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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Ballbach and SOFA, San Jose's best

Cocktail spots

The day is done and a glass of something mixed is the only reward that makes sense. It is time to sit back and let the evening begin.

Based on 751 Opinions
+748
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Updated May 2026
01
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Cocktail bar

Underground speakeasy offers an intimate, stylish vibe with dark lighting and red walls. Craftsmen cocktails shine with top-shelf ingredients and unique flavors. Soft jazz music supports a quiet, authentic atmosphere perfect for conversation.

Craftsmen cocktails stand out with top-shelf ingredients and unique, memorable flavors. The intimate speakeasy vibe pairs well with a great selection of consistently amazing drinks.

People are saying

"The cocktails are creative, well-balanced, and thoughtfully put together."

"It's a cozy spot with a really nice atmosphere."

"This cocktail bar is a hidden gem with exotic drinks."

Good to know

1

The bar tends to fill up around 7-8 PM, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is conveniently available right across the street.

3

They offer daily drink specials and around 300 cocktail options.

02
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Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar shines with craft cocktails and expert bartenders. Mexican-themed decor and holiday decorations create a cozy vibe. Live DJs and bands fuel a lively atmosphere perfect for dancing and chatting.

Craft cocktails stand out with a great selection and extraordinary flavors. Bartenders offer knowledgeable recommendations and make drinks that satisfy any taste.

People are saying

"You'll find great, delicious cocktails here."

"I thought the food here was delicious and well-executed."

"It's a great place to chill and relax with friends."

Good to know

1

The parking lot across the street costs $20 flat rate on Sunday evening.

2

Expect crowds on Fridays and Saturdays when a DJ is present.

3

Happy hour runs from 4 to 7 pm on Tuesdays with discounted drinks.

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Restaurant

Modern industrial space offers high ceilings and both indoor and outdoor seating. Signature cocktails like Sazerac shine with bold flavors. Sundays feature live music at a comfortable volume, creating a classy yet unpretentious vibe.

Cocktails here stand out for their signature recipes that are not watered down. The menu is massive, featuring craft, classic, and non-alcoholic options like the Sazerac and Detox cocktails.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is so friendly and attentive."

"You have to try the happy hour oysters; they're delicious."

"I thought the cocktails here were some of the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day from 5 to 6 pm with discounted menu items.

2

Live music occurs every Friday at 10 pm, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups, due to limited seating.

04
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Cocktail bar

Old saloon style bar features an intimate dance floor and a hidden speakeasy with a cozy vibe. Creative cocktails like the Green Ray shine, crafted by expert bartenders. Live music and DJs keep the atmosphere lively yet intimate for close conversation.

An extensive cocktail selection offers creative cocktails with unique flavors like the Green Ray. Bartenders show vast knowledge and craft drinks to perfection in a cozy social setting.

People are saying

"The Harry Potterโ€“inspired cocktails were all on point."

"The Harry Potter theme and hidden speakeasy make this place really cool."

"I loved the live jazz music; the energy was vibrant."

Good to know

1

Cocktails are 50% off on Wednesdays.

2

Jazz night happens every Monday, featuring live performances.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere on Friday nights with live music.

05
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Mexican restaurant

Open dining space with a decorated tree centerpiece blends indoor and outdoor areas. Hand mixed cocktails shine, especially the jalapeรฑo old fashioned with a spicy twist. Loud music and a busy bar create a lively atmosphere perfect for early evening gatherings.

Hand mixed cocktails stand out here, especially a jalapeรฑo infused old fashioned that offers a spicy twist. Staff serve drinks with care, making the cocktail experience enjoyable.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be delicious and very authentic."

"The bar's atmosphere is lively, colorful, and feels like Puerto Vallarta."

"I thought the cocktails and staff were amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure a smooth experience.

2

Expect higher prices, especially considering the downtown location.

3

Vegan and vegetarian options are limited.

06
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Tiki bar

Vibrant tiki bar offers elaborate decor that transports guests to faraway lands. Intimate atmosphere with outdoor seating and a cozy fireplace enhances the experience. Bartenders craft world-class rum cocktails blending sweet, sour, and bitter notes perfectly.

Outstanding cocktails focus on rum-based tiki drinks with a balance of sweet, sour, and bitter notes. Bartenders customize drinks well, blending classic and house cocktails with flavorful, balanced sweetness.

People are saying

"This tiki bar has a really fun and unique atmosphere."

"The holiday cocktails here have a fun, spooky Nightmare Before Christmas theme."

"The outdoor seating here feels like a hidden oasis."

Good to know

1

Reservations can be made on OpenTable for a guaranteed spot.

2

Happy hour runs all day on Tuesday with discounted drinks.

3

Expect a crowded atmosphere on weekends; arrive early to secure a seat.

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Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant buzzes with vibrant decor and live DJ music that sparks dancing at night. Suavecito mezcal cocktail shines among well-made drinks served by helpful staff. Open windows and artwork create an authentic Mexican feel perfect for celebrations.

Suavecito mezcal cocktail stands out as very good and worth ordering again. Servers assist with choosing from well-made cucumber and other delicious cocktails that meet high expectations.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and super tasty."

"The bartenders here are so attentive and make you feel like family."

"The cocktails here are delicious and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

After 9pm, the place turns into a dance club.

2

Live music happens on Friday nights.

3

The kitchen closes after 12 am and the bar at 1:30 am.

08
Market Bar image 1

Outdoor courtyard buzzes with live music and multiple bars. Food court serves diverse cuisines like Asian and Peruvian with casual patio seating. Bartender Greg crafts strong cocktails amid a lively crowd enjoying craft beers and social vibes.

Bartender Greg crafts very strong cocktails and offers great mixed drink options. The cocktail menu is diverse, though some drinks focus on Instagram aesthetics over flavor.

People are saying

"I loved the live music in the outdoor space."

"This market has so many great food stalls with diverse cuisines."

"Greg makes expertly crafted mixed drinks that are delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for the first 90 minutes and costs $1 for every 15 minutes afterward.

2

Market Bar is open until midnight, making it a late-night option.

3

They offer free dance classes every Wednesday, perfect for beginners.

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Ballbach and SOFA, San Jose

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