturday night.
While catching up with friends, one of the bartenders, Jay, decided to eavesdrop on our conversation. He only caught a few words out of context, but came over and aggressively informed me that "that kind of talk" was grounds to get kicked out of the bar. He completely misunderstood what we were actually talking about, but was ready to throw out a loyal, long-time customer based entirely on his own assumptions and biased opinions.
Even the two people I was with were completely taken back and shocked by his comment. It is incredibly disappointing to get treated this way by staff at a place you've supported for years. I am definitely rethinking whether I want to bring my business back here.
I have been coming to Cash Only since they first opened, and will continue to stop by when I get a chance.
They have a great selection of drinks at a good value, and the whiskey apples are always delicious. The staff have always been very welcoming and professional, and I have never felt unsafe.
Like the name suggests, they only accept cash and they do have an ATM on the premises that has a lower fee than the other businesses in the area.
Haberdasher
| Address | 43 W San Salvador St, San Jose, CA 95113 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (408) 792-7356 |
Haberdasher delivers exactly what you want from a true craft cocktail bar, moody atmosphere, elevated drinks, and that classic speakeasy feel that makes you want to stay for hours.
The cocktails were incredible. I had a key lime pie cocktail that was honestly one of the more unique drinks I’ve had in a while, and the coconut pineapple cocktail had both of us completely obsessed. Smooth, balanced, and dangerously easy to drink.
If you know about the secret menu, then you already know the possibilities here are basically endless. The bartenders clearly know what they’re doing and can make just about anything depending on your flavor profile.
Perfect spot for date nights, cocktails with friends, or anyone who genuinely appreciates creative mixology and lounge energy.
I honestly loved everything about this bar/speakeasy!! It was so quaint, rustic, and romantic, and I’m so happy I was on a girl date playing catch-up with my friend!!
We got to have two rounds of special holiday cocktails and each one was better than the last! Well, they all had different flavors so I liked all of our drink drinks just because they were so eclectic and unique!!
The pear liqueur was incredibly interesting to me. Then the bartender told me that they were a local Eastbay distillery and they do tastings!! So my girl and I are definitely taking public transit to the East Bay to go try out the distillery next!!
We will definitely be back to this speakeasy!!
Some of the best cocktails I've ever had, in any city, ever. Superb service and killer vibe inside. Will definitely be back!
This place was pretty busy on a weekend. The entrance is a brief walk down stairs. The ambiance is dark, loud (lots of chatting), but with cool vibes. Seating is tough but the Mezcal cocktails were great. The staff was super friendly and professional. Prices were in line with other spots and an overall great experience.
One of my favorite bars in the Bay. Haberdasher is an awesome speakeasy bar with a tailor shop/home-y vibe. They’ve always got a great selection on the menu but if you ask them to make you a drink based on a flavor profile you describe, they will also make you something stellar. Some must-trys at Haberdasher are the Black lodge and the Old Fashioned. They do something with the Old Fashioned that makes it really phenomenal. All the bartenders are super knowledgeable and are great. I’d come here all the time if I could!
The Caravan Lounge
| Address | 98 S Almaden Ave, San Jose, CA 95113 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 2:00 PM – 1:30 AM Tuesday: 2:00 PM – 1:30 AM Wednesday: 2:00 PM – 1:30 AM Thursday: 2:00 PM – 1:30 AM Friday: 2:00 PM – 1:30 AM Saturday: 2:00 PM – 1:30 AM Sunday: 2:00 PM – 1:30 AM |
| Phone | (408) 995-6220 |
Friendly staff and friendly customers. Beer was reasonably priced. New to town so last week was my first time there. Can't wait to go back.
Great place. I am from Florida, was wondering from my hotel and walked into this place. So welcoming.
Bar owner bought me a drink walking in to welcome me!
Go here!
