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New Yorkers 1st Choice
San Jose's best

American and Mexican food

Finding a meal that balances American staples with authentic Mexican flavors without one feeling like an afterthought to the other.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Nation's Giant Hamburgers & Great Pies image 1
Nation's Giant Hamburgers & Great Pies image 2
Nation's Giant Hamburgers & Great Pies image 3
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Small restaurant with inviting interior and views of hills offers a lively atmosphere suited for sit-down meals. Space fills quickly due to high demand and limited seating. Guests receive pie samples upon arrival, adding a welcoming touch.

The bacon cheeseburger with double patty stands out for its juiciness and flavor. The menu also features a patty melt and great pies that complement the classic American offerings.

Gigante burrito comes stuffed with sausage, egg, hash, grilled onion, and tomato. Breakfast burritos taste very tasty and come in large portions.

People are saying

"I thought the pies here were awesome and very tasty."

"This American food, especially the bacon cheeseburger, is the best I've ever had."

"You have to try the gigante breakfast burrito; it's awesome."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is available all day, making it a great option for any meal.

2

The restaurant can get busy, especially during peak hours.

3

Portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

02
Pizza Presidente image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza restaurant offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere with modern, clean decor and a relatively quiet vibe. It features a beer tower and a bar area where games can be watched. The space is small but inviting, making it suitable for family dinners or casual hangouts.

Lemon Pepper chicken wings stand out with a really good taste. The menu includes medium pizzas and 12-piece chicken wings that serve families well.

Carne Asada fries stand out with rich flavors. Both Al Pastor and Birria pizzas offer a unique twist on traditional Mexican dishes.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best in town."

"I thought the Mexican food here was amazing."

"The American food, especially the chicken wings, tasted really good."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is small, so arrive early to find a spot.

2

Ordering online is super easy and recommended for quicker service.

3

Expect fast service; food comes out very quickly.

03
Shark Boy Fish and Chips image 1
Seafood restaurant

Cozy seafood spot with a quaint patio and fishing-themed decor creates a relaxed, nostalgic vibe. Light gospel music and TVs showing sports add to the chill atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers a pleasant, inviting space for leisurely meals.

Fish comes out crispy with a slight Cajun spice on the outside and stays moist and tender inside. Coleslaw tastes fresh and crunchy without heavy mayonnaise.

Fish and shrimp tacos stand out with fresh seafood and a good sauce. Sides like onion rings, fries, macaroni, and churros add variety and complement the main dishes well.

People are saying

"I had some of the best fish and chips I've ever had."

"The American food here, especially the fish, is perfectly cooked and not greasy."

"The fish tacos here are out of this world."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy with plenty of street parking available.

2

The meal costs about $12 including tax, but drinks are extra.

3

Two people can eat and drink for around $20.

04
Cheff Che Cafe & Bar image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating offers a dim-lit, cozy atmosphere that suits relaxing conversations. Full bar with fun mimosas complements a menu featuring LATAM-focused breakfast and lunch dishes.

Eggs benedict come out perfect with buttery hash browns on the side. The chicken fried steak pairs well with those same crispy hash browns. The Club Sandwich stands out as a solid lunch choice.

Carne asada burrito features best refried beans. Chilaquiles appear in multiple dishes, including with mole omelette and alongside Mexican cafecito.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the enchiladas de mole, was so tasty."

"I found the breakfast here to be the best in town."

"The American Food here, especially the eggs Benedict, was perfect."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

The restaurant has ample parking available in the front and back.

3

They do not currently serve alcohol but are working on renewing their license.

05
The City Fish image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood restaurant with nautical decor and soft lighting creates a cozy atmosphere. Seating is limited, offering an unpretentious local vibe where watching downtown activity adds to the experience. The place feels inviting and relaxed without loud noises or fancy features.

Lobster roll comes warm and buttery, standing out as a highlight. The clam chowder serves well, especially in a bread bowl, offering a rich, satisfying taste.

Fish tacos stand out with well-seasoned fish and crispy vegetables. Clams, mussels, and oysters also feature, including oysters Rockefeller and oysters on the half shell.

People are saying

"I found the fish and chips here to be fresh and full of flavor."

"The fish and chips here are delicious and perfectly crispy."

"I loved the fish tacos; they were seasoned so well."

Good to know

1

There is a hidden surcharge or service fee not disclosed on menus.

2

Parking can be challenging, but free parking is available for the first 90 minutes.

3

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 3 PM to 6 PM.

06
City Diner image 1

Small corner diner with 50s and 60s decor featuring old movie posters and classic car models creates a nostalgic atmosphere. Laid-back vibe with a curated playlist of vintage songs and TVs showing sports adds to the welcoming feel. Offers outside seating and a kid-friendly environment.

