Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Loved by locals

Desserts for lunch in San Jose

You want a lunch spot that knows how to finish a meal with a proper dessert.

Based on 751 Opinions
+748
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Milk Belly Bakery image 1
Milk Belly Bakery image 2
Milk Belly Bakery image 3
View all

Rustic red-brick walls and banana-leaf wallpaper create a cozy, inviting space with wooden tables and a separate coffee bar. The atmosphere is chill and warm, with a peaceful courtyard nearby. Staff prepare food visibly, adding to the welcoming vibe.

Hong Kong toast stands out as a super sweet dessert. Desserts match the strong coffee in tastiness.

People are saying

"The Japanese Egg Salad Sandwich here is one of the world's best."

"The sandwiches at this Lunch Spot are fresh and flavorful."

"The Hong Kong toast is a really good, super sweet dessert."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines on weekends, often over an hour wait.

2

Preordering is recommended to avoid sold-out items.

3

Parking can be tricky; metered spots are a block away.

02
El Cielo Bar & Grill image 1
Colombian restaurant

Colombian restaurant offers a cozy, family atmosphere with beautiful decor and sophisticated music that suits special occasions. Lighting tends to be dim, creating a picturesque setting. The vibe is welcoming and lively, making it ideal for celebrations.

Merengon dessert stands out as a favorite. Desserts here are consistently delicious and make a spectacular end to meals.

Lunches come at a super cheap price and taste very good. Menu items stay consistent every day, making it easy to enjoy delicious platters whether dining in or taking food to go.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The desserts here are spectacular and delicious."

"The service here is excellent and so I'd rate it 10/10."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required to dine here.

2

The restaurant offers a daily meal deal that is very affordable.

3

They charge for card payments, which should be disclosed to customers.

03
Angkor Chef image 1
Cambodian restaurant

Small, modern Cambodian restaurant offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with clean lines and stylish decor. The space feels relaxed and inviting, allowing easy conversation without crowding. It stands out for its unique Cambodian flavors presented in a fresh, contemporary setting.

Rice pudding steamed in banana leaf offers a unique texture and flavor. Mochi with mung bean and jackfruit desserts provide sweet, tropical tastes with a soft, chewy bite.

Offers a beautiful, business-lunch environment that feels fairly intimate. Lunch deals provide great value with excellent food quality.

People are saying

"The Cambodian food here is delicious and authentic."

"The vegetarian curry with tofu was excellent."

"This lunch spot's dishes are so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger parties, especially on weekends.

2

A major public parking garage is right across the street for easy access.

3

The metro system runs down First Street, making it convenient to reach.

04
Suspiro image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant combines modern tropical decor with a quiet, elegant atmosphere ideal for sharing moments. Speakeasy at the back offers a cozy balcony, live music, and a wide selection of cocktails. Outdoor patio provides a comfortable, inviting space with amenities like blankets.

Desserts stand out with unique flavors and delicious taste. Special occasions get extra attention with surprise birthday desserts and thoughtful presentation.

Fast service stands out during lunch hours. Friendly staff like Oswaldo and Steve provide attentive and pleasant service. The lunch offerings include beautifully presented dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is unforgettable and delicious."

"The speakeasy in the back has amazing drinks and a nice ambiance."

"This lunch spot has delicious paella and seafood."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended on busy Friday evenings.

2

Expect a large party gratuity for groups of five or more.

3

The restaurant accommodates dietary needs, offering vegan and vegetarian options.

05
Saapaaduu image 1
Indian restaurant

Restaurant combines contemporary elegance with traditional South Indian decor featuring brass and gold-plated utensils. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming with tasteful background music enhancing the dining experience. Seating is tight and cramped, creating a bustling environment during busy times.

Rasmali stands out with its rich texture and sweetness. The rice Pongal dessert features dry coconut pieces and a sweetness that recalls Aravana payasam from Kerala temples.

Lunch features festive meals like Diwali and Pongal with a wide variety of food served on banana leaves during special events.

People are saying

"The South Indian food here is so authentic and tasty."

"This lunch spot's authentic Indian food is delicious and fresh."

"You have to try the rasmalai crinkle cake for dessert."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for special events like the Pongal lunch due to high demand.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere during peak times; arrive early if possible.

3

Walk-in customers may face long wait times or seating issues.

06
Mr. SiuMai image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, modern space with bright lights and self-order kiosks creates a clean, cozy atmosphere. Noise levels vary, with a relaxed vibe that feels like casual takeout dining with seating. Dim sum offerings focus on authentic Cantonese flavors with some standout dishes.

Offers a variety of affordable Hong Kong desserts including mochi in multiple flavors and a pineapple custard that stands out.

Late dim sum lunch offers convenient to-go options and a chance to dine with coworkers. Pricing matches other dim sum spots nearby.

People are saying

"The dim sum here, especially the siu mai and egg tarts, is delicious."

"This Lunch Spot has great dim sum and friendly service."

"You have to try the mochi and pineapple custard desserts."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, especially on weekends due to nearby crowds.

2

The prices are $6 for 3 pieces of siumai, which is considered high for a casual spot.

3

There are 2 self-service kiosks for ordering, or you can order with staff if paying cash.

07
B3Boyz Dhaba image 1
Modern Indian restaurant

Small modern Indian restaurant serves food on traditional banana leaves, creating an authentic dining experience. Atmosphere is pleasant and clean but can feel cold. Popular for authentic Tamilian dishes and flavorful biriyani, with many takeout orders limiting seating.

Desserts come as part of the thali served on a banana leaf, featuring payasam and gulab jamun. These sweets complement the variety of curries and rice dishes included.

Lunch features a buffet served on a banana leaf with each item hand-served. The weekend buffet highlights parota and biriyani as standout dishes.

People are saying

"The fish fry here is amazing and melts in your mouth."

"The lunch buffet here is amazing, especially the biryani."

"The desserts, like payasam and gulab jamun, were delicious."

Good to know

1

On weekends, they offer buffets in the morning with lots of options.

2

The restaurant offers unlimited meals during the buffet.

3

Parking can be challenging; you may need to park across the street.

08
ASI Mexican Fusion Bistro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Old fast-food building hosts a Mexican and Middle Eastern fusion with a warm, inviting atmosphere and multiple large TVs showing sports. The space features deep blue walls and a lively yet comfortable vibe with good table spacing. Music and muted TVs add to the relaxed environment.

Flan stands out with a balanced sweetness and smooth texture. The orange dessert offers a fresh, flavorful option. Staff sometimes offer a free dessert to make up for delays.

Food arrives fairly quickly during lunch. The spot offers a fun atmosphere and serves as a nice place to enjoy a midday meal.

People are saying

"I loved the fusion of Mexican and Palestinian food here."

"The service here is great, they even gave us a free dessert."

"The fish tacos at this Lunch Spot are delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features $2 street tacos, making it a popular choice.

2

Happy hour offers discounted beer and sangria pitchers during weekdays.

3

The restaurant serves Halal food, catering to specific dietary needs.

09
Haveli Kabab & Grill image 1
Indian restaurant

Decor reflects a traditional Punjab home with tapestries and sequined curtains, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Seating includes traditional manje cots and regular chairs, accommodating both casual and group dining. Energy varies from peaceful family-friendly to lively with DJ and karaoke events.

Lunch features a buffet style with a variety of options. Staff provide immediate seating and service for groups.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious with rich flavors."

"The lunch buffet had tons of fresh options."

"The desserts felt like they came straight from a village kitchen."

Good to know

1

The buffet is available daily until 2:30 pm, except on Tuesdays when the restaurant is closed.

2

A 20% surcharge applies for large parties without prior notice.

3

The kid's menu offers both Indian and American cuisine options.

10
Suvai Taste of India image 1

Bold orange-and-red decor and brass cutlery create a vibrant, inviting atmosphere with a spacious layout. Music plays softly, adding a calming, refined vibe without overpowering conversation. Seating is comfortable and the environment feels clean and high-class.

Buffet offers Payasam for dessert alongside savory items. The Ras Malai dessert provides a sweet finish.

Buffet lunch offers a variety of South Indian dishes with standout items like dry pahakkai subzi. The spread delivers outstanding flavor and variety consistently.

