21 Best Restaurants in Milpitas, CA
Welcome to the diverse culinary scene of Milpitas, California!
Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, this vibrant city offers an eclectic mix of dining experiences that cater to all tastes.
Whether you're craving for the comforting taste of home-cooked meals or looking to explore exotic flavors from around the globe, there's always something delightful waiting for you around the corner.
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Milpitas that are not featured here. Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself.
CRUST Sourdough Deli
Oh, the joy of stumbling upon a hidden gem in your own backyard!
That's exactly what happened when I discovered CRUST Sourdough Deli tucked away in the heart of San Jose.
The place is unassuming at first glance, but trust me, it's a treasure trove of flavors.
Their star player?
The hot pastrami sandwich!
Now, I've had my fair share of pastrami sandwiches in the city, but nothing quite compares to this one.
It's a bit more expensive than the usual fare, but every mouthful of pastrami, fresh off the grill, sank into the soft, crunchy sourdough bread is worth every penny.
When the sun is shining, which is often around here, the outdoor seating offers the perfect spot to enjoy your meal.
There's plenty of room inside, too, if you prefer.
I occasionally enjoy sharing their "Royal" sandwich with friends – a spicy #11 with turkey and pastrami, a generous helping of spicy mustard, and all the trimmings.
Let's not forget their sourdough bread - it's a masterpiece in itself.
Soft to bite into, yet with a lovely chewy crust, I can't get enough of it!
The sourdough sandwiches aren't the only thing that keeps me coming back.
The service has always been top-notch, even during the busiest of lunch hours.
RĀW Superfood Café
Let me share with you my experience at the RĀW Superfood Café located in Milpitas.
Their menu is packed with bowls, smoothies, lattes, and burgers that are all prepared swiftly.
My order of a veggie burger was served in under 5 minutes, which was unexpectedly fast.
The longest part was indeed deciding which burger to choose at the self-service kiosk.
I recommend ordering ahead to save some time if you can.
The Avocado Truffle Burger, which I chose, had a tangy flavor that came from the pickled cucumber and truffle spread.
I didn't expect it, but I ended up enjoying this unique taste.
For anyone who prefers a more traditional flavor, the O.G. Burger might be a better choice.
The veggie burgers come with multiple patty options, including Impossible, Beet, Beyond, and Taro Mushroom.
The smoothies are also customizable with Oat, Almond, and Hemp milks.
I have to say, though, the prices might seem a bit steep for some of the items.
A smoothie costs $9, and a latte sets you back by $6.
Poki Run
I've had the opportunity to try out many local restaurants in the city.
One such place that I've frequented is Poki Run.
As soon as I step into Poki Run, I'm immediately greeted with a warm, family-like atmosphere.
It's nice to be known by name and welcomed with such friendly faces.
The place is always clean and well-decorated, making it a pleasant place to dine.
Now, onto the food.
The fish at Poki Run is simply fantastic.
Fresh, melt-in-your-mouth quality that you don't often find elsewhere.
It's got a buttery texture that I just can't get enough of.
Poke Xpress
I've been privileged to stumble upon a hidden gem in our neighborhood, which is Poke Xpress.
This place was a delightful find on a day when I craved poke outside of the Great Mall.
The freshness of the poke fish they serve is outstanding, and the portion size is decent for the price.
I must say, Poke Xpress became my instant favorite when I realized how peaceful and quiet the place is, with ample parking space nearby.
Their sushi, for example, takes around 20 minutes to prepare for five different types.
The eatery's decoration is stylish and pleasing to the eye, and most importantly, the food is always delectable and fresh.
One of the things that makes me return to Poke Xpress is their Mango Peach Green Tea.
It has a subtle hint of Jasmine that just tastes so good!
It's also worth mentioning that they don't charge extra for avocados and even offer the option of cooked fish for those who aren't fans of raw fish.
Plus, their prices are comparatively better than some other places I've visited in the past.
When it comes to poke bowls, I had never tried them before a co-worker suggested Poke Xpress.
After my first try, I was so impressed that I'd been going there for lunch for the past three weeks straight!
And yes, I did try the poke, which was absolutely tasty and fresh.
I'm eagerly waiting for the time when I can sit inside and enjoy my meal when it becomes possible.
Mikonos Grill
So, there I was, strolling through the city, when a craving for some hearty Mediterranean fare hit me.
I decided to head towards Mikonos Grill, my favorite local eatery.
You can check it out here: Mikonos Grill, and believe me, you won't regret visiting.
The moment I stepped in, the ambiance took me in.
