Goodtime Bar

Wine bar · Historic District

Goodtime Bar

Wine bar · Historic District

1

30 Fountain Alley #160, San Jose, CA 95113

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Goodtime Bar by null
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Goodtime Bar by null
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Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
Goodtime Bar by null
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Highlights

Natural wine bar with steak tartar, oysters, pasta, and DJ sets  

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30 Fountain Alley #160, San Jose, CA 95113 Get directions

goodtimebarsj.com
@goodtimebarsj

$30–50 · Menu

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30 Fountain Alley #160, San Jose, CA 95113 Get directions

+1 408 256 1266
goodtimebarsj.com
@goodtimebarsj

$30–50 · Menu

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Oct 8, 2025

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A downtown natural‑wine hangout with a small, creative menu—think tom yum butter bucatini and Japanese curry arancini. Featured in the San Francisco Chronicle’s Top 100 and Eater’s South Bay guide for its joyful, unpretentious vibe.

https://www.sfchronicle.com/food/wine/article/goodtime-bar-san-jose-20253561.php
Best Restaurants in San Jose (2025)
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Esther Dang

Google
Menu is constantly changing with seasonal items so the one posted is from 9/7/25. Ming was our server and he recommended all the hits and great wine pairings. Everything was delicious and can’t wait to go back. Nott pictured is the creme brûlée since that we were given to help celebrate our anniversary.

Emma K

Google
This is probably the only place I go to in the South Bay area, to have natural wine and literally a 'good time'. I only drink natural wine, and it's difficult to find a decent natural wine place in the area. Always a great selection of bubble, white, rose, orange and red, and the food they have just amazingly pairs well with the wine. They had steak tartar when I stopped by most recently, and wow, it was just amazing. Not pretentious, but seriously good tartar with some nori and shiso toppings on. Love this place.

Lisa Nguyen

Google
What a perfect name for this spot because you will for sure have a good time at Goodtime Bar. Stopped by here with a friend a couple weeks ago for an early dinner and I had a fantastic time. The drinks were delicious and reasonably priced, and the food was even better! I grabbed a glass of white wine (delish!) and the yuzu spritz. The spritz was fantastic! I feel like this would be perfect on a spring or summer evening with a few plates. We grabbed the chips and dip, deviled eggs, prawns, and fingerling potatoes. The highlights were for sure the potatoes and prawns, especially the potatoes! I can't wait to come back when the weather is a bit warmer. Service: 5/5 Food/Drinks: 5/5 Price: 4/5 Atmosphere: 5/5

Cheryl Cardamon

Google
I absolutely loved the vibe at Goodtimes Bar! This charming spot in downtown San Jose is perfect for gathering with friends, enjoying delicious food, and soaking up the cheerful atmosphere. The food here is truly outstanding. We sampled several dishes from the menu, and every single one was a winner. Our highlights included: * The Rigatoni with Pistachio Pesto - a flavorful and memorable pasta dish. * The Clams, swimming in what can only be described as the best sauce imaginable. * The Steak Tartar, presented in a modern and innovative way. * The fresh Oysters on the half shell, elevated by an incredibly delicious sauce. If you appreciate excellent food, Goodtimes Bar is a must-try. The chef's creativity and unique style are evident in every dish. A special thank you to Angie, who provided fantastic service with a smile, serving up delightful drinks and interesting wine selections. Overall: Experience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Ambiance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Food: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We can't wait to return! ❤️

Tony Polichroniadis

Google
Creative yet extremely tasty food. With very friendly but not overbearing service. Hard to judge the nighttime atmosphere as I was there during the day, but I did enjoy the music.

Helen Hsu, Psy.D.

Google
Wanted to grab a bite after seeing a comedy show at Improv- and we are tired of the usual bar offerings. This place has a few tables indoors & small outdoor patio w heat lamps, hella friendly security guard out front tending to folks in patio. Music inside was good but we sat outside to be able to talk. Food was surprisingly good- pea sprout salad, patatas bravas, deviled eggs - SO much fresher & tastier than one normally can eat late night. Clean tidy restroom & next to a parking lot & beautiful murals.

Hv V

Google
This bar is a great spot if you’re looking for a laid-back place with a good vibe. I went on a Saturday night, and even though it was busy, the service was very friendly, especially the bartender who recommended an excellent wine. The food menu is small, but the wine list is extensive, which is perfect for anyone who loves to explore different options. If you’re not a wine expert, the staff will suggest some good picks. The patio is super cozy, and the music, though not too loud, adds to the atmosphere. Overall, I had a great time, definitely living up to the bar’s name.

Jeanne Trang

Google
my friend and I stopped by a couple of times for drinks after watching a show at the comedy club or wanted a nice quaint spot to catch up - which this spot is a great choice. their staff were attentive and their food (are great shareables) were so delicious. make sure to stop by if youre in the area - something to note is that their store front is a bit smaller so if theyre busy it may be hard to find a table to sit at!
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Stacey P.

Yelp
Went to explore DTSJ and Good Time Bar was on the list to visit. It did not disappoint! The oyster was okay but overall on the food we ordered weres delightful. I wasn't a fan of the oysters because the sauce they top it off with was toooo citrusy for me. The service was really good. Good recommendations on what to pair our foods/wine. Has a soft and relaxing ambiance. I would recommend this place.
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Sandra N.

