SmokeEaters Hot Wings Introduce
SmokeEaters Hot Wings in San Jose is more than just a Chicken wings restaurant; it is a quintessential California Gastropub and a premier destination for sports enthusiasts in the South Bay. Seamlessly blending a casual, high-energy sports bar atmosphere with a surprisingly extensive menu of elevated Comfort food, SmokeEaters has earned a reputation for excellence, particularly among locals and college students. The venue is characterized by its dual focus: delivering some of the most highly-rated wings and tenders in the world, and offering an exceptional beverage program featuring a wide selection of craft beer and cocktails.
The atmosphere at the Almaden Expressway location is consistently described as Casual and Trendy, making it a comfortable spot for a wide Crowd, including Groups, Solo dining patrons, and the Family-friendly demographic. It’s the perfect setting to catch a game—a central highlight—or simply enjoy Late-night food with friends. The commitment to flavor is evident in every dish, from the signature "Wingers" and "Tenders" that come with 7 levels of heat, ranging from Mild to the famous 'Traditional Death' and 'Nuclear' sauces, to their diverse menu of robust Burgers, Sandwiches, and "South of the Border" options.
Service at SmokeEaters is notably Fast, even when the restaurant is packed for big games, ensuring patrons never miss a moment of the action or wait long for their next round. This blend of quality food, outstanding drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere solidifies SmokeEaters Hot Wings' place as a favored local hotspot for Lunch, Dinner, and late-night gatherings in the 95118 zip code area. The Gastropub is also known for its focus on premium sides and desserts, ensuring a full, satisfying meal every time.
SmokeEaters Hot Wings is strategically situated in a bustling retail area at 5018 Almaden Expy #30, San Jose, CA 95118, USA. This location on Almaden Expressway provides convenient access for residents across San Jose and the surrounding Silicon Valley communities. Being part of a commercial hub, it benefits from excellent road access, making it an easy drive-to destination.
The restaurant places a high emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that all community members can comfortably enjoy the Gastropub experience. The facility is fully equipped with comprehensive accessibility features:
- Wheelchair Accessibility: The location provides a Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating.
- Parking: Guests benefit from a convenient and stress-free parking situation, with both a dedicated Free parking lot and Free street parking available in the surrounding area.
- Outdoor Access: The venue offers comfortable Outdoor seating, and notably, it is Pet-friendly, as Dogs are allowed outside in the patio area.
The combination of easy highway access, ample parking, and full accessibility makes SmokeEaters a hassle-free and accommodating choice for groups, families, and solo diners throughout the day and into the Late-night hours.
As a modern Gastropub and sports bar, SmokeEaters provides a robust suite of dining and convenience services to maximize customer satisfaction:
- Comprehensive Dining Options: Patrons can choose between relaxed Dine-in Seating, comfortable Outdoor seating, quick Takeout, or convenient Delivery right to their door. The service is characterized by its Fast service commitment.
- Full Beverage Service: The Bar onsite offers a full range of Alcohol, including a Great beer selection with dozens of rotating taps, Hard liquor for Cocktails, and a selection of Wine. It is noted for serving Great cocktails.
- Happy Hour Specials: SmokeEaters features popular daily Happy hour drinks and Happy hour food specials, making it an excellent, budget-friendly option for early Dinner or post-work meetups.
- Late-Night Menu: The kitchen remains open for Late-night food service, catering to the late-night crowd, including College students and Groups watching the final games of the evening.
- Catering to Kids: The restaurant is Good for kids, offering a dedicated Kids' menu with options like Cheese Quesadilla and Chicken Tenders, as well as providing High chairs for convenience.
- Technology and Payment: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available for all guests. The venue accepts modern payment methods, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
- Diverse Menu Offerings: The menu extends beyond wings to include Comfort food, Quick bite options, and Small plates like Disco Tots and Beer Battered Onion Rings, ensuring something for every appetite.
SmokeEaters Hot Wings is famous across California for several signature features that solidify its status as a top-tier Gastropub and Sports hub.
- Legendary Wings and Heat Scale: The centerpiece is the "Wingers"—the Best wings in the area, according to numerous reviews. They are tossed in a choice of 7 distinct heat levels, from Mild to the notorious 'Traditional Death' and 'Nuclear' sauces, designed to test the limits of the bravest spice lovers.