Love this venue for the cool vibes and the awesome shows they host! Check out Circus of Sin and other events on their calendar. Drinks are well priced and stiff. Vibe is a punk dive bar with stickers in the bathroom and kitch on the walls and ceilings. Pool table is available when a show isn't going on. Love this place!
The staff may come off as rude; however, I think it is because of the punk culture, not necessarily who they are. The live music is okay. CASH ONLY.
This use to be my favorite spot, this place has seriously downgraded. The cherry on top was that now bouncers can’t even tell a real ID from a fake, smh do better
Market Bar
| Address | 87 N San Pedro St, San Jose, CA 95110 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (408) 849-4716 |
I’ve spent a lot of time at Main Bar during the World Cup matches, and the atmosphere has been fantastic. The venue gets incredibly busy, but Anthony consistently helps keep everything running smoothly.
What stands out most is his ability to make guests feel welcome, even when he’s juggling a packed bar and a constant stream of customers. He’s professional, attentive, and has a great sense of hospitality that elevates the overall experience. You can tell he genuinely cares about both the guests and the success of the business.
In a high-energy environment where service can easily slip during peak hours, Anthony remains organized, approachable, and focused. He’s a big part of why I enjoy returning to Main Bar and recommending it to friends.
Nice area. Alot of food options to choose from. Outside dining area had many nice places to sit at.
Located in San Pedro Square, this is a great spot to grab a drink and relax. They have a wide selection of beers, and as someone who isn't much of a beer drinker, I appreciated how friendly and helpful the staff were when it came to making recommendations.
The atmosphere strikes a nice balance between a neighborhood pub and a sports bar, making it an easy place to meet up with friends or take a break while exploring the area.
I'd definitely recommend stopping by. If possible, try to visit during a less busy time so you can fully enjoy the atmosphere.
A place with good vibes and live music and lots of food choices.
Liked the beers on tap, especially the IPA. Smooth and just enough punch.
Enjoyed the pizza but no seasoning other chilli flakes and cheese. Garlic yucca fries were decent but the dip made it better.
Got drinks here during SJ Fifa 2026 World Cup playoff. Service was good from the female bar tender only... the male bar tenders had bad attitude and flat out prioritize female customers only even though they were not at the bar first. Bad service from male bar tenders.
Willow Den Public House
| Address | 803 Lincoln Ave, San Jose, CA 95126 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM |
| Phone | (408) 271-1880 |
Super busy on karaoke nights which helps with the atmosphere and ambience and the music is at least loud enough for the singers to be able to hear over the crowd which is crucial for singers to be able to regulate their own voice. Too many karaoke shows force you to feel like you're singing to a quiet dinner crowd at some high end restaurant and it's the worst sound ever. Here the sound is great at least.
There's also a stage, a piano, couple pool tables among other bar games. Outdoor seating during the day but patio closes at night. There's also a small outdoor section out front for the smokers to bring their drinks. Liquor store next door stays open late enough to grab chips or drinks or random supplies when leaving. It's sort of a neighborhood establishment so parking can be tricky if it's super busy. No problem otherwise during average crowds. Bar is big and roomy to handle larger crowds.
Bring ID. They do check regardless of age.
Also plenty of table seating as well as bar seating. Fully wrap around bar so seating is rarely an issue even when busy.
Drinks are a bit pricey but for the area aren't too much higher than similar establishments.
Went to the Willow Den Public House for an event and had a splendid time there! I love the atmosphere and the people who frequent the spot. The owner Han is a really cool and friendly guy too! I loved the pool tables in the side and the different types of seating options. Plenty of bar seating and some booths as well. Great for a pregame, night out, or just kicking it with a friend. Loved the music too. Will definitely be back again!
Walked into Willow Den to see my friends band and accidentally entered a live documentary on human behavior.
The bartender knows everyone’s name, their ex’s name, and probably their probation officer. One guy has been “just about to leave” since 2007. Another swears he almost made it big… in something… details pending.
Drinks are strong, conversations are stronger, if you can hear each other, and the characters? Oscar-worthy.
