Goodtime Bar in downtown San Jose’s Fountain Alley was co-founded by Ann Le and Steven Huynh, inspired by Portuguese natural wine bars, to create a community-focused “third space.” This ethos attracted local chef Alex Whiteman.

Born and raised in San Jose, Chef Whiteman grew up in a “food-positive” family. His
mother reinforced this foundation by ensuring family dinners and hosting blindfolded games of “guess the spice,” which cultivated his keen sense of aroma. This combination of comfort and curiosity led him to New York for culinary school, then to kitchens like Momofuku. He worked alongside Chef Calvin Eng at the Brooklyn-based Taiwanese-American restaurant, Win Son, where Eng taught him that success can stem from strong principles and organization, not just skill. 

Chef Whiteman’s philosophy centers on cooking food he himself enjoys, working with the seasons, and sourcing ingredients locally. The resulting menu is constantly evolving and designed to complement the exciting, eccentric profiles of natural wine, offering flavors that are both comforting and bold.

Goodtime Bar is part of an emerging collaborative culinary community in San Jose. Chef Whiteman values the knowledge shared amongst local chefs, believing they are “much stronger together.” He hopes the menu, paired with a glass of natural wine, can provide some comfort after a long day. 

Goodtime Bar
30 Fountain Alley #160
(408) 256-1266
goodtimebarsj.com
IG: goodtimebarsj

Check out the podcast with Goodtime Bar owner, Steve Huynh, for 2024.