On Memorial Day Weekend, San Jose is host to FanimeCon, the largest Fan-Operated anime convention in California. This convention is held at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center in downtown San Jose. Of course, the area has the obligatory hotdog street carts and Starbucks, but past that there’s a wealth of unique and interesting places to eat and drink. Many of the places listed below are at a reasonable (for California!!) price point.
Close to the Con Center
Original Gravity Public House
66 S 1st Street, San Jose
Three words: Duck fat fries. Two more words: Truffle salt. Do I have your attention yet? Don’t worry if that sounds too fancy: Original Gravity Public House is an unpretentious pub that serves house made sausages that will satisfy comfort food lovers and adventurous palates alike. These can be customized with toppings and house-made sauces. The twenty beers they keep on tap rotate regularly, and if you’re new to beer their friendly staff will gladly make recommendations. Ordering is done at the counter, with seating indoors or in the back. It’s a bit far from the convention center, and the food’s messy. Save a trip here for the end of your convention day.
La Victoria Taqueria
140 E. San Carlos Street, San Jose
Affectionately called “La Vic’s,” this Mexican spot has been a favorite of SJSU students and anime convention attendees because of the generous portions of tasty food. They’re open for breakfast starting at 7:00 am and they stay open until 3:00 am, making it a perfect spot for to go orders of carne asada fries, tortas or very large burritos… as long as you’re willing to wait. Service is efficient, but the line to order often goes out the door, so bring a friend to keep you company or play games on your phone to pass the time.
Bijan Bakery and Cafe
170 S. Market Street #110, San Jose
Located right across from the Signia by Hilton, this bakery and cafe established in 1986 has a wide menu of sweet and savory items. It’s a great alternative to Starbucks in a hurry. I really enjoyed the chicken panini with pesto: a tender piece of chicken breast with fresh tomato. There’s plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. This location is close enough to dip into in the middle of the day, without missing out on convention events.
San Pedro Square Market: Worth the Walk?
The San Pedro Square Market is a little more than half a mile away from the San Jose McEnery Convention Center, and houses two bars, a beer shop, and a wide variety of restaurants all contained in two buildings. Given the distance and the local clientele, only costumes that could pass as street clothing are advised.
The Bars: Three Sisters and San Pedro Square Market Bar
While 1st street is home to Original Gravity Public House and a handful of other college bars, the San Pedro Square Market is more lowkey. The Market Bar serves the classics and a wide range of beers. Three Sisters is a little more daring in terms of cocktail presentation, including one bourbon-based drink that was served with a smoking cinnamon stick. with their own imaginative spin on them. They also have one of the quintessential Japanese cocktails, the Highball, on tap, ensuring that the mixture of Suntory Toki Whisky and club soda are in just the right proportions. Check out both.
Voyager Craft Coffee
Attention Coffee (and tea) Fanatics, this is a destination you will love. Travel the world in a cup with Voyager Craft Coffee’s signature drinks, or try one of the seasonal specials. Their tea lattes are just as wonderful as their coffee drinks. On top of the pastries made in house, they also serve a variety of topped toasts. Order online to avoid the line.
Pizza Bocca Lupo
I love all kinds of pizza, but Neapolitan Pizza has a special place in my heart. Pizza Bocca Lupo‘s creations are all made to order in a brick, wood-fired oven imported from Napoli. The crust is crisp and chewy, and the crushed san marzano tomatoes are sweet and vibrant. But their menu doesn’t stop at the classic Margherita: If you love heat with your meat, go for the spicy Diavola.
This list is just a taste of what’s available in the city, so don’t limit yourself to chains and hotel restaurants when San Jose has so much more to offer. Feel free to share your crave-worthy faves in the comments!