San Jose's Best Chilaquiles [Updated 2025]

San Jose's Best Chilaquiles [Updated 2025]
Food tour map
The Local's Blackbook 📓

The 48-Hour Insider Itinerary to San Jose

Join our San Jose Insider newsletter and get our 48-hour insider itinerary to the top hidden spots in San Jose.

  • Custom 3-stop crawl with QR codes for easy navigation
  • 5 photo-worthy hidden gems (Instagram gold)
  • Insider timing tips: when to go to skip crowds
  • Top spots in your inbox every week

Trust me, I’ve tasted my way through 12 of the top spots in the city, and let me tell you, the journey has been nothing short of delicious. As someone who’s practically lived on these crispy tortilla triangles drenched in vibrant sauces, I’ve developed a discerning palate for what makes the perfect chilaquiles.

Whether you prefer them smothered in verde or drizzled with crema, I’ve got you covered. My mission isn’t just about the food; it’s about celebrating the rich flavors and stories behind each dish. So, if you’re ready to dive into a mouthwatering adventure, let’s uncover the chilaquiles that will make your taste buds dance!


TOSTADAS

TOSTADAS
🗺️ 304 E Santa Clara St A, San Jose, CA 95113
☎️ 669-342-4701
🌐 Website
Sunday: 8 AM–10 PM
Monday: 8 AM–10 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM–10 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM–10 PM
Thursday: 8 AM–10 PM
Friday: 8 AM–11 PM
Saturday: 8 AM–11 PM
Highlights
Grand reopening excitement
Amazing drink selection
Great customer service
Satisfying and filling meals
Must-try Birria experience

TOSTADAS, the vibrant gem of San Jose, recently had a grand reopening that had me buzzing with excitement. Walking in, I was greeted by an inviting atmosphere and amazing drink options that almost stole the show. Yet, the star of my visit was undeniably the chilaquiles.

The dish arrived beautifully plated, a colorful and tantalizing masterpiece. Each bite was a satisfying explosion of flavor, with crispy tortillas harmoniously mingling with fiery salsa and drizzles of sour cream. I must admit, I was slightly tempted to order a second serving, as they were not only delightful but also incredibly filling! Their great customer service added to the overall experience, making me feel special as if I were a cherished guest rather than just a customer.

But wait, the real treasure at TOSTADAS is their must-try birria! I recommend pairing it with your chilaquiles for a soul-satisfying culinary adventure. If you're searching for a place that serves chilaquiles rich in flavor and ambiance, look no further than TOSTADAS. It's a delightful stop in your search for San Jose's best!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Palo Alto.

Araujo's Mexican Grill - El Paisa Taqueria

Araujo's Mexican Grill - El Paisa Taqueria
🗺️ 3070 Senter Rd, San Jose, CA 95111
☎️ 408-300-0814
🌐 Website
Sunday: 9 AM–12 AM
Monday: 9 AM–12 AM
Tuesday: 9 AM–12 AM
Wednesday: 9 AM–12 AM
Thursday: 9 AM–12 AM
Friday: 9 AM–12 AM
Saturday: 9 AM–12 AM
Highlights
Delicious Flavorful Options
Generous Serving Sizes
Affordable Pricing
Variety of Salsas
Popular Shrimp Tacos

Stepping into Araujo's Mexican Grill - El Paisa Taqueria was like stepping into a vibrant fiesta of flavors. The chilaquiles here are a true standout, steeped in deliciousness and served with a generous helping that makes you feel like royalty. As I dived into my plate, I was greeted with wonderfully crispy tortilla chips luxuriously drenched in their signature salsa—a delightful blend of spices that didn’t overwhelm, but rather danced on my palate.

The affordability of these dishes felt like a breath of fresh air; my wallet was just as happy as my taste buds! To further elevate my experience, I sampled their diverse salsa options—each uniquely crafted, allowing me to customize my chilaquiles to moderate or fiery heat, depending on my mood.