It's a low-key place with counter service, but the vibe is so warm and welcoming.
I asked them about their meat, and they confirmed it was halal.
I was thrilled!
I went for the steak and gyro, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of delicious.
The steak was so tender and full of flavor I was already planning my next visit while still eating!
And the place?
Sparkling clean.
I also ordered their fries, and they were the perfect balance of crispy and fluffy, just the way I like them.
But my love for this place isn't just about the main courses.
They also serve the best baklava I've ever tasted, and their baba ganoush is a must-try.
The quality, quantity, and pricing of their food are just perfect.
You can tell that they use the best quality ingredients, especially their meat.
Sen Dai Sushi
There's something about the hustle and bustle of a small sushi restaurant that always feels warm and inviting.
That's the charm of Sen Dai Sushi, tucked away in the heart of our city.
I have been a regular at this place for years.
One of the things I appreciate the most about Sen Dai Sushi is how they prioritize service.
I've always found the place to be clean and cozy, making it an ideal hangout after a long day's work.
I've tried nearly everything on their vast menu, but their sashimi is what keeps me coming back.
It's so fresh, it's almost like the fish is still swimming in the ocean!
If you're dining with friends, I recommend the karaage chicken appetizer.
The chicken is tender and flavorful, and the portion is generous enough to share.
The Kawasaki roll is another standout dish.
The first time I tried it, it left such an impression that it has become one of my regular orders.
Idly Express
I often find myself heading over to Idly Express when I'm craving authentic South Indian cuisine.
This little eatery is a hidden gem tucked away in Milpitas.
Every weekend, you'll find me sitting at one of their tables outside, enjoying a warm breakfast.
You see, there's something about dipping vada in their mouthwatering sambhar and tasting their fluffy idlis drenched in chutney that's just addictive.
What's more, their South Indian filtered coffee is simply fantastic and goes well with their breakfast selections.
And let me tell you, their sambhar is a culinary masterstroke.
It's a beautiful balance of flavors that I've rarely come across.
I always make it a point to order the 32-ounce box of sambar to go.
But it's not just their breakfast that's impressive.
They also serve daily evening snacks after 4 pm.
The snacks are whipped up fresh in their kitchen every ten minutes.
I generally go for the pakora, samosa, and masala vada.
They're all excellent, although I would love to see a spicy version of the pakora with Thai or Indian chilies.
Idly Express is a vegetarian paradise.
Despite being a non-vegetarian myself, I have zero complaints.
Dish N Dash
I can't begin to express how much I adore Dish N Dash.
Their food is simply divine.
It's been my go-to spot for Middle Eastern cuisine for years.
The last time I was there, I got the veggie bowl, you can have it made in any style mentioned in their menu, and I found it to be really satisfying.
The servings are generous, and the side dishes are plenty.
What stood out for me was their dessert, a unique concoction of mish-mashed baklava with ice cream - truly a delight for the taste buds!
I also highly recommend their cauliflower appetizer, it's a must-try.
Believe me when I say you'll walk out of there planning your next visit.
Pinoy Bbq ATBP
I'm always on the lookout for places that serve authentic Asian food, and one afternoon, I stumbled upon Pinoy Bbq ATBP.
I'd heard some chatter about this place from a trucker friend who'd passed through Milpitas on a route.
The restaurant was small but neat, and the employees were friendly.
I had my first lunch there around 11 am, which I later realized was a tad bit early because not all their dishes were available.
But the ones that were, oh boy, they were delightful!
You really get a good variety of dishes with generous portions.
The curry stood out for me, it was incredibly aromatic and tickled my taste buds in all the right ways.
The place itself has a cozy feel to it, with a few seating areas.
Given its size, at times, it's more convenient to get the food to go.
But whether you dine in or take away, trust me, you're in for a good rice dinner feast.
Jiuding Flavor Restaurant
I've got to say my love for hotpot found a new home at Jiuding Flavor Restaurant.
I stepped in for the first time, convinced by the restaurant's house-recommended tomato and spicy soup base.
Both flavors were spot on, and I'll definitely be back for more.
It's become the hotpot place of choice for my partner and me in the Bay Area.
Speaking of food quality, it's quite impressive considering the price.
The lamb, enoki, shrimp paste, and cabbage are a few of my favorites.
The broth, veggies, and meats were all so delicious!
I particularly loved the white soup, also known as the Three Fresh Hot Pot.
It's not too spicy and really savory!
It's also important to note that Jiuding Flavor Restaurant is not for the faint-hearted when it comes to spice.
