Henry's World Famous Hi-Life

- 301 W St John St, San Jose, CA 95110

For over sixty years, Henry's World Famous Hi-Life has stood as a beloved, historic landmark in San Jose, California, establishing itself as a premier destination for those craving an authentic American steakhouse and barbecue experience. More than just a restaurant, this establishment has woven itself into the fabric of the local community, maintaining a cozy, casual, and friendly atmosphere that welcomes everyone from college students and local crowds to sports fans and tourists.

This iconic spot is a true carnivore’s paradise, specializing in high-quality steaks, tender ribs, and barbecue chicken. It has garnered a reputation for generous portions and a focus on keeping the tradition and flavors consistent—a key to its decades of success. The menu is a delightful blend of classic steakhouse cuts and rustic barbecue favorites, ensuring every Californian user, whether they're in for a hearty lunch, a celebratory dinner, or a game-day meal, finds something to satisfy their appetite.

What sets Henry's World Famous Hi-Life apart is its enduring commitment to simple, great food served with efficient, friendly service in a historically rich setting. Visitors often describe the experience as a nostalgic trip, one that their parents and even grandparents enjoyed. The restaurant’s unique and streamlined dining system, where you check in, receive a number, place your order at the bar while waiting for your table, and then have your meal served promptly, contributes to its one-of-a-kind charm and fast service.

Henry's World Famous Hi-Life is strategically located at 301 W St John St, San Jose, CA 95110, USA. This prime address places it right in the vibrant Little Italy section of San Jose and just two short blocks—an easy walk—from the SAP Center. This proximity makes it a mandatory pre- or post-game stop for San Jose Sharks fans and concert-goers alike, thriving on the energy of sports seasons and major events.

For California locals and visitors driving to the location, paid street parking is available, though it's worth planning ahead, especially during peak hours or game nights, as the area can get busy. Accessibility is a priority for the establishment, ensuring a welcoming experience for all patrons. The venue offers:

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

The location’s position in Downtown San Jose makes it a convenient and central meeting spot, easily reachable from various parts of the greater Silicon Valley and Bay Area. Whether you are coming from work for a lunchtime Tri-Tip Special or meeting a group for a big dinner, the location is a great hub of activity and history.

The Hi-Life provides a range of dining services designed to meet the modern needs of its diverse California clientele. From traditional dining to convenient off-site options, the services ensure that everyone can enjoy their famous food.

• Dine-in: Enjoy the full, classic experience in a casual, cozy, and historic atmosphere, complete with table service.
• Outdoor Seating: For those who prefer to dine al fresco, or for patrons with pets (as noted by a customer review), outdoor seating is available.
• Takeout: Meals can be ordered for pick-up, perfect for a quick dinner at home.
• Delivery: Offering convenience for busy local residents who prefer to have their barbecue and steak delivered right to their door.
• Lunch and Dinner Service: Serving a wide-ranging menu for both lunch and dinner, accommodating different schedules and appetites throughout the day.
• Full Bar Service: A bar onsite provides a great selection of beer and an extensive list of cocktails and other adult beverages, including the Henry's World Famous House Margarita.
• Table Service: Attentive and friendly staff ensure a pleasant dining experience once seated.
• Children’s Amenities: High chairs are available, and a Kids' Menu is offered, making it a family-friendly venue.
• NFC Mobile Payments: Accepting credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for a smooth and modern transaction process.

Henry's World Famous Hi-Life is celebrated for numerous distinct features that have cemented its status as a San Jose culinary institution. These highlights draw customers back time and again:

• Historic and Cozy Atmosphere: Operating for over half a century, the venue offers a historic, trendy, and genuinely cozy ambiance that is a unique departure from modern, chain establishments.
• World-Famous Ribs and Steaks: The menu's core is centered on perfectly cooked meats, with the baby back ribs being a particular standout—often praised by customers for being fall-off-the-bone tender. The prime rib, Top Sirloin, and Filet Mignon are consistently highlighted as high-quality choices.
• Great Bar Selection: Known for a great beer selection and excellent cocktails, the bar is a lively spot for happy hour drinks and catching a game.
• Sports-Friendly Venue: With TVs at the bar and a generally lively atmosphere, it’s a popular spot for sports fans, especially on game days.
• Signature Sides and Extras: Every entree comes with an essential trio of a house salad, a baked potato, and their famously delicious garlic bread, which is soaked in garlic and butter.
• Efficient and Fast Service: Despite the crowds, the unique 'order-at-the-bar-then-be-seated' system ensures that food arrives quickly once guests are at their table.
• Generous Portions: Customers frequently comment on the substantial size of the meals, often resulting in leftovers—ensuring great value for the price.
• Local Specialty Provider: The restaurant proudly serves its local specialties, including various cuts of steak and slow-smoked barbecue.
• Diverse Offerings: Beyond the main attractions, the menu includes comfort food like Mac N Cheese, various pastas, and large salads, alongside a full offering of alcohol, hard liquor, and wine.

To plan your visit or inquire about the menu and services, please use the following contact details:

Address: 301 W St John St, San Jose, CA 95110, USA

Phone: (408) 295-5414

Mobile Phone (Direct Line): +1 408-295-5414

Choosing Henry's World Famous Hi-Life means opting for a piece of San Jose history combined with a dedication to expertly prepared, satisfying American fare. The reason to choose this steakhouse and barbecue joint over others in the California area is simple: the unique, enduring combination of value, tradition, and quality.

It’s a place where the food is consistently praised—from the smoky flavor of the barbecue meats, like the Combo Chicken and Spare Ribs, to the tenderness of the Filet Mignon ($55.95) and the incredible value of the Top Sirloin Steak ($28.75 for dinner, which includes a side, salad, and garlic bread). For those craving barbecue, the Baby Back Ribs and Pork Spare Ribs are a must-try, frequently cited as the best in the Bay Area. Diners often recommend trying the Dinner Tri-Tip Sandwich or the 1/2 Lb. World Famous Burger for a more casual, yet equally satisfying, experience.

Beyond the entrées, the side dishes, like the Sauteed Mushrooms or a side of the house-made Mac N Cheese, are highly regarded. The inclusion of the famous garlic bread and a simple, crisp house salad with every entrée adds to the feeling of a generous, complete meal. For those looking for a beverage, the bar's highlights—from a cold beer to a strong Moscow Mule or the Henrys World Famous House Margarita—provide the perfect accompaniment.

The Hi-Life offers an atmosphere that is truly popular for all occasions, be it a solo dining experience, a large group gathering, or a family meal. Its casual, yet historic, charm ensures a comfortable experience. You are not just going out to eat; you are participating in a decades-long San Jose tradition. With fast service, a great atmosphere, and high-quality comfort food that locals and tourists love, Henry's World Famous Hi-Life remains an essential dining choice for anyone in the California region seeking an exceptional steakhouse and barbecue experience.

Henry's World Famous Hi-Life

301 W St John St, San Jose, CA 95110, USA