Best Upscale Vegan Restaurants in San Jose | Upscale & Vegan

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

• Choc Cookies — American · rated 5/5: The air inside this sweet sanctuary is thick with the intoxicating scent of caramelized sugar and melting cocoa, drawing guests into a world of artisanal indulgence. From the vibrant purple hue of the Ube Crinkle to the gooey, marshmallow-topped Smores, each handcrafted treat offers a perfect balance of crisp, golden edges and soft, decadent centers. Whether curating a custom box of classic chocolate chip or exploring seasonal whimsy like the Grinchmint, every bite celebrates the nostalgic joy of a cookie perfected.
• Taplands — American · rated 5/5: Taplands pulses with a convivial neighborhood energy, offering a warm, social sanctuary where the craft of the pour is perfectly matched by a menu of elevated, soul-warming snacks. Guests gather over vibrant plates of zesty deviled eggs and bubbling buffalo chicken dip, or share artfully composed charcuterie boards that invite slow grazing and spirited conversation. From the first bite of a hearty, sauce-drenched meatball sub to the last lingering sip, the experience is one of relaxed sophistication and genuine hospitality.
• Sue's Gallery Cafe — Korean · rated 5/5: This serene sanctuary blends the quiet elegance of an art gallery with the comforting ritual of hand-dripped pourovers and spiced Aztec mochas. Sunlight dances across minimalist tables as guests savor vibrant matcha lattes and effervescent sparkling shrubs, perfectly complemented by thick slices of artisanal toast. It is a curated retreat where every sip of whole-leaf tea or chilled pomegranate infusion feels like a moment of calm amidst a beautifully crafted aesthetic.
• 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.
• 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.
• Loma Brewing Company — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through the expansive windows of this vibrant taproom, where the rhythmic hum of a social crowd pairs perfectly with the crisp pour of a house-brewed pint. The kitchen elevates the brewery experience with a menu that balances indulgent comfort and garden-fresh brightness, offering everything from the smoky char of Brussels sprouts and loaded carne asada fries to the vibrant crunch of artfully composed seasonal salads.
• Sugar Butter Flour Pastry Shop — French · rated 4/5: This elegant patisserie invites guests into a world of artisanal indulgence, where the air is perfumed with the intoxicating scent of toasted nuts and rich, velvety cocoa. Glass display cases showcase a jewel-box array of confections, ranging from the signature crunch of their celebrated Burnt Almond cake to the sophisticated, multi-layered architecture of a classic Chocolate Opera. Every bite offers a symphony of textures and flavors, whether you are savoring the vibrant tang of a mango raspberry mousse or the decadent, melt-in-your-mouth depth of a flourless chocolate raspberry torte.
• 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.
• The Diner of Los Gatos — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of this beloved neighborhood haunt, where the rhythmic clatter of the griddle and the rich aroma of brewing coffee create a nostalgic sanctuary for the morning crowd. Golden-brown chicken fried steak and savory corned beef hash take center stage alongside thick-cut applewood bacon, offering a masterclass in soulful, hearty comfort food. Whether tucking into a vibrant Californian omelette or a classic country breakfast, guests find a warm, timeless escape where every plate feels like a generous homecoming.
• Pav Bhaji And More — Indian · rated 4/5: The air at Pav Bhaji And More is thick with the intoxicating scent of spiced butter and sizzling vegetables, drawing diners into a vibrant space that celebrates the soul of Indian street food. Golden, butter-toasted buns wait to be dipped into rich, crimson mashes, while the rhythmic clinking of spatulas on the tawa yields fragrant heaps of spiced pulao and zesty, handheld snacks. A steaming cup of aromatic Amruttulya tea provides the perfect, creamy finish to this high-energy culinary journey through the bustling flavors of the roadside stall.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• La Victoria Taqueria — Mexican · rated 4/5: This vibrant neighborhood haunt hums with energy as the aroma of toasted flour tortillas and savory, griddled fillings wafts from a bustling open kitchen. From sunrise-ready breakfast tortas bursting with flavor to the legendary "Super" burritos packed with hearty beans and melted cheese, every hand-crafted wrap offers a comforting, soul-satisfying bite designed to fuel the day.
• Stacks — American · rated 4/5: The air at Stacks is thick with the comforting aroma of golden-brown biscuits smothered in rich gravy and the savory sizzle of premium steaks hitting the griddle. Guests gather in a vibrant, sun-drenched space to dive into hearty plates ranging from zesty, salsa-topped Huevos Rancheros to delicate lox and bagels, celebrating the timeless ritual of a perfectly crafted morning meal.