- Exceptional Craft Beer Program: A significant highlight is the Great beer selection, featuring dozens of rotating draft taps that constantly showcase local California and national craft brews, including various IPAs, Pilsners, and Stouts, making it a serious destination for Beer enthusiasts.
- Premier Sports Viewing Environment: Recognized as a go-to venue for watching Sports, the facility provides an engaging and lively atmosphere, ensuring that patrons can always catch their favorite game—be it football, basketball (like the Golden State Warriors), or hockey.
- Signature Comfort Food Sandwiches: The Gastropub menu offers unique and hearty sandwiches, such as 'The Diesel'—a Grilled chicken sandwich with aged white cheddar, applewood bacon, avocado, tomato, and chipotle aioli on a Hoagie Roll—and the Nashville Hot Chicken.
- Gourmet Sides and Appetizers: Beyond the main dishes, the Appetizers are a popular draw, including Beer Battered Onion Rings, the cheesy Disco Tots, and the unique Cheesesteak Egg Rolls.
- Breakfast Service: On weekends (Saturday and Sunday), the restaurant opens early, serving a special Breakfast menu, including the popular Breakfast Burrito until 2 PM.
For San Jose residents planning a visit, placing a Takeout order, or inquiring about game day viewing, here is the essential contact information for SmokeEaters Hot Wings on Almaden Expy:
Address:5018 Almaden Expy #30, San Jose, CA 95118, USA
Phone:(408) 267-1430
The mobile phone contact is +1 408-267-1430.
SmokeEaters Hot Wings is definitively worth choosing for anyone in the California South Bay area seeking a dynamic and satisfying dining and entertainment experience. It expertly serves the dual role of a top-tier wing joint and a modern, high-quality Gastropub.
The primary reason to choose SmokeEaters is the unparalleled quality of their Chicken wings and the vast array of sauces. Customers consistently praise the size and flavor of the wings, with the heat levels providing a fun challenge for any spice enthusiast. Whether you opt for a classic flavor or dare to try the 'Nuclear' sauce, the quality remains top-notch.
However, the experience is elevated significantly by the beverage selection. The Great beer selection, particularly the rotating lineup of local and regional Craft Beer on tap, sets this venue apart from typical sports bars. Patrons can enjoy high-quality IPAs, sours, and seasonal brews alongside their wings. The combination of a highly-rated, juicy 'Double Smash Burger' or 'The Diesel' sandwich with a perfectly poured craft beer provides a quintessential American Gastropub meal.
Finally, for the local California Sports fan, the atmosphere is electric. It is one of the best places in San Jose to watch a game—always ensuring a lively crowd, a friendly staff, and Fast service, even on the busiest of game days. The availability of Happy hour food and drinks, Late-night food, and family-friendly amenities makes SmokeEaters Hot Wings a versatile and consistently excellent choice for all occasions.
SmokeEaters Hot Wings Food & drink
Wings
- 5 Wingers $13.25
Breaded & fried crispy. Served with celery and choice of Bleu or ranch dressing.
- 15 Wingers $37.99
Choice of two sauces. Breaded & fried crispy. Served with celery and choice of Bleu or ranch dressing.
- 10 Wingers $25.99
Choice of two sauces. Breaded & fried crispy. Served with celery and choice of Bleu or ranch dressing.
- 25 Wingers $60.50
Choice of three sauces. Breaded & fried crispy. Served with celery and choice of Bleu or ranch dressing.
Beverages
- Diet Coke $3.50
A crisp, refreshing taste you know and love with zero calories.
- Fresh Brewed Unsweeten Ice Tea $4.00
Brewed Fresh Every Day!!!
- Sprite $4.00
The cold, refreshing flavors of lemon and lime, perfectly blended.
- Raspberry Ice Tea $4.00
- Lemonade $4.00
- Coke $4.00
The cold, refreshing, sparkling classic that America loves.
- Dr Pepper $4.00
Dessert
- Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel $11.00
Soft pretzel covered in cinnamon sugar. Served with a side of caramel.
- Apple Pie Rolls $9.00
A crispy, golden twist on a classic favorite! 2 Egg rolls cut in half. Served with caramel and a cup of vanilla ice cream.
- Churro's $6.50
9 bite sized churros pieces covered in cinnamon sugar. Served with a side of Caramel.
- Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake $12.00
Slice of a triple chocolate mousse cake with whipped cream.
- Key Lime Pie $12.00
Slice of our Key Lime Pie.