Yelp
Looking for a good time in downtown San Jose away from all the crazy college partying students? Goodtime Bar is here for the intimate, cozy vibes all while delivering elegance and distinct taste in food. Goodtime Bar offers so much more than your typical greasy overpriced fried snacks. For drinks they have a selection of wine, sake, or non alcoholic drinks. For bites, they have more refined items like oysters, blue fin tuna tostada, deviled eggs.. the list goes on. The space itself is quite small and more idea for a small party or couples. Theres not more than a handful of tables inside. *Chips and dip with smoked trout roe- These chips tasted homemade in the way each chip was imperfect and greasy. The smoked trout dip was absolutely refreshing and balances the heaviness of the fried potato. Each bite was creamy and refreshing with the freshness of the chives. * Arancini- This is one of those dishes that is a must try at least once. The japanese curry rice is such a unique approach to this dish. The curry added the savory tones and paired with the melty fontina cheese, every bite was a bite of comfort. * Bucatini- The tom yum flavor was present but not too forward. The zest of lime adds a nice touch of acidity while the fried garlic adds this incredible aroma that draws you in for more. The food here is truly creative with their take on Asian flavors and presentation is great as well. Goodtime Bar offers a more refined taste for bar food which honestly should set the standard for bars. It's equally important to have great food along side with your drinks, not just frozen food flash fried for convenience sake. I would come here for a light bite or a night cap rather than a full meal honestly because it can get quite pricey real quick.
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Cindy L.

Yelp
DEVILED EGGS 4 crab fat mayo, slightly hard smoked trout roe (hard to pop), spring onion, creamy, refreshing, smoky PORK BELLY 4 plum sauce, fragrant shiso green leaf, oyster caramel, slightly dry inside, sweet, rich, not too greasy, super flavorful PACCHERI 4 pancetta (large, tube-shaped pasta), crunchy snow pea, garlic, creamy, cheesy, chewy
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Annie Y.

Yelp
Finally got to checkout Goodtime bar, and they lived up to their name! I had a blast here! Everyone from the staff to the customers were friendly and fun to talk to. Initially, we ordered the deviled eggs, tuna tostada, pork belly, and bucatini. The bartender and another patron recommended the fingerling potatoes and summer beach, so we added those on as well. Wow!!! Everything was so delicious and unique!! The tom yum bucatini was amazing, and I'm still craving that flavor.. loved the pairing of basil and peaches on the summer peach toast, and the sauce on the fingerling potatoes was addicting! We had a few glasses of wine and pickle beer and hung out for a couple hours. Goodtime bar is a gem, and we'll definitely be back!! They have a seasonal menu, so I'm excited to try whatever they cook up next!
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Hoai-Huong N.

Yelp
I loveeee this place. The ambiance, the bartenders, the drinks all make such a nice time here. The workers here are soo knowledgeable on wines and I love their sparkling wines and rose here. This place is the perfect place for a hang out with friends or even a date or two because the vibes are just so positive and casual. Highly recommend some tinned fish with your wine! Tho I really wish they included more bread slices because my friend and I split one tin and finished our bread before finishing our fish.
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Nuran S.

Yelp
Wheeeekkk!!! Happy 2 year anniversary to my favorite bar! What a vibe and absolutely pleasure to have this place in downtown San Jose! The staff is amazing (shoutout to TyTy and Angie). The food is tiny but delectable. The tuna tostada was absolutely out of this world, so fresh and delicious. It gets busy so I would arrive early. There is a 90 minute suggested time limit per table that isn't usually enforced. This is natural organic wine, expect a bold unfiltered flavor and be ready to try something new!
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Melody Y.

Yelp
Goodtime Bar is such a cool spot -- even if natural wine isn't totally my thing (just being honest!). I do love that they support local natural wineries and always have a rotating selection of bottles from many different regions. But for me, the real star here is the food. Let's talk about the fingerling potatoes. If I could only eat one potato dish for the rest of my life, it would be this one. The seaweed mayo sauce is to die for -- I wish they sold it by the bottle (I'd probably drink it... gross, I know, but it's that good). Besides the potatoes, the chips and dip is also incredible. That crème fraîche dip is just *chef's kiss*. Honestly, everything I've tried on the menu has been amazing! Major kudos to the chef. Also, they have Dole whip -- and not the sad imitation kind you find at random yogurt shops. This one actually (almost) lives up to the Disneyland version. Creamy, smooth, and not icy like most others. One of the best soft serves I've had outside the park. The vibe at Goodtime? Always on point. Cozy, cute, and there's almost always a DJ spinning or the disco ball's going. Come for the wine if that's your thing, but definitely stay for the food.
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Lisa N.

Yelp
What a perfect name for this spot because you will for sure have a good time at Goodtime Bar. Stopped by here with a friend a couple weeks ago for an early dinner and I had a fantastic time. The drinks were delicious and reasonably priced, and the food was even better! I grabbed a glass of white wine (delish!) and the yuzu spritz. The spritz was fantastic! I feel like this would be perfect on a spring or summer evening with a few plates. We grabbed the chips and dip, deviled eggs, prawns, and fingerling potatoes. The highlights were for sure the potatoes and prawns, especially the potatoes! I can't wait to come back when the weather is a bit warmer. Service: 5/5 Food/Drinks: 5/5 Price: 4/5 Atmosphere: 5/5
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Maddie W.

Yelp
I've been meaning to come here for 6mos now and finally did it, I wish I came here sooner We came on a Saturday around 6pm and there were a few tables open. Employees are super friendly and we didn't feel rushed to finish and leave! Orancello spritz: 4/5 - looks and tastes like a sangria which I love! Yuzu spritz: 4:5 - light, refreshing, and a great pairing for different dishes Orange wine: 4/5 - light, smooth, and refreshing - paired nicely with the tuna pate! Deviled eggs: 4/5 - creamy, easy to eat, and flavorful! - ikura (salmon roe) provided lil bursts of flavor - loved the slight crunch throughout Fingerling potatoes: 5/5 - this was soooo yummy! flavors worked so well together - shiso adds complexity to the seaweed mayo and pickled shallots - definitely recommend and will order this again Tom yum bucatini: 5/5 - flavor bomb ‍ savory, a little tart, and a slight kick - loved the mint leaves on top that added complexity too Spicy tuna pate: 3.5/5 - a lil different from what I expected! Wish they gave more sourdough for the whole can, 4 slices is not enough so we had to order more - sourdough is perfectly toasted though. - love that it comes with butter, shallots, and pickled pepper Overall, a lovely bar and we had such a great time ‍ Would definitely come back-- this would make an amazing happy hour spot on a weeknight!
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Sara J.

