55 South

4.4 (898)

Downtown San Jose's craft cocktail haven with exceptional tapas, lively Western lounge vibes, and late-night energy—perfect for innovative drinks and social nights out.

55 South is a stylish cocktail bar and American restaurant in downtown San Jose, celebrated for its innovative craft cocktails, delectable tapas, and lively late-night atmosphere. Located at 55 S 1st St, it offers a Western vibe with handcrafted drinks, small bites, and occasional live music, drawing crowds for its unique ambiance and quality service. Open evenings from 4 PM, it peaks on weekends with a moderate price point ideal for couples, friends, and after-work gatherings.

A brief summary to 55 South

55 S 1st St, San Jose, Central San Jose, California, 95113, US
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Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Tuesday 4 pm-1 am
Wednesday 4 pm-1 am
Thursday 4 pm-1:30 am
Friday 4 pm-2 am
Saturday 4 pm-2 am
Sunday 4 pm-1 am

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring 55 South.

Arrive before 8 PM on weekends to secure a spot without reservations, as it fills up quickly for peak nightlife.
Try the Moscow Mule or house specials alongside tapas for the best value combo; portions are shareable.
Opt for bar seating for faster service and bartender interactions during busy evenings.

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Getting There

Walk

5-10 min walk from San Jose Diridon Station or downtown hotels; flat urban streets, free.
Rideshare

Uber/Lyft from airport 20-30 min, $25-40; drop-off at 1st St, available 24/7.
Public Transit

VTA Light Rail to Santa Clara Station, then 10-min walk; $2.50, runs until midnight.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Drink Options
Food Options
Seating Areas

Discover more about 55 South

Overview

Nestled in the heart of San Jose's vibrant downtown at 55 S 1st St, 55 South stands as a premier destination for cocktail enthusiasts and food lovers. This cocktail bar and American restaurant blends innovative mixology with flavorful tapas, creating an inviting space that transitions seamlessly from early evening hangs to lively late-night scenes. With a 4.4-star rating from nearly 900 reviews, it has earned acclaim for its handcrafted drinks and small plates that keep patrons returning.

Cocktails and Menu Highlights

The bar shines with its creative cocktail menu, featuring refreshing options like the Moscow Mule alongside unique house specials made by skilled bartenders. Complementing the drinks are standout tapas and appetizers—think gourmet small bites and indulgent desserts that elevate any visit. Prices fall in the moderate range, with drinks and plates typically $20–30, making it accessible yet upscale. Food receives equal praise, often described as fantastic and better than expected in a bar setting.

Atmosphere and Vibe

55 South exudes a chill, Western-inspired lounge feel with a fun, relaxing energy perfect for conversation. The space gets lively and loud as it fills up, especially late evenings and weekends, fostering an entertaining nightlife pulse. Ambiance suits couples on dates, friend groups, or business unwind sessions, with kind, helpful staff enhancing the experience. Live music adds to the draw on select nights.

Practical Details

Operating from 4 PM to 1–2 AM most days (closed Mondays), it aligns with San Jose's nightlife rhythm. Arrive early to beat peak crowds, as weekends see high demand. Centrally located in Central San Jose, it's walkable from nearby attractions and easily accessible by public transport or rideshare.

Why Visit

Whether seeking a unique cocktail, late-night dessert, or social spot, 55 South delivers consistent quality in a bustling urban setting. Its blend of craft beverages, tasty eats, and vibrant energy makes it a go-to for locals and visitors exploring Silicon Valley's culinary scene.