Family Meals
- The Coop $70.00
15 Wings (two sauces), 6 Tenders (two sauces), Choice of Any (2) Finger Foods. Comes with buttermilk ranch and or bleu cheese
South of the Border
- Skirt Steak Taco (1) $6.50
marinated skirt steak, two white street corn tortillas, chopped white onion and cilantro. Served with orange sauce and a roasted salsa roja
- Nachos $22.00
Topped with shredded chicken or skirt steak, black beans, cheese - Served on the side - thinly sliced jalapenos, pico, cilantro crema, chopped fresh avocado
- Chili Con Queso $13.00
House-made cheese sauce filled with diced green chilies, tomatoes, pickled jalapeños served with tortilla chips & Salsa Trio
- 3 Taco Plate $13.00
3 tacos of your choosing. Topped with onions & cilantro and served with Salsa Trio on the side.
- Chips & Guacamole $12.50
House-made guacamole, fresh tortilla chips with Salsa Trio.
- Achiote Chicken Taco (1) $5.50
Achiote marinated chicken thighs, two white street corn tortilla’s, chopped white onions and cilantro. Served with a side of orange sauce & a salsa Rosa.
Tenders
- 3 Tenders $13.99
- 9 Tenders $26.45
- 6 Tenders $28.00
Appetizers
- Nisi's Pretzel Sticks $11.00
2 Served with house made beer cheese & whole grain mustard
- Beer Battered Onion Rings $12.50
- Disco Tots $16.00
Traditional sauce, melted cheese, chopped bacon.
- Mozzarella Stick (6) $13.00
- Basket Of Fries $10.00
- Cheesesteak Egg Rolls $16.00
Ribeye, peppers, onion, cheese
- Tater Tots $11.00
- Garlic Fries $11.00
- Curly Fries $11.00
- Sweet Potato Fries $11.00
Breakfast (SAT & SUN TIL 2PM)
- Breakfast Burrito $15.00
3 fresh cracked eggs, seasoned cubed potatoes, cheddar & jack cheese and your choice of meat. ONLY AVAILABLE SATURDAY AND SUNDAYS TIL 2PM.
Bottled Sauces
- Nuclear $10.00
- Traditional $10.00
- Mango Habanero $10.00
- Traditional Death $10.00
- Thai Zing $10.00
- Atomic $10.00
Kids' Menu
- Cheese Quesadilla $9.50
Flour tortilla, melted shredded cheese, served with a side of your choice.
- Cheeseburger Slider $9.50
- Grilled Cheese $9.50
- Chicken Tenders $9.50
Burgers & Sandos
- Nashville Hot Chicken $19.50
Buttermilk Fried Thigh, Dipped in Hot Oil, Choice of Heat, Topped With Coleslaw, Comeback Sauce, B&B Pickles - Brioche Bun
- The Diesel $21.00
Grilled chicken, aged white cheddar, applewood bacon, avocado, tomato, chipotle aioli - Hoagie Roll.
- Tri-Tip $20.00
Santa Maria rub, house hickory - garlic hoagie roll
- Bacon Cheese Sliders $20.50
Choice of cheese, applewood bacon, caramelized onions, comeback sauce - brioche slider buns
- Chicken Wrap $17.00
Chopped tenders, lettuce, cheese, warm tortilla. Served with a side of buttermilk ranch and choice of winger sauce
- Skirt Steak $24.00
Marinated skirt steak, provolone, caramelized onions, arugula, rosemary aioli - acme ciabatta roll.
- Double Smash Burger $19.00
2 patties smashed, American cheese, caramelized onions, pickles, house made comeback sauce.
- California Chicken $21.00
Grilled chicken, tillamook cheddar, applewood bacon, avocado, arugula, tomato, onion, lime aioli - hoagie roll.
- Chicken Cutlet Alla Vodka $21.00
Crispy Chicken Cutlet, Vodka Sauce, Basil Pesto, Ricotta Cheese on an Acme Ciabatta Roll.
- Philly Cheesesteak $21.00
Thinly sliced rib-eye, peppers, and onions, topped with provolone or American cheese - Hoagie Roll.
- French Dip $29.00
24 HOUR MARINATED ROSEMARY-GARLIC PRIME RIBEYE THINLY SLICED, SERVED WITH AU JUS AND CREAMED HORSERADISH ON A TOASTED ACME BAGUETTE + YOUR CHOICE OF SIDE
- Garlic Parmesan $20.00
Breaded Chicken Cutlet, Garlic Aioli, Fresh Mozzarella Cheese, Marinara Sauce - ACME Ciabatta Roll
- B.L.A.T. $18.00
Applewood Bacon, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Avocado, & Lime Aioli on sliced Boudin Sourdough.