Would I go back? Absolutely. For research purposes. And dancing.
A hidden dive bar in San Jose. Spacious, TV’s, pool and ping pong tables…..and a pretty impressive craft beer selection for a dive bar!
Great place. Its my go to really. Good drinks good people people from all walks of life. They have live bands djs and karaoke nights that everyone gets in on. Ive seen a hand full of dogs there and they have outside seating and good security and a taco truck across the street that o recommend 👌
55 South
| Address | 55 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Thursday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Friday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
| Phone | (408) 288-6000 |
Cozy spot with low light and decent bites. Super recommend the cauliflower! It certainly stood out amongst everything! The staff was polite and helpful in accommodating my bigger than average group. Beware this place is popular and tables run out. So keep that in mind if you are coming in late in the evening. The only complain I have is that the bathrooms have no paper towels. You either use the air blower to dry your hands or whatever cloth you have in your body.
I don't frequent this bar often but when I do I have a great time. The drinks are delicious but on the pricey side. It's what you should expect from a crafted cocktail in San Jose. The staff was nice.
I love the menu. It was fun, whimsical but tastefully presented. The bar itself is visually pleasing and beautifully lit. I think this would be a fantastic place to have a date. The booths are spacious but intimate at the same time. You could have a conversation and hear one another.
I would love to come again and see how the space changes based on the night of the week. I stopped by on a Wednesday night.
Made some excellent drinks and had an awesome convo with the bartender.
Worst experience ever, we have never felt more humiliated in our life. The so called "security guard" was so disrespectful. When My friend brought up an issue to him he claimed "she was barking at him". So disrespectful! She is not a dog.. What, are you not supposed to bring any issues up to them? Then what are security guards getting paid for? We have been coming here for years and have never encountered this type of issues before. I asked to speak to the manager and I was told "Not to worry about it" then one of the guards said he was the manager "Anthony" but refused to give me any further information and proceeded to kick our entire group out while the other guard was literally mocking us in front of this so called "manager". This is very unfortunate specially if you want to feel safe and protected please note that this place is the exact opposite..... STAY AWAY PLEASE 🙏!!
Happy hour from 4-7pm. Came on Tuesday around 6PM. A lot of space at the bar. At least 4 tables available. Great food, good selection for happy hour drink. A little loud but not enough to shout.
Five Points
| Address | 169 W Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95113 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Thursday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Friday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
| Phone | (408) 982-5816 |
Arrived Tuesday for their $3 taco Tuesday around 6pm. Almost empty with just 3 - 4 groups of audiences. It was very nice and plenty of seating during that time.
Espresso martini for $16 was pretty darn good. Tacos were average - I’ll get it again especially being in such a cool ambient place. I literally had 2 tacos for $4 each at a food truck and that was glorious LOL.
The staff were super attentive so that was very nice.
I’ll totally return to this place for their special taco Tuesdays. Oh yeah, half off tequila too.
Five Points Bar was the perfect last stop on our barhopping night in San Jose. They were doing a Harry Potter–themed pop-up, and it honestly did not disappoint. The bar was decked out with fun details, and the Harry Potter–inspired drinks were all on point.
My favorite drink of the night was the Phoenix Ember of Gryffindor — a bourbon-based cocktail with honey and hot apple cider. It was incredibly smooth and warming, making it the perfect drink for a cold winter night. Definitely one of those drinks you remember after the night is over.
One of the coolest surprises was the hidden speakeasy in the back called The Bowery. It’s a small, intimate space with just a few places to sit, which gives it a very cozy, exclusive feel. They even had letters hanging from the ceiling like in Harry Potter, which was such a cool touch. It felt like a little escape from the main bar, and they were playing different music back there, which added to the vibe.
Overall, Five Points Bar is a super fun spot with creative themes, great drinks, and a unique speakeasy experience. A must-visit if you’re barhopping in San Jose or just looking for something a little different. 🍸✨
I ordered a Tito’s and lemonade and the bartender made us amazingly. Very tasty.
