AJI Bar & Robata

- 170 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113

For the discerning California diner, AJI Bar & Robata presents a truly unique and exhilarating culinary concept in the heart of Downtown San Jose. This is not just a restaurant; it is a captivating destination that defines upscale, modern dining. Nestled within the beautifully remodeled Signia by Hilton San Jose, AJI Bar & Robata introduces guests to the mesmerizing world of Nikkei Cuisine, a highly refined and sought-after fusion that harmonizes the delicate precision of Japanese technique with the bold, vibrant flavors of Peru.

The very name of the restaurant—AJI—encapsulates this duality, meaning both "taste" in Japanese and "spicy pepper" in Peruvian. This linguistic blend perfectly describes the menu, where dishes strike a dazzling balance between smoky, savory, and spicy notes. The core of the experience revolves around the Robata Grill, an ancient Japanese "fireside" tradition where food is slow-grilled over unique Binchotan charcoal, imparting an unmistakable smoky umami flavor. Complemented by an award-worthy beverage program featuring unique Nikkei-inspired cocktails and a stellar wine list, AJI Bar & Robata is an ideal choice for special occasions, sophisticated solo dining, or a chic night out in the city. The trendy, upscale atmosphere, featuring loungey seating and a dramatically lit bar, ensures every visit is memorable.

Location and Accessibility

AJI Bar & Robata boasts a prime, high-profile location at 170 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA. Positioned directly in the heart of Downtown San Jose, across from Plaza de César Chávez Park and near the San Jose Convention Center, it is perfectly situated for both local professionals and hotel guests. The central location provides easy access to the city’s major arts and entertainment venues.

As an establishment within an upscale hotel, accessibility is comprehensive and top-tier, ensuring a smooth experience for all patrons across California.

• Wheelchair accessible entrance.
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot.
• Wheelchair accessible restroom.
• Wheelchair accessible seating.

Parking is facilitated in the busy downtown area through both convenient Paid street parking and the premium service of Valet parking, allowing guests to arrive and depart with ease. The dining hours, operating daily from 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM, are perfectly tailored to serve the dinner crowd and those seeking a late-night food and bar experience.

Services Offered

Reflecting its upscale positioning, AJI Bar & Robata offers focused and refined services centered on an exceptional dine-in experience.

• Dine-in and Table Service: Guests enjoy a full-service experience with attentive, friendly staff, often including helpful recommendations, as noted in customer reviews. A variety of comfortable seating options, from intimate corners to bar seating, is available.
• Full Bar and Beverage Service: The restaurant features a dedicated Bar onsite, offering a complete range of Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Hard liquor, and Wine. The wine list is extensive, and the cocktail program is a major highlight.
• Takeout Service: While focused on the dine-in experience, takeout is available for those wishing to enjoy the Nikkei cuisine in the comfort of their home or hotel room.
• Extended Dining Options: The focus is on Dinner and Dessert, with the kitchen offering Late-night food until closing.
• Inclusive Offerings: The menu explicitly includes Small plates, Vegan options, Vegetarian options, and Organic dishes, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences.

Features and Highlights

The identity of AJI Bar & Robata is defined by a series of culinary and atmospheric features that elevate it above typical Bay Area dining.

• Nikkei Culinary Focus: The fusion of Japanese and Peruvian culinary traditions is a rare and highly-praised feature, delivering intricate and delicious flavors that are both innovative and comforting.
• Robata Grill Excellence: The use of the Bincho Grill and Binchotan charcoal for items like Lamb Chops and Salmon ensures a distinctive, smoky flavor profile that cannot be replicated with conventional grilling methods.
• Great Cocktails and Wine List: The bar is celebrated for its Great cocktails—especially the unique Nikkei Inspirations—and its Great wine list, featuring prominent California selections like Cakebread Chardonnay and Daou Cabernet.
• Trendy, Upscale Ambience: The environment is described as Trendy and Upscale, with a chic energy and stylish, recently remodeled decor within the prestigious Signia Hotel, making it a desirable location for social and special gatherings.
• Inclusive Crowd and Entertainment: It fosters an inclusive environment, designated as LGBTQ+ friendly and a Transgender safespace, and appeals to diverse groups. Furthermore, the inclusion of Live music or a DJ on select weekend nights enhances the social and lively atmosphere.

Contact Information

Patrons in the California region can contact AJI Bar & Robata using the details provided below.

Address: 170 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA

Phone: (408) 998-1900

Mobile Phone: +1 408-998-1900

What is Worth Choosing

AJI Bar & Robata is worth choosing for those in California seeking an innovative, high-quality, and sophisticated dining experience that transcends traditional Japanese or Peruvian cuisine. While acknowledged as a "pricey treat," the cost reflects the premium ingredients, intricate flavors, and luxurious setting.

Begin your experience with a handcrafted cocktail from the Nikkei Inspirations list, such as the vibrant Pink Spritz ($18.00) or the unique Pisco Thyme ($19.00). If you prefer to skip the alcohol, the non-alcoholic options, like the refreshing Sparkling Strawberry ($12.00), are also highly recommended.

From the food menu, the Bincho Grill items are a must-try for the unique Robata flavor. The Lamb Chops ($26.00) with anticucho miso and the indulgent Wagyu Sliders ($18.00), featuring aji verde sauce and fried avocado, perfectly encapsulate the Nikkei concept. For sushi lovers, the creative rolls are excellent, with the customer-favorite Tiger Prawn ($21.00) and the simple yet well-executed Dynamite California Roll ($20.00) being top recommendations.

For smaller bites that pack a huge flavor punch, the Snacks section is ideal for sharing. The Crispy Salmon Tartare ($17.00) on gyoza skin tacos and the highly addictive Bao bun with gochujang BBQ fried chicken (often served as part of a sampler) are standouts. Finally, conclude your meal with one of the inventive desserts; the Japanese Matcha Cheesecake is celebrated for its perfect balance—thick, smooth, and not overly sweet—a perfect capstone to a luxurious Downtown San Jose dining event.

AJI Bar & Robata

170 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA