To many San Joseans, San Pedro Square is a community staple. Not only is it home to eclectic bars, a plethora of restaurants for every cuisine, and a variety of shops from local makers — but it’s also full of history from the earliest days of El Pueblo de San Jose de Guadalupe.
In this guide, we’ll break down some must-try spots + activities you have to hit when visiting this historic and colorful part of our downtown scene.
Sushi Confidential offers an expansive menu for all appetites.
Photo by SJtoday staff
🍴 Eat + drink
The first restaurant to open in the square was The Old Spaghetti Factory in 1972, which took over the former site of the Ravenna Pasta Company
. Since then, it has grown into a foodie’s paradise.
- Find great happy hour deals at Sushi Confidential , or dine at The Farmers Union , a classic American joint serving out of an 1870s-era building that was established for Santa Clara Valley’s farming community.
- Within San Pedro Square Market, you’ll find a food hall offering Peruvian dishes , Nepali cuisine , game day grub , lobster rolls , and “Hella Good” burgers .
- Need something to wash it all down? Grab tasty teas or boba from Mochinut , Urban Ritual , or Dr.Ink (around the corner from SPS Market). Get fueled up at the market’s coffee shop, Voyager Craft Coffee .
San Pedro Square is full of colorful art all around.
Photo via @rjayrivera_
🛍️ Shop
Move aside big department stores, the square boasts a range of shops from local makers + small businesses offering artisan and eco-friendly goods.
- Head over to MOMENT DTSJ , a collection of four micro-retail storefronts that rotate throughout the year. At the moment, you can shop from jewelry store Boho Moon Art , dog-friendly charcuterie spot Woofboard , keycaps producer Tiny Keyboard Shop , or leafy retailer Plant Slut .
- For sustainable goods, try The Source Zero . This is San Jose’s first zero-waste shop + soap refill store, and offers everything from organic scrunchies and handkerchiefs to biodegradable dental floss and bamboo toothbrushes.
Make your own candle at Ashy Aromas.
Photo via @ashyaromas
🔎 Explore
Take the time to explore San Pedro Square’s many murals, take a craft class, or venture into San Jose’s history through the area’s oldest establishments.
- Grab a friend for a candle-making experience at Ashy Aromas . Not only is it a shop with plenty of sweet-smelling products, but you can enjoy a glass of wine while creating your own candle or room spray.
- The Tabard Theatre Company , located between Dr. Funk and Olla Cocina, is a venue to catch fun plays, live music, and even poetry slams. Head there before its closes its doors on Sunday, April 2.
- Take a history tour through the Peralta Adobe House — one of the oldest Spanish California settlements. Right across the street, learn about the 1850s-era house of Thomas Fallon, one of San Jose’s earliest mayors.
Grab a fun cocktail or have a beer from San Pedro Social’s many drafts on tap.
Photo by SJtoday staff
🌃 Nightlife
When the sun goes down, the square turns up. Hop into pubs, bars, lounges, and nightclubs all within walking distance.
- For fun cocktails, a ton of beers on tap, bowling, and free games (yes, free) — go around the corner from The Farmers Union to San Pedro Social .
- Head inside SPS Market for cocktails from Alma Tequileria , Market Bar , and Three Sisters . Looking for a good brew? Try the Market Beer Company for 16 beers on tap, and 270+ bottled options.
- Find bumpin’ music and a lively atmosphere at Myth Lounge , Tiki Pete , Five Points , or SP2 . Settle down for a nightcap at District SJ or Hedley Club inside Hotel De Anza.
Which area of San Jose should we explore next? Let us know by emailing hello@thesjtoday.com.