People are saying

"I thought the curry here was the best Indian food Iโ€™ve had outside India."

"I enjoyed the lunch buffet here; it was great."

"The buffet had a variety of South Indian dishes, including masala dosa and payasam for dessert."

Good to know

1

They offer a weekday buffet for $19.99 with a variety of options.

2

The buffet includes free naan and bread.

3

They have a discount on prices until 9/21 due to their opening.

11
FITOOR image 1
Modern Indian restaurant

Modern Indian restaurant combines live DJ performances and fire dancers to create an energetic atmosphere with upbeat music. Interior features modern dรฉcor and ambient lighting, while outdoor seating offers a relaxed environment. Tables are placed closely, contributing to a lively but less intimate setting.

Desserts feature Malai Choux Bun with gelled Malai resembling Rasmalai and paan ice-cream. The 8 element Malai Choux Panacotta includes pan ice cream and offers a unique finish to meals.

Lunch here suits groups well, from teams to families. The spot works for casual gatherings and special occasions like Father's Day with a friendly atmosphere and versatile menu.

People are saying

"The food here is fabulous, creative, and flavorful."

"You have to try the desserts; they're creamy and decadent."

"This Lunch Spot's food is creative with authentic Indian flavors and a modern twist."

Good to know

1

FITOOR has a belly dance performance on Saturday and Sunday evenings.

2

On weekends, they have a DJ and belly dancers.

3

A belly dancer performs on Fridays and Saturdays with a live DJ.

12
Talab image 1
Indian restaurant

Modern decor creates a calm and inviting atmosphere with boutique decorations and minimal indoor seating. Space feels cozy yet well-maintained, offering both indoor and outdoor seating options. Live streaming of NFL games adds a unique touch to the experience.

Mishti doi, sandesh, and roshogolla stand out with their balanced sweetness. Desserts here are consistently exceptional and not overly sweet.

Lunch offers Indo-Chinese combos ideal for a quick meal. The chicken roll stands out with a unique taste not found outside India. The ambiance suits more than just lunch.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Bengali food; it felt like home."

"This lunch spot's fish fry reminded me of Kolkata's streets."

"The Mishti Doi and Rosogolla are so smooth and sweet."

Good to know

1

On Fridays to Sundays, the menu expands to include a wider selection of rare Bengali dishes.

2

Happy hour menu is available with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Not all dishes from their extensive menu are available despite visiting on a Friday night.

13
Yas Restaurant image 1
Persian restaurant

Cozy space with cool Persian decor and warm, inviting atmosphere creates a welcoming vibe. Persian music plays softly, enhancing the authentic dining experience. The place attracts those seeking high-quality Persian cuisine in a family-friendly setting.

Persian ice cream offers a unique flavor that stands out. Persian tea and dessert provide a nostalgic finish that recalls the old country.

Lunch features dishes like Chicken Cornish and Kashk-o-Bademjan, a pureed eggplant with kashk, sautรฉed mint, and fried onions. Service includes a super polite waitress who attends well during the meal.

People are saying

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

"The food at this Lunch Spot is juicy and tasty."

"The Persian tea and dessert reminded me of the old country."

Good to know

1

Parking at Yas Restaurant is usually challenging during dinner time.

2

Yas Restaurant opens late on weekends, which is very rare to find in the Bay Area.

3

They charged a 20% required service fee for parties over five.

14
DESI EXPRESS (Inside SoFA Market) image 1

Indian street food spot inside a food court offers authentic chaats and sandwiches with excellent chicken tikka masala and flavorful chutneys. Cozy setup supports a casual lunch atmosphere popular with office crowds. Location is somewhat hidden at the market's end but provides adequate seating and a home-style vibe.

Offers a variety of eggless desserts including bun muska chai and gulab jamun. The menu features some of the fanciest options like corn chaat and dahi puri.

Food shows great quality despite serving the office lunch crowd. Location offers convenient walk from nearby offices for a quick lunch.

People are saying

"I thought the Bombay sandwich was the best in the Bay Area."

"I craved authentic Indian flavors that reminded me of home."

"This lunch spot has great quality food and quick service."

