Finding the perfect spot for outdoor dining in San Jose can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With so many options, choosing the right restaurant for your taste and preference can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide highlights 23 of the best outdoor dining experiences San Jose has to offer, categorized for your convenience. Whether you're craving a romantic dinner, a casual lunch with friends, or a family-friendly feast, this list has something for everyone. We've included a variety of cuisines and atmospheres to ensure you find your perfect al fresco dining adventure.
Romantic Outdoor Dining in San Jose
These restaurants offer a sophisticated and intimate setting, perfect for a special occasion or a romantic evening out.
1. The Bywater
- Ambiance: Cozy, intimate, New Orleans-inspired.
- Cuisine: Modern American with a focus on seafood.
- Outdoor Space: Charming patio with string lights.
2. Alexander's Steakhouse
- Ambiance: Upscale, elegant, modern.
- Cuisine: High-end steakhouse fare.
- Outdoor Space: Expansive patio with city views.
3. The Table
- Ambiance: Rustic-chic, farm-to-table focus.
- Cuisine: California cuisine with seasonal ingredients.
- Outdoor Space: Inviting patio with a relaxed atmosphere.
Casual Outdoor Dining in San Jose
For a more relaxed and casual outdoor dining experience, these spots offer a welcoming and friendly atmosphere.
4. Original Gravity Public House
- Ambiance: Lively, bustling, pub-style.
- Cuisine: Gastropub fare, burgers, pizzas.
- Outdoor Space: Large patio with plenty of seating.
5. The Vesper Bar
- Ambiance: Trendy, stylish, cocktail-focused.
- Cuisine: Small plates, tapas, and shareable dishes.
- Outdoor Space: Chic patio with a vibrant atmosphere.
6. San Pedro Square Market
- Ambiance: Vibrant, diverse, marketplace setting.
- Cuisine: Wide variety of cuisines from different vendors.
- Outdoor Space: Multiple patios and seating areas around the market.
7. Pizza My Heart
- Ambiance: Classic pizzeria, family-friendly.
- Cuisine: Delicious, New York style pizza.
- Outdoor Space: Simple but pleasant patio area.
Family-Friendly Outdoor Dining in San Jose
These restaurants are perfect for families with children, offering kid-friendly menus and a relaxed atmosphere.
8. Falafel Stop
- Ambiance: Casual, fast-casual, Middle Eastern.
- Cuisine: Delicious falafel, hummus, and other Mediterranean favorites.
- Outdoor Space: Simple patio seating.
9. La Boulangerie
- Ambiance: Charming, French-style bakery and cafe.
- Cuisine: Pastries, sandwiches, salads, and coffee.
- Outdoor Space: Small but cozy patio perfect for a quick bite.
10. The Counter
- Ambiance: Modern, customizable burger joint.
- Cuisine: Build-your-own burgers, fries, and shakes.
- Outdoor Space: Large patio with plenty of space for families.
Unique & Thematic Outdoor Dining Experiences in San Jose
These restaurants offer a unique and memorable dining experience, often with a specific theme or atmosphere.
11. Adega
- Ambiance: Portuguese, rustic-chic.
- Cuisine: Authentic Portuguese dishes.
- Outdoor Space: Charming patio.
12. The Willow Street Cafe
- Ambiance: Upscale casual, American.
- Cuisine: Seasonal American dishes.
- Outdoor Space: Beautiful garden-like patio.
13. Prego
- Ambiance: Italian, romantic.
- Cuisine: Classic Italian dishes.
- Outdoor Space: Charming patio.
Outdoor Dining with a View in San Jose
Enjoy your meal while taking in stunning views of the city or surrounding landscape.
14. Left Bank
- Ambiance: French bistro, elegant.
- Cuisine: Classic French dishes.
- Outdoor Space: Patio with a view of the city.
15. Davey's Delicatessen
- Ambiance: Classic deli, casual.
- Cuisine: Sandwiches, salads, and other deli classics.
- Outdoor Space: Patio with a view of the street.
Diverse Culinary Outdoor Dining Experiences in San Jose
Explore a range of cuisines and flavors from around the world.
16. Canteen
- Ambiance: Casual, modern.
- Cuisine: Global-inspired street food.
- Outdoor Space: Spacious patio.
17. Hashimoto
- Ambiance: Japanese, modern.
- Cuisine: Sushi, ramen, and other Japanese dishes.
- Outdoor Space: Patio.
18. India's Oven
- Ambiance: Casual, Indian.
- Cuisine: Indian curries, tandoori dishes.
- Outdoor Space: Patio.
Breweries with Outdoor Seating in San Jose
Enjoy craft beers in a relaxed outdoor setting.
19. Santa Clara Valley Brewing Company
- Ambiance: Lively, brewery atmosphere.
- Cuisine: Pub food, pizzas.
- Outdoor Space: Large patio.
20. Hermitage Brewing Company
- Ambiance: Relaxed, brewery setting.
- Cuisine: Pub food.
- Outdoor Space: Patio.
Other Notable Outdoor Dining Options in San Jose
These restaurants offer unique outdoor experiences worth exploring.
21. Enso Sushi + Robata
- Ambiance: Modern, upscale.
- Cuisine: Sushi, robata.
- Outdoor Space: Patio.
22. Soif Wine Bar
- Ambiance: Upscale, wine-focused.
- Cuisine: Small plates, charcuterie.
- Outdoor Space: Cozy patio.
23. Scott's Seafood
- Ambiance: Upscale, seafood-focused.
- Cuisine: Seafood, steaks, and other American dishes.
- Outdoor Space: Patio with a view.
This list offers a diverse range of outdoor dining experiences in San Jose, catering to various preferences and budgets. Remember to check individual restaurant websites for hours, reservations, and any COVID-19 related restrictions before your visit. Enjoy your al fresco dining adventures in beautiful San Jose!