What truly surprised me was the unexpected side of shrimp tacos that complemented my meal beautifully. They had a crisp texture and a flavor that harmonized perfectly with the chilaquiles.

In short, Araujo's makes for a delightful dining experience, and their chilaquiles are not to be missed. If you're seeking authenticity and a dash of joy in each bite, this gem in San Jose deserves a place on your plate!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Santa Cruz.

Olla Cocina

Olla Cocina
🗺️ 17 N San Pedro St, San Jose, CA 95110
☎️ 408-606-7999
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
Monday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
Tuesday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
Wednesday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
Thursday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
Friday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Saturday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
Highlights
Tasty margaritas
Generous portion sizes
Spot on sauce flavors
Fresh ingredients
Nice presentation

At Olla Cocina, chilaquiles take center stage in a vibrant atmosphere that feels both welcoming and festive. As I settled in, I couldn’t resist pairing my dish with one of their tasty margaritas—a perfect complement. The moment my plate arrived, I was struck by the nice presentation; the chilaquiles were artfully arranged, enticing my taste buds before I even took a bite.

Once I dived in, the spot on sauce flavors truly captivated me. They expertly balance the crispiness of the tortilla chips with the rich, zesty notes of the sauce, creating an indulgent experience with each mouthful. What impressed me even further was the use of fresh ingredients, evident in the vibrant herbs and toppings that elevated every bite.

And let’s not forget the generous portion sizes—they certainly don’t skimp on the servings here, making it a delightful dish to share or savor solo. Olla Cocina has truly crafted a chilaquiles dish that resonates with both heart and flavor, delighting all who venture in for a taste! If you find yourself in San Jose searching for the best chilaquiles, this spot deserves a place high on your list!

You might also want to check out the best eats in San Jose.

El Pirrin

El Pirrin
🗺️ 1900 E San Antonio St, San Jose, CA 95116
☎️ 408-729-8551
Sunday: 7 AM–8 PM
Monday: 7:30 AM–8 PM
Tuesday: 7:30 AM–8 PM
Wednesday: 7:30 AM–8 PM
Thursday: 7:30 AM–8 PM
Friday: 7:30 AM–9 PM
Saturday: 7 AM–9 PM

At El Pirrin, I discovered a vibrant plate of chilaquiles that danced on my palate. The crispiness of the tortilla chips paired perfectly with a rich, homemade salsa, making each bite a delicious adventure. Topped with creamy avocado and a sprinkle of queso fresco, the dish felt both indulgent and comforting. The atmosphere was lively, complemented by friendly service that made me feel right at home. If you're seeking chilaquiles that deliver on flavor and texture, El Pirrin is a must-visit destination in San Jose!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Fremont.

CASA VILLA

CASA VILLA
🗺️ 840 Willow St #400, San Jose, CA 95125
☎️ 408-382-9491
🌐 Website
Sunday: 9 AM–9 PM
Monday: 9 AM–2 PM
Tuesday: 9 AM–9 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM–9 PM
Thursday: 9 AM–9 PM
Friday: 9 AM–10 PM
Saturday: 9 AM–10 PM

At CASA VILLA, chilaquiles are transformed into an unforgettable dish that dances on your palate! The vibrant flavors of the salsa verde paired with crisp tortilla chips create an irresistible crunch. I was particularly enchanted by their perfectly poached eggs, which add a delightful creaminess to each bite. The generous portions ensure you won't leave hungry, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for weekend brunches. This gem in San Jose has truly mastered the art of chilaquiles. Trust me, you won't want to miss it—your taste buds will thank you!

You might also want to check out the best breakfast in San Jose.