Good to know

1

DESI EXPRESS is located inside a food court in downtown San Jose.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of chaat options.

3

Expect smaller portion sizes compared to other places for similar dishes.

15
Duc Huong Sandwiches image 1

Sandwich shop operates as a take-out only spot with no seating and a pickup window for orders. Lines often stretch outside, creating a busy, crowded atmosphere with a steady flow of sandwich lovers. Known for best banh mi, it draws consistent crowds despite a run-down appearance.

Refreshing coconut jelly called Thแบกch Dแปซa stands out among the desserts. Tables near the register offer pandan mochi-like treats and other tasty sweets.

Lunch hours get busy but the line moves quickly and service is fast even during the rush. Calling orders in 20 to 30 minutes ahead helps if time is tight.

People are saying

"I thought the banh mi sandwiches were the best I'd had."

"This banh mi sandwich is the best I've had in a while."

"I loved the pandan and coconut jelly desserts."

Good to know

1

They have a buy 4 get 1 free promotion.

2

The restaurant is take out only.

3

Expect long lines on weekends, especially during lunch hours.

16
Dough Zone Dumpling House South San Jose image 1

Chinese restaurant offers casual, stylish atmosphere with peaceful, chill vibes and a self-ordering menu. The setting is clean and cozy, often less crowded during lunch for a relaxed experience. Dumplings and noodles stand out as authentic and flavorful highlights.

Pumpkin dessert and banana naan stand out with their mild sweetness and unique textures. Banana inside a fried pancake offers a crispy, soft contrast that feels fresh and satisfying.

Lunch offers a $15.99 combo with noodles, dim sum or dumplings, and a cold drink. Food arrives within 30 minutes after the rush, making it a good value during weekdays.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the dumplings, is amazing."

"The food here is delicious and arrived quickly."

"The food at this lunch spot is fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Portion sizes are small, so consider ordering multiple dishes.

2

Prices are significantly lower than similar restaurants in the area.

3

Final call for food is at 8:30 p.m., with seating ending at 8:15 p.m.

17
Emperor of India image 1
Indian restaurant

Spacious Indian buffet with a friendly atmosphere and soothing modern music. Offers a variety of spiced dishes including standout items like butter chicken and saag paneer. Typically busy with a pleasant, clean environment.

Desserts change regularly, keeping the selection fresh. Options include gajar halwa and kheer, often paired with milk tea. Free tea and dessert are offered.

Lunch features a well priced buffet with a wide range of delicious items. Service during lunch is consistently good.

People are saying

"The Indian food here is authentic and incredibly flavorful."

"The lunch buffet has a great variety and selection."

"The lunch buffet included a selection of desserts."

Good to know

1

The buffet offers around 8-10 items, including dessert.

2

Vegetarian options are available in the buffet.

3

Prices at the buffet are considered reasonable by some.

18
Denny's image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant feels like a time capsule with vinyl booths and laminate tables. Atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, often lively and spacious inside. Staff share stories about NVIDIA's founding here, adding a unique historical touch.

Desserts come with creamy sauce and caramel sauce options. The baked apple crisp stands out as a yummy choice. Servers offer helpful recommendations and sometimes samples.

Lunch comes out quickly and hot, even during busy shifts. Staff stays amazing and the environment feels relaxing enough to enjoy your meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and served fast and hot."

"The staff here are so friendly and always attentive."

"Their recommended desserts are so delicious and creamy."

Good to know

1

Parking is available next to the I-680 exit to Berryessa Road.

2

Food is served until midnight, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

3

Maria can help you sign up for the rewards program for discounts.

19
The Second wife - Indian Restaurant image 1

Spacious interior with vibrant colors and comfortable seating creates a pleasant dining environment. Atmosphere ranges from cozy and family-friendly to occasionally cold and quiet. Known for authentic North Indian food, including standout dishes like daal and chicken tikka masala.

Desserts include a large selection with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The boondi laddoo stands out with large boondi and nuts, offering a rich texture and flavor.

Lunch offers a buffet with variety featuring Indian dishes. Pricing stays around $24, making it significantly cheaper than similar high-quality options nearby.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's authentic Indian food is rich in flavor."

