Restaurants in Oakland
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Best Restaurants
“We brought our friend here to celebrate his birthday because we wanted to gift an experience. We saw you featured on Check Please . . . And you guys WOW’d us beyond our expectations!! Amazing staff! And amazing food . . And yes, amazing cocktails!! Down to the last finishing touches ! We will definitely be back !”
“Always an interesting experience and fun treat. Classic cocktails in a classic atmosphere. Service is on point! Food is innovative yet still comforting and familiar. Never disappointed.”
“Short wait on a Friday night for 7 of us. Really small place but the wait staff and owner very friendly and everyone was very happy with their meal. If I lived here I would go back.”
“My daughter took me and the hubby here for our Thanksgiving celebration since she couldn't come home (Sac) for actual Thanksgiving, we went to her. This was a night I won't soon forget! Having a nice meal with our daughter was a treat, the service was amazing and the food....OMG! Every bite of every dish I tasted was so so delicious! I can't get the butternut soup out of my head it was THAT good! We all ordered different food & shared bites with one another. This night was so enjoyable! Thank you, Sis & Thank you Mama Oakland!”
Restaurants by Cuisine
“A gem on Piedmont Ave. A beautiful and imaginative space that's more of a community gathering spot than wine bar (though the wines are absolutely fantastic!) So happy that we have this amazing contribution to our neighborhood.”
“Best pizza in the east bay. Get pizza (est 10min when small line) to go then promptly go to Brix Brewery next door to get drinks for your pizza. You can eat pizza there.”
Restaurants with Delivery
“A safe place for a celiac person to enjoy the food ride of their lives!!!
This was one of the best food experiences in my life! It was not just a meal...but an EXPERIENCE! Each bite, you went on a journey of flavors and textures that kept changing in your mouth. Layers of deliciousness 😋.
They change their menu up a lot. We had the celery root ceviche that was out of this world! We were not going to order it at first but the waiter said it was the best thing on the menu...and she was RIGHT!
This was followed by the fava bean battered pork belly and the short rib entree that was so tender that an impure thought could cut it! It was meat candy!
The for dessert we did this dark chocolate cake and the olbea!!!! Do NOT miss out on the oblea! Both were just so divine!
The only pain I experienced was wishing I had another stomach to fit more food!
Oh and the mocktails were GREAT!”
“We brought our friend here to celebrate his birthday because we wanted to gift an experience. We saw you featured on Check Please . . . And you guys WOW’d us beyond our expectations!! Amazing staff! And amazing food . . And yes, amazing cocktails!! Down to the last finishing touches ! We will definitely be back !”
“Walk 10 minutes from MacArthur BART and you’ll find paradise in the form of a wine bar. Zach (head chef) and Emilio (line cook) are formerly of Verjus in San Francisco, and let’s just say we followed them across the bridge for a reason. Their expertise and attention to detail are evident in every bite — or sip! ;) On top of this, the service is impeccable. Our waiter, Nico, was a real gem! Thank God he moved from SoCal! Anyways, don’t take my word for it… you’ll just have to try this place for yourself!”
“My daughter took me and the hubby here for our Thanksgiving celebration since she couldn't come home (Sac) for actual Thanksgiving, we went to her. This was a night I won't soon forget! Having a nice meal with our daughter was a treat, the service was amazing and the food....OMG! Every bite of every dish I tasted was so so delicious! I can't get the butternut soup out of my head it was THAT good! We all ordered different food & shared bites with one another. This night was so enjoyable! Thank you, Sis & Thank you Mama Oakland!”
“This was a surprise dinner my friend invited me on. The hand rolls are so fresh and delicious. I had 5 amazing rolls that come out one at a time for freshness m. The server was super sweat and helped me pick out what I wanted. The menu does also have set options, but I decided to do individual rolls. I definitely recommend stopping by if you’re in the Oakland area.”
“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Double Standard delivers an exceptional dining and bar experience with creative cocktails, flavorful food, and a stylish, energetic atmosphere. Every dish and drink is thoughtfully prepared, well-balanced, and consistently enjoyable.
The vibe is modern, lively, and welcoming—perfect for a night out with friends, a casual date, or simply enjoying great food and drinks in a vibrant setting. It has a unique personality that makes every visit feel special.
The staff is friendly, attentive, and professional, ensuring smooth service and a comfortable experience from start to finish. Their hospitality adds to the overall enjoyment of the venue.