Yelp
I learned about this place when Goodtime Bar did a collaboration event with One Fish Raw Bar. I loved the tuna tostadas from that event so much that I had to give it a visit. Goodtime seriously has the best tuna tostadas in the Bay Area. Period. My partner and I shared several other dishes including the arancini, the littleneck clams, the oysters and the tinned salmon. The salmon was a little too salty for my palette but everything else was delicious. We finished the meal off with a healthy portion of pineapple dole whip. No fault of the servers but I wish the acoustics in the restaurant were better as my partner and I had a difficult time holding a conversation with each other as we were sandwiched between two incredibly loud tables. Other than that, be sure to come early because the restaurant is pretty small and seating is limited. Can't wait to return for more tuna tostadas.
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Khang V.

Yelp
Goodtime Bar is such a gem! It's tucked away in a quiet alley with a parking lot right in front of it. You can easily park here at the lot or park at San Pedro parking lot, which gives you the first 90 minutes free, and walk a short 2 blocks here. Goodtime bar stands out with its bright blue walls, outdoor seatings area and big windows with cute wine glass logo. Interior is nicely decorated with neutral theme, a mix of wood and cement wall, a few tables and a bar with unique selection of wines. The bar tender let me know that their wines were made naturally and do not have added sugar like the typically wines you'd get at Safeway or other groceries stores. We went here on a Saturday afternoon and Goodtime Bar was packed. However, the staff quickly welcomed us when we first walked in and quickly presented us the menu. We ordered at the bar, took a number and went outside to grab a table. If you turn your back to the parking lot and face the store, you'll momentarily forget that you're in San Jose. Instead, the vibe here reminds you of Europe with its chill atmosphere. We ordered: 1. Orancello and Yuzu Spritz drinks 2. Chips and Dip 3. Coho Salmon 4. Bluefin Tuna Tostada 5. Two glasses of wine We love our drinks, especially the natural wines! Chips and dip were delicious with the chips being thin and crunchy and the dipping sauce was made perfectly. Coho salmon was salty but the buttery French bread slices were perfect! And the Bluefin Tuna Tostada was one of the highlights of our visit. It was made with salted mango chunks sandwiched between the tuna and the tostada, with added sesame and salsa macha! Highly recommend you try it. Service was attentive. Staff was helpful and let us try 3 types of wines at the bar before we decided on which one we liked the best. My friend and I ended up staying almost 3 hours here, so did everyone around us. A Saturday afternoon well spent at a nice place. Many people may complain about the small space Goodtime Bar has but it's a plus in my opinion. It gives that quaint Paris vibe. You'll feel time slowed down here and have a great time, just like the name of the bar itself.
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Lety G.

Yelp
My sister and I decided to do a little food crawl downtown and one of my coworkers had been telling for a while about Goodtime Bar and so we started the night here. MY GOD where has this place been all my life?! It's small with a few tables inside and some outdoor seating so just know there may be a wait. We arrived around 5:30 so we were able to get a table inside. They are a natural wine bar and I believe his name was Chris at the bar, helped us select a wine based on what we liked. The food here is small bites with some bigger plate options, since this was the first stop of the night we just got two dishes, the squash blossoms and the bucatini. The squash blossoms were two blossoms so it was perfect and super tasty! The bucatini was PHENOMENAL, I would go back over and over again just for that pasta! The fried garlic in it and Thai basil elevate the flavor and it's just heaven on a plate! I truly loved this place and will definitely be back again to try more wines and more food. They have a dole whip float that has wine in it and I NEED to try that at some point!
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Yvonne F.

Yelp
Goodtime Bar is a natural wine bar that makes for a nice spot for an intimate and romantic date night. The space is quite small, with only 3-4 tables and a lounging area that includes a couch. There's also outdoor seating available. While the website and Yelp indicate they don't take reservations, I noticed a table with a reserved plaque that sat empty for a bit--possibly held for someone the chef knew, as the chef personally served their food. The wine selection is limited but well-curated. I tried an orange wine, and my partner had a red; both were good. We decided to wait for a table because of the menu, and the food met our expectations. The scallop tartare was fresh, with a light lemon and oil-based sauce that paired nicely with the seafood. The tuna tostada and pork belly were also enjoyable. The bartender was friendly and helpful, keeping an eye out for an open table. The prices are on the higher side--three glasses of wine and four appetizers came to $150 with tip--but the overall experience was pleasant. I'd consider returning, especially when I have time to wait for a table.
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Kimberly H.

Yelp
Great wine bar to visit with a small group of friends (the bar has a small space inside, but there is also outdoor seating). I went with two others and we split a bottle of white wine and an appetizer (chips and dip were great! Chips were so airy and light). It works great as a pre or post dinner chat. Their customer service is wonderful - they checked in on us multiple times to make sure we were doing alright. Definitely one of my new favorite spots in DTSJ.
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Jessica K.

Yelp
Love this place!! They have soooooo many unique wines to try, I get kind of picky with my wines so the reds there weren't really my favorite but the rose and Pinots are soo good! Most of the wines here you won't really find anywhere which is nice and I always use my VinVino app to know which ones are good! The bartenders are also really helpful and will help steer you in the right direction. They also have a super yummy humus with homemade chips. It's small and quaint with dim lighting, perfect for dates or a quick wine after work with a coworker
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Sam K.

Yelp
goodtime lived up to its name with their simple but amazing wine selection, unique and delicious eats, and awesome hospitality. big shoutout to Ming who made for a great Saturday night here. no need to hop around dtsj when you're here.
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Kristen E.

