This review is specifically for a DoorDash order and is based solely on the food. I can't speak to the customer service, ambiance, or dine-in experience at Poor House Bistro. Unfortunately, I was disappointed with both the Jambalaya and the Red Beans & Rice. Both dishes were surprisingly bland and lacked the depth of flavor I was expecting. The jambalaya was missing the bold, layered seasoning and richness that normally makes this dish so satisfying. The Red Beans & Rice was similarly underwhelming...very mild and without enough seasoning or complexity to bring everything together. I really wanted to enjoy the food, but both dishes fell flat for me. When I think of Cajun and Creole-inspired food, I expect bold, savory flavors with plenty of character, and unfortunately this DoorDash order missed the mark. If you're craving red beans and rice and don't have the time to make it at home, make the trip to The Bywater in Los Gatos. Or, if you just want a punch of flavor... go to Popeyes. LOL. Honestly, either would satisfy the craving more. read more

Poor House Bistro - Jambalaya and Red Beans & Rice - Cajun/Creole Near Me - San Jose, California

Always a great time at Poor House Bistro in Little Italy. They have live bands playing all the classics, with a diverse crowd. Definitely recommend to visit if you've never been, for a change from the typical down town scenery. read more

This is our go-to spot after a Sharks game! Perfect for decompressing after a game-can stuff our faces as a source of comfort after a hard loss, or grab a few more rounds of drinks after a win. This visit, my husband and I ordered the crawfish pasta and the jambalaya. We also got the shrimp po'boy to go for my in-laws to try. The crawfish pasta was delicious and had a fair crawfish to pasta ratio (like 5 pasta shells to each crawfish bite, which is perfect for me as I was craving pasta that week). We also got drinks which was an interesting ordering experience since you have to order and pay at the bar before you get to the register where you can order your food. I think the bartender did a good job managing the crowd and checking in as best as she can to make sure people got their drink orders in! Jambalaya was flavorful (and I got it again on my next visit so I was def happy with it). No A/C inside and only fans which was rough after this particularly hot heat wave of a week we had. Outdoor was vibey if you were able to secure a spot. They had a live band playing so we were not able to secure a spot in that area. We decided to stay indoors where we were able to eventually cool down with our drinks. I can absolutely see this as a spot we go to before and after games. Already thinking about the next time we go with our friend group. And I'm noting that there's a speakeasy underneath I want to check out! read more

Poor House Bistro - front area of the restaurant with some picnic tables for group seating - Cajun/Creole Near Me - San Jose, California

See all

I love seafood and cajun food, so naturally Poor House Bistro is one of my most favorite restaurants! I love the Fried Oyster Po' Boy sandwich. It's what sandwich dreams are made of, crispy, breaded, fried savory oyster bites nestled on a bed of cabbage, tangy tartar sauce, piled high onto a soft French roll. My mouth waters whenever I think about it! We also got a side of the red beans and rice, cajun fries and that was also tasty! Service is quick and to the point, you place your order, they hand you a buzzer and after it buzzes you pick up your order. I love the cozy interior of the house, there's plenty of seating indoors and outdoor patio seating. I love that they have live jazz music sometimes, once I was able to catch the great Lavay Smith and Her Red Hot Skillet Lickers in the patio! read more

Poor House Bistro - Oyster po'boy sandwich 5/5 - Cajun/Creole Near Me - San Jose, California

See all

Poor House was an interesting little spot to grab a bite. Had a dive bar kind of feel. The staff were pretty friendly, even if the whole operation was a little rough around the edges. The food was alright. I wasn't blown away, but it wasn't bad either. I could see it being an ideal spot if you are out late, and want something to wash down with a beer or something. They also have the occasional live music outside which I could picture myself enjoying if it was the type of music I am into. read more

Poor House Bistro - Cajun/Creole Near Me - San Jose, California

See all

We ordered food while we were out drinking at the speakeasy cellar next door. The bistro has live music as well which we could hear but something we want to try next time. We also had the Half Vegetarian Muffaletta which could feed more than one person. It was delicious, filled with vegetables and nicely toasted. Would love to go back and experience the ambiance in the restaurant with the music. read more