If you’re looking for great cocktails, delicious food, and a fun, upbeat atmosphere, The Double Standard is a fantastic choice. Highly recommended and well deserving of five stars! 🌟🍸✨”
“Loved our lunch today ! Bison stew with fry bread and bison meatballs. Hibiscus tea was awesome. Staff was so incredible. Busy and very full today. Great atmosphere.”
Outdoor Dining
“Great experience, had walked by this place and someone leaving seeing me reading the menu insisted that I try it out. Wasn’t disappointed, great menu where seafood is the star of the show, recommend the aguachili appetizer and fish and chips. Will return for other menu items. Great service, reservations via resy recommended”
“A great place to go work when you have a lot to get done. More outside spots than inside so its better on a sunny day. Its open late which is great. Never issues with the wifi bht limited charging spots.
Drinks are very yummy.
No designated parking so you will have to drive around for a spot.”
“How cool that this Oakland gem has adapted during the pandemic! All of the delicious drinks and all kinds of new menu items all for take-out in...wait for it...compostable containers...even the bottles the drinks come in! Please support this sustainability-minded, amazing and delicious restaurant. They have a few outdoor tables, too. Go. Go now!”
“I real hole in the wall. No big sign so you have to know.
The best jianbing I've had outside of China. Crispy and not too salty. My wife said it's authentic Tianjin style.
The soy milk was amazing! Very smooth and slightly sweet even though it wasn't sweetened. No burnt taste.
Alas, he was out of tea eggs.
Friendly.”
“Outstanding restaurant, we have dined at Wood Tavern more times than I can recollect . We we rather disappointed recently when we called to make reservations for 4 for lunch on 2/25/2022 and were informed they only take reservations for 5 or more. Is this true ? If so they should so state on their web site.”
“All the food looks amazing! Unfortunately, a most of the fishes on the nigiri was kind of tasteless so it's hard to distinguish between the pieces. I didn't like the fish eggs because it was slightly fishy - this might be my personal palette though. The eel with avocado and cucumbers was really tasty.
Note, I suggest looking at what you're purchasing because the fish pieces might slightly differ in size. And for the price your paying, you probably want the bigger pieces like how I would.”
“Great experience, had walked by this place and someone leaving seeing me reading the menu insisted that I try it out. Wasn’t disappointed, great menu where seafood is the star of the show, recommend the aguachili appetizer and fish and chips. Will return for other menu items. Great service, reservations via resy recommended”
“This was a surprise dinner my friend invited me on. The hand rolls are so fresh and delicious. I had 5 amazing rolls that come out one at a time for freshness m. The server was super sweat and helped me pick out what I wanted. The menu does also have set options, but I decided to do individual rolls. I definitely recommend stopping by if you’re in the Oakland area.”
Online Reservation Available
“My only prior experience with Commis' culinary output was tracking their takeout format during the pandemic, making this my first opportunity to witness the menu executed in its native environment.
Arrived slightly behind schedule due to a minor orientation error on approach from the west. The prominent exterior 'Commis' signage is actually positioned over a secondary doorway—blocked by a rope and obscured by a black curtain—which I mistakenly flagged as the threshold. After waiting until 5:06 PM, I stepped further east down the sidewalk to discover the actual entrance. Once inside, check-in was seamless. I was engineered into a stunning table boasting an uncompromised, direct line of sight into the kitchen —an ideal vantage point for observation. For those driving, district parking is highly efficient; there is an open lot a three-minute walk away completely integrated with the ParkMobile app.
The dining room operates with high aesthetic intent. The table setting is beautifully minimalist, accented by fresh floral arrangements. Ambient audio consists of low-profile, rhythmic electronic beats without discernible tracking, allowing the focus to remain on the room’s acoustics. Notable property asset: the restroom features neatly folded, reusable linen cloths, a detail I always inspect and appreciate.
The beverage program opened strong with a well-balanced cocktail featuring a flawless, hyper-clarified ice block cleanly monogrammed with the house branding.
Plating geometry across the board was visually stunning. Certain courses were deployed using a strict three-point presentation matrix on the table, showing deliberate service choreography.
The clear peak of the engineering here is their legendary signature dish: the slow-poached egg yolk resting in a malted cream base with smoked dates and crisp alliums. It is a brilliant study in texture—velvety, rich, and profoundly comforting. This singular dish justifies the entire booking.
From an operational standpoint, the pacing of this meal was exceptional—easily ranking in the top five dining experiences I have tracked globally. The kitchen and floor staff maintained a hyper-focused, synchronized posture throughout the multi-hour window. Service movements were fluid, deliberate, and entirely free of friction.
Crucially, the clearing of empty plates was immediate, and successive courses materialized without a single dead gap. Staff check-ins were frequent but entirely non-invasive. This baseline pace never wavered, holding perfectly steady even as the dining room reached peak capacity later in the evening. A masterfully managed system.”
“I’d gatekeep this place, if I was evil. Fantastic establishment. Oysters are sourced for flavor and not for brand; I’d say they have the best selection in the local area. Food is cooked to perfection and with care. Recipes are Californian, except for - and don’t sleep on - their Buffalo (NY) options such as the fleck and the wings. Excellent stuff. Service is chill and wonderful backyard.”
“A wonderful vibe here with good energy from both the staff and patrons. The atmosphere is exceptional, with beautiful art, plush comfy seating options and a really terrific community bulletin board with so much of the best kinds of offerings and requests from the Oakland community. I always spend a while perusing it, just for the joy it gives me.”
“😀First visit here after years of walking past it. The veggie combo and meat combo platters were among the best I've had at Berkeley and Oakland's many great Ethiopian restaurants. Service was very fast and friendly and outdoor back-patio was peaceful. I will be back soon and often.”
“Outstanding restaurant, we have dined at Wood Tavern more times than I can recollect . We we rather disappointed recently when we called to make reservations for 4 for lunch on 2/25/2022 and were informed they only take reservations for 5 or more. Is this true ? If so they should so state on their web site.”
24 Hour Restaurants
“I had the Chicken Mix Bowl with the smokey chipotle sauce and it was AMAZING. I am allergic to dairy, gluten, and soy so being able to not worry about that with my meal was so nice. I also have ARFID (avoidant restrictive food intake disorder) and have a really hard with certain textures, usually chicken is really hard for me to eat but I had no issues with this chicken!! The texture was consistent all the way through, pulled apart really easily, and was just overall amazing. The portions are really good and the food is very flavorful. I'm really happy with my meal. Thank you guys for the amazing food. I highly recommend this place!!”
“The staff was friendly, respectful, and made me feel welcomed right away. They were patient while taking my order and made sure everything was correct.
The service was quick but didn’t feel rushed, and everything went smoothly from start to finish. It definitely made the visit better overall. Always appreciate when a place has solid customer service like that.”
“Dear Jack,
I didn’t expect to fall in love at 2 a.m., but here we are. Oakland Jack-in-the-Box, you’ve stolen my heart (and my appetite). That’s real love.
The spicy chicken sandwich meal (fries not pictured because I ate them in the car), a Minute Maid, and a seven-piece jalapeño popper… honestly, this felt less like fast food and more like the Last Supper. If Jesus had served jalapeño poppers that night, I don’t think anyone would’ve doubted him.
Your Good Good sauce was everything its name promised, your taco sauce a quiet but steady companion—like you, Jack. Dependable. Comforting. Slightly mysterious under that giant round head.
Jack, don’t ever change.💋
Forever yours,
A loyal customer ❤️”
“Pretty decent location. They take a little long to get your order with the number thing. The prices are always great, its clean. You can order from the front, but I suggest using the Kiosk. The employees are friendly. I recommend :')
The restrooms for woman's aint it. You cant lock the door! 🤦♀️”
“I don't eat here. Yet, family members do. All is good, just when you leave the drive through please look, kids come from the right side on bikes and are hard to see... please lease the drive through slowly. There is a wall to your right that you can't see ppl coming. Kids ride bikes. Just a heads up.”
“Easily my go to favorite place in Oakland and favorite place to bring people that are visiting. All the food is really tasty and affordable. The drink menu is so thoughtful and wonderfully crafted. I like that the place is a giant horseshoe shaped bar so it’s like dinner and a show because these bartenders are working their butts off. One of the best nightlife experiences in the East Bay, hands-down. Oh, also, bonus points for the popcorn machine in the back!”
“My only prior experience with Commis' culinary output was tracking their takeout format during the pandemic, making this my first opportunity to witness the menu executed in its native environment.
Arrived slightly behind schedule due to a minor orientation error on approach from the west. The prominent exterior 'Commis' signage is actually positioned over a secondary doorway—blocked by a rope and obscured by a black curtain—which I mistakenly flagged as the threshold. After waiting until 5:06 PM, I stepped further east down the sidewalk to discover the actual entrance. Once inside, check-in was seamless. I was engineered into a stunning table boasting an uncompromised, direct line of sight into the kitchen —an ideal vantage point for observation. For those driving, district parking is highly efficient; there is an open lot a three-minute walk away completely integrated with the ParkMobile app.
The dining room operates with high aesthetic intent. The table setting is beautifully minimalist, accented by fresh floral arrangements. Ambient audio consists of low-profile, rhythmic electronic beats without discernible tracking, allowing the focus to remain on the room’s acoustics. Notable property asset: the restroom features neatly folded, reusable linen cloths, a detail I always inspect and appreciate.
The beverage program opened strong with a well-balanced cocktail featuring a flawless, hyper-clarified ice block cleanly monogrammed with the house branding.
Plating geometry across the board was visually stunning. Certain courses were deployed using a strict three-point presentation matrix on the table, showing deliberate service choreography.
The clear peak of the engineering here is their legendary signature dish: the slow-poached egg yolk resting in a malted cream base with smoked dates and crisp alliums. It is a brilliant study in texture—velvety, rich, and profoundly comforting. This singular dish justifies the entire booking.
From an operational standpoint, the pacing of this meal was exceptional—easily ranking in the top five dining experiences I have tracked globally. The kitchen and floor staff maintained a hyper-focused, synchronized posture throughout the multi-hour window. Service movements were fluid, deliberate, and entirely free of friction.
Crucially, the clearing of empty plates was immediate, and successive courses materialized without a single dead gap. Staff check-ins were frequent but entirely non-invasive. This baseline pace never wavered, holding perfectly steady even as the dining room reached peak capacity later in the evening. A masterfully managed system.”
Takeout Restaurants
“We were gifted our first ever Bake Sum box. After trying just one bite of a Yuzu meringue bun I knew I needed more. Ordered our second BSB last week and shared amongst the roomies, huge hit. Well baked, not too sweet, great flavor combinations. 10/10 would recommend the Bake Sum box. If you can’t grab a box, you can grab al a cart day of pick ups just to tide you over until you can get a box 😋”
“I dropped in for a morning audit of Ruby King Bakery and easily found free parking around the corner toward the freeway. The energy inside was vibrant, with a lot of people hanging out in the cafe enjoying fresh pastries. They have a beautiful, incredibly nice display of goods for sale in their front glass cases that instantly shows the depth of their traditional Cantonese baking.
I thoroughly enjoyed everything that I purchased, but my absolute favorite was the Coconut Tart. The interior crumb structure has a perfect sweetness and a dense, authentically rich coconut flake texture. I also highly recommend the Mini Melon Cake (their traditional Wife Cake / lo por boon) which features flawless, flaky pastry lamination peeling back over a chewy wintermelon-sesame filling.
To round out the triad, the cross-section of the Bird's Nest cake slice reveals an impressive, lightweight structural execution. Rather than a standard singular base, it features a traditional Chinese chiffon sponge built with two distinct layers of cream running through the middle. The light, airy sponge aeration beautifully anchors the stabilized cream layers, perfectly balancing out the thick, glossy red glazed topping. It's an excellent technical build.
The employee behind the counter was friendly and efficient, and all my items were carefully placed in two separate paper bags to prevent the delicate glazes and flaky laminations from crushing each other. Just note for your transaction log that they charge a 30-cent fee to use a credit card (under $20), so it is best to bring cash if you are just buying a few items. This is easily one of the best bakeries in Oakland's Chinatown for authentic quality and execution. Highly recommended!”
“All the food looks amazing! Unfortunately, a most of the fishes on the nigiri was kind of tasteless so it's hard to distinguish between the pieces. I didn't like the fish eggs because it was slightly fishy - this might be my personal palette though. The eel with avocado and cucumbers was really tasty.
Note, I suggest looking at what you're purchasing because the fish pieces might slightly differ in size. And for the price your paying, you probably want the bigger pieces like how I would.”
“My BF lived in Oakland for a couple of decades and never been here; so we thought we’d give it a try. Seems quite authentic, though we couldn’t quite stomach the fermented pork sausage. The fried version was good of course. Jeo Pa Dach was excellent, as was the quail. We’ll come back to try other dishes! It’s a small, simple, no frills restaurant.”
“I searched for brisket and got a cheesecake store. Ok. High marks on Google and Yelp. Definitely did not disappoint on the brisket. The lemon and ube cheesecakes are pretty good.”
