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Cafe Stritch
374 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113, United States
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Ke
Review №1

I only come for the music, so I cant really comment on the food. One of the best places in the Bay Area if you are looking to hear live jazz. Solid acts every weekend. Doesnt really get too crowded, so you can get a good seat without too much of a problem. Drinks are great, the bartending staff is friendly.

K
Review №2

Came here for a Saturday night concert. Seating is first come first serve, so you can get great seats if you come early. Only the front part of the restaurant is near the stage. The back half is far away as well as obstructed. Food is decent for the price. Order at the counter.

Ga
Review №3

Very elegant and convenient spot. They offer large portions and for reasonable rates. We liked the menu a lot and the staff members were super affable and chatty. Recommended.

Fr
Review №4

We ordered the Authentic Japanese Wagyu Ribeye, Filet Mignon Rossini, Maine Lobster Mac & Cheese, sweet chili seared scallops, rhubarb panna cotta, hot tea, coffee, Mexican coffee, and a few cocktails.

Ta
Review №5

Everything about Cafe Stritch was cosy, good, and right, on our visit. A jazz band was playing, and thanks to two levels of seating, we found just the right place so sit for the volume level that worked for us. The second floor overlooks the action for an excellent vista, and offers regular and a couch for seating, too.The food and drink were excellent. Its the sort of place you seat yourself, order at register, pick up yourself, etc, which felt laid back and easy. The menu isnt huge, but everything we tried was wonderful! The mac and cheese is appealing not just in appearance, but a sumptuous indulgence everyone loved. The French Dip was just right, the roll just the right level of crisp at the crust, the prime rib superb, the dip richly flavorful, all with a good side of fries.The bar had a lot of options, and though I only tried The Last Drink, consisting of Gin, Chartreuse, Lime, and a Cherry, Im eager to try other options next time I visit as well as return to this one. Of course, I wish it were open for an easy lunch as well, but its only a dinner establishment - although, this does fit with its atmosphere perfectly, so Im not going to complain, truly!

Ki
Review №6

The food was Okey the Mac and cheese was good. But surprisingly I noticed that one of the kitchen worker or Cook (he had apron and went to kitchen right after bathroom) did not wash his hands after bathroom. That was for me totally unacceptable.

Ca
Review №7

This restaurant is certainly one of the coolest place in the neighborhood. Anytime I go there I am incredibly glad. They hold their very high standard service and the highest level of food they serve. You no doubt will love this place. Warmly recommended.

Tw
Review №8

The staff is nice and improv nights are always fun. Last week someone tried tap-dancing for 4 minutes straight, with no intention of stopping, it was amazing. There are also some talented singers and comedians that take to the stage. Lastly, I would definitely try the mac and cheese with bacon (maybe add some mushrooms.)

Be
Review №9

For those that like the dive and gems of culture in the downtown area. For jazz lovers and those of the other side of normal. Welcome!

Br
Review №10

Great bar, the live music is phenomenal and its definitely a place you want to check out if youre from out of town. My only suggestion. Is for them to make better drinks as their cocktails are quite average. Food is good though!

La
Review №11

I celebrated my PhD last night in this fine place. Well we enjoyed a tremendous evening and the place was clearly one of the reasons for the fruitful evening. The waiters collaborated in a gorgeous way, the cuisine was great and my friends were so thrilled. We shall no dout return for more joyful events. thanks very much.

St
Review №12

Phenomenal jazz cafe with fantastic food, cocktails, beer, wine and a lovely, accommodating staff!

Sc
Review №13

Surprisingly great jazz sets in a funky setting with a diverse audience. Oh, and a well stocked bar with happy friendly bartender.

ka
Review №14

One of my favorite places to go! Amazing ambiance and very intimate. $5 suggested cover which goes to the band. This place can be as dressed up or dressed down as youd like. There is very intimate seating up front and all of the servers are friendly and approachable!

Ar
Review №15

Ugh what can I say? I LOVE this place. If you are looking for a place to listen to live music or comedy while drinking amazing brews and cocktails and having great food, this is the place to go.