Yelp
This place is perfection. The wines are interesting and always fun to try. The food is absolutely delicious and also interesting. We tried the arancini, ricotta toast and a tinned fish plate. Loved everything. I love the vibe. The staff is so helpful in picking out wines and they are so friendly. This place is always at the top of my list.
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Kevin A.

Yelp
All appetizers were fire. House made chips tasted luxurious with the creme fraîche and roe. We got the little corner couch which was cozy. Staff is friendly and knowledgeable about all the wines and food offerings. Menu changes according to seasonal ingredients which keeps things exciting. Tomatoes look simple but quality of them brings a rich flavor. Highly recommend this SJ gem.
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H G.

Yelp
Cute little place on fountain alley with front patio (and heaters) plus a few tables inside We swung in on a Saturday evening to grab a bite after meeting friends down the street The atmosphere is super cute & clean, the concept is great and the staff is friendly We walked in & chatted at the counter about what to order - oysters were the only item that was gluten free, thankfully I love oysters. Also ordered the deviled eggs for hubs & a yuzu spritz for me We sat outside to enjoy the nice weather & the food came out quick The oysters were soo good - citrusy & fresh Hubs said the eggs were good & the smoked roe was unique and tasty The spritz was light & tasty
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Cherylynn N.

Yelp
3.5 STARS If you're looking for a hip place in DTSJ to impress a date without committing to a full on dinner.... Goodtime Bar. Booze and apps so you won't be too full for sexy time. In the last couple of years, there's been a natural wine bar movement in SF, NYC, and LA so great to see that DTSJ get their first one last year with Goodtime Bar. Their creative snacks/apps are what drew me in (I don't drink wine). Goodtime Bar is walk-in only, no rezzies. It's a small space so not recommended for groups more than four and expect a wait during peak hours. Dog-friendly outdoor tables. Order at the counter, grab a placard, and seat yourself. You can leave your tab open to order more. M E N U New American snacks/apps with AZN influences. Seasonally driven menu. Wines, low abv, and zero abv drinks available (no drink menu). Wish they had sake available. F O O D (We came specifically for the oysters but was told they haven't been able to get oysters. We tried calling and messaging them beforehand but no response/call back.) * Charentais Melon w/ iberico lardo, ssamjang crème fraîche, marigolds ($14) // 3 Stars: https://tinyurl.com/45fsedbp Looked and sounded great on paper - I enjoyed the silky smooth, buttery lardo with the umami-rich Korean inspired (fermented soybean paste) crème fraîche. Sadly, the French cantaloupe was hard, not ripen. * Deviled Eggs w/ crab fat mayo, smoked trout roe, spring onion ($14) // 4 Stars Can't go wrong with this savory classic app with a bougie twist - rich and creamy with a burst of salty umami from the trout roe. Even if you're not a fan of tomalley, don't worry you can't taste it as it blends in seamlessly in the mayo. * Pork Belly w/ caramelized oyster sauce, peach salsa, ngo gai, jimmy nardellos ($24) // 4 Stars: https://tinyurl.com/2ph2dhmu Fav item! The pork belly was meltingly tender with a good ratio of lean meat to fat, topped with a punchy peach relish. While delicious, IMO, it needed a carb to mellow out the rich, meaty bold flavors. S E R V I C E Kind, friendly staff. Since it's not full service, when we needed something, we had to go up to the counter. We visited on a quiet Sunday and the food took a while to come with the last snack taking over 50 minutes. A M B I A N C E Hip, minimalist space with only three tables, a lounge area (one couch), and bar seating. There's a handful of tables outside in their patio. P A R K I N G Metered street parking. There's a parking lot right in front (entrance is on 2nd street). I think it was free for the first 90 minutes. Overall, cute cozy wine bar with creative snacks in DTSJ. But, steep pricing for counter service only...3 snacks/apps and two non-alkie drinks (ginger beer + mineral water) was over $83. Otherwise, Goodtime Bar is a solid option to start or end your night!
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Emily W.

Yelp
No wait on a Monday afternoon at 4:30pm. Exterior is very cute and interior is very clean and nicely decorated. Loved the vibes! The food was phenomenal! I understand why the ratings here are great. We wanted to try the pork belly but unfortunately they were out. The two of us shared the deviled eggs, fingerling potatoes, arancini, and bluefin tuna tostada (we got 2 tostadas, 1 for each person). The deviled eggs were pretty good and had a good explosion of flavor. Fingerling potatoes were probably my favorite. The sauce was really rich and flavorful and unlike any sauce I've had. Arancini was ok for me, it was a bit too heavy and just 1 would've been plenty. Bluefin tuna tostada was pretty good. A bit overpriced ($16 for one tostada) but still tasted delicious with fresh tuna and refreshing mango. Service was great and my experience overall was amazing, from the vibes to the food to the service. You can tell the food is high quality with lots of thought put into the combination of flavors. I would highly recommend this wine bar!
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Andrea C.

Yelp
Good food, good wine, good service! I came with a friend and we got the prawns to share, the sauce with miso butter was fire but very messy as the shrimps have the shells on. We also got the tinned sardines which were really good, I do wish they gave a few more slices of bread and more pickled shallots. They were out of quite a few tinned fish selections by the time we got there around 9pm though. Will definitely be back to try other drinks/tinned fish.
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Angelina S.

Yelp
Very clean. friendly service. Love the ambiance. Well ventilated. They have small bites and desserts ! I need to come back for the dole whip float it has wine!!!!!!
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Hoei L.

