Best Upscale Mediterranean Restaurants in San Jose | Upscale Mediterranean Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Mediterranean Restaurants in San Jose | Upscale Mediterranean Food

• Oren's Hummus — Middle Eastern · rated 5/5: This vibrant Mediterranean hub hums with energy, drawing guests in with the irresistible aroma of golden-fried falafel and the warm, communal spirit of a bustling Tel Aviv market. Tables come alive with colorful spreads of creamy dips and crispy cauliflower florets, while savory schnitzel bites and flaky bourekas offer a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with a cold Israeli lager. Whether sharing savory sides or indulging in sweet challah French toast, every bite celebrates the bold, sun-drenched flavors of authentic Israeli comfort food.
• 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.
• Maurizio's — Italian · rated 5/5: Maurizio’s invites guests into a warm, candlelit haven where the rhythmic toss of hand-stretched dough and the rich aroma of garlic-infused olive oil set the stage for an authentic Italian escape. Each plate celebrates the soul of the Mediterranean, pairing robust, slow-simmered sauces with delicate house-made pastas to create a dining experience that feels both intimately personal and grandly celebratory.
• The Olive Bar — Mediterranean · rated 4/5: Step into a sanctuary of liquid gold where the air is bright with the scent of crushed herbs and sun-ripened citrus. Guests embark on a sensory journey through rows of artisanal carafes, sampling everything from the robust, peppery notes of Ultra Koroneiki to the silky, zesty brightness of Meyer Lemon and Blood Orange infusions. This elegant tasting room celebrates the artistry of the harvest, offering a refined space where the nuanced flavors of the world’s finest groves are savored one exquisite drop at a time.
• Athena Grill — Greek · rated 4/5: Athena Grill captures the spirited essence of a Mediterranean taverna, where the air is perfumed with the smoky aroma of charred octopus and succulent lamb short ribs sizzling over an open flame. The table becomes a vibrant mosaic of shared mezes, from crisp, buttery spanakopita to tender dolmades and zesty grilled calamari, inviting guests to linger over a communal feast that celebrates the soulful traditions of Greek hospitality.
• Vintage Wine Bar — Mediterranean · rated 4/5: Bathed in the warm glow of amber lighting, this sophisticated sanctuary invites guests to sink into plush seating while the soft clink of crystal underscores an evening of refined indulgence. The curated cellar celebrates the power and elegance of California’s premier vineyards, pouring velvety Napa Valley Cabernets and structured mountain blends that capture the essence of the West Coast’s most storied terroirs. Every glass offers a sensory journey through sun-drenched valleys and rugged hillsides, creating an atmosphere where the art of the vine is truly celebrated.
• 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.
• 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.
• Bill's Cafe — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of this bustling neighborhood haunt, where the vibrant zing of freshly squeezed orange juice pairs perfectly with the bold, smoky heat of chorizo scrambles and crispy chilaquiles. The kitchen balances hearty morning staples with soulful comforts, offering everything from velvety Greek lemon soup to decadent, oven-warm bread pudding that feels like a sweet, nostalgic embrace. It is a welcoming sanctuary where every dish is crafted to nourish the spirit and start the day on a bright, flavorful note.
• Dish Dash — Middle Eastern: This vibrant Mediterranean destination invites diners into a space filled with the enticing aromas of toasted za’atar and simmering spices, where traditional hospitality meets a spirited contemporary energy. Crispy, golden-brown falafel and savory kibbeh share the table with modern twists like zesty buffalo cauliflower, all centered around bowls of silky hummus and fragrant, slow-cooked kalai. The experience is a soulful celebration of bold, sun-drenched flavors that brings together the comforting warmth of a home-cooked meal with a fresh, lively atmosphere.
• Chelokababi — Middle Eastern: The air at Chelokababi is heavy with the intoxicating scent of fresh-baked flatbread and aromatic herbs, drawing guests into a space that radiates the warmth of traditional Persian hospitality. Tables come alive with a colorful mosaic of small plates, from the tangy crunch of pomegranate-walnut olives to velvety, garlic-infused yogurt dips that invite slow, communal grazing. It is a culinary sanctuary where ancient Mediterranean flavors are elevated through vibrant ingredients, offering a soulful dining experience that celebrates the art of the shared meal.