Mar Y Sol Taqueria

Mar Y Sol Taqueria
🗺️ 1179 E Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95116
☎️ 408-217-8036
🌐 Website
Sunday: 9 AM–9 PM
Monday: 9 AM–9 PM
Tuesday: 9 AM–9 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM–9 PM
Thursday: 9 AM–9 PM
Friday: 9 AM–9 PM
Saturday: 9 AM–9 PM

At Mar Y Sol Taqueria, the chilaquiles are a vibrant symphony of flavors! The crisp tortilla chips are perfectly sauced, bathing in a delightful blend of green tomatillo salsa that dances on the palate. Topped with creamy avocado and a generous sprinkle of feta cheese, each bite is a fiesta! The portion is generous, easily satisfying my cravings and leaving me dreaming of my next visit. For anyone seeking a taste of authentic Mexican breakfast, Mar Y Sol is a must-try gem in San Jose. Don’t miss out on this culinary delight!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Mountain View.

Trine's Cafe

Trine's Cafe
🗺️ 995 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95110
☎️ 408-998-9018
Sunday: 8 AM–8 PM
Monday: 8 AM–8 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM–8 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM–8 PM
Thursday: 8 AM–8 PM
Friday: 8 AM–8 PM
Saturday: 8 AM–8 PM

At Trine's Cafe, the chilaquiles are a delightful revelation! The vibrant colors of the crunchy tortilla chips bathed in spicy green salsa are visually stunning, and the harmonious blend of flavors is simply irresistible. Topped with a generous dollop of creamy avocado and a perfect sunny-side-up egg, every bite is a wonderful adventure. The balance of heat and freshness makes it a standout dish! Don't miss the option to customize your toppings—there’s something for every palate. Overall, Trine's offers a cozy atmosphere and chilaquiles that keep you coming back for more—a truly satisfying experience!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Redwood City.

Lopez Taqueria 4

Lopez Taqueria 4
🗺️ 3161 Senter Rd C, San Jose, CA 95111
☎️ 408-622-8271
🌐 Website
Sunday: 9 AM–11 PM
Monday: 9 AM–11 PM
Tuesday: 9 AM–11 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM–11 PM
Thursday: 9 AM–11 PM
Friday: 9 AM–11 PM
Saturday: 9 AM–11 PM

At Lopez Taqueria 4, I was greeted by vibrant colors and the irresistible aroma of freshly made tortillas. Their chilaquiles are a delightful combination of crispy, golden chips drenched in rich green sauce, perfectly balanced with tangy cream and topped with a sunny-side-up egg. Each bite was a burst of flavor, with just the right amount of heat to wake up my taste buds. The ambiance is lively, making it a fun spot to enjoy this classic dish. For anyone seeking a chilaquiles adventure in San Jose, Lopez Taqueria 4 is not to be missed!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Los Gatos.

Doña María

Doña María
🗺️ 3974 S Bascom Ave, San Jose, CA 95124
☎️ 408-559-1768
🌐 Website
Sunday: 9 AM–9 PM
Monday: 9 AM–9 PM
Tuesday: 9 AM–9 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM–9 PM
Thursday: 9 AM–9 PM
Friday: 9 AM–9 PM
Saturday: 9 AM–9 PM

Doña María is a delightful gem in San Jose, where I discovered chilaquiles that dance on the palate. The vibrant green salsa adds a zesty kick, perfectly complementing the crispy tortilla chips, which boast just the right amount of crunch. Topped with creamy avocado and a sprinkle of queso fresco, each bite was a revelation! The ample portion sizes make it a fantastic value, perfect for fueling a day full of adventures. Overall, Doña María captures the essence of authentic Mexican cuisine, making it a must-visit spot for chilaquiles enthusiasts looking for a memorable meal.

You might also want to check out the best sushi in San Jose.

La Peñita

La Peñita
🗺️ 601 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95113
☎️ 408-295-0434
Sunday: 9 AM–3 PM
Monday: 9 AM–3 PM
Tuesday: 9 AM–3 PM
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 9 AM–3 PM
Friday: 9 AM–3 PM
Saturday: 9 AM–3 PM

At La Peñita, the chilaquiles are a vibrant celebration of flavors! The crispy tortilla chips are perfectly enveloped in a rich tomatillo salsa that dances on the palate. Topped with a generous dollop of fresh crema and crumbled queso fresco, each bite is a delightful texture contrast. The optional egg—whether sunny-side up or scrambled—adds a delightful creaminess. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a perfect brunch spot. If you're on a quest for irresistible chilaquiles in San Jose, La Peñita is a must-visit destination that will leave you coming back for more!