Yelp
Ambiance Chic warehouse feel. Only a few 2/4-tops tables, a sofa setting for larger group maybe, and outdoor seating. It reminded me of a coffee bar when I was in college, very similar feel, except this one is a wine bar. Service Friendly, welcoming, helpful with explaining things on the menu. Food/Drink Was there more for the tapas style food and just to hangout for a date night. They quality was good, taste profile was good. One comment on the Pork Belly plate, it was a bit salty but the combination with slices of apple worked very well, it was just not enough apple slices. Cost/Tipping Practice Tipping practice was fine, given PoS to do tap payment, the server looked away and gave me time to complete the transaction. Now here's my gripe, the cost of the food I think was a bit exorbitant for the amount of food that we got. This is going to be the main reason that most likely there won't be a 2nd visit and why I can't give it a 5 star rating.

Rakelle E.

Yelp
The corkage fee is insane.... $15 bucks to purchase a bottle of wine and to drink it at a wine shop. I really don't understand and have not seen this before, unless you are bringing your own. Food and wine is great but I can't get over that fee. Someone explain the fee to me though.
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Mary N.

Yelp
Goodtime Bar exceeded my expectations! I've heard of this bar for so so so long... from the ambiance, the run club, to the wine variety... yet I just paid a visit now! One of my close friends and I decided to go there to have dinner and wine to catch up. I'm SO glad I finally got to try it! First off, interior is very cute and intimate. The ambiance is very relaxing and I felt like I was truly able to unwind after work. From what I hear, the dinner menu is always rotating to keep things interesting :) Here's what we ordered: - heirloom panzanella (a burst of flavor, yet refreshing!) - deviled eggs (could never go wrong with deviled eggs!) - pork belly (SO tender and the marinade was BOMB) - bucatini (tom yum flavored.... Who would of thought? This combo worked so well!) - of course, two glasses of wine (red and white) We didn't make a reservation for a weekday dinner and got seated right away. Service was quick and the staff were very friendly. Truly SO SO good. Everything was perfectly seasoned. I do wish the portion sizes were a tiny bit bigger with the price we were paying, but the quality in food was still worth the price point to me. Overall, we had such a great dinner and I would 100% come back again!
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Hayley A.

Yelp
We tried to visit Goodtime Bar once before, but seating is very very limited, so decided to try again another time when we could get a seat (it's a small space, both inside and outside, and even the standing room is limited - but standing room isn't what I'm looking for in a wine bar). Last night we made it at a time when we were able to grab the only 2 seats available. The ambiance is great - the setup is very modern, and the music is enjoyable. I was rather disappointed by their Wines by the Glass selection - rather, their lack thereof. Their menu has a single listing for "wines by the glass" with each color listed beneath (bubbles, white, orange, red) and a note to ask what they're pouring tonight. I like this in concept - it suggests a rotating menu. however, the options were limited - for a red, they only had a red blend (no other options for a single glass). I will caveat that with this: the red blend was delightful and I would absolutely get it again (if I knew what it is)! but when I go out to a wine bar, I'm interested in either a flight of different wines, or 2 glasses of 2 different wines (of the same color). so while our intention was to stay for 2 glasses each, we just had the single glass and left. they do seem to have plenty of Wines by the Bottle options - again, a single listing on the menu pointing you to all the bottles on the wall with their prices written on them in sharpie. so if you're with a bigger group, or planning to stay for the whole evening, I can see Goodtime being a good time for you! our service was great too! they are super friendly. a table inside with kids accidentally broke a wine glass, and I watched two of the workers immediately rush over to clean it up. I was very impressed with the response and the response time.
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Thuy N.

Yelp
It's such a cute place with amazing small tapas plates. Everything was delicious; sometimes we had to get two orders. They have a huge selections of wine; you name it, they probably have it. The service was good and fast. Everyone was super friendly. We will definitely come back regularly
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Ally P.

Yelp
Very casual wine bar place! Good quick service but you have to go to the bar yourself for anything you need. This place is self seating, and environment is smaller than expected. The food was interesting and quite expensive. Ordered deviled eggs, some octopus stuff, ice cream, some potato thing. Just tried to try all the appetizers that are shareable. Best ones were probably the octopus and ice cream.
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Winnie V.

Yelp
I was super excited to try goodtime bar because of all their rave reviews! And I have lots of thoughts about it! First, the tapas/small bites - LOVE. Everything we had was sooo good! Each plate had such a nice burst and combination of flavors. It gave a fusion of euro vibes with Asian inspired flavors. We got the deviled eggs, prawns, arancini, and fingerling potatoes. I was especially excited for the deviled eggs, which come with smoked trout roe since they look so beautiful. They were yummy and the smoked trout roe added a nice burst of smoky savoriness, but overall nothing too memorable in my opinion. The star of the show were the prawns. They were not on my radar at all, and I probably wouldn't have ordered them on my own since I don't normally like prawns with the shell still (cause I'm lazy and don't like to have to work for my food), but the bf wanted to try them. And boy, these were so worth the effort. I don't know what kind of chili oil they use to make the sauce, but it was amazing. Not too spicy, but soooo flavorful. After we finished the prawns, we kept the sauce and I dipped everything else in it because it was sooo good. The arancini were my second fave, with Japanese curry flavored risotto on the inside and kimchi mayo as a topper. This was the most filling of all the apps we had and just felt nice and comforting. The final addition was the fingerling potatoes. They were crispy smashed and fried potatoes with a seaweed mayo sauce, which was nice and savory. You could really taste the flavor of the seaweed and shush leaves. I liked the sauce, but dipping the potatoes in the shrimp sauce was even better :D Next, the drinks - they were okay but not a huge standout in my opinion. We tried both the orange wine and rose of the day, which were nice and light, but not super memorable. Maybe I'm just not a huge wine gal lol not sure what I was expecting going to a wine bar. I also tried the vermouth spritz, which again was nice and light - I think I would have preferred a bit more vermouth and less spritz. Finally, the vibes - it's a nice small bar in Fountain Alley. The interior space was a bit smaller than I expected. It reminded me of bars in Brooklyn, except the view from the outdoor patio is of a parking lot lol not the most aesthetic, but still a nice summer vibe to get some drinks outdoors. They were quite busy when we went, so we had to wait a bit to get a table, but not too long. Overall, I would love to come back just for the apps! I would love to try some of the other options they have. They are a bit pricey though so this is def a treat yourself spot!
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Jenica C.