Drive-Thru Restaurants
“If you like good things, you’ll love Bad Walter! Don’t expect low-calorie or fancy or bougie. This is “my soul needs ice cream” kind of ice cream. This is “my inner child feels neglected” ice cream. This is the kind of ice cream that will actually make a break-up okay. 10/10 recommend.
Seriously, the Rainbow Road is legitimately the best ice cream I’ve ever had and it’s a problem that it’s not available all the time. The owner really should resolve this issue.”
“Heading over to Forma Bakery on a weekday morning is a breeze. Arriving right at the 8:00 AM opening window means you can walk straight to the counter with no wait at all. For parking, there is a generous patch of free street parking available just around the corner about a block away, though the immediate storefront strip also offers standard metered street parking options if you want to pull up closer.
The setup inside is wonderful. They feature a great selection of morning goods, all displayed beautifully, which makes scanning the options and making your precise selections incredibly easy. The staff is exceptionally friendly and the service is quick. Plus, they package everything perfectly with zero damage: the heavy Blue Corn Sourdough loaf was placed flat on the bottom of a large paper bag, while the fragile, individually bagged pastries were gently layered on top to keep them from getting crushed.
If you want to eat right there, they have some nice outdoor sidewalk seating, which gives the place a great, community-forward neighborhood atmosphere along Telegraph Avenue.
Traditional Butter Croissant: Where so many other bakeries have failed, Forma has it down. I could smell the rich butter before I even bit into it. A proper croissant requires the correct kind of butter and baking techniques, and this one delivered. It had the exact shattering flake effect you want on the outside and tasted absolutely phenomenal.
Chocolate Concha: This is the best concha I have ever had. It has a real, deep cocoa flavor, and both the texture and flavor are incredibly hard to beat.
Flan Croissant with Strawberry & Rhubarb: This was the absolute favorite of everything I bought. The contrast between the crisp, flaky pastry base and the smooth vanilla flan custard layered over the tart strawberry and rhubarb is incredible. It’s an absolute must-order item.
Passion Fruit Morning Bun with Earl Grey Sugar: This was a really pleasant surprise. I wasn't entirely sure how it would taste, but the flavor combination is fantastic. The light, bright flavor of the passion fruit perfectly balances out the sweet crunch of the Earl Grey sugar coating. My only small wish is that there was a bit more substance to the center of the bun, but the flavor and textures are totally there.
In fact, everything I purchased tasted really good. Every single pastry had the perfect crunch and flavor. Forma has firmly established itself as a top-tier bakery in the East Bay, and I highly recommend checking it out.”
“Beeryland is absolutely fantastic. I've been coming here for the star trek trivia for almost two years. The adult slushies are yummy, and so is most of the food. I don't know if the kimchi grilled cheese is still on the menu, but it's a divisive item. My friends like it but I despise it. Use caution. As you can see by the state of my AmInal Fries (yes the spelling is correct), I am one happy customer. Four stars on the atmosphere because the bathroom could use a facelift, but it is a bar. Cheers!”
“I it's don't want to low rate this place because the food looks amazing and I'm sure it is, unfortunately they are only for catering/ to go orders in advance. Google makes it look like they still have tables from an old location they had, and they don't do to-go orders right away. So if you're planning on going here, you're going to have to order well in advance. Just wanted to give people a heads up.”
“So the burgers used to be AMAZING here but something has felt a little off for me the past few times I have gone. They’re still decent burgers but the past few times leave me not really wanting to go back… their ice cream and cookies are still great so no complaints there. I’m just bummed that one of my fave smash burgers went down in quality 😔”
“Really really enjoyed the Veggie Combo plate at Desta. The greens were fresh and the lentils were extremely flavorful. The other sides were unique and delicious as well. Bursting with flavor and hearty. Awesome meal and will definitely be back. Wish they were open for dinner but will visit for lunch on a weekend again soon.”
“Wonderful hospitality and warmth coming from the Host Ty Do letting me know more about the Cambodian culture. And BIG Wow on the Sea Food dish: 637. SALMON IN GARLIC BASIL WINE SAUCE : Poached salmon topped w/ roasted garlic, basil, & black mushroom in reduced wine sauce. It's divine! It's my new hot restaurant spot in The Little Town of Alameda.”
“Best spot around here to try soba in all its different forms.
