Best Hidden Gems in San Jose

Tamales are well-regarded for their large size, generous meat filling, and delicious, homemade flavor. The dough is noted as light and fluffy.

“Always the best tamales in town”

Customer service is frequently highlighted as remarkably nice, humble, polite, and thoughtful, contributing to a positive experience.

“The service and attitude was 10/10”

The establishment operates out of a small tent, suggesting a very casual and no-frills atmosphere.

“Little tent”

The tamales are considered a great price for their large size and generous meat content.

“Great price! Very delicious flavors”

The banh mi sandwiches are well-regarded for their outstanding flavor, fresh ingredients, and expertly prepared components, with many diners calling them the best they've ever had, vegan or otherwise.

“Sandwiches were expertly prepared and well”

Service is frequently described as friendly, kind, sweet, and professional, with staff often going above and beyond, including offering samples and remembering repeat customers.

“The staff was friendly, the service was quick”

The atmosphere is generally positive, often described as cozy, comfortable, and welcoming, with ample seating available, especially given its shared space with a donut shop.

“The vibe was so comfortable.”

Diners find the banh mi to be reasonably priced and generously sized, offering first-rate value for the quality and portion size.

“Affordable (in this day and age) $10 banh.”

The sandwiches are well-regarded for their outstanding taste, featuring freshly baked sourdough bread and high-quality ingredients. The bread is frequently highlighted as a standout element, described as warm, soft, and flavorful.

“Bread steaming hot and fresh.”

Service is generally described as friendly, welcoming, and efficient, with staff often noted for their positive interactions and quick order fulfillment. However, there is one very old mention of rude service from the owner.

“Super friendly and greet each customer”

The atmosphere is described as welcoming and friendly, with a casual, neighborhood feel. Outdoor seating is available and appreciated.

“Super welcoming environment”

While prices are considered fair for the quality and generous portion sizes, one diner noted that the cost was high for the amount of meat, and another felt it was expensive for a combo meal.

“Large sandwiches enough for two people.”

The birria, particularly the quesabirria, is well-regarded as first-rate and authentic, with many diners highlighting its rich flavor and high-quality ingredients. The handmade tortillas and other offerings like menudo and barbacoa also receive strong positive mentions.

“Best birria to be honest”

Service is frequently described as friendly, top-notch, and attentive, with owners noted for their genuine warmth and welcoming demeanor, creating a positive dining experience.

“Great service!”

The atmosphere is generally perceived as welcoming and family-friendly, with a casual, down-to-earth feel.

“Create a very welcoming environment”

Prices are consistently described as reasonable and fair, offering good value for the quality and portion sizes of the food.

“Super reasonable and fair prices!”

The pho is well-regarded for its rich, flavorful broth and fresh ingredients, with specific mentions of tender beef and fresh noodles.

“Amazing food 😋 and staff”

Service is frequently described as outstanding, attentive, friendly, and professional, contributing to a positive dining experience.

“The staff provided first-rate service.”

The atmosphere is noted as quiet, nice, spacious, comfortable, and relaxing, with pleasant decor.

“Great vibes and food”

The price is considered unbeatable for the portion size and quality, offering great value.

“Price is unbeatable.”

The seafood is well-regarded for its freshness, quality, and perfect cooking. Sauces, particularly the signature Cap't Loui blend and Cajun seasoning, are highlighted for their bold, balanced, and addictive flavors. Sides like garlic noodles and fries also receive frequent recognition.

“Seafood was so fresh and flavorful”

Service is overwhelmingly described as friendly, attentive, kind, and excellent. Staff members are frequently named and known for their attentiveness, knowledge, and genuine care for customers.

“Service was phenomenal”

The atmosphere is frequently described as great, cool, hip, lively, cozy, and comfortable, often enhanced by pleasant music, making it suitable for various occasions.

“The atmosphere was awesome”

Diners frequently comment on generous portions and reasonable prices, especially for combo meals and lunch specials, indicating good value for the quality and quantity of food received.

“Portion sizes are amazing, prices are great”

The food is well-regarded for its authentic flavors, expert seasoning, and high-quality ingredients, with specific highlights including tacos al pastor, birria, quesadillas, and menudo.

“Absolutely amazing food!”

Service is frequently described as friendly, attentive, and welcoming, with staff making diners feel at home.

“Amazing service and plenty of seating.”

The atmosphere is described as family-oriented, friendly, and welcoming, making diners feel at home.

“The atmosphere instantly feels family oriented and friendly.”

The pricing is considered inexpensive and fair for the quality and authenticity of the food.

“Price wise it’s inexpensive and fair”

The food is well-regarded for its outstanding taste, freshness, and flavor, with many highlighting specific items like chimichurri sauce and aguas frescas.

“Amazing food, and the aguas frescas”

Service is frequently described as first-rate, friendly, helpful, and warm, with staff members, particularly Suzy, often singled out for their positive interactions.

“Top-notch service with fresh food”

The atmosphere is described as inviting and nice, contributing to a positive overall experience.

“Inviting atmosphere.”

Diners find the meals to be reasonably priced and a good value, especially considering the quality and health-focused nature of the offerings.

“Reasonably priced!”

The food is well-regarded for its authentic Oaxacan flavors, fresh ingredients, and expertly cooked meats, with handmade tortillas being a particular highlight.

“Best Mexican food we’ve had”

Service is generally described as great and friendly, though one diner noted an issue with order accuracy and a dismissive response when trying to correct it.

“Super yummy and great service!”

The food truck offers a casual, authentic atmosphere with some seating available, suitable for a quick meal or enjoying food in a nearby park.

“Great set up! Little stools and a bar”

The food is considered a great value, with generous portions and high quality for the price, though one diner found a specific item to be expensive.

“Great tacos for a great price.”

Pizza is well-regarded for its fresh ingredients, generous toppings, and delicious taste, with many calling it some of the best they've ever had.

“Best pizza I’ve ever had”

Staff and owners are frequently described as friendly, welcoming, helpful, and accommodating, contributing to a positive customer experience.

“Customer service was amazing”

The atmosphere is generally described as casual and family-friendly, with some noting it as a 'hole in the wall' or that the decor could be improved.

“Hole in the wall”

Priced reasonably for the quality and quantity of toppings, with many finding it a good value.

“Good price”