The story
Adega, meaning “wine cellar” in Portuguese, opened in December 2015 and quickly became a landmark. Ten months later, it earned San Jose’s first Michelin star, and it continues to be recognized by the guide for its modern, authentic take on Portuguese cuisine. As the restaurant celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2025, the team remains focused on one goal: transporting guests to Portugal through flavor.
The dining experience at Adega is built around a seasonal multi-course tasting menu. The kitchen works with local ingredients, highlighting staples such as olive oil, lupini beans, sardines, octopus, and salted codfish. A sample winter menu might include squid tempura with a tentsuyu dip, artichoke cream with soft-boiled egg yolk and linguiça, swordfish with white wine dill sauce, and lamb vindaloo with chickpea purée. A Wagyu supplement (A5 Japanese, served with sweet potato, orange, and collard greens) is also available.
The restaurant describes its food as “simple but elegant” and its environment as “smart casual.” The bar offers specialty cocktails, and the wine cellar holds more than 500 rare Portuguese wines, with curated pairings available in regular, premium, and reserve tiers.
Adega was San Jose’s first Michelin-starred restaurant and remains a Michelin-recommended destination. The guide’s nod reflects the kitchen’s consistent ability to refine Portuguese classics while respecting their roots — a balance that has defined the restaurant since day one.
Adega is open for dinner only, Wednesday through Sunday. The tasting menu is required for all guests at the table. Dietary restrictions such as pescatarian and vegetarian requests can be accommodated with advance notice, but severe allergies and vegan requests cannot. A 5% living wage surcharge is added to the bill. Reservations are required.
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