The Farmers Union

- 151 W Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95113

If you're a California local, particularly in the Bay Area, and searching for an American dining experience that seamlessly blends comfort food traditions with an upscale, ingredient-driven focus, look no further than The Farmers Union. Located in the heart of downtown San Jose, this establishment has cultivated a strong reputation as a premier gastropub, bar, and American restaurant. It’s more than just a place to eat; it's a vibrant, stylish, yet unpretentious urban tavern that captures the spirit of Californian culinary appreciation for fresh, local sourcing.

The Farmers Union is dedicated to serving seasonal, locally sourced American fare, a nod to its historic location near the entrance of San Pedro Square and its namesake’s roots as a growers’ cooperative founded in 1874. This commitment to quality ingredients is evident across their extensive and creative menu, ensuring a satisfying experience whether you’re joining for a casual lunch, a lively dinner, or their popular weekend brunch. The types of food offered—spanning hearty mains, unique appetizers, and classic comfort dishes—firmly establish it as a must-visit dining spot for locals and visitors alike.

From a professional standpoint, the restaurant expertly executes the gastropub concept by elevating classic dishes with a sophisticated approach, such as their popular Pork & Ricotta Meatballs, the rich Beef Brisket, and their must-try Salted Caramel Bread Pudding for dessert. Their menu is thoughtfully designed to pair perfectly with their incredible beverage program, making the dining experience feel cohesive and memorable. The combination of high-quality food, a wide-ranging drink selection, and a welcoming atmosphere is what makes The Farmers Union stand out in the competitive San Jose dining landscape.

The Farmers Union enjoys a prime and highly accessible location in downtown San Jose, California. Situated at 151 W Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA, it is a central gathering place, particularly for those attending events or working in the area. Its placement near the entrance of the historic San Pedro Square adds to its charm and makes it a convenient spot to meet up. For anyone planning a visit to the nearby SAP Center for a Sharks game or a concert, the restaurant is only a short walk away, making it an ideal pre- or post-event gathering spot.

Accessibility is clearly prioritized for all patrons. The venue offers multiple wheelchair-accessible features, including a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating, ensuring a welcoming environment for everyone in the community. As with many downtown locations, parking includes paid options such as a paid parking garage, a paid parking lot, and paid street parking. The central address means it is easily reached via public transportation and is highly walkable from surrounding downtown landmarks and businesses. The inclusion of an outdoor patio also provides a wonderful option for soaking up San Jose’s pleasant climate.

The Farmers Union is a full-service dining establishment offering a comprehensive array of services to accommodate various needs, from a quick meal to a large private function.

Services Offered:

• Dine-in: Full-service dining for lunch, dinner, and brunch, with table service available.
• Takeout and Delivery: Convenient options are available for enjoying the menu in the comfort of your home or office.
• Outdoor Seating: A spacious and appealing outdoor patio is available for patrons, perfect for enjoying a meal or drinks al fresco.
• Reservations: Reservations are accepted and highly recommended, particularly for brunch and dinner, to ensure timely seating, especially for larger groups or during peak hours.
• Private and Semi-Private Events: The venue offers a variety of spaces, including the Benson Room, John P. Room, Mezzanine, and the Outdoor Patio, which are ideal for hosting private parties, corporate events, receptions, and convention groups.
• Bar Onsite: A full bar service offering a vast selection of beverages is available.
• NFC Mobile Payments: Accepts credit cards, debit cards, and modern NFC mobile payments for a seamless transaction process.
• High Chairs and Kids’ Menu: Family-friendly amenities are provided to comfortably accommodate children.

This American tavern boasts several features and highlights that set it apart in the local culinary scene. The blend of a high-quality menu with an engaging atmosphere creates an experience that caters to a diverse crowd, from groups of friends to solo diners and tourists.

Features / Highlights:

• Extensive Beverage Program: The bar is a major highlight, featuring over 52 craft beers on tap, a great selection of curated wines (many from a custom-designed wines-on-tap program), and a full bar serving classic cocktails alongside house-curated originals.
• Gastropub Cuisine Focus: The food is consistently praised for being hearty, comforting, and ingredient-driven urban alehouse cuisine that perfectly complements the drink list. Specialties include items from the smoker and signature dishes like the Dungeness Crab Cakes and the Beef Brisket.
• Atmosphere and Vibe: The ambiance is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, with an elegantly rustic environment. The unique and eclectic decor contributes to a fun, memorable vibe.
• Sports Broadcasts: The venue is great for sports fans, featuring multiple flat-screen TVs and a large 200-inch HD projector screen that broadcasts a variety of sporting events.
• Speedy Service: Patrons frequently comment on the fast and attentive service, even during busy periods, which is ideal for pre-event dining.
• Menu Diversity: The menu offers great options for all dining options—Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert—including comfort food, small plates, and substantial mains like the Grilled 12oz Ribeye Steak and Pan Roasted Salmon.
• Dietary Accommodations: The staff is known to be accommodating of food sensitivities and allergies, striving to provide plenty of options for guests with special needs.
• Dog-Friendly Outdoor Space: Dogs are allowed outside, making it a welcoming spot for four-legged friends and their owners.

For California residents or visitors looking to experience The Farmers Union firsthand, here is the essential contact information:

Contact Information:

Address: 151 W Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA

Phone: (408) 277-0545 or +1 408-277-0545

The Farmers Union is worth choosing for several compelling reasons that resonate with the California lifestyle and dining expectations. It is a local business that genuinely commits to high-quality, sustainably sourced products—with meat, poultry, and dairy coming from all-natural, hormone-free, and free-ranging sources, and seafood that is wild-caught. This dedication to quality is apparent in every bite, from the Grass-Fed Burger to the St Louis Style Pork Ribs.

Beyond the food quality, the establishment excels at providing a complete social experience. Whether you’re stopping in for happy hour food and drinks, a late-night bite, or a full dinner, the extensive selection of craft beer, cocktails, and wine ensures the perfect pairing for any meal. The vibrant, yet cozy, atmosphere is perfect for a variety of occasions—a casual date night, a relaxed solo meal, or a large group celebration.

The menu's depth is another key factor. From light options like the Herb & Orange Roasted Beets Salad and Sm Whole Leaf Caesar to substantial, flavor-packed dishes such as the Spicy Shrimp & Cheesy Grits or the Lemon Rosemary Half Chicken, there is truly something for every palate and preference. The generous portion sizes also offer excellent value, often being sharable, which is ideal for a community-focused dining style. Choosing The Farmers Union means selecting a high-energy, high-quality, and highly accessible American dining experience in downtown San Jose that continually earns strong recommendations from local patrons.

The Farmers Union

151 W Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95113, USA