The Best Restaurants for Late-Night Eats in San Jose
Navigating late-night hunger in San Jose? We’ve got a lot of suggestions for some late-night spots! This brief guide is here to help you uncover the tastiest greasy spoons in the South Bay Area. It doesn’t matter if you’re craving something savory or have a sweet tooth, we’ll point you in the right direction for a satisfying late-night feast. In this article, we will discuss the best San Jose late-night eats the area has to offer.
1. Nick the Greek
Location: 143 W Santa Clara St San Jose, CA 95113
Nick the Greek is a fast-casual Greek restaurant with two locations in San Jose, California. Founded in 2014, Nick the Greek serves up authentic Greek food like gyros, souvlaki, salads, and rice bowls in a contemporary setting. Menu items feature spit-roasted meat, house-made tzatziki sauce, and freshly baked pita straight from their brick oven.
Nick the Greek is known for its generosity with portions and affordable prices. The quick-service format means you order at the counter, then food is brought out to your table. Nick the Greek has become popular for its Greek flavor in a fuss-free environment. The Downtown San Jose location is open until 3:00 am on Friday and Saturday making this one of the best late night food options in San Jose.
2. La Victoria Taqueria
Location: 140 E San Carlos St, San Jose, CA 95112
Spice up your late-night adventure at La Victoria Taqueria, a beloved taqueria that keeps its doors open into the early morning hours. You can find savory burritos and tantalizing tacos topped with a spicy orange sauce, this spot is a go-to for those seeking a taste of authentic Mexican flavors after midnight.
The downtown location has very limited parking so it’s best to find street parking or park in a nearby garage. La Victoria is an iconic taqueria in the South Bay and one of the best places downtown to grab late-night eats.
3. Chikin Drip
Location: 530 Newhall Dr San Jose, CA 95110
Chikin Drip was a food truck but now a new Nashville fried chicken restaurant that opened in late 2022 in north San Jose, quickly gaining a following for its crispy, saucy fried chicken. This casual eatery focuses on spicy fried chicken served in a variety of flavors and heat levels. Their menu features chicken tenders and crinkle fries fried to order. They also have pickles and coleslaw on the side. The kitchen stays open until 1:30 am on Friday and Saturday nights.
With its late-night hours on weekends, Chikin Drip has become a go-to spot for late-night noshing in San Jose. The hearty, flavorful fried chicken and fixings are perfect for soaking up drinks after a late night out. The quick service style allows groups to easily grab food to share. Chikin Drip’s loud music and colorful graffiti interior create a high-energy environment fitting for weekend nights.
Affordable prices also appeal to the college crowd and young adults looking for filling late-night meals around $15.
4. In-N-Out Burger
Location: 5611 Santa Teresa San Jose, CA 95123
The classic In-N-Out Burger has several locations scattered throughout the Bay Area but our favorite is the South San Jose location, making it a convenient option for late-night cravings. Known for its fresh, made-to-order burgers and shakes, In-N-Out Burger draws hungry crowds late at night thanks to its reputation for quality. Menu items like their Double-Double burgers, fries, and shakes make In-N-Out Burger a great place to for an end-of-night meal.
Try some of the secret menu items which include “animal style” A burger has the works: fried mustard, grilled onions, pickles, and an extra thousand island spread will top your regular burger patty. The “grilled cheese” consists of two slices of melted American cheese sandwiched between toasted burger buns. The drive-thru format makes In-N-Out perfect for grabbing a quick bite on your way home without ever leaving your car.
Open to midnight, In-N-Out Burger has solid portions and cheap prices. The South San Jose location is often crowded and the drive-through line can snake through the parking lot, but the staff is efficient and the line moves quickly.
4. Denny’s
Location: 1390 S 1st St San Jose, CA 95110
Sometimes, a classic never goes out of style. Denny’s is a 24-hour diner, and is a reliable option for those wanting a diverse menu of comfort food. Denny’s serves up pancakes, burgers, or loaded nachos, so whatever you are craving for a San Jose late-night meal, Denny’s has you covered. Our favorite location is located off South First and Monterey Road just south of Downtown San Jose.
5. Jack in the Box
Location: Multiple locations
If you’re in the mood for a quick and satisfying late-night snack, Jack in the Box is the perfect place for fast food that caters to night owls. Their diverse menu offers everything from tacos to loaded fries, ensuring you can curb your cravings anytime.
6. Iguanas Burritozilla
Location: 330 S 3rd St San Jose, CA 95112
Iguana’s Burritozilla is a popular San Jose chain known for its massive, overstuffed burritos and late-night tacos that can satisfy even the strongest late-night cravings in San Jose. With locations open until midnight or later, Iguanas Burritozilla serves stuffed burritos the size of your forearm packed with meats, beans, rice, cheese, and all the fixings. Customize your mega burrito with your choice of fillings and sauces. Burritozilla also offers nachos, quesadillas, and tortas on their massive menu available late.
With its casual order-at-the-counter format, quick service, and hearty portions, Burritozilla is perfect for nights when only an epic calorie-bomb burrito will curb your hunger and they are open until midnight Thursday through Saturday. Wallet-friendly prices also make this local favorite a go-to for affordable yet filling late-night eats after the bars close in San Jose.