"The buffet staff is so friendly and attentive."

"The desserts here are outstanding, especially the carrot halwa."

Good to know

1

The buffet price is $29 per adult and $19 per child.

2

Expect a 20% gratuity added automatically for parties of 6 or more.

3

Limited vegetarian options are available on the buffet.

20
Rok Steakhouse & Grill image 1

Steaks arrive on hot volcanic stones for cooking at the table, creating a smoky, intense atmosphere reminiscent of a volcano. The interior features dark high-top tables with red, orange, and black tones, while the environment includes both indoor and outdoor seating with heaters. Loud kitchen sounds and staff activity add to the lively, somewhat distracting energy during meals.

Chocolate fondue stands out as a signature dessert here. The menu also features a volcano cake and crรจme brรปlรฉe, all noted for their rich flavors.

Convenient for business lunch meetings and client entertainment. Offers a lunch menu suited for quick breaks and professional gatherings.

People are saying

"I loved cooking my own steak on the 700-degree hot stone!"

"The Hanger Steak at this Lunch Spot is outstanding."

"I loved cooking my ribeye on the volcano rock."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers affordable selected beer and wine.

2

Reservations are not required, and tables are available on Saturday evenings.

3

Expect to pay around $90-100 for a meal with drinks, tax, and tip.

21
Revopot image 1
Restaurant

Spacious modern restaurant features a conveyor belt system delivering vegetables, noodles, and seafood for individual hot pots. Quiet atmosphere with bar-style seating and booths offers a clean, fresh environment. Extensive sauce bar and high-quality meats like wagyu and brisket stand out in the setup.

Sesame balls and a fruit plate are available for dessert. The dessert area offers Asian-style jello in flavors like mango, lychee, and green tea, along with fresh oranges, pineapple, and cantaloupe.

Lunch offers a solid value with a $19.95 special that includes one hot dish and three plates of meat. Tables are easy to get on Sundays during lunch hours.

People are saying

"The food selection on the conveyor belt is plentiful."

"This Lunch Spot has a conveyor belt with veggies, fishballs, and shrimp."

"David's pleasant conversation and calm energy made the desserts experience even better."

Good to know

1

The price is $35 per person for all-you-can-eat hot pot.

2

Expect a wait time of about 1 hour during peak hours.

3

Automatic gratuity is added for groups larger than five people.

22
Applebee's Grill + Bar image 1

Restaurant offers a casual, family-friendly atmosphere with multiple TVs showing various sports. Energy varies from relaxing to loud and lively near the bar, where patrons watch games and socialize. Walls feature local sports memorabilia, creating a sporty vibe throughout.

Desserts take a long time to arrive and require flagging down staff to order. A free birthday dessert is offered, and the dessert options are enjoyable once served.

Seating happens immediately for lunch with great deals available. The spot offers a pleasant atmosphere and good service that suits family and friends alike.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be savory and tasty."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was attentive and friendly."

"I enjoyed the desserts here, especially the free birthday one."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm, with discounts on select drinks.

2

Expect a 5-minute wait during off-peak hours.

3

The restaurant offers a $25 special that includes multiple meal choices and an appetizer.

23
Red Lobster image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with 1980s diner vibes and spacious seating offers a comfortable, inviting atmosphere despite occasional loud noise. Lighting tends to be dim, contributing to a relaxed but somewhat outdated feel. The place attracts seafood lovers and families, creating a lively yet casual energy.

Desserts come in huge portions and include options like cheesecake. Staff sometimes offer a complementary dessert. The candle on cakes can be forgotten, but desserts remain the focus.

Quick seating and attentive service make lunch here smooth. The menu includes soup and stuffed mushrooms, paired with tasty biscuits for a solid midday meal.

People are saying

"The seafood, especially the shrimp, is amazing; I'd go back for it."

"You have to try these warm, buttery, cheesy biscuits."

"They gave us a complementary dessert for the birthday surprise."

Good to know

1

The wait time to be seated for dinner is usually within 5 minutes for two people.

2

Reservations are not accepted, but you can preregister in line.

3

Expect a $40 minimum spend to use certain promotional cards.

Discover more

San Jose, California

Area guide
Loading Map...