Best Upscale Carnivore Restaurants in San Jose | Upscale & Carnivore

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Carnivore Restaurants in San Jose | Upscale & Carnivore

• Double D's Sports Grille — American · rated 5/5: This high-energy hub pulses with the electric buzz of game day, drawing guests into a vibrant space where the smoky aroma of glazed Korean BBQ ribs and crispy, sauce-tossed wings fills the air. The kitchen elevates the classic grille experience by pairing indulgent favorites like golden mozzarella sticks and cheesy garlic bread with fresh, inspired bites of Ahi poke and crisp chicken lettuce cups. It is a spirited neighborhood destination where communal tables and bold, global flavors turn every meal into a shared celebration of sport and spirit.
• Nick The Greek — Greek · rated 5/5: The air is thick with the savory aroma of spit-roasted meats and warm, pillowy pita, drawing diners into a vibrant space where the spirited energy of a Greek street market comes alive. Guests can indulge in overstuffed gyros bursting with zesty tzatziki and crisp fries, or opt for colorful, feta-dusted salads and hearty plates where fragrant rice meets golden-fried falafel. Every bite offers a sun-drenched journey through the Mediterranean, blending bold, traditional flavors with a modern flair that satisfies any craving for authentic comfort.
• Aldo's — Italian · rated 5/5: Aldo’s captures the essence of a spirited Mediterranean bistro, where the table becomes a vibrant canvas of shared plates and artisanal antipasti. The air is rich with the aroma of golden-fried calamari and earthy mushrooms over creamy polenta, while delicate ribbons of carpaccio and sun-ripened caprese bring a fresh, colorful elegance to the dining experience. It is a warm, inviting sanctuary where every bite celebrates the beauty of tradition and the simple pleasure of a meal shared among friends.
• The Pasta Market — Italian · rated 4/5: This lively neighborhood haunt invites guests into a world of golden-brown comforts, where the irresistible aroma of toasted garlic and warm, fresh-baked dough sets the stage for a convivial meal. Tables are anchored by baskets of their signature pillowy breadsticks paired with rich cheese spread, while a parade of crispy, herb-dusted favorites—from molten fried ravioli to tender calamari—brings a satisfying crunch to every shared plate. It is a sanctuary of classic, savory flavors that celebrates the simple joy of indulgence, perfectly balanced by the refreshing snap of chilled, vibrant salads.
• Kurated Kitchens — American · rated 4/5: Kurated Kitchens serves as a vibrant crossroads where the aromatic soul of Southeast Asian street food meets the polished comfort of a modern bistro. The air hums with the scent of sizzling lemongrass and garlic-flecked tater tots, inviting guests to explore a menu that ranges from crispy Hat Yai-style fried chicken to decadent wagyu burgers and jewel-toned ube pastries. Every visit feels like a thoughtfully composed journey through global flavors, perfectly paired with a refreshing strawberry yuzu tea in a space that celebrates bold, eclectic tastes.
• CREAM — American · rated 4/5: The air is thick with the irresistible scent of warm, freshly baked cookies, drawing guests into a vibrant space where nostalgia meets pure indulgence. Velvety scoops of artisanal ice cream, ranging from the spiced warmth of Cin-ful Churro to the deep decadence of Chocoholic, are sandwiched between oven-warm cookies to create a customizable masterpiece of contrasting textures and temperatures. Each bite offers a playful symphony of melting sweetness and chewy goodness, turning a simple dessert into a celebratory, hand-held escape.
• Blvd Cafe — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams into Blvd Cafe, an urban sanctuary where the rhythmic hiss of the espresso machine and the sweet, buttery scent of golden cinnamon twists create an inviting morning ritual. Skilled baristas artfully pour velvety lattes and bold, sugar-crusted Caffe Cubanos, alongside signature creations like the high-octane Cop Car that provide a sophisticated jolt to the daily grind. Whether lingering over a decadent, caramel-swirled macchiato or grabbing a crisp Americano to go, guests find a polished yet soulful space that celebrates the art of the perfect brew.
