Adega in San Jose: A Beloved Portuguese Culinary Landmark

Located in the heart of San Jose's Little Portugal neighborhood, Adega was a beacon of authentic Portuguese gastronomy and fine dining. As the city's first Michelin-starred restaurant, it delivered an exquisite culinary journey through Portugal's rich flavors, artfully crafted by executive chef David Costa and pastry chef Jessica Carreira. Adega's warm yet elegant atmosphere, combined with a thoughtfully curated tasting menu and superb wine pairings, made it a standout destination for food lovers seeking refined, rustic charm.

An unforgettable dining experience in Little Portugal

Guests raved about Adega's tasting menu which showcased a variety of small plates, especially seafood, that were both innovative and deeply rooted in Portuguese tradition. Highlights like the sardine starter and the perfectly cooked swordfish with dill sauce left lasting impressions. While some dishes like the mushroom risotto received mixed reviews, the overall food quality consistently impressed. The thoughtfully matched wine selections, including the celebrated Cabriz Vinho Rosé, elevated the flavors beautifully.

Beyond the plate, Adega's calming, welcoming setting and attentive service made every visit a special occasion.

The transition to Petiscos: new beginnings for a beloved space

Adega closed its doors in December 2023, ending an illustrious chapter in San Jose's dining scene. However, the story continues as the location reopens as the second outpost of Petiscos, a more casual Portuguese restaurant. This shift offers the community greater accessibility to traditional Portuguese cuisine in a laid-back and inviting environment, while retaining the culinary excellence with the original team, including Chef David Costa and pastry chef Jessica Carreira, continuing their acclaimed craft.

This exciting transition reflects the community’s positive sentiment and their appreciation for preserving the rich flavors and culture of Portugal within San Jose’s vibrant Little Portugal neighborhood.

Frequently asked questions about Adega and Petiscos

When did Adega close? Adega closed on December 16, 2023.
What is replacing Adega? A second location of Petiscos, a more casual Portuguese restaurant, is opening in the same location.
Will the same chefs be involved? Yes, the culinary team from Adega, including executive chef David Costa and pastry chef Jessica Carreira, will be involved in Petiscos.

A community that cherishes Portuguese cuisine and culture

The community sentiment around Adega and its evolution into Petiscos is overwhelmingly positive. Food enthusiasts and locals alike appreciate the preservation and celebration of Portuguese culinary heritage in San Jose. This neighborhood gem not only provided unforgettable meals but also fostered a welcoming space to connect over shared flavors and tradition.

The Historical Journey of Adega in San Jose, California. A Culinary Landmark

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Portugal in San Jose, Adega has carved out a special place in the hearts of food enthusiasts. Established in 2015, it quickly gained recognition as San Jose's first Michelin-starred restaurant, showcasing the best of Portuguese cuisine. With its unique offerings, Adega became a culinary landmark, attracting visitors eager to explore its rich flavors and elegant ambiance.

Timeline of Events

2015: Adega opened as San Jose's first Michelin-starred restaurant.
2016: Adega received its first Michelin star.
2023: Adega announced its closure to reopen as a second location of Petiscos.

After nearly a decade of serving exquisite dishes that reflect the heart of Portuguese culinary traditions, the owners of Adega announced their plans to transition the restaurant into a more casual dining experience. This decision to reopen as a second location of Petiscos marks an exciting new chapter, promising to deliver the same dedication to quality while embracing a more relaxed atmosphere.

The Legacy of Adega

As Adega prepares to transition into Petiscos, its legacy will undoubtedly live on. The restaurant has not only introduced San Jose to the authentic flavors of Portugal but has also contributed to the local culinary scene by setting high standards of excellence. Food lovers in the Bay Area will eagerly await the new offerings, hoping to experience that same passion for quality and creativity that Adega has embodied since its inception.

Discovering Adega: A Michelin-Starred Portuguese Gem in San Jose's Little Portugal District.

Nestled in the heart of San Jose's vibrant Little Portugal neighborhood, Adega offers an authentic Portuguese culinary experience that has earned it the prestigious Michelin star distinction. This family-owned establishment welcomes diners into an elegant yet unpretentious atmosphere, perfect for savoring the rich flavors of Portugal.

Highlights of Adega’s Dining Experience

Adega shines through its thoughtfully curated tasting menus that celebrate Portuguese gastronomy, featuring dishes like perfectly cooked swordfish with white wine dill sauce and rich mushroom rice with optional truffle enhancements. Diners frequently praise the harmonious wine pairings, particularly the extensive selection of Portuguese wines that complement the flavors exquisitely. The restaurant’s design is both calming and refined, creating a welcoming space for food lovers and groups alike.

Considerations Before Visiting

While Adega offers a memorable upscale experience, potential guests should be mindful of a few factors. The restaurant maintains a higher price point reflecting its Michelin-star caliber cuisine, and seating capacity is limited, making advanced reservations essential for securing a table. The menu does not cater to vegan diets and is not equipped to accommodate severe allergies, which could limit options for some visitors.

What Makes Adega Stand Out

Michelin-starred excellence bringing authentic Portuguese flavors to San Jose.
Elegant and inviting atmosphere perfect for special occasions and group dining.
Extensive Portuguese wine selection expertly paired with thoughtfully prepared dishes.
Family-owned authenticity that ensures passionate service and culinary dedication.