Saying you have the best ribs in San Jose is almost the same as making the statement that you have the best cheesesteak or deep-dish pizza in San Jose. You probably would scoff because the city isn’t known for these culinary contributions. Why eat ribs or cheesesteak in SJ when you know there’s much better in Memphis or Philly?
Because we can’t all afford a $250 flight to eat the best ribs out there! We’re not all investment bankers with food cravings like a pregnant woman. Well, fear not, regular folk. Just because it’s the best only in this humble city, doesn’t mean it’s not good. It can still be very good… nay, awesome. It still means plenty when I say that Henry’s has some of the best ribs in the South Bay and one of the few charmingly unique eating experiences left in the area.
Henry’s is an eating institution in San Jose. Located next door to HP Pavilion, it’s a sporting fan’s HQ for beer and ribs when the Sharks are playing. Even on an off-night, the bar area is filled with patrons, most of whom are waiting for tables inside. You’ll have to be aware of their procedure for table calling.
When you come in, there is a box of numbers at the end of the bar. Grab one of those, and just like at a deli, they will call out numbers one at a time. Once your number is called, they will take your order for those in your party, so take a look at the menu and figure out what you want beforehand. After that, they’ll call your name when your table is ready and food will be served up very quickly after.
Definitely recommend the half rack of ribs (or full if you’re sharing). They’re smoked to perfection–bones come clean out of the tender meat. They’re smoked slowly under a low heat for a long time and then cooked to order in their brick oven before you’re even seated. While the meat’s really good, it can be overshadowed by their baked potato. The seasoned butter that goes inside it is YUM. People also say good things about their pre-meal garlic bread as well.
Their other offerings include steaks, prime rib, beef ribs, and salmon. Tasted the salmon and thought it was just all right. For my money, I’d rather go with the BBQ ribs every time.
Of course, I have to mention that Man V. Food featured this place in their San Jose episode. To see what Adam Richman said about this place, look on Henry’s website for the video.
For a noteworthy dining experience in Downtown San Jose, you really should check out Henry’s Hi-Life and have a taste of their “world famous” ribs.
Henry’s Hi-Life
301 W St John St
San Jose, CA 95110
I totally remember this place from the Man v Food San Jose episode! That’s the one where he attempted to eat that HUGE burrito right? That seasoned butter looks SO good!
Yes! Well the challenge was actually to eat these super hot spicy wings. I went there on my trip too. That one’s coming next!
you’re back alex! good to see you’re posting again. i know, yaddy yadda i have a life, yaddy yadda i’m getting booty….ok. anyways, the ribs look good. i heard bludsoe’s down in compton is really good too. you should go eat there and compare the two joints.
Haha. I moved at the beginning of December and it took forever to get the internet to work right at the new pad. But I’m back now!
Good ribs in LA? That’s some exciting news. I’ll have to give it a try when I’m back.
looks good dude. were the ribs in your picture half rack? i don’t think i’ve ever order half a rack
That’s cause you’re an eating monster.
Dang, your pictures came out WAY nicer than mine did. I should refer my readers to see your pictures instead haha.