Yelp
My new favorite place in SJ! Cool chill vibes, good music, and a carefully curated menu & natural wine. Every dish I had was perfect. Rich pork belly, light potato chips with a refreshing creme fraiche dip, and a super picturesque endive caesar salad. I can't explain how much I love this place! You just have to go and experience it for yourself. The service was also great!!! Super chill servers
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Allie G.

Yelp
Big fan of Goodtime Bar! We visited on a Friday evening and found them moderately busy, but snagged an indoor table right away. The interior was pretty small, with minimal decor aside from a hanging disco ball, and had a vibey, laid-back ambiance. They also had (dog friendly) outdoor seating by the entrance. The wine selection looked awesome, but we opted for their only non-alcoholic option which was Ghia (canned). I chose the Ghia Ginger and my friend got the original Ghia soda, and both were great - refreshing, spritz-like. For food, we ordered a bunch of plates to share between the 3 of us - the Deviled Eggs, Arancini, Yellowfin Tostada, and Bucatini. Everything was delicious! The Deviled Eggs came 4 to a serving and were topped with smoked trout roe - so good. The Arancini were made with Japanese curry and kimchi mayo, but those flavors were pretty subtle. They came out hot and the texture was really great. We also loved the Yellowfin Tostada - so tasty, but hard to share and a bit messy to eat. Finally, the Bucatini was definitely the dish with the largest portion size. It was made Thai-style (with tom yum butter and makrut lime), so the taste was super unique. We liked it a lot! Overall, a great place for drinks and snacks - would return!
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Elliana T.

Yelp
I wanted to try this place out and ended up accidentally going when they had a pop up event. It seemed really cool, but I wish I came when there weren't as many people because it was packed. The inside and patio are small and there weren't many tables to sit at. The servers were nice, but since it was so busy people were just leaving a lot of empty dishes left on the tables, so it was hard to sit at. We got a glass of red and the dole whip wine float to share. They gave us a generous pour of red which was really nice. The dole whip was delicious and definitely worth it! With the added tajin it was a sweet and savory treat.
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Hailing W.

Yelp
给人一种不属于大农村的惊喜感 需要这么卷吗!? 一家本末倒置的小酒馆 下酒菜精美、丰富、口味极佳 自然酒的选品却不尽如人意 反而沦为了再普通不过的配角 按杯售卖,都可以试喝,毕竟成本极低 进店先在吧台点单 可留卡、也可先结账 然后拿号码牌自行找座位 店内空间非常小 并不能容纳太多客人 门面正对着露天停车场 停车费很贵,好在方便安全 《〈Snacks〉》 Oysters 【生蚝】 champagne mignonette 香槟木犀草酱|kumquat 金桔 个头较小的品种,偏甜口,咸度低,极其鲜美!!! Scallop Tartare 【鞑靼扇贝】 queens sesame 芝麻油|shinko pear 新高梨|monterey ogo 海藻 用芝麻油代替橄榄油真是妙啊,初尝就能感受到强烈而持久的芝麻醇香,但同时也完全盖过了扇贝的鲜甜,好在软嫩又弹牙的口感有所保留 很庆幸梨被削成了极薄的片状,过老、还没水分,严重影响体验感,海藻则提供了清新又独特的草本气息 《〈Bigger snacks〉》 Fingerling Potatoes 【烤拇指马铃薯】 seaweed mayo 海草蛋黄酱|shiso 紫苏叶 土豆脑袋无论到哪里都要点这道菜!!!外皮酥脆,内里绵软细腻,伴随着拇指品种天然的奶香味 加入了海草的调制蛋黄酱,浓稠度恰到好处,丝毫不会油腻 Hamachi Crudo 【调味幼鰤鱼生】 buckwheat 荞麦|lots of herbs 香草|evoo 特级初榨橄榄油 摆盘太美了!!!鱼生的鲜度过关,微微凉的温度非常合适,薄荷叶很解腻,橄榄油酱汁中的柑橘风味十分突出,恨不得用欧包蘸着吃 《〈Tinned Fish〉》 with pickled shallots 腌渍红葱头|butter 黄油|pickled guindilla peppers 腌渍鸟眼辣椒|toasted sourdough 烤酸种欧包 腌渍红葱头的酸度绝了,虽然食材本身太老... 第一次尝试鸟眼辣椒,虽然辣度比较高,但很清爽 酸种欧包的复烤火候好棒,表面焦黑,却完全没有苦味,口感极其酥脆,气孔也蓬松均匀 Razor Clams 【罐头蛏子】 蛏子肥美、弹牙,完美地锁住了鲜味,调味清淡,汤头清澈,唯独有一只蛏子里带沙,但瑕不掩瑜 Lemon Cello Spritz 【起泡白葡萄酒|意大利柠檬酒】 先尝了起泡白葡萄酒本体,自然酒的干涩真的有极强的冲击力,没想到调制成鸡尾酒以后,能融合出如此美妙的味道,黄柠檬的清新和柠檬皮碎的一点点苦,让整体更加饱满
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Katie M.

Yelp
Love this bar!! Super cute vibes, kind and knowledgeable staff, and delicious food!! They are always playing the best music here! I took some friends from work here and they also fell in love with the place! I've only ever gotten the chips and dip from the food options but it never disappoints! If you follow them on social media you will see they frequently hold pop ups in the space for music and vendors! Definitely a staple in downtown San Jose when it comes to the community.
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Joanne T.

