On a Roll Introduce
On a Roll stands as a popular and highly-rated Vietnamese restaurant right in the dynamic heart of downtown San Jose, CA. Located within the energetic San Pedro Square area, this establishment focuses on delivering fresh, flavorful, and satisfying Vietnamese cuisine, distinguished by its fast-casual format and commitment to using traditional flavors with a modern, fresh approach. While the name immediately suggests their renowned Banh Mi sandwiches, the menu is far more expansive, featuring a variety of Noodle Plates, substantial Rice Entree Plates, and vibrant Salads.
The restaurant offers a versatile menu that seamlessly blends authentic Vietnamese staples with other beloved Asian-inspired dishes, such as Pad Thai. This blend of flavors ensures there is something for every craving, from a quick and crunchy sandwich to a comforting bowl of curry. Their focus on marinated meats and signature sauces, including a unique tamarind-based sauce for their Salmon dish, elevates their offerings beyond standard Vietnamese fare. The general atmosphere is Casual and Trendy, making it a comfortable spot for College students, Family-friendly outings, and business professionals seeking a Quick bite or a full meal.
A central highlight of the On a Roll experience is their dedication to both meaty and meat-free options. Patrons, including those seeking Healthy options, frequently praise the availability of Vegetarian options, confirming that key dishes like Banh Mi, Noodle Plates, Rice Entree Plates, and curry can all be prepared with a generous mix of tofu and vegetables. The Tofu Sandwich, for instance, is a popular choice among Banh Mi enthusiasts. Additionally, the venue is highly Popular for both Lunch and Dinner, offering a refreshing and flavorful alternative to the typical fast-food scene in the busy downtown area.
From Appetizers like the unique Fried Coconut Shrimp and Chicken Potstickers to their signature Entree Plates such as the Shaken Rib-Eye Rice and Sesame Ahi Tuna, On a Roll consistently aims to provide generous portions at fair prices, a factor often highlighted in customer reviews. The reputation for Fast service further solidifies its status as a reliable choice for San Jose locals and visitors in need of a delicious, timely meal.
On a Roll is conveniently located in a prime downtown spot, making it highly accessible to the surrounding community and the many businesses in the Silicon Valley area.
The address is:
87 N San Pedro St, San Jose, CA 95110, USA
This location places it directly in the bustling San Pedro Square, a major hub for dining and social activity in downtown San Jose. The accessibility and parking options for visitors include:
- Free street parking, though this may be limited during peak hours.
- Access to the nearby San Pedro Parking Garage, which typically offers free parking for the first 90 minutes on weekdays.
The restaurant is committed to accommodating all patrons, providing a fully accessible experience:
- Wheelchair accessible entrance for ease of entry and exit.
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot (via the adjacent public parking facilities).
- Wheelchair accessible seating to ensure comfort for all dining guests.
The establishment also offers Outdoor seating, which is heated and provides an inviting space to dine while enjoying the vibrant street scene. For pet owners, Dogs are allowed outside on the patio area.
On a Roll provides a versatile array of services designed to meet the demands of a fast-paced downtown community:
- Dine-in Service: Full Seating is available for both Lunch and Dinner in a relaxed, Casual environment, including comfortable indoor space and heated Outdoor seating.
- To-Go Options: Offers convenient Takeout service, perfect for office workers or residents on the move.
- Delivery & Catering: While not explicitly stated on-site, the restaurant is known to facilitate food delivery through various third-party apps and also offers Catering services for groups and events, allowing customers to bring their flavorful dishes to any gathering.
- Quick Bite and Fast Service: Specialized for a Quick bite with a key Highlight being its Fast service, minimizing wait times for busy customers.
- Dietary Accommodation: Features extensive Vegetarian options and dishes that fall under the Healthy options category, with the ability to substitute meat with their unique, house-made tofu.
- Family-Friendly Amenities: The venue is Good for kids and provides High chairs, making it a great destination for Family-friendly dining.
- Diverse Menu Offerings: The menu covers Small plates, Noodle Plates (including various Pad Thai options), Banh MI, Entree Plates (like Ribeye Rice and Salmon Rice), and Deserts (Combo Dessert, On A Roll Special).
- Beverage Selection: Offers a selection of popular Vietnamese and Thai beverages, including Iced Coffee, Iced Tea, and various flavors of Milk Tea.
- Payment Flexibility: Accepts modern payment methods, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
- Atmosphere & Crowd: The venue is designed to cater to a diverse Crowd, including College students and Solo dining patrons, in a Trendy yet comfortable setting.
On a Roll stands out in the competitive San Jose dining landscape due to several key features:
- Signature Banh Mi Selection: The Banh Mi menu is a cornerstone of the business, featuring classics like Grilled Pork Sandwiches, BBQ Pork Sandwiches, and the premium Beef Tri-Tip Sandwich, all served on fresh baguettes with traditional Vietnamese fillings.
