15 Small Businesses in San Jose to Support

To celebrate Small Business Week (April 28-May 4, 2024), we’ve asked GoCo employees across the country to list some of their most beloved small businesses in their city.

Today, we have Steven Yong, an Account Executive at GoCo. Check out his small business recommendations below!

1. Reviving a Landmark: Roy’s Station Coffee & Tea

Address: 197 Jackson St, San Jose, CA 95112

Website: https://roysstation.com/

“Roy’s Station has changed along with Silicon Valley but all while staying true to its historic roots. Once known for pumping high-octane petrol, the building now pumps out coffee and teas. They sit in the middle of Japantown, a community rich in history.”

2. Ready to Hit the Slopes?: Helm of Sun Valley

Address: 1111 Saratoga Ave, San Jose, CA 95129

Website: https://helmofsunvalley.com/

“When the snow hits the mountains, it’s time to hit Helm of Sun Valley. For over 40 years, they still have the best selection of snowsports and rentals. Check them out if you want a good ol’ fashioned and personalized experience instead of today’s retail environment.”

3. New Genre in Art and Streetwear: Cukui

Address: 229 Jackson St, San Jose, CA 95112

Website: https://cukui.com/

“My favorite hip boutique offers men’s and women’s streetwear that is deeply rooted in the Bay Area’s melting pot of cultures. It’s a great place to grab some unique shirts and hats with some Bay Area flair.”

4. Visit a Neighborhood Zoo: Happy Hollow Park and Zoo

Address: 748 Story Rd, San Jose, CA 95112

Website: https://happyhollow.org/

“Happy Hollow gives a little bit of nature in the city while providing a place for children to learn and play. A great place to see some wildlife and enjoy some sunshine.”

5. Reliable and Affordable Car Repairs: Akin's Auto Repair

Address: 351 Keyes St, San Jose, CA 95112

Website: akinsautorepair.com

“It’s rare to find a place that gives you fantastic service and affordable prices. Hands down the best repair shop in San Jose. Akin’s Auto should be most people's first and second choice.”

6. Best Independent Bookstore: Recycle Bookstore

Address: 1066 The Alameda San Jose, CA 95126

Website: https://www.recyclebookstore.com/

“Recycle Bookstore has a great selection of curated books. If you crave a calm vibe with the scent of old books, this place is for you. Plus, you might even find a black cat roaming around.”

7. Need a Beer?: Hapa’s Brewery

Address: 460 Lincoln Ave #90, San Jose, CA 95126

Website: https://hapasbrewing.com/

“Born out of friendship and embracing their mixed heritage, Hapa’s Brewery is a great place to relax and drink. They have a wide selection of different beers and the perfect place to hang out.”

8. Elevate your Board Game Night: Illusive Comics & Games, LLC

Address: 5245 Stevens Creek Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95051

Website: https://linktr.ee/illusivecomics

“A comic book and board game store with friendly and knowledgeable staff, great board game and comics selection, and lots of fun things to look at. Stop in and find your next favorite comic book hero.”

9. For a Sweet Treat: Stan’s Donut Shop

Address: 2628 Homestead Rd, Santa Clara, CA 95051

Website: https://www.stansdonutshop.com/

“If you know someone that doesn’t like donuts, send them to Stan’s Donut Shop. It is the best donut shop in town, so expect a long line.”

10. The Best Ravioli and Deli Store: Antipastos by DeRose

Address: 3454 McKee Rd, San Jose, CA 95127

Website: https://antipastosdeli.com/

“This is the kind of deli store that puts a smile on your face the instant you step inside. It’s located in the foothills of Alum Rock, but you are immediately transported to a New York-style family party. Don’t know what to order? The ravioli with red or white sauce is a must. They also have some most exclusive beers on tap.”

11. For a Spa Day: Burke Williams

Address: 355 Santana Row Suite 2010, San Jose, CA

Website: https://www.burkewilliams.com/

“Tucked in the middle of Santana Row shopping center is a secret spa getaway. This place is great for all of your Spa needs! Also makes for a great gift for your friends and family.”

12. For the Best Banh Mi: Duc Huong Sandwiches

Address: 2090 N Capitol Ave A, San Jose, CA 95132

Website: https://duchuongsandwiches.com/

“San Jose has one of the largest Vietnamese populations in the country, with Banh Mi sandwich stores located in almost every corner of the city. I recommend getting a sandwich from Duc Huong as they have figured out how to literally make the perfect sandwich.”

13. Improv Comedy for Everyone: Comedy Sportz

Address: 5440-D Thornwood Dr, San Jose, CA 95123

Website: https://www.cszsanjose.com/

“The jokes are funny, clean, and relevant. Great spot to spend laughing the night away in the heart of downtown.”

14. To Find a Great Deal: San Jose Flea Market

Address: 1590 Berryessa Rd, San Jose, CA 95133

Website: https://sjfm.com/

“The heart of San Jose has always been about family. Since 1960, this has been an inexpensive place for families of all sizes to come together and spend time shopping and eating.”