Petiscos "Downtown"

"We went to Petiscos "Downtown" in San Jose for dinner with four adults on a Sunday night. The place is pretty, the food is good, and the people working there are friendly. Everything was good, not amazing but not bad either, just okay. The best things we ate were the house salad and the beans and olives to start with. The meatballs and grilled shrimps were good too. The drinks we had were good too. It's a nice spot to eat, and I'd say it's about a 4 out of 5."

"Small dishes taste great. Beef tongue and pig’s ear salad are my fav. Seafood rice is too salty and orange tart is way too sweet. These two are what I will not recommend."

"Made reservations here for a dinner out with my husband and brother. The area seemed very busy that day and we couldn't find parking anywhere. We ended up doing paid parking right across from there which was a great alternate option. Once we arrived at the restaurant we got seated right away. Our server came and asked us for drinks and we tried some awesome drinks. We also ordered some food right away the shrimp, the seafood paella and couple more dishes. Food tasted decently well but I think their could be more addition to the flavors to make them stand out a bit. The shrimp dish was really nice and I think it's worth a try"

"Petiscos - A Taste of Portugal in the Heart of San Jose, California. As a gourmet and wine connoisseur, you'll appreciate Petiscos, a unique gastronomic jewel nestled in San Jose, California. This restaurant is a warm and welcoming spot known for its delicious offerings inspired by the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Portugal. Petiscos, a cultural reference from Portugal as much as a small snack accompanied by drinks, is a perfect name for a place that is fun, approachable, and meant to be enjoyed among good friends and family. Petiscos, like its Spanish counterpart tapas, are smaller, shareable plates of traditional dishes, making for a sociable dining experience where the table can explore an array of dishes in one sitting. Indeed, the restaurant's tagline is "Petiscos are best enjoyed when shared! Location and Atmosphere Located at 399 S. 1st St., San Jose, Petiscos is open seven days a week from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM. Although street parking is available, it may be hard to find in the evenings. So, you might prefer to use ride-share transportation if visiting during these hours. The atmosphere at Petiscos is warm and inviting, with an upscale yet comfortable setting. You can choose from indoor and outdoor seating, the latter being dog-friendly, a pleasant surprise for the canine lovers amongst us. Petiscos also offers a full bar, wi-fi, and waiter service, creating an ambiance that encourages relaxation and enjoyment. Petiscos has an inviting ambiance that embodies the spirit of its home country, Portugal. The rustic décor, the subtle hum of conversation, and the clinking of cutlery against the dishes set the stage for the night. But before we get to the showstopper, let's talk about what's brewing behind the scenes. The Food - A Melting Pot of Portuguese Flavors Let's talk about the food. Petiscos' menu revolves around the concept of shared small plates, or "petiscos", which is a staple of Portuguese and Spanish dining culture. This approach to food makes the dining experience more social and interactive, and at Petiscos, it's done exceptionally well. Their menu is a diverse and mouth-watering blend of Portuguese favorites that feature authentically prepared dishes and imported ingredients, which resonate with the true essence of Portugal. For starters, let's talk about their ‘Flamed Chouriço’ and ‘Blood Sausage’. The chouriço, Portugal's much-loved sausage, has an exceptional taste that comes from being flamed to perfection. The blood sausage, a delicacy for the adventurous, offers a depth of flavor that is unforgettable. Let's start with the small bites, or as the locals call them, petiscos. Among the most popular items, you'll find broa, a traditional cornbread, and lupini beans, codfish croquettes. You can also indulge in a tender octopus salad, a meal in its own right. For a more adventurous taste, Petiscos serves braised pig ears tossed with a lively citrus and herb dressing, perfectly paired with a glass of Portuguese wine. Next, move on to the main dishes, where the culinary artistry of Petiscos truly shines. Try the grilled sardines, a simple yet delightful dish. Petiscos not only brings Portuguese flavors to the plate but also enhances the dining experience with its carefully selected collection of Portuguese wines. Wine - The Perfect Pairing Finally, let's talk about wine. At Petiscos, the selection of Portuguese wines is impressive. They serve everything from light Vinho Verde to a full-bodied Douro and a rich and sweet Port. The staff is well-versed in their offerings and will recommend the perfect pairing for your meal. In conclusion, Petiscos offers a unique blend of Portuguese culture, flavors, and an excellent selection of wines right in the heart of San Jose. It's not just a meal; it's an immersive dining experience. So, whether you are a food enthusiast looking for your next culinary adventure, or simply someone who loves good food, wine, and company, Petiscos is worth a visit."

"The taste is not very good, not recommend. Beef tongue is a bit gamy. Pastel de nata (egg tart) is way too sweet. Octopus and seafood rice are too salty. The only good dish is dark rice, but the portion is too small. Generally not worth the price."