• Miyakko — iyakko" or "M · rated 4/5: Miyakko invites diners into a serene sanctuary where the delicate art of Japanese tradition is celebrated through pristine slices of sashimi and the buttery, briny indulgence of ocean-fresh uni. Each visit centers on the rhythmic harmony of traditional set meals, offering a soulful mosaic of seasonal flavors that capture the quiet elegance of a time-honored culinary ritual.
• Goku Sushi — Japanese · rated 4/5: Goku Sushi invites diners into a bright, modern sanctuary where the vibrant colors of the ocean and garden take center stage in every thoughtfully composed dish. The kitchen celebrates a refreshing, light-filled approach to Japanese cuisine, layering buttery slices of sashimi and seared tuna tataki over crisp greens, tropical mango, and velvet-smooth avocado. Each plate is a masterclass in balance, pairing the zesty tang of sunomono with the delicate textures of the sea to create a dining experience that feels both revitalizing and deeply satisfying.
• Roberto's Cantina — Mexican · rated 4/5: Roberto’s Cantina invites guests into a vibrant, sun-drenched escape where the bright tang of citrus-marinated ceviche meets the indulgent warmth of bubbling, artisanal queso fundido. The air carries the savory aroma of bacon-wrapped scallops and slow-simmered seafood soups, creating a spirited atmosphere perfect for lingering over shared plates of crispy nachos and hand-crafted appetizers. This lively destination captures the essence of coastal celebration, blending bold, festive flavors with a warm sense of community.
• Angry Chickz — American · rated 4/5: This high-energy destination pulses with the fiery spirit of Nashville, where the sizzle of the fryer and the pungent aroma of toasted spices signal a bold exploration of heat. Golden, hand-breaded tenders and sliders arrive piled with cooling slaw and pickles, while decadent bowls of mac and cheese and loaded fries create a symphony of crunch and creaminess that satisfies the most intense cravings.
• Greek Spot — Greek · rated 4/5: The air at Greek Spot is thick with the savory aroma of slow-roasted meats and charred herbs, drawing diners into a vibrant space that celebrates the heart of Hellenic street food. Here, tender shavings of gyro and flame-grilled souvlaki skewers are tucked into warm, pillowy pitas alongside crisp vegetables and zesty sauces, offering a masterclass in bold Mediterranean flavors. Whether you are savoring a succulent lamb skewer or golden, herb-flecked falafel, every bite captures the sun-drenched spirit of a bustling Athenian market.
• Yuki Sushi — Japanese · rated 4/5: Yuki Sushi welcomes guests into a lively, intimate sanctuary where the air is thick with the savory scent of charred shishito peppers and garlic-chili aromatics. The kitchen excels in a symphony of textures, from the delicate crunch of golden-fried soft-shell crab and creamy croquettes to the melt-in-your-mouth richness of salt-grilled hamachi kama. Each visit offers a soulful exploration of Japanese comfort, where steaming bowls of seafood soup and artfully prepared small plates create a warm, communal dining experience.
• SAJJ Mediterranean — Mediterranean · rated 4/5: This vibrant Mediterranean destination invites diners to customize their own culinary journey, where the sizzle of spit-roasted shawarma and the golden crunch of traditional falafel take center stage. From nutrient-dense grain bowls to herb-flecked wraps, every dish celebrates bold, sun-drenched flavors while effortlessly catering to modern lifestyles like paleo and keto.
• SmokeEaters — American · rated 3/5: SmokeEaters serves as a vibrant temple to the art of the elevated sandwich, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of sizzling tri-tip and toasted garlic parmesan. Each towering creation, from the vodka-sauce-drenched chicken cutlet to the rich, jus-dipped French dip, balances bold textures and robust flavors to transform a casual meal into a truly indulgent feast.