7. TukTuk Chicken and Rice
Location 5663 Snell Ave San Jose, CA 95123
Tucked away in a South San Jose strip mall this is one of the best late-night food options in San Jose. This local spot specializes in generous portions of Thai-style fried chicken, which comes in various heat levels ranging from mild to very spicy. The chicken is marinated in Thai herbs and spices before being fried up crispy. Other menu items include pad thai, mango sticky rice, tom gha soup, and Thai chicken rice plates, along with some vegetarian options.
Tuk Tuk Chicken has a modest, laid-back dining area where customers order at the counter and then seat themselves. Chicken and rice dishes are paired with chicken soup and this restaurant is open to midnight every Friday and Saturday which makes it a rare restaurant that is open late in the area of San Jose. Prices are budget-friendly, with most plates ranging from $9-18. It’s an affordable option for late-night cravings for Thai food in the area.
8. The Brit
Location 173 W Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95110
The Brit is a popular English pub and eatery located in downtown San Jose, making it a perfect setting for late-night eats and drinks. This lively gastropub stays open until 1 AM on weeknights and 2 AM on weekends, great for night owls looking for comforting good food and one of the rare San Jose establishments open past midnight.
The Brit offers classic English fare like fish and chips, bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, and Scotch eggs paired with an extensive beer selection. The cozy, dimly lit space creates an inviting vibe for settling in late at night. Pub grub favorites like burgers, wings, and nachos are available for late-night cravings for hearty, filling eats to soak up a night of drinking.
With an extensive appetizer and basket menu available well past midnight, The Brit is a reliable option for anyone seeking post-party snacks or a casual, pub-style meal late into the evenings in San Jose.
9. Cream
Location 49 S 1st St San Jose, CA 95113
Cream is an ice cream sandwich shop in downtown San Jose that has become a go-to spot for anyone having a sweet craving. Cream stays open until 2 am on Fridays and Saturdays, serving up fresh-baked cookies and ice cream. Customers can choose from creative ice cream flavors like ube, matcha, and cinnamon toast crunch, sandwiched between warm cookies. Cream then presses and freezes the massive ice cream sandwiches to order.
With a fun vibe and outdoor seating, Cream is a perfect late-night snacks destination after hitting the nearby bars and restaurants. The made-to-order frozen treats satisfy those looking for something sweet after dinner or a night of drinking. Cream is located in Downtown San Jose and there isn’t a lot of parking nearby so visiting can be a challenge especially when the area is busy.
10. JTown Pizza
Location: 625 N 6th St San Jose, CA 95112
Open until midnight, JTown Pizza offers a menu that caters to the cravings of night owls and those looking for a late-night slice of pizza. What makes it an excellent choice for late-night meals? Well, picture this: a diverse selection of pizzas, each with a perfect blend of fresh ingredients, a crispy crust, and plenty of cheese.
If you’re a fan of classic pepperoni, a veggie enthusiast, or someone daring enough to try unique toppings, JTown Pizza has you covered. Our favorite pizza types are the veggie with a side of garlic fries. The Drunken Jack is another good choice with its load of cheese, jalapenos, and pineapple. JTown Pizza has a gluten-free crust available for the 10-inch personal pizzas (6 slices). They also offer dairy-free cheese as well.
The relaxed ambiance and quick service make it an ideal spot for those spontaneous wee hours of pizza cravings. So, if you find yourself wandering the streets of San Jose looking for late-night eats, this pizza joint is your go-to haven for a delicious fix. JTown has plenty of parking and the restaurant itself is very clean. If you find yourself near Japantown make sure to try out JTown Pizza!
11. Tacos Los Tres Reyes
Location: 2520 Story Rd San Jose, CA 95122
Tacos Los Tres Reyes is a lively, inexpensive taco truck open late into the night located in East Side San Jose. Despite typically having a long line of customers, the service remains quick and efficient. The truck itself serves as the kitchen, with the garage door opened to reveal a salsa bar and some tables for patrons who wish to sit down. Tacos are priced at just $2.60 each, with two corn tortillas per taco topped with meat, onions, and cilantro. There is a wide variety of protein options to choose from, including carne asada, lengua, and al pastor.
The affordable prices and great food make Tacos Los Tres Reyes a great spot to grab a late-night snack after drinking. With fast service and excellent value, this local favorite comes highly recommended for San Jose in search of delicious, cheap Mexican fare. Tacos Los Tres Reyes is open until midnight every day.
12. Sweet Fix Creamery
Location: 2715 Mckee Rd San Jose, CA 95127
Sweet Fix Creamery is a beloved late-night ice cream shop in downtown San Jose known for its innovative flavors and quality ingredients. Operating until 11:30 on weekends, it’s a popular spot for a sweet treat after dinner or a night out. Customers rave about the ultra-rich ice cream, with favorites like salted caramel, coffee, and seasonal flavors like black sesame, honey lavender, and cookie butter. Made in small batches with high butterfat content, the ice cream is dense and creamy without being overly sweet. The shop uses real chocolate chunks and sauces, freshly baked waffle cones, and thoughtful toppings like mocha chips.
Sweet Fix Creamery is a fairly small establishment so we recommend getting your sweet treats to go.