Their spicy soup base takes heat to a whole new level.
It's just the right amount of spicy for a spice lover like me, but if you're not into spicy food, I'd recommend you steer clear of that one.
The ambiance of this cozy hotpot restaurant was another highlight.
Mil's Diner
I've been a regular at Mil's Diner for years.
There's something about the place that has an old-school charm to it.
It's like stepping into a different era with the red booths and laminate tabletops, the big American breakfasts and lunches they serve, and, most importantly, the warm and friendly service.
It's like they've got a secret caffeine stash back there in the kitchen.
It's not just the service that's impressive, though, the food is mouthwatering.
My personal go-to is the crab cake Benedict – it is simply out of this world.
I've heard mixed reviews about their hash browns, but I've personally found them to be quite satisfactory.
One time, I decided to try their waffles on a whim, and man, they were pretty good!
What's more, the pricing is absolutely fair for the mountain of food you get.
I've never left the place hungry, and I don't think anyone else has either.
They've made some additions, too - the portions seem more generous, the omelets fluffier, and the burgers juicier.
Their chicken and waffles have quickly become the talk of the town.
Taqueria Las Vegas
Nothing beats the taste of authentic Mexican flavor right in the heart of Milpitas, California.
At Taqueria Las Vegas, every bite of their hearty and generous servings is a fiesta in the mouth.
One evening, I decided to satisfy my craving for something spicy and flavorful.
So I headed over to Taqueria Las Vegas, a compact and vibrant counter-service eatery famous for their Mexican standards.
The place was buzzing with energy, and the aroma of freshly prepared Mexican fare was tantalizing.
I ordered a beef taco and sope, a recommendation from my cousin, and I must say, it didn’t disappoint!
The beef was soft and well-seasoned, while the soup was just delicious.
The next time, I decided to try the taco plate, and it was equally delectable.
Not one to shy away from a food challenge, I also braved their gigantic quesadilla on another visit.
While it was a bit too much for one person, the taste was on point.
Taiwan Cafe
Taiwan Cafe remains one of my top choices when I'm in the mood for authentic Taiwanese cuisine.
The restaurant brings the flavors of Taiwan's street food straight to our doorstep with its array of traditional dishes.
Eating at the Taiwan Cafe is like taking a trip down memory lane.
The dishes remind me of the street food I used to enjoy as a kid, especially their famous pork knuckle and popcorn chicken.
The star of the show is definitely the pork knuckle.
The prices are reasonable, typically averaging $25-30 per person, and parking is never an issue in the small business plaza where it's located.
Shanghai Family Cuisine
Shanghai Family Cuisine has been a long-standing favorite for my family and me.
We make it a point to dine here whenever we find ourselves in the south bay.
It's just the perfect place to get a taste of authentic Shanghai-style food in the city.
You wouldn't believe how good their hot food dishes are, straight out of a hot wok.
If you ever visit, do try their kidney with red oil appetizer.
Trust me when I say this, it's cooked to perfection - not overcooked, just incredibly tender.
One of the best starters to whet your appetite for the delectable food that follows.
Omega Restaurant and Lounge
Every city has its place, the go-to spot where everyone can relish good food and enjoy a great atmosphere.
For us in Milpitas, that place is the Omega Restaurant and Lounge.
Known for its classic American diner vibe and all-day breakfast menu, Omega has been a familiar part of our community for years.
Walking in, you're immediately struck by the rustic charm of the place.
Just like the oldest diner places in the city, Omega features plenty of vegetation and rustic wood ceilings that take you back in time.
When it comes to food, I tend to stick to my favorite, the chorizo scramble with a pancake, a classic breakfast dish that they've perfected over the years.
The portions are just right, with a balance of flavor, texture, and heartiness that keeps you satisfied all day.
They also have a wide variety of dishes to choose from if you're looking to try something different.
One of the highlights of Omega is its happy hour at the bar.
You can always count on a friendly crowd and a cold drink at the end of a long day.
Casa Azteca Restaurant
Recently, I decided to give my taste buds a treat at the Casa Azteca Restaurant, a family-friendly Mexican eatery in our neighborhood.
My first visit to the restaurant was an unforgettable one, filled with a rich blend of flavors and warmth.
Before my visit, I had heard a lot about Casa Azteca from my friends, who were all praises for their Mexican dishes.
I must admit that I was a bit hesitant at first, as my palate was not very accustomed to Mexican cuisine.
But the moment I tasted their food, I was completely sold.
The daily lunch menu is different, offering a variety of choices with a side of tea, coffee, or soda.