Cl
Review №16

I had a Ceasar salad and a brewed Wheat Ale Beer...they have live jazz music there!!!

ha
Review №17

Yes! Go here!I just popped in for mac n cheese. Ended up stay hours drinking cocktails and listening to live jazz.This will be a regular for me when visiting SI! Love it!

Xi
Review №18

Had a great time here last night with performance from Howard Wiley & Extra Nappy. Great food, drinks and inviting atmosphere! Highly recommend for anyone looking for some live music on a slow night, or a place for friends to hang.PS. Really appreciate that the performance lasts until 2am but with intermittent breaks.

Ko
Review №19

Two days ago was our first time in this excellent restaurant. But It is obviously not the last. We passed a splendid evening with the good service, with the finest food and booze and with the honest price. We will definitely go back there again.

Re
Review №20

The music and the mood of this place is great. When you get here make sure to order a grilled cheese (add bacon) to enjoy alongside some smooth jazz, solid drinks, and wonderful company.

Si
Review №21

One of the greatest places to perform at! Food was tremendously good. And the staff were very accommodating. Highly highly recommend this spot.

Br
Review №22

Came here for the live jazz. Impressed by the whole experience: food, drinks, vibe, service!The large Mac n Cheese with garlic and onions was PHENOMENAL! Best Mac and cheese I’ve ever had.I had the Sazerac cocktail which was also DELICIOUS! Great alternative to an old fashioned and perfectly balanced.Staff had great suggestions and we’re super friendly. This place is a gem!

Ti
Review №23

Expensive drinks although theres always good music playing. i wish there were more vegan food options but the only vegan thing there is their soup

Ja
Review №24

The food is really quite good, and I must say, the Mac and cheese options are decadent. I saw the Americano Social Club there and they absolutely killed it! I cant speak to their regular cast of live musicians but Ill be going back soon to find out all about them. The atmosphere is a lot of fun for a Friday night out that isnt a modern club

st
Review №25

Great atmosphere. Excellent food.

Jo
Review №26

I need to go back here when Im sober so I can truly enjoy the food, oh and music! I ordered the grilled cheese and Mac n cheese. Amazing. Everything about this place is great; the food, staff, music, drinks.

Cl
Review №27

Great music! The fóod is pretty tasty too. Nothing fancy, but good.

Mi
Review №28

I attended a comedy show here. Its a cool Cafe that has a full bar and meal service. Theres plenty of space to sit with friends and enjoy the performance. I had the grilled chicken and it was tasty with a bunch of fries and a salad. Ill have to come back for jazz next time!

Ad
Review №29

Love this place! Great for place for people to Express them selfs! They have great band upstairs and down stairs and out door setting with view of stadge.Great menu and food the same safe. Check the day time hours kinda weird.

Fe
Review №30

Nice Place for live Jazz. Must visit!!

Sc
Review №31

Always fun to go to stritch for an evening of music. The musicians are fantastic as is the ambience

Wo
Review №32

The food menu is nice. The Half Rack of Ribs were dry and tasteless. To expensive for the quality of an dish but the service and the employees are excellent. The drinks are reasonable. But as a business they need to give back to the high amount of homeless that stick around outside that could deter the public. Give some of the revenue for them to have a motel stay for night or get the Mayor to start setting up night stations away from the late night business.

di
Review №33

Friday night, right around dinner time, and hungry - I would look at their schedule before going. Seems like a great place for day time, they also host small bands / performances in the evening. If youre going with a group and want to dine indoors, I would highly recommend looking into the schedule ahead of time.Okay, so food. . . Great eclectic menu! From Burgers to smoked salmon dishes . . . everyone will find something to eat. And they are veggie friendly.We had grilled cheese and tomato soup - which was great! I mean you cant go wrong with this. The burger was a bit dry, though ordered medium. The salmon was good, it was finished, but not raved about. The dishes are good the share, but definitely good for size for one.If youre in the area, its worth a try.