Food menu was very limited. I ordered the buffalo chicken wings.
What arrived was wings with a small cup of buffalo sauce. I’m basically wasting sauce each time I pour over my wing. Maybe toss them in a bowl next time for better results and flavor. Disappointed.
love this place! monday’s have really cool jazz jams. drinks are expensive though, no options for cheap beer.
I was here for a private event and had a nice experience.
LOCATION
This bar is conveniently located near San Pedro's square (SPS). You can park in the SPS parking lot which provides 90 minutes of parking for free and only $1 for each additional 15 minutes. It's a short 5 minutes walk from the parking lot to the bar.
AMBIANCE
I like the spaciousness and warm decorated vibes that this place gives. Noise level is reasonable. Their restrooms are also clean and tidy.
SERVICES
Our server was attentive and made me one of the best Amaretto Sour drinks.
Overall, I enjoy this place. Though I haven't tried any of their food item yet, I heard good things about them from my friends who've been here before. I'll definitely consider Five Points next time.
Goodtime Bar
| Address | 30 Fountain Alley #160, San Jose, CA 95113 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 11:00 PM Friday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 2:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 2:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (408) 256-1266 |
Nestled in the heart of San Jose, I can truly say I have found my favorite restaurant. For any newcomers to the city or locals looking for a new go-to bar, Goodtime Bar is the spot. It goes without notice the effort this restaurant makes to create a sense of community: DJ nights, guest chefs, wine club, run club – all specially designed to bring people together. I never write reviews, but this jewel deserves all the accolades. Beyond the electric atmosphere, the vast natural wine selections paired with novel cuisine make every visit an experience that elevates my palate. The carefully crafted dishes show the detail chef Alex gives to every order. Diverse ingredients embrace a fusion of cultures, with familiar dishes like Caesar salad (Endive Caesar @ Goodtime), pasta (Bucatini @ Goodtime), and shrimp tacos (Tacos Dorados @ Goodtime) delivering a magical explosion of flavors. I tend to find myself methodically portioning out my meal - not wanting to reach that one last bite from my plate. With a rotating menu, every visit is an exploration of new tastes and has cemented me as a regular.
P.S. The Bucatini is my favorite! =]
Five stars! Five stars! Five stars! Came previously and couldn’t find seating. Came back next week and Oh. My. God. Tuna tostada- delicious (if hard to split for two lol). Arancini- outrageously good. Bucatini- so so good. Crème brûlée salty and sweet.
Huge fan of the seating concept and the food. A bit of a wait for a table (unless you want to sit in the communal area) and they don’t take reservations, so show up early for a spot. The food was so inventive and unique, and the servers all had great wine recommendations and energy.
One of my favorite restaurants in the Bay!! The ambiance here is impeccable and the food is sooo good! Some of my favorites include the tom yum bucatini, any of the tostadas, summer peaches, and fingerling potatoes. Can’t go wrong with anything here.
Wonderful little natural wine bar with some incredible food. We’ve gotten rosé and orange wine which have been good but it was the tostada bringing us back. We got the Filet o’ Fish this time and was absolutely blown away by it. Very friendly staff here - will keep coming back!
The Continental Bar Lounge & Patio
| Address | 349 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Thursday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM Friday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
| Phone | (408) 982-3461 |
Very cool bar. Great bartenders and thumping music! A nice place to smoke a cigar and drink rye. Cool atmosphere.
The music in the main area inside was incredible! Also, the DJ playing on Saturday, May 30th was absolutely amazing, WOW! However, the techno área was a different story. I love techno, but the DJ was pretty boring. To make matters worse, the space is very small and there were about 20 people smoking cigarettes inside at the same time. :/ It felt super crowded and the smoke was overwhelming. It’s a cool venue with potential and great nights, but they really need to manage the indoor smoking situation in those small spaces.