Daeho Kalbi Jjim & Beef Soup
If you're looking for a place to have a fantastic Korean meal, you can't possibly go wrong with Daeho Kalbi Jjim & Beef Soup.
I happened to dine there last weekend, and it was quite an experience!
I was surprised by how quickly my party and I managed to get a table, considering we hadn't made a reservation and it was the weekend.
Now let's talk about the food because that was the highlight of the evening.
We ordered a large Kalbijjim, which was served piping hot.
The dish was a delicious ensemble of beef ribs cooked to perfection, radish, potatoes, rice cakes, and chives.
The braised beef rib, in particular, was incredibly tender and amazingly textured.
The dish also came with cheese, which they torched right at our table.
The result was a melt-in-your-mouth, gooey delight.
The broth or sauce was a bit on the sweeter side, but it married well with the mild spiciness of the dish.
The quantity was more than sufficient for the four of us.
In addition to the Kalbijjim, the glass noodles in the pot were a pleasant surprise.
They had soaked up the sauce and were super delicious.
The ambiance of the place deserves a mention too.
It was clean and brightly lit.
The service was top-notch - quick, responsive, and attentive.
Cajun Crack'n
Being a seafood lover, my taste buds have visited numerous eateries in the city, but my heart and stomach always find their way back to Cajun Crack'n.
It's a place that does fried seafood like no other.
No doubt, their Fried Catfish Basket and Calamari have become my go-to dishes.
The crispy, well-cooked exterior, coupled with the juicy, delicious interior, never fails to impress.
It's not just about the food, though, the vibe of the place is also pretty relaxed and comfortable.
Their attention to detail and customer service really sets them apart.
Juban Ramen & Tapas
Oh, how I adore Juban Ramen & Tapas!
Tucked away in the heart of our city, this quaint Japanese restaurant has become my go-to place for a comforting bowl of ramen.
Whenever I find myself yearning for a gastronomic journey through Japan, I only need to step into Juban's cozy interior.
The menu is a wonderland of flavors and textures.
You can find everything from hearty ramen bowls to beautifully plated tapas.
The ramen bowls are a highlight; they offer several different types of broth to suit everyone's taste.
I find myself often torn between the rich Tonkotsu and the spicy TanTan Men.
Both are bursting with flavor and come with a generous amount of toppings.
What's also amazing about this place is the vegetarian options they offer.
It's not every day you come across a restaurant that considers dietary preferences, and for that, I appreciate Juban even more.
KoKoLo Donburi
I found myself at KoKoLo Donburi, a quaint little Japanese restaurant tucked away in the McCarthy Ranch in Milpitas, for a casual lunch with some friends.
Taking a quick look over the menu, I decided to try something that caught my eye - the Japanese-style chicken wings and mixed tempura.
The tempura was an explosion of flavors.
My friends tried a few other dishes, and their opinions were quite varied.
They found the curry and deep-fried dishes to be satisfying.
One thing that everyone agreed on was the commendable service - credit where it's due, the food was served hot.
The restaurant offers a variety of side dishes too, which might be worth exploring on my next visit.
The prices are quite reasonable, around the $20 mark, akin to other local joints.
La Milpa
There's a certain charm to dining at an enduring, family-owned establishment, and La Milpa in Milpitas is just that place.
On stepping foot in the restaurant, one can immediately notice the authenticity of the Mexican ambiance.
The prices might feel a bit high, but considering the generous portion sizes, it's really worth it.
Their Carne asada chimichanga, although could have been a bit more crispy for my liking, is ridiculously large.
It easily serves two meals.
In addition, the beans they serve are quite delicious.
The Chips and salsa, especially the red salsa, are a delightful treat.
The salsa has a unique flavor, with a medium heat hit and just a hint of sweetness, which I've found to be quite different from other places.
One of my personal favorites is their giant burrito.
The sheer size of it forces me to save part for a late-night snack.
The two versions of salsa that come along with the chips are simply fantastic in terms of flavor.
What I absolutely love about La Milpa is the nostalgia it elicits with its food.
I remember having their enchiladas and being transported straight back to my childhood.
The taste is so reminiscent of what I had missed for so many years.
Final Thoughts
Milpitas offers a vast array of culinary experiences that cater to all tastes and cravings.
From the hearty sandwiches at CRUST Sourdough Deli to the authentic Japanese flavors at Juban Ramen & Tapas, there are so many places to discover and enjoy.
The vibrant and diverse food scene here truly reflects the multicultural fabric of our community.
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