• Greek Spot — Greek: 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. Golden ribbons of gyro are carved fresh onto warm, pillowy pita, while skewers of tender souvlaki and crisp falafel are grilled to smoky perfection, offering a sun-drenched taste of the Mediterranean in every bite.
• Dish n' Dash — Middle Eastern: Dish n' Dash offers a vibrant escape where the air is thick with the savory aroma of spiced shawarma and the earthy warmth of slow-simmered lentil soup. Crispy, golden falafel and delicate sambusak provide a satisfying crunch alongside velvety swirls of hummus topped with tender beef, blending traditional Mediterranean soul with a modern, spirited energy. From the zesty kick of buffalo cauliflower to the rich, comforting layers of kibbeh, every bite captures a bold fusion of heritage and contemporary flair.
• A Bellagio — Italian: Stepping into this refined sanctuary feels like a journey to the shores of Lake Como, where crisp white linens and soft candlelight set the stage for an evening of timeless Italian elegance. The air is rich with the scent of slow-simmered ragùs and toasted garlic, as plates of silken handmade pasta and tender braised meats arrive at tables tucked away in the intimate, sun-drenched courtyard. Every pour of velvety Chianti and every bite of delicate tiramisu invites guests to linger over the simple, sophisticated joys of a traditional Mediterranean feast.
• Local Kitchens — American: This vibrant culinary crossroads brings together a curated collection of the region’s most beloved neighborhood eateries, filling the air with a tantalizing symphony of aromas from sizzling gourmet burgers to fragrant Mediterranean spices. The sleek, modern space offers a seamless fusion of variety and craft, allowing diners to explore a diverse tapestry of local flavors in a single, high-energy setting designed for the contemporary palate.
• La Catalana — Spanish: This vibrant Mediterranean escape transports diners to the heart of Barcelona, where the air is rich with the aroma of roasted piquillo peppers and sizzling garlic. Guests gather over rustic tables to share golden Spanish omelettes and crispy bravas drizzled in creamy aioli, creating a lively atmosphere that celebrates the bold, sun-kissed flavors of the Catalan coast.
• Souvlaki Greek Skewers — Greek: The air at Souvlaki Greek Skewers is thick with the irresistible scent of charred oregano and lemon-marinated meats sizzling over an open flame, evoking the vibrant energy of a sun-drenched Athenian street corner. Tender cuts of lamb, pork, and savory loukaniko sausage are tucked into warm, pillowy pitas or served as generous plates, each bite bursting with the smoky, zesty flavors of authentic Mediterranean tradition. This lively neighborhood spot invites guests to slow down and savor the simple artistry of the grill, where every succulent skewer and hand-carved gyro celebrates the heart of Greek hospitality.
• Mikonos Grill — Greek: Sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean come alive at Mikonos Grill, where the savory aroma of spit-roasted meats and warm, pillowy pita fills the air. Guests can dive into vibrant platters of creamy hummus and smoky babaganoush or savor the satisfying crunch of golden falafel paired with zesty, house-made tzatziki. Whether you’re tucking into a towering super gyro or sharing a spread of briny olives and tender dolmathes, every bite offers a spirited escape to the Greek Isles.
• Meso Modern Mediterranean — Mediterranean: Meso Modern Mediterranean invites diners into a sun-drenched, airy sanctuary where the vibrant spirit of the coast meets contemporary elegance. The kitchen breathes new life into ancient traditions, artfully plating charred octopus and herb-crusted proteins that burst with the brightness of lemon, cold-pressed olive oil, and aromatic spices. Under the soft glow of pendant lights, guests linger over shared mezze and crisp wines, savoring a sophisticated experience that celebrates the communal joy of the Mediterranean table.
• SAJJ Mediterranean — Mediterranean: SAJJ Mediterranean invites guests into a vibrant, sun-drenched space where the air is filled with the savory aroma of roasting shawarma and golden, herb-flecked falafel. Diners craft their own culinary journey through a kaleidoscope of fresh ingredients, from hearty grain bowls and protein-packed plates to warm, hand-rolled wraps bursting with traditional spices. It is a modern oasis where ancient flavors meet contemporary wellness, offering a nourishing escape that celebrates the bold, bright spirit of the Mediterranean.