I feel like the bartender tried to pull a fast one on me and charge me twice, claiming my card declined. Luckily I had my wits about me—I noticed the second time he attempted to charge my card the fee looked different (slightly higher $) but my card had fraud/duplicate charge prevention mode. He tried to get me to pay up three times but it kept declining, so I had to step away to pull my bank history before he even bothered to check his card machine’s history. Won’t be coming back, that was mad weird and humiliating. ☹️
If the drinks weren't so good, I would have given this place a ⭐⭐. The bartender treated me very poorly. The male next to me got great service. I had the Lolita which was delicious. Their paloma moderate. Music inside was great.
Showed up on a Sunday night for a friends birthday evening. It was dead, which in a bar isnt a bad thing. This bar has some class and original artwork and definitive atmosphere. The crowd was very pleasant as well as the staff and struck up intelligent and friendly conversation. The bartender actually knew how to make a drink too.
Dr. Funk
| Address | 29 N San Pedro St, San Jose, CA 95110 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 3:00 PM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 3:00 PM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 3:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | (408) 564-7389 |
Dr. Funk is hands-down one of the best late-night spots in San Jose, especially if you’re hanging out with friends in San Pedro Square. The vibe here is energetic yet laid-back, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day or kick off a fun night out.
The first thing that impressed me was how quick and easy the ordering process was. The staff is friendly, efficient, and always ready to recommend drinks if you’re not sure what to try. Speaking of drinks—this is where Dr. Funk really shines! Their cocktail menu is creative and full of unique flavors, with every drink beautifully presented. Whether you’re into tropical, fruity blends or bold, strong mixes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
The outdoor seating area is a huge plus, especially on warm evenings. It’s a great spot for conversations, laughs, and people-watching in the heart of San Pedro Square. The casual atmosphere makes it perfect for both small groups and bigger hangouts.
Second time here (recently moved near by) Staff is always amazing! Drink menus tell you what exactly is in said drink, so no surprises. We first went with the Halloween Clown theme and I loved it! Happy Hour every day at a fair price. Eva was extra nice, as was the other staff. Music was amazing!! We found parking easy. Good prices. Excited to bring my friends here when they visit. Thanks Dr. Funk!
Such a fun tiki bar!! Just went on a Friday night & the tiki vibe was so fun! The mai Tais are so legit and amazing!
The ice they used is superior and just adds to the amazingness of the drink. Bar tenders were super nice and fast at drink making. The food was good, I only tried the curry fries but others ordered food and liked it but I was too busy w the mai Tais.
Also a fun outdoors section w fire pits! I don't know why I couldn't find this place when I was first walking up, but I feel like it's easy to miss. It's right next to the Irish bar!
If you're on the lookout for a vibrant spot to unwind with friends, Dr. Funk's Tiki Bar is the spot! This place is the perfect mix of laid-back island vibes and lively fun, making it an ideal hangout for both big groups and intimate gatherings. I just recently went with a friend to the Halloween clown circus and it was a blast!
The décor is another standout feature but the drinks are the star of the show. brace yourself! Dr. Funk's drink menu is not only extensive but also unique in its strength labeling, with drinks ranging from one to three X's, indicating the intensity. Be warned: the drinks pack a punch, especially those with a three-X
While the food might not steal the show, it's got that classic bar food charm with a little twist. Their fries are loaded with your choice of curry or nacho sauce and The coconut shrimp are a hit, though the portions are on the smaller side. if you're a wing fan, the crispy chicken wings are a must.
We came to Dr. Funk after Christmas and loved that they still had all their holiday decorations up, especially the Nightmare Before Christmas theme and the sandworm from Beetlejuice. It really gave the place a fun, spooky holiday vibe.
They have a lot of interesting and creative cocktails, most of which feature rum, which makes sense since this is a tiki bar and also runs a Nightmare Before Christmas pop-up during the season. I’m personally not a huge fan of sweet drinks, but if you enjoy sweeter cocktails and unique presentations, this place would definitely be for you.
