Balls Deep In Downtown - San Jose

The original spot! That says it all. My go-to order is the falafel sandwich paired with a banana shake. If I visited more frequently, I might give the rest of the menu a glance. Interestingly, the falafel salad is priced higher for some unknown reason (though I can't eat the aluminum bowl!). When it comes to parking, availability varies depending on the day and time. They offer both indoor and outdoor seating. Just a heads up—make sure you know your order before approaching the window; both the staff and other patrons appreciate it!

I absolutely adore the falafel special at this place! You get a generous falafel served in pita along with a banana shake. It's fantastic, and everyone I bring here loves it! The staff is friendly and efficient, and they don’t skimp on the hot sauce. The atmosphere is relaxed, featuring some outdoor seating and colorful murals throughout the dining area. While I wasn't particularly fond of some other dishes I tried (the baba ghanoush and cheeseburger weren’t to my taste), their falafels, banana shakes, and fries are truly outstanding!

I always drive past this place but never really gave it any thought. My bf and I didn't know what to eat for lunch per usual but decided to give this place a try since we were in the area. I ordered the daily special which is a large falafel with a banana shake and my bf had the large gyro and onion rings. Service was super quick and the pita wraps were huge! The ingredients tasted very fresh and definitely ask for some hot sauce. The banana shake was interesting since you usually don't see that at most places. It was good but maybe a little too sweet for my liking. It was nice for the very hot day though! Overall we both enjoyed our meal and we'd definitely be back.

Falafel's Drive In is a San Jose institution that's been open since 1966. I've personally been coming to eat here since my days at SJSU around 2012 and they're still just as good in 2024. Their $13 large falafel and banana shake special is to die for. So filling, but so light. The slightly spicy red sauce mixed with the hearty helping of falafel (fried chickpea balls) in a bread-based wrap is always delicious. Their banana shakes use specially sourced bananas, according to a feature story on SJ Spotlight, and you can taste it when you take a sip. The banana taste is so strong and tastes better than any banana shake I've ever tasted. If you're from out of town or a Bay Area local, I highly suggest you try Falafel's Drive In. You won't be disappointed.

Love this joint! I know it's being a little dramatic but this has become such an integral part of San Jose history! The murals along the walls gives it such a unique feel, you learn something about the city. But most importantly, I think this is hands down the best falafel place in the bay area, I've tried a few and nothing compares to it. Service is great and fast. Vegans have a couple of options the falafel sandwich, pita chips and both are really worth your time!