This is a chronological list of restaurants permanently closed in San Jose, California—a nostalgic look back and a helpful resource for those seeking available restaurant spaces. These are the places that we miss. This is our restaurant history. A forgotten piece of our heritage. No matter how long each of these eateries were open, on a daily basis they paid someone’s rent, provided sustenance for a hungry traveler, or were simply part of the community. So please join us and do not forget this part of our town.
San Jose, California, home to over one million residents, is the heart of Silicon Valley and boasts a vibrant food scene that reflects its rich cultural tapestry. This city in the San Francisco Bay Area is renowned for its fusion of flavors, with local favorites like the savory pupusas, a nod to the city’s significant Salvadoran community, and the fresh, innovative farm-to-table offerings that highlight California’s agricultural bounty. A standout eatery, The Hut, is famed for its delicious take on classic American barbecue, drawing locals and visitors alike with its smoky flavors and welcoming atmosphere. Nestled at the southern end of the bay, San Jose’s diverse geography—from nearby mountains to fertile valleys—enhances its culinary landscape by providing access to a variety of fresh ingredients, making it a delicious reflection of its history and cultural influences.
Are you looking for a restaurant job in San Jose, California?
Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided as a resource, but it may not always be 100% accurate. While we strive to research and verify details, errors can occur, and businesses frequently change names, locations, or reopen after closing. Addresses, operating status, and other details may be outdated or incorrect. Use this information at your own risk. If you spot an error, please contact us here, and we will do our best to update it promptly.
Closed Down Restaurants in San Jose, California
Exploring the Lost Dining Spots of the Capital of Silicon Valley
San Jose’s culinary landscape has evolved dramatically over the decades, with many beloved establishments closing their doors. From national chains to local favorites, here’s a look at some of the most memorable closed-down restaurants in San Jose, organized by decade.
2020s
Adega
Location: 1614 Alum Rock Avenue, San Jose, CA
Closure Date: December 31, 2023 (Reopened in November 2024)
San Jose’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, Adega, closed at the end of 2023 but made a surprising comeback in late 2024. Known for its authentic Portuguese cuisine, Adega’s temporary closure was meant to make way for another eatery, Petiscos, before plans changed.
Opa!
Location: Willow Glen, San Jose, CA
Closure Date: February 2025
This popular Greek restaurant in the charming Willow Glen neighborhood shut down in early 2025, leaving fans of its authentic dishes craving more.
Starbucks (Downtown San Jose)
Location: 145 West Santa Clara Street, San Jose, CA
Closure Date: January 5, 2025
A long-standing downtown location that closed as part of Starbucks’ nationwide restructuring effort.
Patty’s Inn
Location: 102 South Montgomery Street, San Jose, CA
Closure Date: August 1, 2021
A dive bar beloved by locals since 1933, Patty’s Inn closed to make way for Google’s “Downtown West” development project. Its loss marked the end of a nearly 90-year tradition.
2010s
Burger Pit
Location: San Jose, CA
Closure Date: 2022
After more than 70 years of serving classic American fare, this beloved burger spot shut its doors. Its nostalgic decor and hearty dishes were fondly remembered by regulars.
Sambo’s (409 S Second St)
Closure Date: Around 2019
Once a popular breakfast spot, this location was transformed into Botown Seafood, which itself is now slated for demolition.
Arcadia
Location: San Jose, CA
Closure Date: 2019
A high-end steakhouse by celebrity chef Michael Mina, Arcadia offered modern American cuisine before closing its doors.
Race Street Fish & Poultry
Location: San Jose, CA
Closure Date: Not specified
Known for its fresh seafood and friendly atmosphere, Race Street Fish & Poultry was a local favorite before it shuttered.
HomeTown Buffet
Location: San Jose, CA
Closure Date: Not specified
Like many other locations in the national chain, this all-you-can-eat buffet closed as part of broader corporate shutdowns.
1970s and Earlier (including Undated)
Burger Chef (New Jersey Ave & Camden Ave)
Status: Location’s subsequent businesses not listed
Once part of the nationwide chain known for its innovative “Works Bar,” this Burger Chef location has been replaced, but no information on its current use is available.
Burger Chef (4th Street in San Fernando)
Status: Now occupied by Pho Bac Noodle Palace
A former Burger Chef site now serving a different type of cuisine to the community.
Howard Johnson’s (1751 N First St #40)
Status: Now replaced by Sam & Curry
Howard Johnson’s was once a staple of classic American comfort food and hospitality.
Sambo’s (5055 Almaden Expy)
Status: Now a breakfast restaurant
Part of a nationwide chain known for its colorful decor and hearty breakfast plates.
Sambo’s (2122 McKee Rd)
Status: Now a Mexican restaurant
Many Sambo’s locations across the country were repurposed, this one now serving Mexican cuisine.
Sambo’s (2112 S 1st St)
Status: Now a Denny’s
Like many other former Sambo’s locations, this one became part of the Denny’s family, serving up breakfast favorites around the clock.
Sambo’s (700 S Winchester Blvd)
Status: Occupied by various businesses over the years
The building’s history remains partially undocumented, but its legacy as a Sambo’s location still lingers in local memory.
Sambo’s (1960 The Alameda)
Opened: 1960
One of the original Sambo’s locations, remembered for its diner-style menu and retro charm.
Final Thoughts
San Jose has undergone significant change over the decades. While new restaurants continually emerge, these closed establishments once played a key role in the city’s cultural and culinary history.
For more stories of closed-down restaurants and to share your own memories, visit Closed Down Restaurants.com.
Comments