Poor House Bistro - Crawfish Pasta - Cajun/Creole Near Me - San Jose, California

3 stars for the food but 5 for the entertainment and bar vibe. We had dinner here last month. We went early'ish so there was parking in front, but there was a good amount of people, probably because an event (though thankfully not a Sharks game) at the arena. You ordered at the counter and they buzzed you when it was ready. We opted to sit in the bar area to listen to music but it was cold and made dining and people watching less fun than it could have been. They definitely needed some space heaters. The food was meh, possibly because it was tepid. The sandwich was decent, though could have used a side of jus and some salt. Points for a toasted roll. The gumbo (or red beans & rice, I forget which) was very lukewarm and needed some kick. The cornbread was dry. The beignets were okay but again, barely warm, and there was a ton of powdered sugar (don't let the photo fool you, there was an inch on the top and at least another inch in the bottom of the bowl). The entertainment and the bar crowd were the best though. I don't remember the band's name, but the average age of its members was in the 50s. They were jammin' and the audience was groovin'. So much fun. Would I go back for food? Probably not. But to hang out in the bar when it's warmer or they've added space heaters to hear fun music and have a couple of drinks? Absolutely! read more

See all

I'm no expert on New Orleans and Cajun food but I like the food here! I personally had The Poor House which comes with ham and roast beef. Great of you like a 'meaty' sandwich. Be prepared this thing will fall apart all over you. But messy be good too! I shared some of the crawfish pasta with someone. Creamy and yummy. AMA this is the best way to eat crawfish cuz otherwise they're too hard to peel! Shrimp po boy was good but I prefer grilled instead of this mattered and deep fried way. And the fries were hella top salty. They actually got my order wings which I didn't realize till the food was ready after 15 minutes. So I had to order again! But they made it the next priority so I'll give them service points for that. Had a few drinks... vodka shots and wine. I know weird combination right? About $10 bucks each. And I enjoyed their live band. Cool courtyard and festive atmosphere. In fact, a few folks dancing. Mostly older folks here. I'll come back on the right occasion. read more

See all

I was not a fan of Cajun food till I came here. The food was sooooo good! The service was very nice. Not too crowded. Good volume to have conversations. The outdoor area was nice and warm, even on Christmas week. Little pricey but very worth it. read more

Poor House Bistro - Cajun/Creole Near Me - San Jose, California

Food: *Fried Seafood Platter with 2 sides, we picked the cole slaw and cajun potato salad *Chicken and Sausage Gumbo *Aperol Spritz * Beer from Russian River, Narrative, and more Great hospitality. Live music until 9pm. Order food inside and seat yourself read more

Poor House Bistro - Cajun/Creole Near Me - San Jose, California

Take with a grain of salt as I'm traveling, but very judgy of Creole/Cajun/NoLa restaurants. I'm a jambalaya chaser and that's my bar. The service was lightning quick and my jambalaya was ready before I could fill my water cup. This means they must keep it and probably some gumbo hot and ready to go. However, I think it was extremely mid. Running for the hot sauce, I accidentally poured waaay too much on my plate and it still could have taken more. The other people's food looked away better so I'd come back to try again, and I feel as though this would be a great spot for drinks, the outdoor area is huge. read more

See all

Their food is delish! Love sitting outside and they have an outdoor bar. Lots of shady spots and fun for a large group. Our group loved everything we ordered. read more

See all

Went here last night to celebrate my birthday with family .. food was great ..drinks were good and the musics and atmosphere was awesome !!

Came back as a group and the staff there is always so friendly. They came to check on us often. The food is always great. I like to try their specials. This time it was shrimp n grits. read more

See all

This casual and inviting restaurant serves an awesome menu of creole cuisine with a patio bar offering a good range of cocktails and beer. The venue also features live music entertainment almost every day of the week. I came by during Little Village's Big Easy Block Party & Beer Fest this past Saturday and enjoyed PHB's outdoor stage area filled with lively tunes and plenty of visitors. The bread pudding I ordered had a nice soft and spongy texture, and was creamy and buttery with just the right spice. And the staff was helpful and did a nice job handling the crowd with no shortage of workers on this busy day. read more

See all

This is a cool spot very close to the SAP. The patio is nice, drinks good, and a cool pre show/game atmosphere. The menu looked great too... lots of choices. The food was average at best. Had the "award winning" chicken sandwich, which came with slaw. There was nothing wrong with it, it was just a very plain and fairly bland sandwich. Same with the slaw. My wife got the popcorn shrimp. Same there, just very bland. read more

Stopped by Poor House Bistro for a laid-back meal for the first time. The vibe is great--porch seating, and a casual, welcoming atmosphere. You order at the counter, get handed a buzzer, and when it goes off, you pick up your food yourself. No table service, no check-ins, no refills. Just you, your buzzer, and your tray. We had the shrimp jambalaya and the shredded pork po' boy. Both were delicious. The shrimp were plump and perfectly cooked, and the jambalaya had bold seasoning and a nice kick. The po' boy was generously stuffed, and the pork was flavorful with just the right amount of spice. Definitely comfort food done right. My wife was craving beignets, and while I've made them before at home, we were curious to try theirs for the first time. They came out hot, pillowy, and generously dusted with powdered sugar. Simple and satisfying,it hit the spot and rounded out the meal nicely. One heads-up: it does get loud outside. The spot's right under the flight path, so planes come through often and can drown out the music or conversation. Not a dealbreaker, but worth knowing if you're hoping for a quiet spot. But here's what gave me pause: the tip prompt. I always tip for great service, especially when someone's checking in, refilling drinks, or making the experience smooth. But in this setup, I ordered, paid ,waited and picked up my own food. So I found myself wondering--what exactly am I tipping for? I get supporting local spots and fair wages, and I'm happy to do it when the service matches. But when everything's self-serve, it feels off ,for a tip before I've even tasted the food. Still, it's a cool spot to hang out and grab a drink. Just know what kind of service to expect--and decide for yourself what that's worth. read more

came here on a weekend before the San Jose Sharks game. You order at the counter and they give you a beeper when your order is ready. They were playing live music which was cool while we hung out in the back with some friends. * my bf got the Red Beans & Rice - Simmered with ham hock, served with corn bread with andouille sausage for $18 * I ordered from the kids menu just because I love corn dogs. Corn dog served with french fries and a drink for $12. Some friends of ours got the (not pictured) Cajun popcorn - Tender shrimp corn meal coated with herbs & spices and fried, served with homemade creole remoulade for $16. This was tasty! read more

Poor House Bistro - Cajun/Creole Near Me - San Jose, California

See all

The beans, rice and sausage bowl is fabulous! Perfectly seasoned! Corn muffins with butter topped it off! The cochin de Lait: Slow-roasted pulled pork was also perfectly seasoned and amazing!... To top it off there was a fabulous band playing... the joint chiefs.. What a great night of food and music! Thank you PHB!! read more

Omg it's a favorite over the years. Super cute ambience, live music - but what brings me there every time is their deeply flavorful food. It's just no pretentiousness amazing authentic New Orleans fare. Their bbq shrimp platter is one that will make you soak every last drop with bread and leave a clean plate!! It's that good, don't leave without it. Everything I've tried here has always been great. Today I also got their muffuletta sandwich and WOW - the olive salad is the star and makes this Sicilian inspired sandwich shine. And it's massive! Even a half sandwich will be massive!!!! Also the owner was really nice, I was carrying all the trays and dropped some bread so he offered to bring us new. Also just the general vibe is super friendly. Oh and to your canine buddies too! New location now but somehow feels exactly the same which I'm so happy about! read more

Poor House Bistro - Crawfish boil and sweet potato fries - Cajun/Creole Near Me - San Jose, California