• SAJJ Mediterranean — Mediterranean: SAJJ Mediterranean invites diners into a vibrant space where the air is thick with the savory aroma of spit-roasted shawarma and golden, herb-flecked falafel. Guests craft their own culinary journey through an array of colorful, nutrient-dense bowls and traditional wraps that cater to every lifestyle, from protein-packed Paleo salads to zestful vegan plates. Each bite captures the sun-drenched essence of the Mediterranean, blending time-honored Middle Eastern flavors with a modern, health-conscious approach to dining.
• Dish N Dash — Middle Eastern: This lively Mediterranean destination pulses with the inviting scents of toasted spices and simmering lentils, offering a modern sanctuary for those seeking bold, sun-drenched flavors. Tables are adorned with a colorful tapestry of textures, from the satisfying crunch of golden-fried falafel and savory kibbeh to the velvety silkiness of house-made hummus and smoky babaghanouge. It is a place where traditional Middle Eastern staples meet contemporary flair, inviting diners to linger over shared plates of zesty wings and warm, flaky sambusak in a bright and energetic atmosphere.
• La Pizzeria — Italian: La Pizzeria invites guests into a sun-drenched corner of Italy where the air is thick with the scent of toasted garlic and warm, herb-dusted focaccia. Tables overflow with vibrant platters of creamy burrata, crisp zucchini flowers, and golden arancini that pull apart to reveal molten mozzarella. From the delicate saltiness of prosciutto-wrapped prawns to the communal joy of a shared fritto misto, every bite celebrates the simple, soulful elegance of Mediterranean tradition.
• Zeytoun Restaurant — Mediterranean: Bathed in warm, golden light, Zeytoun invites guests into a sanctuary of Mediterranean hospitality where the air hums with the fragrance of toasted spices and fresh herbs. Artfully plated mezze and tender, flame-kissed meats take center stage, offering a sensory journey through sun-soaked flavors that turn every meal into a vibrant, communal celebration.
• La Lune Sucree — French: Sunlight dances across this airy neighborhood gem, where the aroma of toasted artisan bread and fresh-pressed pesto invites guests to linger over a vibrant, soul-warming meal. The kitchen transforms simple ingredients into elegant comfort, layering creamy brie with crisp apples in artisanal sandwiches and building colorful Mediterranean bowls that celebrate garden-fresh textures. From the velvety richness of a morning Benedict to the zesty brightness of a chicken aioli melt, the experience is one of bright flavors and effortless, sun-drenched charm.
• Doppio Zero — Italian: Step into a vibrant, flour-dusted haven where the rhythmic toss of artisanal dough and the crackle of a wood-fired oven set a lively tempo for the evening. Golden-crusted Neapolitan pizzas emerge blistered and bubbling alongside silken ribbons of house-made pasta, each plate celebrating the simple, sun-drenched flavors of the Italian countryside. It is a place where the warmth of shared carafes of wine and the hum of spirited conversation transform a simple meal into a soulful Mediterranean escape.
• Bill's Cafe — American: Sunlight streams through the windows of this bustling neighborhood staple, where the bright tang of fresh-squeezed orange juice and the savory aroma of sizzling chorizo create an inviting morning energy. From vibrant plates of chilaquiles to steaming bowls of velvety Greek lemon soup, every dish feels like a warm embrace, culminating in a spoonful of their legendary, decadent bread pudding that tastes of pure nostalgia.
• John's of Willow Glen — American: Stepping into this beloved neighborhood landmark feels like a warm embrace, where the nostalgic charm of a classic American bistro meets the inviting hum of a bustling community hub. Sunlight streams through large windows onto polished wood accents as the kitchen sends out plates of sizzling steaks, vibrant Greek-inspired specialties, and comforting breakfast classics that celebrate timeless, soul-warming flavors. Whether lingering over a weekend brunch or sharing a hearty dinner, guests find a sanctuary of hospitality where every meal is served with a genuine sense of local heart.
• SAJJ Mediterranean — Mediterranean: The air is thick with the warm, nutty scent of freshly baked sajj bread and the sizzle of spiced meats hitting the grill in this bright, bustling Mediterranean escape. Vibrant bowls and wraps come alive with a kaleidoscope of colorful toppings, from creamy hummus and tangy pickled beets to herb-flecked falafel that shatters with a satisfying crunch. It is a lively destination where bold, sun-drenched flavors and wholesome ingredients create an energizing experience that feels both deeply traditional and refreshingly modern.