• Kamakura — Japanese · rated 3/5: Stepping into Kamakura feels like discovering a hidden corner of Japan, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of charred yakitori and the inviting warmth of a bustling kitchen. Golden-hued tempura and delicate, pan-seared gyoza share the table with briny baked mussels and silken agedashi tofu, creating a communal dining experience defined by bold flavors and meticulous preparation. Each dish serves as a testament to the art of the small plate, inviting guests to linger over vibrant textures and traditional techniques in a space that balances modern energy with timeless charm.
• Haleh Pastry and Cafe — Middle Eastern · rated 3/5: Stepping into this inviting cafe, guests are greeted by the comforting steam of slow-simmered halim and the rich, savory aromas of traditional kaleh pacheh. The kitchen transforms the morning ritual into an art form, whisking together everything from sweet date omelettes to vibrant Persian plates that celebrate the soulful, time-honored flavors of the region.
• El Jardin — Mexican · rated 3/5: Step into a vibrant sanctuary where the lively spirit of a sun-drenched garden meets the bold, festive flavors of Mexican street food. Crispy flautas and golden shrimp empanadas arrive at communal tables alongside bowls of zesty guacamole and loaded nachos, creating a tapestry of textures and spices meant for sharing. Whether diving into savory sopes or sharing a plate of asada-topped fries, guests find themselves immersed in a convivial atmosphere where every bite feels like a celebration of heritage and heat.
• Saapaaduu — Indian · rated 3/5: Saapaaduu transports diners to the vibrant heart of South India, where the sizzle of golden-fried bajjis and the fragrant aroma of tempering curry leaves create an atmosphere of soulful warmth. The kitchen masters the delicate balance of texture and heat, serving everything from the melt-in-your-mouth softness of steamed Pidi Kozhukkattai to the bold, spice-laden punch of Mutton Kola Urundai. It is a culinary destination that celebrates the spirit of regional street food, inviting guests to linger over plates of aromatic kurma and crispy, herb-dusted cauliflower in a space that feels both nostalgic and inviting.
• Cup n' Cone — American · rated 3/5: This whimsical parlor invites guests into a world of vibrant hues and velvety textures, where the sweet scent of freshly baked cones lingers in the air. Each scoop tells a story of global inspiration, from the earthy, botanical notes of herbal matcha and creamy ube to the tropical brightness of mango dragonfruit and lychee. Whether indulging in the rich crunch of Ferrero Rocher or the buttery silk of butterscotch, every visit offers a refreshing escape into a symphony of bold, imaginative flavors.
• Koi Palace Contempo — Chinese · rated 3/5: Koi Palace Contempo breathes modern life into classic Chinese traditions, offering a stylish sanctuary where the air is thick with the savory perfume of garlic and toasted spices. The kitchen excels in a playful alchemy of flavors, balancing the unexpected sweetness of coffee-glazed ribs against the fiery, numbing heat of Szechuan-style chicken. Every dish, from the golden crunch of typhoon-style crab to the sharp, creamy snap of wasabi-coated prawns, invites guests into a vibrant and sophisticated communal dining experience.
• Wild Rose — American · rated 3/5: Wild Rose unfolds as a vibrant sanctuary of coastal elegance, where the shimmer of ice-laden seafood towers and the delicate artistry of hand-pressed crudos set the stage for a sophisticated social experience. The air hums with energy as guests move from the briny brightness of chilled oysters and citrus-kissed ceviche to the rich, smoky depth of charred yakitori and melt-in-your-mouth wagyu sliders. It is a destination designed for indulgence, where every shared plate and artfully plated taco celebrates a seamless fusion of modern flair and deep, savory satisfaction.