Ar
Review №34

So the bartender was very nice and recommend the perfect pitcher for the night because I wouldnt have been able to pick between their selection

Me
Review №35

I was there for a private event. Ive been there three years in a roll for this same Cabaret event and they have continually provided generous service, constant flow of food and beverage and courteous no matter how crowded and difficult the space became. The food is always great and they pour a solid drink. Its a great neighborhood venue for music and food. Im sure they probably do have things other than music like comedy, but Ive only heard music there. Was just thinking last night when I was there, I should come here on some Thursday or Friday night and see what its like normally.

Ch
Review №36

San Jose is lucky to have it. Jazz and good food. Great spot.

Ha
Review №37

A predominantly Jazz club. The kind that is sorely missing in San Francisco. Owned and operated by the same family for a second generation, this place is a happening venue in San Jose. Good bar and food as well

Er
Review №38

Music is always great. Strong supporter of the local jazz community.

Ju
Review №39

Very nicer place to listening jam session music and have a wonderful night

Sp
Review №40

Love this place. Great live jazz Thursday through Saturday.

Pa
Review №41

Love this place, if I cant get to the tablelands, then the tablelands have come to me. Great coffee & tea. The product selection is fantastic, the quality of both chocolate & coffee is excellent etc etc but the best asset this shop has is the staff. They are absolutely first rate. They are friendly not fake and they are extremely knowledgeable which is great when youre just starting out on the coffee journey. Excellent work people.

do
Review №42

Enjoy jazz and other performances in this supportive San Jose institution. Arrive early for best seating. The reasonably priced menu has a range of goodies and there are a lot of beverage options as well.

As
Review №43

One of the best places in San Jose downtown for music lovers. Been here multiple times and they have well defined lineup on their website for the whole month. They have shows 4 days a week and have couple of sets. An hour and a half each from 8.30 pm and 10.30 pm.They also have very good food. Their Mac and cheese is really good ! Have tried other things like cheese sandwich and tomato soup. All really good, definitely worth a few visits .

vd
Review №44

Yo this place is super chill and they always got some sort of event going on which is super cool

Je
Review №45

The best food. Good beer. People are friendly. Good customer serviced.

Ni
Review №46

Fried chicken and waffles are peoples favorite, also mac/cheese or cheese grilled sandwich. Outdoor sittings are nice with shades relaxing ambience. Staff are cool and nice.

Va
Review №47

One of my favorite and a go to place for a quick beer. The bartenders are super friendly. The fact that its couple of blocks from my apt makes it easy.They also have a live jazz bands on weekends.

Vi
Review №48

Its got the most mellowest hip kinda jazzy atmosphere that is always enticing...

Mi
Review №49

Beautiful ambiance tonight. Loved watching the drummer in his element. The whole band was awesome.

Di
Review №50

Cafe Stritch is a cultural gem in the heart of downtown San Jose. Come down to see great Jazz musicians live, Thursday through Saturday. The drinks are reasonably priced, and the food is great as well! Truly a perfect spot to come unwind from the humdrum of everyday life.

Ga
Review №51

Live music by dope artist, great staff and delicious food. Do my best to visit at least once a week.

Gr
Review №52

Stritch is a Jazz club, with a great, on-going line-up of local and travelling talent. That said, the Jazz is mostly Bebop, which may not be your thing. It can be a frustrating place to enjoy music, however, as most people on Friday and Saturday are there to party, and it can be hard to hear the music over the din. The staff ask people to keep it down, but it seems futile.Five stars for the music, three stars for the atmosphere.

Ad
Review №53

Great Music! Great Bar!!

Ro
Review №54

We saw a fantastic band here with no cover charge. Food is relatively inexpensive bar food and good for the price. Lines at the bar and for food are a little long. No waiter service. No free parking which is normal for downtown locations.

Me
Review №55

American food and the scene here is quality. Service is always timely even when they have a full house. Service is consistently great. This place has a cool atmosphere.

Ja
Review №56

I constantly arrive purchasing some food in this place. I like the quick service and well cooked dishes. 5 stars from me.

La
Review №57

Live bands on Thursdays, got a huge bowl of clam chowder for $7, they have a late night menu of food, and good drink selection and good ginger beer (major plus). They don’t charge a cover and this is a very loud, chill, grown up place to hear jazz or other artists. It’s super chill and lowkey. Just grab a table and listen. My friend suggested this place and says they have really good bands come here and she listens to good music here.

St
Review №58

The best cafe down town hands down!!!! If you havent been here then your missing out especially on the weekendz!! Live shows to down to earth laid back people with positive vibes!!!

ta
Review №59

American food and the feeling at this spot is great. came in on a thurs. ambience is similar to fresnos scene.

Ma
Review №60

Lovely place to go out for low priced gourmet American comfort food, cocktails, and live jazz. The staff are helpful and friendly. Cafe Stritch really comes alive weekend nights and is always a go-to. (:

Ma
Review №61

It a very chilling place and great vibe!!! Enjoy the live music and with great company you can solve the lonely night

Sa
Review №62

This place has a great atmosphere and the food and beer is excellent. The tomato soup with grilled cheese is amazing paired with most of what they have on tap. I love coming here with a few friends and getting a table on the second story overlooking the stage and just chilling out over some beers. Also a great date location, and it’s close to a lot of other San Jose bars and food places if you want to bar hop. However, I would stay away from the cocktails - a $5 whiskey sour was essentially just a glass of lemonade with a shot. If you’ve ever had a real whiskey sour, you’ll realize why that’s so disappointing. If you want a good cocktail, would highly recommend walking a short way to one of the other places on the block.

To
Review №63

Love this place for Jazz. Tonite was Funk. Wow collectivity. Amazing band.

Ji
Review №64

Great live music. Get there early for good seats downstairs

Jo
Review №65

Wow tonight was the Best live Jazz Ive ever heard Such a nice venue and a Great way to bring in the New year First Fridays are Awesome downtown San Jose

Is
Review №66

One of my fav places for delicious American food. It was so savory.

Ch
Review №67

Really good grilled cheese + tomato soup.

Le
Review №68

This place was a surprise. Sound was excellent. Its a jazz club, but you would not guess it from the outside. The ambiance feels like a cafe with large windows just like the name implies.

sc
Review №69

Nice people nice drinks ill go back

Le
Review №70

Pretty big space, good food.

La
Review №71

Live music, good burger, a place for people of all ages and races to meet.

Vi
Review №72

Great music, but unforgivably long waits for food and drinks

Om
Review №73

Great music alright Drinks ok food

An
Review №74

This place is one of my favorite downtown San Jose.From Thursday to Sunday there is live jazz music and it never disappoints.On Wednesday theres always something going on as well, although not necessarily live music.Cocktails are not the best here, so I always stick with beer, but I honestly just come for the music.Vegetarian options on the menu are very limited - but again, this is not where I go for food.

Mi
Review №75

Great place to see live jazz and drink. Most people who work are pretty cool and the food is really good. Cool date spot

Sa
Review №76

Nice for live music and great casual menu

kr
Review №77

Good upbeat atmosphere....live jazz music... Good looking crowd

Ro
Review №78

Loved the ambience! Great live Jazz show, all ages welcomed. Very diverse crowd! Food was good too!

Mi
Review №79

This place is cool as hell. You can hangout in the mezzanine and have a drink and meal in peace or go downstairs to the bar and mingle. I love that its trying to be a cafe in more of the true sense - come as you are and make what you want of it. Just great.

Sa
Review №80

Jazz, casual food and a great atmosphere any day of the week. Love this spot!

Ho
Review №81

Nice place. Good food. Great live music.

Vi
Review №82

Really nice place for late evening hangout!Live music, drinks and food perfect place to spend your evening with you friends and family if you like the live music.

