The SoFa district, San Jose’s arts and entertainment district, is undergoing some major renovations. Along with those renovations comes a new bar and restaurant that changes the nightlife scene in downtown San Jose. Joe Gradillas, one of the original owners of local speakeasy Singlebarrel (soon to be Haberdasher), has created a comfortable, laid-back neighborhood joint, The Craftsman.

Located at the former First to Market restaurant, The Craftsman brings the comfort of all-American cuisine combined with cocktails and craft beer to SJ’s culinary art scene. The food menu has every old-school favorite from grilled cheese sandwiches to meatloaf and mash – all with a modern twist. Belly up to the bar where owner Joe serves as bartender along with the rest of his crew and will gladly enlighten his guests about his new establishment, the origins of his specialty cocktails, and which beers are best for whose taste buds.

It’s a place to hang out, chat, celebrate the Silicon Valley scene — and don’t forget game night every Wednesday (bring your own Magic the Gathering deck or board game and your first bottled beverage is on the house). The Craftsman offers a relaxed atmosphere alternative to the typical downtown entertainment.

Location: 399 S 1st St., San Jose, CA
Hours: W-F 5pm-12am; Sun 10am-2pm

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Craftsman San Jose Grilled Cheese