Yelp
Cozy, intimate wine bar with delicious small bites. I tried the chips and dip with roe and the anchovy pasta (I forgot what it's actually called on the menu, but I believe it's one of the rotating/limited time items). Both are full of flavor and I wouldn't change a thing. Definitely recommend! I can't wait to try more dishes.

Jada L.

Yelp
Everything we had here was delicious. Ambience - 5 out of 5. The bar plays good music. The staff is very friendly and welcoming and supportive. Just note that when you come in, you have to order at the bar and there's not someone taking you to a seat. After getting your order, you have to go and find your seat. There's a really cute disco ball and the vibe is laid-back and chill, but don't let that fool you. Service - 5 out of 5. The service was quick. We received all of our food within a timely manner and the staff was, friendly and helpful. Food - 5 out of 5. Arguably, this is the most important part! My husband and I ordered the tuna tostada, bucatini (tom yum), rigatoni, and the pork belly. Everything we had was so delicious! This establishment goes the extra mile to season their food and all options have very unique flavors. You're not gonna find anything like this anywhere else. It is worth every dime that you'll spend. Wine - 5 out of 5. My husband and I tried two wines and the offerings were free. The wine that we ended up choosing tasted like plum. It was absolutely delicious. One thing to know that this is a natural wine bar so that was really cool.
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Jeanne T.

Yelp
my friend and I stopped by a couple of times for drinks after watching a show at the comedy club or wanted a nice quaint spot to catch up - which this spot is a great choice. their staff were attentive and their food (are great shareables) were so delicious. make sure to stop by if youre in the area - something to note is that their store front is a bit smaller so if theyre busy it may be hard to find a table to sit at!
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Ning T.

Yelp
The name is right, this place is really a "Good Time"! Goodtime Bar is definitely one of my first choice places to relax and have a drink! The atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable, and the music is very well selected. It is not noisy but has a rhythm, which makes people feel comfortable while chatting and shaking their heads. There are various choices of drinks, and the bartenders are first-class. I especially like their signature cocktails - unique flavor, clear layers and not greasy! The interior decoration is also very unique, with a retro mixed atmosphere, which is cool and comfortable. The waiter is super friendly, does not rush to order, and recommends drinks very thoughtfully. This place is suitable for dating, gathering with friends, or sitting alone, and it doesn't feel awkward. Every time I come here, I don't want to leave. I really have a chill feeling of "time slows down". In short, Goodtime Bar is not just a place to drink, but more like a good time to relax. I will come again next time!
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Lee D.

Yelp
I was a little dubious about the menu. Could not imagine some of the combinations of ingredients but we tried lots of the options and all loved the food. We had 2 different pastas, chips and smoked salmon crème fraiche with roe on top, 2 portions of the arancini since they were so good and one or two other menu options. The flavors were really amazing. We had our 2 kids were tired and hungry and were not convinced about the menu but all loved everything. Price was a little high. Next time we will leave the kids at home and drop in for a small plate and a glass of wine for date night. Nice inside and chilled out vibe
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Henry C.

Yelp
Really happy we got to try this place. The drink selection was great and the staff were very friendly, patient with our questions and gave good recommendations. We tried their wine and sake and it paired perfect with their little and big snacks. The tuna tostada and pork belly was out of this world. We could have ordered it a few more times. Overall, couldn't have asked for a better experience and can't wait to go back and try more of their menu.
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Nareena V.

Yelp
I came to check out Goodtime Bar on a Friday night with 2 of my girl friends and it was such a great choice. I love the vibes here! We grabbed a couple dishes - arancini, hamachi crudo, shrimp tostada and the pasta. Everything was pretty good - although I would say the shrimp was definitely overpriced. My favorite was the pasta. Service was also pretty good! You just order at the bar and they bring out the food to you. They checked in with us often. This is definitely going to be one of my new favorite spots!
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Christina N.

Yelp
The atmosphere, disco ball, and friendly staff make this place such a vibe whether you are here for the wine or food. I've been here twice and each time everyone has a different favorite dish - mine being the hamachi crudo. Ingredients are super fresh and each bite leaves you wanting more. Needless to say, I also enjoyed several of the wines and the staff members are on point with their recommendations. Both owners Ann and Steven were a pleasure to meet! This spot is such a unique addition to DTSJ and is as the name stated everything you need for a good time.
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Pauline N.

Yelp
Been eyeing this place for awhile and definitely had a good time when I came here with my boyfriend for our anniversary. Goodtime has a rotating menu and you order at the bar. There is limited indoor and outdoor seating, so you may have to wait if you come on a busy day. We ordered 5 food items and 2 glasses of sparkling white wine. Our top 3 highlights has to be the Sardines in tomato sauce, the Pork Belly, and the Market Crudite. SARDINES W/ TOMATO SAUCE (5/5) - This was amazing!! Eating the sardines with butter and pickled onions on the toasted bread was a great combo. Even the butter itself tasted really good and all the flavors meshed well together. - Sardines were meaty and had a nice bite to them. The tomato sauce compliments the dish well as I didn't notice strong fishy odors. I was hesitant when I saw tinned fish on the menu, but it became the highlight of my meal - I strongly suggest getting the tomato sauced fish since its the more popular flavors. I wouldn't get olive oil since the bread already has some and could be too heavy. PORK BELLY (4.5/5) - A friend recommended this and it did not miss! The dish was cooked well, very savory and flavorful, and tender! I was surprised how soft it was because some places tend to overcook pork belly. - I'm giving it -0.5 stars because the sauce was too savory at times. MARKET CRUDITE (4/5) - A worker recommended this when I found out the fennel salad wasn't on the menu anymore. - I loved the presentation of the vegetables! Felt like they hand picked the freshest veggies from a garden. The black sesame dip was YUMMY. It was smooth, creamy and nutty. Dipping the carrots in black sesame was amazing. - I didn't like the cucumber though. I think they could have cut out the wet part because the black sesame kept sliding off. I also thought dipping leafy greens were ok. Carrots, radish and cauliflower were good. DEVILED EGGS (4/5) - Deviled eggs aren't my thing, but I had to try it since it was popular. These were GOOD! I love the fusion of roe eggs and how light the eggy taste was. I also enjoyed the crunchy, savory bits that were sprinkled on top. OYSTERS (4/5) - Oysters were also good! They were fresh, sweet, and had a nice bite to them. I liked the citrus that was on top too, I think it might've been calamansi? - Pretty pricey though. It was $4.5 each oyster. Overall, I really enjoyed my time here. Definitely good eats, music, and vibes. I also liked how they let us do tasters for our wine. I'm curious about their orange wine and will be coming back for sure in the future.
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Licia P.

