Paul Kushner
Amid the bustle of Silicon Valley, where innovation and technology reign supreme, a more timeless tradition thrives – the appreciation of fine whiskey.
San Jose, with its blend of tech prowess and a sophisticated palate, boasts a selection of whiskey bars that can satisfy even the most discerning connoisseur.
In this guide, we embark on a journey through the city’s whiskey wonderland, uncovering the best whiskey bars in San Jose to sip, savor, and celebrate the rich heritage of this timeless spirit.
Join us as we explore the best whiskey bars in San Jose, where each glass tells a story and every sip is an experience.
Haberdasher
43 W San Salvador St, San Jose, CA 95113
Phone: (408) 792-7356
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With its vintage feel, Haberdasher is one of the best whiskey bars in San Jose.
I recommend this bar for its craft cocktails and its amazing house ginger beer.
If you’re into whiskey cocktails, you’ll find many creative drinks with fruity and exotic flavors.
Haberdasher is on W San Salvador Street, between First and S Market Street.
It’s one of the most fun places to go out after catching a show at the San Jose Theaters!
Cash Only
78 E Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95113
Phone: (408) 288-5252
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Cash Only is a popular downtown bar with a friendly atmosphere and some occasional live music events.
The drink selection includes a varied list of beer on draft and some domestic and small-batch beers in cans.
It’s also a great spot for shots, and you can order shots and beer combos for a fun experience.
This bar is on E Santa Clara Street, between S Second and S Third Street. St. James Park is nearby.
55 – Fifty Five South
55 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113
Phone: (408) 288-6000
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55 – Fifty Five South is one of the best whiskey bars in San Jose if you’re looking for craft cocktails and great food.
The bar has a cozy lounge area where you can enjoy delicious cocktails, beer on tap, or whiskey.
The live events are a plus, and the staff goes above and beyond to deliver a great experience.
You’ll find this laid-back lounge on First and Post Street in downtown San Jose, not far from the San Jose Museum of Art.
Five Points
169 W Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95113
Phone: (408) 982-5816
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If you’re wondering where to get a drink in downtown San Jose, I recommend Five Points.
This bar offers a craft cocktail experience inspired by the historical Five Points neighborhood in NYC.
The drink menu includes classic cocktails from the Prohibition era and earlier.
You’ll also find modern cocktails that use whiskey, tequila, rum, and more.
Five Points is near W Santa Clara Street and Almaden Avenue, a few blocks east of St. John’s Bridge.
Paper Plane
72 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113
Phone: (408) 713-2625
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With its impressive selection of liquors and spirits, Paper Plane might have the largest curated bottle collection in San Jose.
The bar has a modern feel with its beautiful brick accents, and the atmosphere feels friendly and welcoming.
It’s one of the best whiskey bars in San Jose if you want to try options other bars might not have, and the creative food is also noteworthy.
Paper Plane is in the heart of downtown San Jose, near S 1st Street and E San Fernando Street.
3rd & Bourbon
93 E Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95113
Phone: (408) 320-2453
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If you’re in the mood for drinks and appetizers, 3rd & Bourbon is my top recommendation.
This cozy spot has the feel of a small neighborhood bar and is one of my favorite places to go out in San Jose.
There is a great drink selection, and the kitchen serves bar bites with a creative twist and a beautiful presentation.
You’ll find this hidden gem on N Third Street and E Santa Clara Street, a block south of St. James Park.
District
65 N San Pedro St, San Jose, CA 95110
Phone: (669) 292-5252
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District is one of the most fun places to get drinks in downtown San Jose.
This spot offers dishes inspired by different cuisines from around the globe served with a curated selection of wine and whiskey.
The shareable plates make for a memorable night out with friends, and the staff is extremely knowledgeable when it comes to recommending wine or spirit pairings with your food.
District is in the San Pedro Square area, near N San Pedro Street and Almaden Avenue.
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