Applebee's Grill + Bar

- 555 Saratoga Ave, San Jose, CA 95129

Applebee's Grill + Bar at 555 Saratoga Ave in San Jose, CA, serves as a quintessential 'Neighborhood Bar & Grill' for residents across the South Bay area. This location is much more than a single dining category; it successfully merges the offerings of an "American restaurant," "Bar & grill," "Diner," "Family restaurant," "Hamburger restaurant," and "Steak house" under one roof. Since 1980, the brand has been known for bringing great food and a welcoming atmosphere to communities, and this San Jose outlet is no exception.

The "Atmosphere" is described as "Casual," "Cozy," and "Trendy," providing a comfortable space for a wide variety of patrons. The dining environment is designed to welcome everyone, from "College students" and "Groups" to "Family-friendly" gatherings and "Tourists." Notably, the establishment is proudly "LGBTQ+ friendly" and a "Transgender safespace," reflecting a commitment to inclusivity that resonates with California's diverse culture. Whether you’re stopping by for "Solo dining" or meeting friends for "Happy hour," this Applebee's location is a reliable, local hub.

The menu delivers on the promise of classic American "Comfort food." Popular options include their signature "Handcrafted Burgers," such as the Bacon Cheese Burger, a traveler’s "go to" choice. For those craving something more, the menu is extensive, featuring "Steaks & Ribs," Chicken dishes, and "Seafood" options like the Shrimps. While portion sizes, such as the Ribs, can occasionally be on the smaller side, the focus on flavor and variety ensures there is a choice for every craving, from hearty mains to "Small plates" and appetizers like the signature Chicken Wonton Tacos and Boneless Wings. And no visit is complete without dessert; the "Cookie and Cream Shake" is a particular standout, noted by repeat visitors as being "fantastic," though quality may depend on the specific preparer.

Location and Accessibility

Strategically positioned at 555 Saratoga Ave, San Jose, CA 95129, USA, the restaurant is easily accessible for locals living in or passing through the West San Jose area. Its proximity to nearby hotels makes it a convenient choice for visitors, who often find themselves dining here multiple times a week.

The restaurant has made significant commitments to ensure that the dining experience is inclusive for all members of the California community:

• Wheelchair Accessibility: The location features a fully "Wheelchair accessible entrance," "Wheelchair accessible parking lot," a "Wheelchair accessible restroom," and "Wheelchair accessible seating."
• Parking: Guests benefit from hassle-free parking with access to a "Free parking lot" as well as "Free street parking" options.

The easily locatable address and dedication to accessibility solidify its role as a true neighborhood favorite in San Jose.

Services Offered

This Applebee's location offers numerous service options tailored for maximum convenience, flexibility, and a full-service experience:

• Dine-in and Table Service: Providing a full "Table service" experience for "Breakfast," "Brunch," "Lunch," and "Dinner," as well as "Dessert" and "Late-night food."
• Takeout and Drive-through: Patrons can easily place orders for "Takeout" or use the "Drive-through" service, also known as Carside To Go, for quick and convenient pickup without leaving their vehicle.
• Delivery: Full "Delivery" service is available, making it simple to enjoy everything from a "Quick bite" burger to a full steak dinner at home or at work.
• Full Bar Service: Features a "Bar onsite" with a "Great beer selection," "Great cocktails," "Hard liquor," and "Wine," complemented by "Happy hour drinks."
• Catering: Comprehensive "Catering" services are offered, allowing groups and businesses to order party trays and family meals for any event.
• Kids' Amenities: The establishment is "Good for kids," offering a dedicated "Kids' menu" and "High chairs" to accommodate families comfortably.
• Happy Hour Specials: Offers popular "Happy hour drinks" and "Happy hour food" deals, making it an excellent spot for after-work gatherings or budget-friendly appetizers.
• Sports Viewing: The "Sports" highlight suggests a great atmosphere for catching the game while enjoying a meal or a drink from the bar.
• Payment: Accepts multiple modern payment options including "Credit cards," "Debit cards," and "NFC mobile payments."

Features / Highlights

The location stands out in the competitive San Jose dining scene due to several unique features and commitments:

• Community Involvement: The restaurant has a reputation for being "very supportive for their local community," often displaying pictures of events they have participated in. This commitment to 'Doin' Good in the Neighborhood' and supporting charities like Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation is a strong, appealing highlight for local patrons.
• Diverse Menu Range: Covering virtually every category of American dining—from "Hamburger restaurant" to "Steak house"—it serves a versatile menu that satisfies diverse palates at various times of the day, including "Breakfast" and "Late-night food."
• Comprehensive Drink Program: The "Great beer selection" and "Great cocktails" alongside full alcohol offerings ensure it’s a premier "Bar & grill" destination in the area, offering more than just soft drinks.
• All-Day Dining and Specials: Offering "Lunch" and "Dinner" daily, as well as seasonal food and "Drink Specials," ensures that there is always a reason to visit, regardless of the time or budget.
• Dessert Quality: Known for a "Great dessert," particularly the fantastic Cookie and Cream Shake, providing a memorable sweet ending to any meal.
• Serves Local Specialty: The inclusion of "Serves local specialty" suggests an effort to incorporate regional flavors or a unique menu item that appeals specifically to the California user base, although the exact item may vary seasonally.

Contact Information

For reservations, questions about catering, or to inquire about daily specials, please use the contact information provided below for the Saratoga Ave location:

Address: 555 Saratoga Ave, San Jose, CA 95129, USA

Phone: (408) 446-8370

Mobile Phone: +1 408-446-8370

What is Worth Choosing

For California locals and visitors in San Jose, Applebee's Grill + Bar on Saratoga Ave is an excellent choice for a consistently enjoyable and versatile dining experience. It is a true "Family restaurant" that also provides the amenities of a neighborhood bar, making it suitable for both casual family dinners and adult hangouts. The establishment’s dedication to community support, coupled with its wide-ranging menu—featuring satisfying favorites like the Bacon Cheese Burger and the famous Riblets®, as well as the unique Cookie and Cream Shake—offers great value and familiarity.

While the service can occasionally be inconsistent, with some reporting slow wait times or minor quality issues, the overall consensus remains positive, with many servers being noted as "friendly and more service oriented." The combination of accessible services like "Drive-through" and "Delivery," the inclusive "LGBTQ+ friendly" environment, and the all-day dining options (including late-night food and happy hour) solidify its position as a reliable, convenient, and welcoming destination. For those seeking standard, decent American "Comfort food" in a "Cozy" setting with ample drink selections, especially when staying nearby, this Applebee's outlet is a safe and supported local choice that consistently draws a good "Dinner crowd."

Applebee's Grill + Bar

555 Saratoga Ave, San Jose, CA 95129, USA