Ma
Review №83

Always a good place to hangout with friends, colleagues or loved ones.The music is always amazing, and the guest are always welcomed. I honestly love this place (expect a repetition of this sentence). I have noticed the staff change in a positive manner, and I like it (as anybody else would).I came out with my girl tonight and we had a great time tonight. The food... uff.. always on point. They do have a small menu, but youll never go wrong. From the grilled cheese, the salmon, burger, ratatouille, etc... youll not be unsatisfied.Seating is well placed; theres great seating for the band as you walk in with the bar hugging the area. Seating and tables continue to the back for a private feel, yet still in the atmosphere of the show. Towards the back and up the stairs theres a top sitting section.The top section is always found to be filled with groups or couples looking for a more itimate space. Ive noticed it has been reserved for private events, in such occasion, the place is a perfect spot. You get the privacy, and the connection to the bottom as it has a glass balcony.Hands down one of my favorite places to go to in San Jose.!!!!

Ru
Review №84

The live music is fantastic! Food is ok. Had a wonderful time, would highly recommend!!

Ca
Review №85

Brick heaven for musician lovers! This little gem in Downtown San Jose is a great way to spend your evening; whether youre on a solo journey, on a date, group gathering, or a low-key placed to unwind. Great staff and amazing performers everytime

Mo
Review №86

Love this place. Chill vibe and good drinks every time. Also, the grilled cheese is amazing!

Za
Review №87

Best live music on a Wednesday. Good beer selection and Bourbons.

Jo
Review №88

Catch me here every other Thursday night. Sipping on fancy wine, snapping my fingers to the smooth jazz.No cover charge on Thursdays ;)

Ky
Review №89

Great jazz shows and good vibe. Food is so-so.

Ma
Review №90

Good music. Good food. Some very talented musicians. I was surprised by how good the food is.

Je
Review №91

One of the favorite in San Jose.Food is always good, nice choice of beers and cocktails.Love the atmosphere, gigs playing live are usually pretty good.Update: I have to remove a star because they removed the steak sandwich, which was the best steak sandwich around.Lets make a deal, you bring that sandwich back you monsters and Ill give you your 5th star back!

ga
Review №92

Live jazz music was great. Drinks was fine. Ambience is one of the best. Its only 5 dollar voluntary cover charge for live music, thats unheard of.

Ra
Review №93

American food and the scene at this location is excellent. Nothing to complain about. The staff was very helpful and welcoming. The place has a great feel to it.

Ga
Review №94

Very nice place with live music.

Go
Review №95

Awesome music with great drink. The Mac and cheese is a must.

Ev
Review №96

Super cute cafe. Love the ambiance and staff is very friendly. The live music makes the atmosphere great and lively.

Sa
Review №97

Great place for live jazz!

B
Review №98

Nice jazz vibe/live band...I will be back

Ke
Review №99

A consistent gem of a club for downtown San Jose. This is a great live music club, primarily jazz. There are other music genres here as well. During the Winterfest and Summerfest jazz programs, great talent performs here. The club layout is close up and personal making for truly live experience. With a full service bar, good food selection, and friendly helpful staff, youre in for a great evening or a comfortable shorter hangout.

Cl
Review №100

Great neighborhood hangout but attracts people from all over...not for the food necessarily although they do salmon really well.. but for the great jazz musicians. As good a jazz scene as Yoshis in San Francisco.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.6 Rating
  • Address:374 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113, United States
  • Site:http://cafestritch.com/
  • Phone:+1 408-280-6161
Categories
  • Jazz club
  • American restaurant
  • Live music bar
  • Restaurant
Working hours
  • Monday:Closed
  • Tuesday:Closed
  • Wednesday:5pm–2am
  • Thursday:5pm–2am
  • Friday:5pm–2am
  • Saturday:5pm–2am
  • Sunday:Closed
Service options
  • Outdoor seating:Yes
  • Takeaway:Yes
  • Delivery:No
  • Dine-in:No
Highlights
  • Fast service:Yes
  • Live music:Yes
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
Offerings
  • Alcohol:Yes
  • Beer:Yes
  • Cocktails:Yes
  • Coffee:Yes
  • Comfort food:Yes
  • Late-night food:Yes
  • Small plates:Yes
  • Spirits:Yes
  • Wine:Yes
Dining options
  • Dinner:Yes
  • Catering:Yes
  • Dessert:Yes
  • Seating:Yes
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