See all

Amazing music, food and ambience!! Will definitely go again!! Do try the cocktails, they are the best!! Always carry change for tips read more

First time to this restaurant, friend of a friend is a bartender there - Kimberly , so fun, eager to help , quick to laugh! Probably the best part of the restaurant. To be honest , I am 100% Creole so my back ground with their " Creole" food was tainted . I give them A for effort and if you don't know any better ...we'll it was pretty good We started with chicken / sausage gumbo , red beans and rice and a shrimp poboy. Not enough favor in the beans , gumbo was fair and the poboy was definitely large with lettuce and pickles ( it's called dressed in New Orleans) but the shrimp were small , no tomatoes and slathered with a mustard sauce . No Sir! Mayonnaise only , it did it a poor service . But, it was a beautiful day , we sat outside and they had a live band . The bottomless mimosas were delicious! read more

Poor House Bistro - Gumbo (Chicken & Sausage or Shrimp), Red Beans & Rice and the shrimp poboy - Cajun/Creole Near Me - San Jose, California

Love the fried shrimp poor boys here! Amazing food and unique location! Would highly recommend

Amazing location, large portions and super cool vibe. The venue offers indoor and outdoor seating and often has bands perform.

Prior to the game,we came here,there's live band and ambiance is filled with the smell of roasted garlic,i guess it's coming from next door.Staff are not that welcoming here,but we still gave it a try and ordered the simplest which is beignet.it was smothered with powdered sugar,without it,it was a tasteless dough,there's 3 in an order,we finished one and half,wasted our money. read more

See all

Good food. Good ambience. My son and husband loved it! Bottle of Cab $38 . Pricey as it's ok. read more

Poor House Bistro - Food is alright - Cajun/Creole Near Me - San Jose, California

See all

this place has been beloved for years by many of my friends and relatives so I was super excited to finally try it at its new location. And it totally lived up to the hype! There's plenty of seating outdoor and indoor, in the patio or spread out in the front. It's a great place to grab a bite before a sharks game and has a lot to offer to all types of pallets. I got the shrimp and grits and they were super creamy and delicious. The shrimp was perfectly cooked and well seasoned. Most of the table opted for the barbecue shrimp which they told me was the item to get and that was fantastic as well. Especially after you dip the bread in the sauce. Of course we ended with some beignets. I can't wait to come back and try more things. The crawfish pasta looked especially good. read more

Poor House Bistro - shrimp and grits - Cajun/Creole Near Me - San Jose, California

The service here is great, friendly, and attentive. The space has more than enough chairs and tables! I been here about two times now. For the two times I been here, never had any issue with my food. It was always tasty! I have definitely recommended this place to others and I plan to come back here again. The first time here, I had Fried Seafood Platter & Beignets. Very solid, can't go wrong with them! It was my first time trying beignets. The second time, as shown in my photo: I got a Fried Chicken Sandwich with Creole Slaw. Personally, not a fan of slaw so if I were to order this again, I will be asking for the french fries. My coworker got fries and was kind enough to share some with me and those fries were great. I hope whoever reads this gives this place a try! read more

Poor House Bistro - Fried chicken sandwich - Cajun/Creole Near Me - San Jose, California

I'm always looking for a southern place to eat and I was in town for work so I saw this place. I was hesitant because of the 3 stars but I still thought I'd give it a try. The place is huge with lots of outside seating. They have music but it starts at 6pm. We ordered some red wine and sparking wine. They weren't that bad, something I would get again. We ordered the catfish basket and the New Orleans combination plate that came with gumbo, jambalaya, and red beans and rice, and corn bread. The catfish was cooked perfect and lightly bread coated which was good but the fish lacked seasoning. The gumbo had too much okra and lacked some seasoning, the jambalaya was cooked perfect but also lacked the cajun seasoning, and the chicken was big chunks, the red beans and rice was okay, they could also use some more seasoning as well. The corn bread okay, just needed to be warmer. I'd come back just try a sandwhich, somebody said those are really good and to listen to music. read more

