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Italian Cellar Speakeasy Bar Review
Stepping into the Italian Cellar feels like discovering a secret tucked beneath San Jose’s Little Italy — a cozy, 1920s-inspired speakeasy that manages to be both playful and reverent to history. The dim lighting, period touches, and carefully curated displays of Italian-American artifacts create an atmosphere that invites conversation and lingering; it’s the kind of place where you want to take your time, sip slowly, and soak in the story around you. The Cellar is attached to the Cultural Center & Museum, which adds a meaningful layer to the experience and makes a visit feel like more than just a night out. (littleitalysj.com)
The cocktail list is delightfully classic with an Italian twist — everything from a bright, citrus-forward Limoncello Lemon Drop Martini to time-honored Negronis, Aperol Spritzes, Manhattans, and Old Fashioneds. Each drink I tried was thoughtfully balanced and richly flavored, showing clear attention to technique and ingredients. For anyone who appreciates a well-made cocktail, the Cellar’s menu offers familiar favorites executed with confidence and a bit of theatrical flair. (littleitalysj.com)
A standout, and a charming local touch, is that the Cellar offers made-to-order cannoli. It’s a small detail that elevates the whole visit — pairing a crisp, creamy cannolo with a bitter-sweet Negroni or a zesty Limoncello martini feels delightfully authentic and indulgent. The venue also encourages supporting neighboring Little Italy businesses by bringing food down to enjoy in the Cellar or the outside piazza, which fosters a true neighborhood vibe and makes the Cellar feel like part of a larger culinary community. (littleitalysj.com)
Practical details are straightforward: the Cellar opens midweek and offers extended hours on the weekend, making it a great choice for both an after-work drink and a weekend rendezvous. It’s also available for private events, accommodating groups and providing the bonus of drinks supplied by the Italian Cellar while food can be coordinated from Little Italy vendors — a savvy option for anyone planning a small wedding, corporate gathering, or milestone celebration. Best of all, 100% of proceeds support the Italian Museum & Cultural Center, so visiting feels like a tasteful way to give back to local history and culture. (littleitalysj.com)
Located in the heart of Little Italy at 323 West Saint John Street, the Cellar is easy to reach and makes for a memorable stop whether you’re exploring the neighborhood or looking for an intimate evening out. The combination of craft cocktails, charming desserts, historical exhibits, and a mission-driven purpose makes the Italian Cellar a rare find — a speakeasy with genuine character and community spirit. If you’re in San Jose and craving a cocktail with a side of culture, this subterranean gem is well worth the visit. (littleitalysj.com)
Photos of Italian Cellar Speakeasy Bar
Address of Italian Cellar Speakeasy Bar
323 1/2, W St John St, San Jose, CA 95110, United States
Phone Number of Italian Cellar Speakeasy Bar
(408) 394-2893
Website of Italian Cellar Speakeasy Bar
https://www.littleitalysj.com/italian-cellar
Weekday working hours of Italian Cellar Speakeasy Bar
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Friday: 5:00 – 10:30 PM
Saturday: 1:00 – 10:30 PM
Sunday: 2:00 – 8:00 PM
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