Have you ever been Downtown after a night and the only thing open + around to eat are those bacon-wrapped hot dogs? Don’t get us wrong — we do love those dirty dogs.
We also love a bar with some bites, and the South Bay has some great spots to offer. So, look no further — we’ve rounded up five of the best places to satisfy your hunger while also indulging in some quality drinks.
Good Spot | 📍386 S. First St.
It’s actually a great spot. This gastropub serves up a melting pot of flavors from former SF Chronicle Rising Star Chef Timothy Luym, with inspiration from Asian street food cultures. From delectable appetizers (like Adobo wing lollipops) to cleverly-named cocktails (like the “SoFA-Smash” which is a Makers Mark, apricot + passion fruit concoction) — this joint has got it all. Their happy hour is Wed.-Sun. from 4-6 p.m. and you don’t want to miss out on this gourmet deal.
Nomikai | 📍48 S. First St.
Along with a full menu of sake + specialty cocktails (we suggest the “Rose Royce” for a taste of Japanese gin + grapefruit), this small bar also offers delicious shareable starters and hand-crafted pizza. The “Kimcheese fries” are to die for, and the five-spice duck pizza is a must-try. Grab a group of friends to share a giant cocktail on their “Punch Thursdays” and come back on Fri. or Sat. night for live music.
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PintxoPote | 📍424 N. Santa Cruz Ave., Los Gatos
Look no further for authentic Spanish-Basque dining, because PintxoPote (pronounced ‘pincho potay’) has got you covered. Head chef Hector brings the experience of Spain to you, with carefully crafted pintxos (appetizers traditionally prepared on a small bread). We suggest you try the classic Indurain made with tuna belly + a glass of wine from their excellent selection, which includes Catalan reds and sparkling Cavas. Even if you aren’t familiar with Spanish cuisine, this hidden gem will take you there in one bite.
Hop & Vine | 📍1435 The Alameda
Craft beers, boutique wines, and great bites? We’re in. They offer a variety of charcuterie boards + crostinis that you can pair with their champagne, red, or white wine flights. Or, for you beer buffs — they’ve got rotating taps, seasonal brews, and vintage ales to enjoy with some small snacks or pizzas. And if you’re not convinced yet, there’s also a pet-friendly patio and occasional live music.
Pocha K | 📍2340 El Camino Real, Santa Clara
This trendy bar offers 14 flavors of soju, Korean sake + beer, and tasty Asian fusion bites. They put a spin on traditional appetizers like their “Pocha fries” that are topped with Hot Cheeto crumbles + a fried egg. Plus, you can enjoy a few bottles of soju in their beautifully-lit dining room or heated outdoor patio. They are open from 6 p.m.-2 a.m., Thurs.-Sun., so this is a great late-night option.