See all

Poor House Bistro is tasty, Louisiana fare in a low key setting that has live music often! We went the day after Fat Tuesday and the jambalaya and shrimp po boy were tasty. It's tucked away from downtown and a perfect stop for a tasty, affordable, Cajun meal. Try the fried catfish app, it's the best I've ever had! read more

See all

I really love coming here for the drinks and the live music. It's always a fun time. I have tried several food items but they have been hit or miss for me. I guess I'm still figuring out the menu a bit as it is quite extensive! The service is typically fast and to the point. read more

Poor House Bistro - Outdoor Bar - Cajun/Creole Near Me - San Jose, California

I love this place! The food is delish! I usually get the blackened chicken wings. They have a nice spicy dry rub. This time I got the Drippins PoBoy. All I can say is that meat was so moist and flavorful! Another bonus is they have free live music on the weekends. You can tip the band - I always do! - what you think is fair. The music makes for a very fun environment. Lots of friendly people there just having a great time! read more

Poor House Bistro - Drippins PoBoy - Cajun/Creole Near Me - San Jose, California

See all

2nd visit and the experience did not get better I ordered the BBQ shrimp - although tasty, it was 9 shrimp for $25!! And plain toasted bread with no butter or garlic. My daughter had the crawfish pasta and it was tasty and a good portion. My son had the crawfish boil and it too was a sizeable portion. They had better luck with their choices than me . Drinks are served in an outside bar in plastic cups so I don't recommend a mixed drink.i ended up leaving hungry read more

See all

Found this place walking around little Italy. Cute ambiance, I like the layout of being able to go in or out of the house. Service was great and fast. My boyfriend and I got the sausage bread, gumbo, fried chicken sandwich, and the beignets. Fried chicken sandwich 10/10 Sausage bread 8.5 / 10 Gumbo 3/10 Beignet 9/10 Gumbo was very tasteless, almost tasted like tomato soup.. fried chicken sandwich was incredible. Would definitely come here again, but highly recommend skipping the gumbo. read more

F A N T A S T I C! Great vibe - excellent service = (thanks Kennedy and staff), and delicious food! Friendly, engaging patrons = We were in San Jose to see the Sharks vs the Kraken. Even wearing opposing team jerseys, we were welcomed and treated like friends. We opted to dine in their heated outdoor patio area. What a delightful option especially since we don't experience this amazing weather where we reside! The food was delicious and plentiful! Mr. Wonderful had the catfish Po'Boy and it was massive. I had a house salad and a cup of red beans and rice - the servings, also generous. *John - Thanks for recommending The Poor House Bistro! You were 100% spot on! We'll definitely be back. Congratulations Sharks! read more

See all

I was excited to be downtown at lunch time and we chose to drive to Little Italy to try The Poor House Bistro. We loved the food during our visits to New Orleans, so maybe our standard was a bit high. We were both disappointed. Since we are supporters of the area, we will try again and hopefully upgrade this review. You might not be greeted as you enter. Just proceed to the back of the restaurant to order and also pick up your order. Outdoor seating is scattered but ample. There are tables in front of the restaurant and also along the side. You can sometimes find live music on the side patio. The patio decor is lovely featuring a Sicilian carriage. Parking can be a challenge. read more

Poor House Bistro - Sicilian Cart - Cajun/Creole Near Me - San Jose, California

See all

Outdoor live music can't be beat! We grabbed a couple of drinks at the outdoor bar and some food and sat outside in the sun and enjoyed ourselves. I was bummed when they had to relocate, but happy they've found a great home that's just as cozy as the former location. read more

See all

Fun place for local music. Great patio - checked out Eurotrash and had a great time. Nice shaded area, the standard cocktails and French fries plus some po-boys. Vegan here is the muffalata without the cheese. Pretty good. read more

The food is Fantastic!!! Michael was absolutely wonderful. The live music was enjoyable

This restaurant has had three different locations and is now situated in Little Italy. My only complaint is the lack of parking near the restaurant. I especially love the crawfish étouffée. read more