You might also want to check out the best burgers in San Jose.

La Playita

La Playita
🗺️ 1169 Redmond Ave, San Jose, CA 95120
☎️ 408-997-7201
🌐 Website
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 10 AM–8 PM
Tuesday: 10 AM–8 PM
Wednesday: 10 AM–8 PM
Thursday: 10 AM–8 PM
Friday: 10 AM–8 PM
Saturday: 10 AM–8 PM

La Playita serves up a symphony of flavors in their chilaquiles that dance on your palate! The crispy tortilla chips are perfectly complemented by a vibrant green salsa that strikes the right balance between tangy and spicy. Topped with creamy queso fresco and a drizzle of smooth avocado crema, each bite is a delight. Their generous portions make for a fulfilling meal, whether for breakfast or brunch. The atmosphere is lively, embodying the heart of Mexican culture. For an authentic taste that provides both comfort and excitement, La Playita is a must-stop on your chilaquiles quest in San Jose!

You might also want to check out the best pho in San Jose.

Lucy's Mexican Grill

Lucy's Mexican Grill
🗺️ 615 Blossom Hill Rd, San Jose, CA 95123
☎️ 408-227-1430
🌐 Website
Sunday: 9 AM–9 PM
Monday: 8 AM–9 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM–9 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM–9 PM
Thursday: 8 AM–9 PM
Friday: 8 AM–9 PM
Saturday: 9 AM–9 PM

Lucy's Mexican Grill is a delightful gem where the chilaquiles are nothing short of a fiesta on your plate! The moment I took my first bite, the crispy tortilla chips danced in a vibrant green salsa that was both tangy and flavorful. Topped with a perfectly poached egg and a sprinkle of crumbly queso fresco, each mouthful was a joyful blend of textures and tastes. The freshness of ingredients truly shines here, making it a standout in the San Jose scene. If you're hunting for a satisfying chilaquiles experience, Lucy's should definitely be on your radar!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Cupertino.

Michael JohnsonM
WRITTEN BY

Michael Johnson

Michael Johnson is a passionate writer and local enthusiast, dedicated to exploring and sharing the vibrant culture of San Jose, California. With an eye for hidden gems and a love for storytelling, he brings the city's diverse experiences to life for readers.

Related posts

featured
2025-07-13

Palo Alto's Best Breakfast [Updated 2025]

featured
2025-08-17

The Absolute Best Restaurants in Half Moon Bay [Updated 2025]

featured
2025-07-14

Santa Cruz's Best Seafood [Updated 2025]

featured
2025-03-09

San Jose's Best BBQ [Updated 2025]

featured
2025-03-09

San Jose's Best Lunch [Updated 2025]

featured
2025-03-08

San Jose's Best Tacos [Updated 2025]

featured
2025-03-08

Santa Cruz's Best Lunch [Updated 2025]

featured
2025-03-12

Sunnyvale's Best Indian Restaurant [Updated 2025]

Food tour map
The Local's Blackbook 📓

The 48-Hour Insider Itinerary to San Jose

Join our San Jose Insider newsletter and get our 48-hour insider itinerary to the top hidden spots in San Jose.

  • Custom 3-stop crawl with QR codes for easy navigation
  • 5 photo-worthy hidden gems (Instagram gold)
  • Insider timing tips: when to go to skip crowds
  • Top spots in your inbox every week
Michael Johnson
San Jose Black Book
The Local's Blackbook 📓

INSIDER ITINERARY

Join our San Jose Insider newsletter and get our 48-hour insider itinerary to the top hidden spots in San Jose.