- The Rooster $20.00
Buttermilk fried chicken, chili infused honey, pimento cheese, applewood bacon - acme pan de mie.
- Cali Burger $22.00
Tillamook cheddar, sliced avocado, applewood bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion - Brioche Bun.
- Cheeseburger $19.00
Choice of cheese, caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato, comeback sauce - brioche bun.
- Pesto Club $20.00
HAND CUT CHICKEN BREAST, BASIL PESTO, BACON, CHEDDAR CHEESE, LETTUCE, TOMATO, CARAMELIZED ONIONS ON TOASTED BOUDIN SLICED SOURDOUGH BREAD.
- Western Burger $22.00
Tillamook cheddar cheese, onion rings, applewood bacon, house hickory, lettuce, tomato - Brioche Bun.
Salads
- Chicken Caesar $19.00
Chopped romaine, grilled chicken, shaved Parmesan cheese, garlic croutons.
- Buffalo Tender $19.00
Iceberg, cherry tomatoes, cheese, red onion, crispy tortilla strips, two tenders chopped and covered in winger sauce - ranch dressing
- Italian Chopped $16.00
ROMAINE, SALAMI, PROVOLONE, CUCUMBERS, NICOISE OLIVES, PEPERONCINI, RED ONIONS, GARBANZO, CHERRY TOMATOES, PARMESAN, SERVED WITH ITALIAN VINAIGRETTE.
- Skirt Steak Salad $23.00
Marinated grilled skirt steak, arugula/romaine blend, pickled red onions, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, crispy tortilla strips, feta cheese served with a cilantro lime dressing.
- Chopped Salad $16.00
Romaine, avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, marinated artichoke hearts, garbanzo beans, nicoise olives, crispy tortilla strips.
SmokeEaters Hot Wings Details
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Sports
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Trendy
Crowd
- College students
- Family-friendly
- Groups
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
SmokeEaters Hot Wings Photos










SmokeEaters Hot Wings Location
SmokeEaters Hot Wings
5018 Almaden Expy #30, San Jose, CA 95118, USA
SmokeEaters Hot Wings Reviews
beersportssaladbartendertvscrispydiscopatiotri tipsolid
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Every Smoke Eaters, every branch, is better than the last. I spent my early 20s next to the original and remember when 3 tenders were $5. Now they’re like $17. Don’t care. Take my money. Best wings and tendies in the world, hands down.Best sauce. Best ranch. Biggest wings. Not the best breading but still top notch.And the best part is they have 7 levels of heat to please all. And a bunch of other sauces. And your game is always on. Fun place to watch sports.Not the fittest crowd in the world but that’s not on theme anyways.Highly recommend.
August 25 · Sam DillardSaw Golden State beat the rockets there on Sunday. It was super packed, but the staff was still super friendly and fast service. The food was delicious and the beer was great too.
May 05 · Oskar Aria AttarWell if you wanted to come watch sports this was the place to go, there's like 10 extra large TVs in a small space. As far as the food goes the honey Sriracha wings were drowning in sauce not spicy, picture I have here was before I had to go back to get the two wings that they forgot to add to my five-wing order He added extra sauce for some reason, The parmesan wings were bland. The jalapeno burger was overcooked but the bacon was good. And I don't even know how to explain the cheesy fries, fries were okay not salty but the cheese was unexplainable it was like a hard not crispy chewy hunk that you couldn't even cut or chew.
April 09 · Debbie PieracciWe ordered chicken tenders and fries, and they were the worst I’ve ever had. The tenders were overcooked and had almost no flavor, aside from the sauce they were drenched in. The fries were covered in a spicy sauce, even though we ordered a regular basket. The food looked unappetizing, and just because we ordered for pickup doesn’t mean you can throw anything together.
September 02 · Ravneet GillI have never been here, but I am very familiar with this restaurant. It was featured on an episode of Man vs. Food during the Adam Richman era. Adam had to take on 12 of the spiciest chicken wings known to man with no napkins or beverages, and he had to sign a waiver form sacrificing his soul to the restaurant and the Hell Fire Wing Challenge. Makes me wonder if the challenge is still active.
June 12 · Dante Medori
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