Yelp
I understand policies. I am all about respect and honestly feel for service workers. We had just come back from a 2 hour drive to make it here to grab some food and drinks. We both had to use the restroom bad and wash our hands from being out all day. Before we could make it to the bathroom the guy said "the bathroom is for customers only" and we said "yes we are planning on ordering we just need to use the bathroom" and he said "then you need to order something first." We instantly walked out and had to go next door to Scratch to eat since we had been driving so long. Again I get policies but situations arise sometimes and there is a point where you can be human. Service at Scratch was excellent though. At one point they even let us wash our hands in their kitchen since they saw us with sticky hands. Hospitality at its finest at Scratch Cookery
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Nick T.

Yelp
Another great night at Goodtime Bar! This place really lives up to the name--every time I stop by, it's nothing but good vibes. Came in with a couple of friends for a chill evening, and it hit all the right notes. The drink menu is always solid. I had the mezcal cocktail this time--smoky, citrusy, and super refreshing. We also tried the yuzu spritz again (honestly, it might be my favorite drink in the city). As for food, we shared the deviled eggs (still amazing), the crispy fingerling potatoes (perfectly seasoned), and the fried chicken sandwich, which was a new one for me--and absolutely worth it. Crunchy, juicy, and packed with flavor. Service was friendly and fast, and the space has such a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Whether you're there for a quick bite or a longer hang, Goodtime Bar is just consistently fun.
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Nelson R.

Yelp
Goodtime Bar in San Jose is an absolute delight and a standout gem in the heart of downtown! Tucked away in the charming Fountain Alley, this cozy natural wine bar exudes a welcoming, hip vibe that makes every visit feel like a special occasion. The moment you step inside, you're greeted by a stylish yet unpretentious atmosphere--think minimalist decor with rattan seating, a playful disco ball, and just the right amount of moody lighting to set the tone for a relaxed evening. The seasonal spooky decorations during my last visit added a fun, festive touch without overwhelming the space. The star of the show is undoubtedly the natural wine selection, which is both extensive and expertly curated. The owner, Steven, is a true passionate about natty wines and takes the time to guide you through the rotating menu of sparkling, red, and white options, each glass priced reasonably at around $14. His enthusiasm is infectious, and whether you're a wine novice or a seasoned sipper, he'll recommend something that perfectly suits your palate. The wines are approachable, vibrant, and free of the heavy additives you'd find elsewhere, making every sip a pure, flavorful experience. But Goodtime Bar isn't just about the drinks--the food is a revelation! The small plates, crafted by Chef Alex, are creative, seasonal, and packed with bold flavors that pair beautifully with the wines. The bluefin tuna tostada is a must-try, with its fresh, melt-in-your-mouth fish and zesty toppings that pop with every bite. The arancini is another standout, perfectly crispy on the outside with a creamy, savory center that's pure comfort food elevated to an art form. I also loved the chips with roe, a playful yet sophisticated dish that's as fun to eat as it is delicious. The menu's Asian influences and experimental edge keep things exciting, and the portions are just right for sharing with friends or savoring solo. The service here is impeccable. The staff is warm, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in making your experience memorable. They strike the perfect balance of being attentive without hovering, and their pride in the bar's offerings shines through in every interaction. Even during busier moments, the team keeps things running smoothly, ensuring your glass is never empty and your plates arrive promptly. The walk-in-only setup adds to the casual charm, though I'd recommend arriving early on weekends to snag a spot, as the intimate space fills up fast. The vibe at Goodtime Bar is hard to beat. The music is always on point, with a mix of chill beats and upbeat tracks that enhance the atmosphere without drowning out conversation. It's the kind of place where you can come for a quiet date night, a lively catch-up with friends, or even a solo evening at the bar, soaking in the cool energy. The dog-friendly outdoor patio is a bonus, perfect for enjoying a glass of wine and some small bites on a warm evening. Plus, their run club and winemaker events (check their Instagram @goodtimebarsj for updates) add a fun, community-driven element that makes you feel like part of the Goodtime family. Goodtime Bar nails every detail, from the exceptional wine and food to the inviting ambiance and top-notch service. It's clear that this place is a labor of love, and it delivers on its promise of a truly good time. Whether you're a local or just passing through San Jose, this is a spot you don't want to miss. I've already got my next visit planned, and I can't wait to see what new wines and dishes they'll have in store
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Leila V.

Yelp
The food here is amazing. The flavors compliment each dish. I think my favorite was the arancini great flavor we paired it with the pork belly so very good. The place is very unique. We were lucky to have chef Alex come out to meet us. Alex was so friendly and accommodating! This place is absolutely amazing!!! Atmosphere is casual but intimate with a cool 80s type vibe If you're in san jose it's a must!
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Zohal P.

Yelp
I've been here several times now. I think this may be one of the best restaurants in downtown San Jose, if not San Jose itself. The dishes are divine yet simple. They don't overcompensate, keeping things fresh and tasty bringing out the flavors of the elements they're using. It really feels like they are making food for their loved ones. I highly recommend this restaurant and I'm so excited to visit again with their updated menu.