Il Fornaio

- 302 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113

For those seeking an authentic, upscale Italian dining experience in the heart of California’s Silicon Valley, Il Fornaio in San Jose stands as a premier destination. More than just a restaurant, it offers a culinary journey through Italy, perfectly combining traditional cooking techniques with the freshest ingredients. The name "Il Fornaio" translates to "the baker," a nod to the brand's origins as a renowned Italian baking school. This commitment to traditional craftsmanship is evident in every dish served, from the rustic, crisp-crusted bread to the housemade pasta.

Located within the beautiful and historic Sainte Claire Hotel—now The Westin San Jose—Il Fornaio provides an elegant and genuine Italian experience, often regarded as one of the best dining options in Downtown San Jose. The atmosphere is upscale, cozy, and romantic, featuring an elegant ambiance and traditional décor that transports California diners to a classic Italian trattoria. It is a place where flavorful sauces simmer, meats and vegetables roast over hot coals, and bottles of fine wine from small, regional Italian wineries are uncorked to complement the cuisine.

The diverse menu caters to all dining needs—from a hearty breakfast or leisurely brunch to corporate lunch and romantic, sophisticated dinner—making it a favored choice among locals, business groups, and tourists alike. Whether you are craving the comfort of a classic Lasagna Ferrarese or seeking a complex seafood pasta like Linguine Mare Chiaro, Il Fornaio promises an authentic taste of Italy right here in the South Bay.

Il Fornaio is ideally situated in a prime downtown location, making it highly accessible for anyone visiting or working in the San Jose area. Its placement within the historic Sainte Claire Hotel adds to its refined ambiance and convenience.

The restaurant’s official address is:

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

The location is well-integrated into the urban core, adjacent to major attractions and corporate buildings. Accessibility is a key feature, demonstrating an effort to accommodate all guests:

• Wheelchair Accessible Entrance: Ensures smooth entry for all patrons.
• Wheelchair Accessible Parking Lot: Dedicated parking makes arrival convenient.
• Wheelchair Accessible Restroom: Provides comfort and access for guests.
• Wheelchair Accessible Seating: Ensures comfortable dining arrangements within the elegant interior.
• Parking Options: Guests can choose from a paid parking lot, paid street parking, or the convenience of valet parking, typically offered through the hotel.

Il Fornaio is a full-service establishment that offers a wide array of dining and catering services to suit the varied schedules and needs of the Californian clientele.

• Dine-in: Available for Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner, offering table service in a beautiful, upscale setting. Reservations are highly recommended for all major mealtimes to secure seating, especially for brunch and dinner.
• Takeout: Meals can be prepared for convenient pickup, allowing customers to enjoy the authentic cuisine at home or at the office.
• Delivery: Standard delivery options are offered, bringing the premium Italian experience directly to your door in the San Jose region.
• No-contact delivery: This service option is available to ensure the safety and comfort of guests who prefer minimal interaction upon delivery.
• Catering: Comprehensive catering services are available for corporate events, weddings, and social gatherings, featuring award-winning Italian cuisine and customizable menus for events of any size.
• Private Dining: Dedicated private dining rooms are available for booking special occasions, complete with an on-site Event Coordinator to assist with customized menus and arrangements without a room rental fee.

The cuisine at Il Fornaio focuses on traditional, premium-quality Italian food, with recipes that have been mastered over centuries. The menu is expansive, showcasing the culinary diversity of Italy's various regions.

• Fresh Pasta and Housemade Specialties: A key feature of the menu, the Pasta Fresca section highlights fresh, handmade pasta dishes, including the rich Tagliatelle Bolognese with traditional meat ragu, the comforting Rigatoni Alla Vodka, and the luxurious Turtei D'Aragosta (Maine lobster, scallop, and shrimp ravioli).
• Grill & Entrée Selections: The Griglia section features expertly prepared meats and seafood. Standout dishes include the popular Pollo Toscano, a free-range rosemary chicken dish, and the decadent Filetto Al Vino Rosso (grilled beef tenderloin). Seafood lovers often choose the Gamberoni E Capesante (seared scallops and prawns) or the Salmone Alla Griglia.
• Exceptional Beverage Program: Il Fornaio boasts a Great Wine List, earning multiple awards of excellence, making it a perfect spot for oenophiles. They also offer a full bar with Great Cocktails and various Hard Liquor and Beer options, including a popular happy hour.
• Appetizers and Small Plates: The appetizer selection is varied and robust, with favorites like Calamaretti Fritti (deep-fried baby squid), Bruschette Assortite (grilled ciabatta with three unique toppings), and Arancini Al Sugo (saffron rice balls). Small plates and Vegetarian Options, such as the Minestrone Di Verdure, are plentiful.
• Dessert Excellence: The Dolci menu is highly praised, featuring classic Italian desserts like the rich Tiramisù and the unique Panna Cotta Al Caffé, making it a Great Dessert destination.
• Atmosphere and Vibe: The dining environment is categorized as Upscale, Historic, Romantic, and Trendy, ensuring a sophisticated backdrop for any meal, from a solo lunch to a large group dinner.

For reservations, inquiries about the menu, or to speak with the catering and event team, Il Fornaio San Jose can be reached via the following contact points.

Address: 302 S Market St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA

Phone: (408) 271-3366

Mobile Phone: +1 408-271-3366

For residents and visitors in the California region, Il Fornaio is a culinary choice that excels due to its blend of high-quality cuisine and superior dining amenities.

• An Authentic and Elevated Experience: This is a restaurant that holds the "Mark of Italian Hospitality around the World" (Marchio Ospitalita'), ensuring a truly authentic Italian experience outside of Italy. The use of multi-generational family recipes and supervision by executive chefs from Italy guarantees genuine flavor.
• The Perfect Setting for Any Occasion: With an atmosphere that is simultaneously romantic and family-friendly, Il Fornaio serves as the ideal venue for everything from important business meals to intimate anniversary dinners and celebratory group gatherings. The historic building provides a memorable, elegant backdrop.
• All-Day Dining and Versatility: The restaurant covers all dining options—Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner—and expertly caters to various dietary needs with Organic Dishes and plenty of Vegetarian Options. Its popularity for Solo Dining also makes it a comfortable choice for business travelers or independent diners.
• Highly Acclaimed Beverage and Dessert Program: The dining experience is enhanced by its strong focus on a superb wine list and excellent signature cocktails, such as the highly praised "iced tiramisu" cocktail. The housemade desserts provide a perfect, classic Italian finale to any meal.
• Commitment to Customer Service: Customer feedback consistently highlights the friendly, attentive, and excellent customer service. The staff is well-regarded for enhancing the overall dining experience, treating guests with the warmth and hospitality expected in a traditional Italian trattoria.

Choosing Il Fornaio means opting for an award-winning, authentic, and memorable meal where the history of Italian cuisine meets the sophistication of Downtown San Jose. It is a true piece of Italy in the heart of California.

Il Fornaio

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