- Unique Entree Plates: The restaurant offers distinctive, highly-praised Entree Plates that go beyond simple noodle soups, such as the flavour-packed Coconut Curry Chicken and the fresh, premium Sesame Ahi Tuna. The Salmon Rice dish is noted for its unique, dual tamarind-sauce preparation.
- Exceptional Vegetarian Tofu: A particular highlight is their spicy marinated tofu, which reviewers describe as having a unique, desirable "spongy/springy" texture, making the Vegetarian options a truly satisfying meal and a key factor for those who choose a meat-free diet.
- Value and Portions: Customers frequently praise the large, generous portions provided, noting that the food is a great value for the price, especially considering the quality and downtown location.
- Prominent Downtown Location: Located within the popular San Pedro Square, it offers an ideal spot for enjoying a delicious meal before or after exploring the downtown area or attending local events.
- Commitment to Speed: The commitment to Fast service makes it a preferred spot for those needing a quick turnaround without sacrificing quality or flavor.
- Specialty Beverages: The Iced Coffee and Thai Milk Tea are perfect accompaniments to the spicy and savory dishes, rounding out the authentic Asian-inspired experience.
For general inquiries, takeout orders, or to learn more about the menu, please use the following contact details:
Address: 87 N San Pedro St, San Jose, CA 95110, USA
Phone: (408) 809-3487
Mobile Phone: +1 408-809-3487
For residents and workers in the California area, particularly in downtown San Jose, On a Roll is an excellent choice for several compelling reasons. The restaurant successfully blends the speed and convenience of a Fast service establishment with the quality and flavor of traditional Vietnamese cooking. This is the place to go when you are looking for a meal that is both satisfying and quick, making it an ideal destination for Lunch breaks or a fuss-free Dinner.
The variety on the menu ensures that all palates and dietary preferences are catered to. For the sandwich enthusiast, the Banh Mi, particularly the Grilled Pork Sandwiches or the premium Beef Tri-Tip Sandwich, delivers the classic combination of fresh bread, savory meat, and pickled vegetables. For those craving comfort, the Coconut Curry Chicken, which has been highlighted by customers for its "perfect flavoring," is a must-try. Furthermore, the dedication to providing rich and unique Vegetarian options, utilizing their acclaimed tofu, ensures that non-meat eaters have highly appealing and flavorful choices beyond the standard side salad.
Choosing On a Roll means choosing quality and value in a prime downtown location. It offers a consistently high-rated dining experience—indicated by its strong average rating—in an accessible, Casual, and Family-friendly setting. Whether you’re stopping by for a revitalizing Iced Coffee and a quick Tofu Sandwich, or settling in for a full Ribeye Rice plate, On a Roll provides a genuinely "delicious and generous" Vietnamese food experience that is both authentic and modern.
On a Roll Vibe
Noodle Plates
- Shrimp Pad Thai $17.99
- Chicken Pad Thai $15.99
Tender chicken strips with rice noodles, bean sprouts, green onions, and crushed peanuts, tossed in a tangy tamarind sauce.
- Grilled Pork Noodles $16.99
- Veggie Pad Thai $15.99
- Beef Pad Thai $17.99
Rice noodles with tender beef, peanuts, egg, scallions, and a medley of other veggies
- Veggie Noodles $15.99
- Chicken Noodles $16.99
Banh MI
- Grilled Pork Sandwiches $11.99
- Chicken Sandwich $11.99
- Beef Tri-Tip Sandwich $13.99
Sliced beef tri-tip served in a Vietnamese baguette with mayonnaise, pickled carrots, daikon radish, cilantro, and cucumber.
- BBQ Pork Sandwiches $11.99
- Tofu Sandwich $11.99
Beverages
- Iced Coffee $5.50
- Iced Tea $5.50
- Milk Tea $5.50
Sweets
- Combo Dessert $5.00
Grass and pandan jelly with chestnut mung bean and coconut milk.
- On A Roll Special $5.00
Coconut juice, longan, pandan jelly, and basil seed.
Noodle Plates
- Grilled Pork Noodles With Shrimp And Salad $16.99
- Chicken Pad Thai $16.99
Traditional Thai noodles with chicken, peanuts, and fresh lime.
- Chicken Noodles With Shrimp And Salad $16.99
- Beef Pad Thai $17.99
Rice noodles with tender beef, peanuts, egg, scallions, and a medley of other veggies
- Veggie Noodles With Mixed Veggies $16.99
- Shrimp Pad Thai $16.99
- Veggie Pad Thai $16.99
Banh MI
- Beef Tri-Tip Sandwich $13.99
Marinated beef tri-tip with pickled carrots, daikon, fresh cilantro, and sliced jalapeños on a crispy baguette.