Fried chicken and a huge hamburger stand out among the American dishes. Options like Prime Rib Dip, Monte Cristo, and steak and eggs show a solid range of classic American fare.

Breakfast enchiladas stand out with their surprisingly good flavor. Freshly made salsa complements dishes like the wet burrito and menudo.

People are saying

"The diner food here is amazing and delicious."

"The American Food here, like the burgers and chicken, is huge and delicious."

"I thought the breakfast enchiladas were surprisingly good."

Good to know

1

Kids eat free on Tuesdays at City Diner.

2

City Diner offers both outdoor and indoor seating options.

3

There is plenty of parking available at City Diner.

07
Mr. Mojito Bar & Grill image 1

Bar and grill with huge TV screens and live music performances creates a lively, upbeat atmosphere where sports fans and music lovers gather. Spacious, covered patio offers comfortable outdoor seating for large groups. Lighting inside sets a subtle, romantic mood ideal for date nights.

Massive nachos stand out alongside a kids' Mac and cheese served with fries in a basket. Dishes like Crispy Chicken Salad, Cobb Salad, enchiladas, and steak all come out delicious.

Fish tacos bring a taste of Ensenada with fresh, authentic flavors. Cocktails like the smoky Mezcalita and spicy tamarind mule complement the reasonably priced Mexican dishes well.

People are saying

"The Happy Hour lemon drop is strong and a favorite."

"The American Food here is delicious, especially the fried cauliflower."

"The spicy mango mojito with chamoy and tajin was tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 2pm to 6pm with discounted drinks and small bites.

2

The bar offers a variety of happy hour specials including lemon drop martinis and tequila shots.

3

The restaurant has a semi-enclosed patio for outdoor dining.

08
The Breakfast Club at Midtown image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Breakfast spot offers cramped seating with many small tables and a loud, lively atmosphere dominated by hip hop music. Crowds fill the space, creating a busy, energetic vibe where conversation is difficult. Top-notch service complements the bustling environment.

Eggs Benedict stands out with perfect hollandaise, surf and turf toppings, and well-seasoned steak. Large portions like the Spicy Korean Fried Chicken and comforting dishes such as salmon with creamy scrambled eggs and crispy hash browns add variety.

Red Chilaquiles stand out with their bold flavors and satisfying texture. This dish consistently delivers a rich, authentic taste that highlights the menu's Mexican roots.

People are saying

"The brunch here is classic and hearty, with huge portions."

"The American Food here, especially the benedicts, is amazing."

"The chilaquiles here did not disappoint."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited at the downtown location.

2

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

3

Expect a wait time of at least 30 minutes on weekends.

09
Master Shin image 1
Korean restaurant

Outdoor seating offers sunshine and fresh air while indoor space provides ample seating. The atmosphere suits casual gatherings with a digital ordering system that notifies when food is ready. Food features Korean snack-style dishes with quality ingredients and a mix of sweet and spicy flavors.

Bulgogi tater tots balance meat and tots well with sauces that enhance the flavor. The Pikachu Fried Chicken offers a crispy outside and juicy inside with a sweet sauce drizzle, while the spicy pork tacos add a kick. Chicken wings come boneless and lean, with a sweet, orange chicken-like taste.

Homemade tortillas add a crunchy texture that lifts the dishes. Spicy pork tacos come well-seasoned without overwhelming heat.

People are saying

"The Bibimbap's beef was tender and juicy."

"The spicy pork tacos are so well-seasoned."

"The spicy pork tacos were so well-seasoned."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Ordering is done via a digital display, and you receive a text when ready.

3

Prices are on the higher side for a food court, reflecting quality ingredients.

10
California Fish Grill image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with casual vibe and fast food-sized dining area offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with outdoor being quieter. Indoor space is loud and features self-order kiosks for convenience. Menu includes a wide variety of fresh fish options and healthy sides.

Clam chowder stands out with a rich, creamy base but contains very few clams. Garlic and Cajun sauces add bold flavors to dishes like coconut shrimp, calamari, tacos, fries, and kaleslaw.

Shrimp tacos come with dynamite shrimp and Cajun flavors, but can arrive soggy and not on the side as requested. Fish tacos tend to be skimpy and tacos overall are average, not fancy.

People are saying

"The fish and chips here are amazing, with a crispy batter."

"The fish and chips here are really good for the price."

"The shrimp tacos here are really good for the price."

Good to know

1

They have a Taco Tuesday deal on Tuesdays.

2

The restaurant now requires customers to order at a machine in front.

3

Parking is plentiful and usually available after 2pm.

