I enjoyed a yummy Korean lunch earlier in the day and now I was ready to check out a couple bars in downtown San Jose for my final night. Well, I actually ended up staying at Paper Plane all night because it was so good!
The easy-going spot features a long bar with exposed brick and offers up some incredible craft cocktails and creative bar food. I managed to grab a seat at the beginning of the bar and looked over the extensive menu listing their Signature Cocktails, New School Cocktails, and Old School Cocktails along with a chart deciphering what’s refreshing and easy sipping, comforting and familiar, adventurous and wild, and spiritous and bold. Love that!
I started off with The Queen of Thorns made with dry gin, Giffard Black Rose, hibiscus, and lemon. Cheers!
I couldn’t resist trying their Crack Wings. I went with the Honey Butter ones and they were delicious.
My next cocktail was the Black Hole Sun made with Paper picon (flavored bitters), passion fruit, orgeat (almond syrup), and lemon. Described as bitter, sour, and sweet.
I also had one of the awesome bartenders make me a drink of their choice.
Okay, one more dink. There were so many I wanted to try! I ended the night with the Riff Raff. The smoky fruity cocktail had mezcal, Luxardo Bitter Bianco, Ancho Reyes Verde (poblano chile liqueur) Crème de Pamplemousse Rose (grapefruit liqueur), Shrub & Co. grapefruit shrub, and lime. Good stuff!
It was getting late and I had a flight to catch in the morning, but I really liked this place. I ended up meeting some cool peoples and enjoying a drink with them.
I usually find one bar in every city I visit that I end up falling in love with – the energetic ambiance, incredible cocktails, personable bartenders, and tasty food – and Paper Plane in San Jose had all that and has become a favorite!
It was a great two-week trip from Las Vegas to California. I got to see my good friend and we crossed four NHL arenas off the list including seeing the Vegas Golden Knights during their inaugural season! Back-to-back nights to celebrate 311 Day was amazing! I managed to check out some of the hottest restaurants in LA and Vegas. All the food was fantastic and the bars were great. I met some awesome people too! Good times!
Paper Plane
72 S 1st Street
San Jose, CA 95113
(408) 713-2625
Website