- Chicken Sandwich $12.50
- BBQ Pork Sandwiches $12.50
- Tofu Sandwich $12.50
- Grilled Pork Sandwiches $12.50
Appetizers
- Chicken Katsu $11.99
- Chicken Potstickers $7.99
- Fried Coconut Shrimp $7.99
- Rolls $8.99
- Won Ton Soup $16.99
Entree Plates
- Ribeye Rice $19.99
Comes with steamed rice.
- Pork Rice $15.99
It has shrimp and salad.
- Teriyaki Chicken $17.99
- Coconut Curry Chicken $16.99
- Sesame Ahi Tuna $19.99
- Veggie Rice $16.99
- Salmon Rice $19.99
Comes with steamed rice and salad.
Salads
- Sesame Ahi Tuna Salad $19.99
- Salmon Salad $19.99
- Chicken Salad $12.99
- Beef Rib-Eye Salad $19.99
- Shrimp Salad $12.99
Beverages
- Iced Tea $5.75
- Thai Milk Tea $5.75
- Iced Coffee $5.75
Appetizers
- Chicken Potstickers $6.99
- Won Ton Soup $15.99
- Crispy Chicken $11.99
- Fried Coconut Shrimp $7.50
- Rolls $9.00
Entree Plates
- Pork Rice With Shrimp And Salad $16.99
- Teriyaki Chicken With Mixed Veggies $17.99
- Tofu Curry With Mixed Veggies $16.99
- Coconut Curry Chicken With Mixed Veggies $16.99
- Sesame Ahi Tuna With Rice And Salad $19.99
- Shaken Rib-Eye Rice With Mixed Veggies $19.99
Salads
- Salmon Salad $18.99
- Shrimp Salad $11.99
- Beef Rib-Eye Salad $18.99
- Chicken Salad $11.99
On a Roll Details
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Takeout
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Highlights
- Fast service
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Healthy options
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Family-friendly
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Parking
- Free street parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
On a Roll Photos










On a Roll Location
On a Roll
87 N San Pedro St, San Jose, CA 95110, USA
On a Roll Reviews
pad thaisandwichbanh mipricetofushrimptri tipcoconutchicken currymayo
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1They said Bank Mi, Rice and noodles and curry can be made vegan with tofu and vegetables. Their tofu has very unique texture, a little spongy/springy like egg whites or something, nothing wrong, it tasted good, maybe it’s homemade? But beware, their tofu is spicy (covered in spices or marinated?)My only wish they did better job with wrapping and packing, ask for it if you want to split it. They don’t by default cut in half and when asked to cut in half they didn’t cut the wrapped sandwich with the paper so when I opened the paper the whole sandwich fell apart making it difficult to eat it.
October 17 · Galina ChzhenThe average 4.5 stars is exactly right. An unassuming store front, competent food, somewhat short on attendant eating accoutrement (like forks and spoons, not just chopsticks, plus napkins.) Best was the coconut chicken curry, which had perfect flavoring on reasonable mix of tender chicken and veggies, on rice. Couldn't stop eating it. Chicken Pad Thai, on the other hand, was a bit short on everything: not enough peanut flavors in the sauce, non-existent veggies, and slightly too-sweet sauce made a sub-par experience. The shrimp egg roll was different: a cocktail shrimp w tail on, dipped in batter, then deep fried to make it look like an "eggroll" finish. Overall, deserving of 4.5 stars, but I'm opting for 4 bc the price was a tad more than what I think is fair. Ample heated outdoor seating.
March 28 · Chiucat / AngelProbably the best bahn mi sandwich I’ve ever had. A large roll packed with pickled vegetables and meat. I initially thought it might be too small from the picture, but mostly was I wrong. I finished it and was stuffed! The Vietnamese iced coffee was of the hook as well. Well worth a try.
March 14 · Mark KelleyHad the grilled pork bánh mì. Generous portion, fresh bread, meat was fine, but really would have benefited from some mayo or pate or sauce or something, as well as maybe a bit more flavor or spice somehow. Just felt a bit dry.
August 09 · Adam LasnikThis is for Pad Thai only, did not have anything else but the Thai Tea which was just your average tea.I was encouraged by the glowing review from someone about the Pad Thai but here's my take. To start let's establish the fact that it is not bad, I wouldn't discourage anyone from ordering it but be prepared to let them know how spicy you want it, or if you don't want it spicy.I've been eating spicy food all my life so it doesn't bother me but we were not prepared for how spicy it would be, no one even asked us so we assumed it would be non spicy like every restaurant we've had it at. My wifey doesn't really like spicy food so it was not enjoyable at all for her. If you don't eat spicy food don't forget to tell them or else you're going to be sad.Besides that it was good enough, I don't like the wide noodles but that's a personal preference. It has some kind of fishcake in lieu of tofu maybe it's a Vietnamese fishcake? Interesting. I'm snacking on the leftovers as I write this at 1am so there's definitely something I like about it, almost like a different dish, like if a cook from another SE country made it...hmm wonder why... ;)
August 28 · Will S
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