• Academic Coffee — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight dances across clean lines and minimalist wood in this bright corner sanctuary, where the rhythmic hiss of the espresso machine provides a soothing soundtrack for morning rituals. Baristas treat every pour with scholarly precision, coaxing complex notes from artisanal beans to pair perfectly with golden, flaky pastries that shatter with every buttery bite. It is a space where the art of the brew is elevated to a quiet science, offering a refined retreat for those seeking a moment of caffeinated clarity and artisanal indulgence.
• Susie Cakes — American · rated 4/5: This nostalgic bakery invites guests into a world of sugary bliss, where the air is perpetually perfumed with the comforting scent of warm vanilla and rich, melting chocolate. Towering, multi-layered masterpieces like the vibrant Southern Red Velvet and zesty Blueberry Lemon take center stage, each slice offering a moist, home-style crumb topped with generous swirls of velvety buttercream. Whether it’s a whimsical celebration cake or a decadent flourless chocolate indulgence, every bite captures the heartwarming essence of a classic American kitchen.
• Humphry Slocombe — American · rated 4/5: This avant-garde creamery reimagines the classic ice cream parlor as a playground for the adventurous palate, where bold, unconventional ingredients and sophisticated flair take center stage. Guests can indulge in the legendary crunch of bourbon-soaked Secret Breakfast or the aromatic depth of Vietnamese Coffee, perhaps sharing a whimsical, multi-layered ice cream cake that transforms a simple treat into a decadent celebration. From the nostalgic sweetness of Honey Graham to the silky ribbons of Peanut Butter Fudge Ripple, every scoop offers a vibrant journey through unexpected and expertly crafted flavors.
• Flower Flour — French · rated 4/5: Sunlight dances across glass cases filled with delicate pastries, where the sweet perfume of buttercream and fresh-baked sponge creates an enchanting sanctuary for dessert lovers. This artisanal bakery transforms sugar and flour into edible masterpieces, crafting bespoke cakes that capture the magic of life’s most celebrated moments through intricate designs and ethereal flavors.
• Smitten Ice Cream — American · rated 4/5: This modern creamery reimagines the classic scoop shop as a theater of freshness, where ultra-smooth textures and bold, artisanal flavors are crafted with meticulous care. Guests are treated to a sensory journey through decadent layers of chocolate ganache and salty-sweet cookie dough, or sophisticated infusions of Earl Grey and roasted banana that elevate the humble ice cream cone into a gourmet masterpiece.
• 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.
• 6500 Leyland — American · rated 4/5: 6500 Leyland serves as a warm, flour-dusted sanctuary where the intoxicating aroma of toasted grain and yeasty sourdough invites guests to linger over baskets of golden, herb-flecked focaccia and nutty ciabatta. The kitchen honors global traditions, crafting everything from buttery, shatteringly crisp croissants to pillowy Middle Eastern pitas and charred naan that arrive soft and steaming from the oven. It is a celebration of the baker’s craft, where every crusty loaf and delicate pastry tells a story of patience, heat, and artisanal soul.
• Anchors Fish & Chips And Seafood Grill — Seafood · rated 4/5: Anchors Fish & Chips And Seafood Grill invites diners into a lively coastal retreat where the savory aroma of sizzling garlic fries and golden-battered halibut sets the stage for a true maritime feast. The kitchen elevates seaside classics with indulgent touches, from the rich, bubbling warmth of cheesy Dungeness crab bread to the delicate crunch of salt and pepper calamari. Whether sharing a plate of zesty blackened shrimp taquitos or savoring a traditional basket of crispy fish and chips, every bite celebrates the fresh, bold flavors of the ocean in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
• 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.
• Oak & Rye — Italian · rated 4/5: Oak & Rye invites guests into a glowingly rustic sanctuary where the comforting aroma of toasted grain and wood-fired vegetables sets the stage for an evening of shared discovery. Silky chicken liver mousse and warm, salt-dusted pretzels transition seamlessly into vibrant plates of charred broccoli rabe and earthy roasted beets, each dish celebrating the raw beauty of seasonal ingredients through bold, textured flavors.
• Ramen Nagi — Japanese · rated 4/5: This high-energy noodle house pulses with the steam of simmering cauldrons and the vibrant spirit of Tokyo, inviting guests to personalize their perfect bowl from a colorful palette of signature broths. From the velvet richness of the Original King to the bold, ink-dark depths of the Black King, each bowl offers a symphony of flavors paired perfectly with golden-crisp gyoza and the nostalgic pop of a chilled Ramune.