11
Taste of Heaven Bistro image 1
American restaurant

Small, cozy bistro with outdoor patio and neon sign swings creates a lively setting. Loud music and traffic noise shape a high-energy atmosphere that challenges conversation. Bottomless mimosa flights and unique brunch options add a distinctive touch to the experience.

Steak and eggs come out packed with flavor and the cheeseburger is delicious. Birria tacos and pancakes also stand out, though food can take 35 to 40 minutes to arrive after ordering.

Breakfast burritos stand out with great value and packed flavor. Birria tacos and steak on chilaquiles add solid Mexican flavors. Horchata offers a wonderful taste complementing the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is packed with flavor and cooked to perfection."

"The Mexican food here, especially the birria tacos, is packed with flavor."

"The American food, like steak and eggs, is packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted on weekends, so arrive early.

2

Parking can be tight, especially on weekends; consider street parking.

3

Credit card payments incur an extra charge, so bring cash if possible.

12
Island Taste Caribbean Grill image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Small, intimate space with Caribbean-themed decor and island-inspired music creates a vibrant, lively atmosphere. Outdoor tables accommodate pets, and the open floor plan offers wheelchair accessibility. Clean, cozy environment invites guests to enjoy authentic flavors in a welcoming setting.

Fried chicken stands out with killer flavor and consistent quality. Plates like oxtail and chicken wings come with expected dry rub seasoning, alongside options like Jamaican patty and tacos.

Tacos here blend cultures well, especially the jerk chicken and oxtail tacos. They come overflowing with meat and include toppings like chopped plantains and cabbage slaw.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, packed with flavor, and tastes homemade."

"You have to try the oxtail tacos; they're amazing."

"Their fried chicken is killer American food."

Good to know

1

Ordering is at a counter at the front.

2

Expect to pay around $30 for a plate.

3

They host a great comedy show every 4th Friday of the month.

13
Con Azucar Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Small space with bright Mexican decor and Chicano cultural touches creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Mexican music plays, enhancing the vibe and making it feel like an authentic cafรฉ. Unique feature includes custom photo art on coffee foam, adding a playful and personal touch.

The club sandwich stands out with its warm, flavorful layers and consistent quality. The grilled cheese features fully melted cheese and perfectly toasted bread.

Torta de Jamon stands out with its tasty ham and spicy peppers inside. Drinks like cafe de olla and Agua de Horchata complement the fresh bread and tamales well.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be flavorful and delicious."

"You have to try the giant conchas; they're delicious."

"The American Food here, especially the club sandwich, is warm and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect a one-hour wait outside the cafe on Saturday mornings.

2

There is no parking available at the location.

3

The cafe is small, and seating is often unavailable.

14
Bill's Cafe - Alameda image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Weapons-themed interior sets a modern and homey tone with a small bar for watching games. Atmosphere ranges from clean and relaxing to lively and noisy, often filled with friendly people. Music selection complements the vibe, creating a cheerful and engaging breakfast spot.

Eggs Benedict comes in several versions, including classic, crab cakes, and fried chicken, all with notable sauces. Hash browns stand out as crispy and flavorful. Large American pancakes and biscuits with gravy add to the variety.

Huevos rancheros offer authentic flavor, and the Mexicano Benedict features pork carnitas. The steak breakfast burrito also stands out among the Mexican options.

People are saying

"I found the food to be fresh and delicious."

"The American Food here, especially the crab cake Benedict, is amazing."

"The Mexican food here is honestly so incredible."

Good to know

1

Bill's Cafe is open until 3pm daily.

2

Expect a wait on weekends, especially during brunch hours.

3

Parking is available, including an overflow area.

15
Papas and Eggs image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Cozy breakfast spot with tight table spacing and a quiet early atmosphere that supports conversation. Decor is stylish and clean, though seating is on hard wooden chairs. The place draws a diverse crowd including families and couples, offering a relaxed vibe without loud music or TVs.

Crab cakes stand out with rich flavor. Generous portions of chicken fried steak and Florentine eggs benedict offer hearty options. French toast, eggs, and hash browns round out classic American dishes.

Crunchy chilaquiles come in several varieties like green with beans, chorizo, and scrambled eggs, or spicy orange with balanced heat. The salsa is delicious, beans are luscious, and chips keep just enough crunch to complement the dishes.

People are saying

"The eggs here are perfectly seasoned and bursting with flavor."

"The American food here, especially the eggs benedict, is perfectly seasoned."

"The chilaquiles here are amazing, bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

This place doesnโ€™t accept cash; only card payments are accepted.

2

Parking is available, but it can be limited during busy hours.

3

Expect slower service during peak times due to kitchen capacity.

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