They also have great outdoor seating with a fireplace, which was perfect for our larger group — we had a party of seven and felt very comfortable. Overall, a fun and unique bar experience, especially if you’re into themed décor and creative drinks.
Jack's
| Address | 167 E Taylor St, San Jose, CA 95112 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 2:00 AM |
| Phone | (408) 816-8939 |
My partner and I have finally found a place to watch early morning English Championship matches in San Jose!
Jack’s coffee and tea is pretty darn good and their ginger beer is A+. The staff is really warm and welcoming. They put a couple of TVs on just for us to watch the matches. We were the only folks in the place for the early morning matches and the midday matches are pretty quiet as well.
Extra bonus for it being pet friendly! Our dog was super pleased with his whole family sports adventure.
Next time, we may order breakfast or lunch to be delivered.
Spent a well deserved catch up session with one of my best friends. Jacks is such a great place to hang out, service is great and drinks are even better! Located in the heart of Japantown makes it a place everyone should visit!
Wonderfully family owned business, where the bartenders know their drinks, staff is quick in keeping grounds clean and an amazing community fun space especially for sports games and hosting events! We had our high school reunion there!
As far as food, you can easily order from Spread (sandwiches) or Jtown pizza and are allowed to bring outside food in too!
I had a terrible experience watching an Arsenal match there.
This is supposed to be an Arsenal supporters club, yet they allow fans of rival teams like Manchester United and Manchester City to come in during Arsenal games. Not only that, they were openly laughing, mocking, and disrespecting Arsenal fans when we conceded goals.
That’s completely unacceptable for a supporters club.
I’ve been to Sacramento Gooners and other Arsenal clubs, and none of them tolerate this kind of behavior. There’s a clear difference in standards.
I’ve followed the Silicon Valley Gooners owner and I know they claim to love Arsenal and football. But honestly, this feels more like a business focused on profit than a community built on passion.
Very disappointing.
I will say food quality here is above average.
Portion is big but lacking in flavor.
We order non alcohol drink , one appetizer and two of main fishes total around $90
Splash Bar San Jose
| Address | 65 Post St, San Jose, CA 95113 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 5:00 PM – 1:30 AM Tuesday: 5:00 PM – 1:30 AM Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 1:30 AM Thursday: 5:00 PM – 1:30 AM Friday: 4:00 PM – 1:45 AM Saturday: 4:00 PM – 1:45 AM Sunday: 4:00 PM – 1:30 AM |
| Phone | (408) 292-2222 |
We had a truly memorable meal here. The kitchen turns out dish after dish of fresh, flavorful food, all beautifully presented and served hot. It's clear that quality and care are top priorities. The service was just as impressive — our server was warm, attentive, and full of helpful recommendations. The whole staff seemed genuinely happy to be there, which made the experience even more enjoyable. The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, comfortable enough to relax and linger over our meal. The value was excellent too. This is a restaurant that does everything right, and we left already looking forward to coming back.
!!!!!!BEWARE!!!!!
If you're sapphic, trans or anyone other than a cis-gay man you WILL be harrassed, ignored and outright assaulted. Not to mention the bar LITERALLY goes out of their way to exclude Lesbians in their events.
I wish I had something good to say about this bar, especially considering this is like one of maybe three official gay bars in SJ. But their inability to address customer reports regarding harassment and assault is absolutely appalling. My friend has been trying to get into contact with management for months, following harassement and assault. Not only was his email ignored, they deleted his comment on Instagram trying to draw attention to this issue. Sadly, all the past reviews on yelp confirmed everything that baby queers in SJ weren't hoping to be true.
Now lets talk sapphic and trans folk. This bar literally NEVER includes Lesbians in their advertising. Most events are labeled as "GBT+" events, and the ONE sapphic night they do have is designated to a Thursday for only one hour (if you're lucky). Not to mention when sapphic or trans folk do decide to step foot in this hell hole, their concerns are never addressed (or are turned back onto them). So not only is management not doing jack about these assaults, they are actively fostering an environment for this to occur.
