Where to Eat & Drink in SoFA, San Jose

Photo Deliciousness Credit: Pork & Clams from Pesticos.

SoFA Market

Housed in a beautiful older building with high ceilings and an industrial vibe, SoFA Market is a trendy food hall and dining destination with a curated mix of different vendors and eateries. As of January 2025, the fantastic list of options includes:

• Pizza Way - Neapolitan-style pizza made fresh with options to customize or try some creative fusion combos.
• Tacos Los 3 Hermanos - Solid spot for tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favorites with a focus on traditional flavors.
• Habana Cuba - Serves up Cuban classics like ropa vieja and plantains. Great if you're craving something hearty and flavorful.
• The Salad Planet - A go-to for fresh salads you can build yourself, plus soups and light snacks like waffles and toasts.
• Umi Hand Roll - Hand rolls and sushi that stick to Japanese traditions, with some interesting twists like truffle salmon skin.
• Desi Express - Indian street food, from chaats to sandwiches. They’ve got a bunch of veggie-friendly options, too.
• Vietnoms - Vietnamese dishes with a modern take. Think fun spins on classics but still grounded in traditional recipes.
• Iscu Tea - Tea shop offering drinks that pack a punch in flavor. Great if you’re into unique and bold teas.

SoFA Market is located at 387 S 1st Street.

SoFA Coffee Shops & Cafes

• Academic Coffee
  This local coffee spot is all about quality, community, sustainability, and giving back. They serve single-origin coffee and espresso drinks with care, plus they’ve got a small but solid selection of pastries. It’s a chill place to sit and get some work done, with a modern, no-frills vibe.

• Nirvana Soul
  This colorful coffee shop combines good coffee with an artsy, community-focused vibe. They’ve got a wide menu that includes everything from classic lattes to creative seasonal drinks. The interior design is joyful and cozy, and they often host events like poetry nights or live music.

• Voltaire Coffee Roasters
  Known for its carefully roasted coffee and named after one of history’s most famous coffee consumers , this spot focuses on single-origin, fair trade beans and precise brewing methods. They’ve got options for pour-overs, cold brew, and more, with an emphasis on showcasing the flavors of their coffee.

• Bijan Bakery and Cafe
  This European-style bakery is best known for its fancy cakes and desserts, but they also serve breakfast pastries and excellent sandwiches. The space has a slightly old-school feel, and the food presentation is always on point. If you’re into sweets, this is a great place to grab something indulgent.

Restaurants & Food Trucks

These spots are either within or a block away from the SoFA district.

• Pesticos
  In Portuguese, "petiscos" refers to small, shareable snacks or appetizers, similar to tapas in Spanish cuisine. Recognized with a Bib Gourmand designation by the Michelin Guide, this unique spot celebrates the flavors of Portugal through delicious and authentic small bites designed to be shared with friends and family.

• Il Fornaio
  This upscale Italian spot in the Westin Hotel focuses on fresh pasta, wood-fired pizza, and classic dishes like risotto and osso buco. The dining room has a comfortable setup with white tablecloths, and the open kitchen adds a nice touch if you like seeing your food prepared.

• Original Joe's
  Open since 1956, this place serves big portions of Italian-American dishes like spaghetti, steaks, and veal parmesan. The retro vibe is part of its charm, with waiters in tuxedo dinner jackets and booths that make it feel like a step back in time.

• The Grill on the Alley
  A formal, fine dining spot that specializes in steaks and seafood, with options like filet mignon, crab cakes, and lobster bisque. Classic steakhouse feel. A go-to for business lunches or low-key celebrations.

• Orchestria Palm Court Restaurant
  A quirky spot with vintage, turn-of-the-century decor and mechanical instruments that play music while you eat. The menu leans toward comfort food, like pot roast and chicken pot pie, made with good-quality ingredients. They’re only open for dinner on Fridays and Saturdays, so plan ahead.

• Mosaic Restaurant and Ultra Lounge
  A mix between a restaurant and a bar, Mosaic serves international dishes alongside a good selection of cocktails. A lively spot for dinner or drinks, especially if you’re looking to stay out late. Located in the Four Points by Sheraton.

• Scott's Seafood San Jose
  Located slightly north of SoFA, Scott's is a downtown destination known for superbly prepared seafood classics like clam chowder, crab cakes, and fresh fish dishes. The rooftop patio is a standout feature—great for some fresh air while you eat.

• Eos & Nyx
  Opened in 2024, this stand-out newer spot focuses seasonal Californian ingredients and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Think fresh seafood, flavorful small plates, and a locally sourced menu that changes with the seasons. The space itself is pretty unique, with a two-story layout and lots of greenery inside.

• La Penita
  This relaxed Mexican spot offers solid homestyle dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and tamales. A no-fuss place where the focus is more on the authentic, hearty food than the decor.

• Las Delicias De Toñita Taco Truck
  This family-run taco truck is all about fresh, authentic Mexican street food. They make their tortillas by hand. You’ll usually find them parked at 2nd and San Carlos in downtown San Jose.

• The Farmers Union
  This gastropub in San Pedro Square focuses on classic American dishes with a modern twist. They’re known for their hearty meals and a huge selection of over 50 craft beers on tap.

Bars & Nightlife

• The Fountainhead
  Located inside SoFA Market, this cozy bar serves up creative craft cocktails, beer, and wine. Check out their live music and trivia events.

• Haberdasher
  This hugely popular, speakeasy-inspired cocktail bar specializes in craft cocktails served in a cozy, underground setting. Think velvety banquettes, bartenders in 1920s attire, and bootlegger vibes. There's no name on the outside; just a discreet sign with a logo and a tie.

• Paper Plane
  A craft cocktail bar in the heart of downtown San Jose, known for their creative drinks and one of the largest and most interesting bottle collections of spirits in the Bay Area. Also serves small bites such as charcuterie, fries, and more.

• The Ritz
  One of the top music venues and nightclubs in San Jose, featuring top national artists and a vibrant nightlife scene. It's a definite go-to spot for concerts and events.

• Guildhouse
  A popular social gaming lounge where you can play video games, board games, and enjoy food and drinks. It's a chill spot to hang out with friends or meet new people who share your gaming interests. Their esports tournaments can draw large crowds.

• Miniboss
  This downtown arcade bar features both classic and modern games, along with a full bar and small bites. It's a 21+ venue with a fun, nostalgic vibe. Open Tuesday through Sunday, with free play every Thursday and happy hour from 5 pm to 7 pm.

Sweet Treats

• San Jose Candy Kitchen
  This downtown spot offers a variety of sweets, including homemade fudge, gourmet popcorn, and ice cream. It's a go-to for satisfying your sweet tooth.

• My Milkshake
  Create your own milkshake with a range of mix-ins like candies, fruits, and cereals. They also offer fries and nuggets if you're in the mood for a snack.

• Bijan Bakery and Cafe
  This European-style bakery is best known for its desserts and fancy, made-to-order cakes.