• Koi Palace Contempo+ — Chinese · rated 2/5: This sleek, modern destination pulses with the energy of a contemporary bistro, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of garlic-crusted Dungeness crab and sizzling Szechuan spices. Innovative plates like the aromatic coffee-glazed ribs and crisp wasabi walnut prawns showcase a playful mastery of texture and heat, blending traditional foundations with a bold, urban flair. From the golden crunch of salt-and-pepper squid to the delicate heat of soft-shell crab, every dish invites diners into a vibrant world of elevated flavors and sophisticated comfort.
• Merit Vegetarian Cuisine — Chinese: This vibrant sanctuary reimagines classic comfort food through a plant-based lens, where the air is filled with the tempting aroma of sizzling golden rolls and pillowy, cloud-like steamed buns. Diners are invited to explore a playful landscape of textures, from the satisfying crunch of zesty jalapeno pops and ocean-inspired nuggets to the tender, savory depth of house-made pot stickers. It is a welcoming space where traditional flavors meet modern vegetarian ingenuity, offering a soulful dining experience that proves plant-based eating can be both nostalgic and deeply satisfying.
• The Gurkha Kitchen — Indian: The Gurkha Kitchen transports diners to the vibrant streets of Kathmandu, where the air is thick with the enticing aroma of toasted spices and sizzling meats. Crispy pani poori and zesty samosa chat offer a playful explosion of textures and tang, while the traditional Thakali Thali provides a soulful, balanced journey through the heart of Himalayan comfort food. It is a lively gathering spot where bold, smoky flavors like chicken choila and spiced sekuwa celebrate a rich culinary heritage in every bite.
• Rokko — Japanese: Rokko invites diners into a warm, inviting space where the comforting aroma of ginger-infused pork and the satisfying sizzle of golden-fried tonkatsu set the stage for a soulful Japanese feast. Crisp tempura and delicate agedashi tofu provide a textural prelude to salt-grilled delicacies and vibrant bowls of mentai salmon ikura noodles, each plate reflecting a masterful balance of tradition and technique. It is a neighborhood sanctuary where the crackle of chicken karaage and the rich glaze of salmon teriyaki create an atmosphere of effortless, authentic charm.
• One Pot Shabu Shabu — Japanese: Steam rises from bubbling pots at this interactive haven, where the communal ritual of shabu-shabu transforms premium ingredients into a deeply personal and soul-warming feast. Velvety ribbons of A5 Wagyu and marbled Kurobuta pork melt into savory broths, complemented by the crisp snap of edamame and the golden, savory crunch of takoyaki. It is a space where the art of the slow simmer meets the indulgence of world-class meats, creating a rhythmic dining experience that celebrates both shared conversation and exquisite flavor.
• Golden Bay Pizza — Italian: Golden Bay Pizza captures the essence of coastal creativity, where the aroma of hand-stretched dough and bubbling artisanal cheeses drifts through a bright, welcoming space. The kitchen artfully balances tradition and bold experimentation, layering everything from earthy Tuscan mushrooms to aromatic butter paneer atop perfectly charred crusts. Whether you are craving a classic Margherita or a vibrant, plant-based Berkeley vegan specialty, each slice offers a harmonious blend of fresh ingredients and inventive spirit.
• Go Fish Poke Bar — Seafood: Sunlight dances across counters piled high with jewel-toned ahi tuna and crisp, garden-fresh toppings at this vibrant destination for modern Pacific-inspired fare. Whether you’re assembling a custom bowl of textural delights or savoring a signature creation like the seared Tataki, every bite offers a refreshing explosion of zesty marinades and clean, coastal flavors.
• Egglicious India — Indian: Egglicious India transforms the humble egg into a vibrant celebration of street-side flavors, where the air is thick with the pungent aroma of garlic tempering and the sizzle of spicy woks. Diners dive into a world of bold textures and heat, from the satisfying crunch of golden egg lollipops to the comforting, herb-flecked warmth of zesty Manchow soups. This lively destination brings together traditional Indian spices and spirited Indo-Chinese flair, creating an addictive dining experience that reinvents comfort food with every fiery bite.