Essentially this bar preys on the fact that its one of the only decent gay bars in the city, and is profiting off the assaults and harrassment of its customers. Screw this place and if you do decide to go please be safe and BEWARE!!!
As a lesbian, I was a little worried about going here given all the concerning reviews about bad staff, safety concerns, and specifically queer women having a bad time. But me and my friend (also a queer woman) went on a Thursday night and actually had a really good time! There was no cover and security checked our bags and IDs but no issues. Vibes were great, lots of younger people our age and solid music. Lots of gay and lesbian couples dancing their hearts out and it was actually pretty packed for a Thursday lol. I guess the creepy and unsafe crowd/staff mentioned in the reviews are more prevelant on Fridays and Saturdays? Pleasantly surprised
My only complaint was the bathroom... It had only one stall and urinals right across. I really think it could've been separated into two gender neutral bathrooms, bc it did feel a little exposed (there's no door) and the line took forever
As of 04/17/21 This bar is Open...It's just picking up, they have still the distance and mask restrictions. If you go around 7 is better you have more chances to get inside and stay there or else the have tables on the street. Good music. I started feeling kinda going back to normal.
Drank to honor my mothers memory who just passed, went to use the restroom, SJU exchange student raped me in the stall, left, then security took me out refusing to listen assuming I was wasted... Yeah. Thus I've never gone back. This place isn't worth all the problems it has what with security, very light pours on drinks, fighting, x rated activities on the dance floors... Don't go, find somewhere else. Renegades IS far better!
Insider Tips for Enjoying San Jose’s Bar Scene
Before you head out the door, it helps to understand the logistics of drinking in a city as spread out as San Jose. While the venues listed above are all excellent, a little local knowledge can save you time, money, and the hassle of waiting in long lines. Here are the key strategies to maximize your night out in the South Bay.
1. Use the VTA Light Rail for Downtown Hopping
San Jose has strict DUI enforcement, and ride-share prices can surge significantly on weekend nights. The VTA Light Rail runs through the heart of downtown and is a safe, affordable alternative. If you plan to visit multiple spots in the core, park once and ride the rail between stops.
2. Take Advantage of the “San Jose Time” Happy Hour
Unlike San Francisco, where the after-work crowd peaks at 5:30 PM, San Jose’s tech workforce often logs off later. Many bars offer “reverse” happy hours starting at 9:00 PM or late-night food specials to cater to engineers finishing late shifts. Check social media before you go, as these deals often change seasonally.
3. Dress Code is Generally Relaxed, But Check for Events
San Jose is a casual town; even upscale cocktail lounges rarely require jackets. However, if there is a Sharks game at the SAP Center or a major convention in town, nearby bars can become standing-room only. Arrive before 7:00 PM on event nights or be prepared to wait.
4. Explore the Brewery Scene Beyond the List
While we focused on bars, San Jose is surrounded by world-class breweries. Many of the bars on our list feature exclusive local taps you cannot find elsewhere. Ask your bartender for a recommendation from a nearby brewery like Floodcraft or Camino—they are often happy to pour samples.
5. Don’t Sleep on the Food
Several of the best bars in San Jose are also secretly some of the best restaurants. Whether it is a gourmet hot dog at a dive bar or a full sushi menu at a lounge, eating while you drink keeps the night going longer. Never start a multi-stop bar crawl on an empty stomach.
San Jose’s bar scene is a reflection of the city itself: diverse, unpretentious, and constantly evolving. Whether you prefer the historic charm of an old-school saloon or the innovation of a molecular mixology lab, you will find a space that feels like home here. The key is to explore different neighborhoods rather than sticking to just one block.
Next time you are planning a night out, skip the drive up the peninsula and give the South Bay a chance to impress you. With this list in hand, you have everything you need to drink your way through the best that San Jose has to offer.