Be on the lookout for when the seasonal menu changes. There's always some interesting things to try every time you come back”
Cheap Eats
“If you're looking for a unique taco place, yet can't eat meat due to dietary restrictions, ima put y'all on Tacos Oscar -- one of the BEST taco spots in the heart of Oakland. This taco place is to NOT be slept on!
As I approached this place, the one thing I really liked was how hipster and how modern they made their dining experience. They're really with the political times, but besides that, they take making tacos on a WHOLE another level.
Their tacos are a little bit on the expensive side -- but because they're artisan made, that's what MAKES it unique. I tried their vegan broccoli taco, drowsed with their thick peanut and soy sauce. The tortilla was made out of 100% corn and nothing more than that. In addition, their agua fresca is on point.”
“This place saved me & my two friends on our 11 pm post-concert food hunt. Got the Shawarma Arabic, Chicken Gyro, and Beef Shawarma plate. It was a 6/5 for all of us. Served with tzatziki and red chili flake oil + 2 banana peppers.... super flavorful, affordable, chill staff. Beyond worth it. Some cool Egyptian decorations. Only downside is sparse seating close to the door, but that's the norm for east bay. first eats in oakland!! loved it!”
“I’m touring a condo in Oakland for a client making an offer and I stop for a quick bite at a tiny sandwich place next to the Grand Lake Theater. OMG, Unbelievable sandwiches, smoked meats, homemade pickles, peppers🫑 and memorable pulled pork, etc. I hang out for a few minutes while Jerry makes my Cuban sandwich, and he has me try their smoked bacon, homemade meatballs, and more. Jerry’s the best and I love this place. Can’t wait to tell my client about it!! Check out Modigliani Cafe, next to the Grand Lake Theater. #modigliani #localbusiness #Oakland #localgem #restaurant #sandwich #grandlakedistrict #holeinthewall #localjoint #bayareafoodie #pamparkerproperties #realtor®”
“Walk 10 minutes from MacArthur BART and you’ll find paradise in the form of a wine bar. Zach (head chef) and Emilio (line cook) are formerly of Verjus in San Francisco, and let’s just say we followed them across the bridge for a reason. Their expertise and attention to detail are evident in every bite — or sip! ;) On top of this, the service is impeccable. Our waiter, Nico, was a real gem! Thank God he moved from SoCal! Anyways, don’t take my word for it… you’ll just have to try this place for yourself!”
“Great dosas! We get the ‘all you can eat dosa’ meals with Goat Minced Dosa, and the Ghee Roast and eat a ton!
The best food is always hidden away - this one is in a non-facetious speakeasy!”
“The BEST meal! We absolutely love this place. Every dish we’ve tried has been fabulous. Definitely start with the mixed place to try a bit of many appetizers. And the Khan Plov is so so good. I had never had Azerbaijani food but this is our new go-to with guests or for a date night in Oakland.”
“If you’re looking for authentic Ethiopian food, Cafe Eritrea D’Afrique is one of the best spots in the entire Bay Area. The food is consistently delicious, the injera is fresh, and the flavors are as authentic as they come.”
“How cool that this Oakland gem has adapted during the pandemic! All of the delicious drinks and all kinds of new menu items all for take-out in...wait for it...compostable containers...even the bottles the drinks come in! Please support this sustainability-minded, amazing and delicious restaurant. They have a few outdoor tables, too. Go. Go now!”
“Beeryland is absolutely fantastic. I've been coming here for the star trek trivia for almost two years. The adult slushies are yummy, and so is most of the food. I don't know if the kimchi grilled cheese is still on the menu, but it's a divisive item. My friends like it but I despise it. Use caution. As you can see by the state of my AmInal Fries (yes the spelling is correct), I am one happy customer. Four stars on the atmosphere because the bathroom could use a facelift, but it is a bar. Cheers!”
“Went here for our 3 year wedding anniversary. After having the fatty tuna, my husband closed his eyes for almost a full minute and said, “this is the best night of my life””
“My sandwich was great, Clau order a new playe for her that she didn't like, but the wonderful lady come and ask if she didn't like, and offer a new plate. Clau love it.”
“Probably the best meal I’ve ever had, super fun, exciting, every bite was perfect. Intimate and fast process”
“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Double Standard delivers an exceptional dining and bar experience with creative cocktails, flavorful food, and a stylish, energetic atmosphere. Every dish and drink is thoughtfully prepared, well-balanced, and consistently enjoyable.
The vibe is modern, lively, and welcoming—perfect for a night out with friends, a casual date, or simply enjoying great food and drinks in a vibrant setting. It has a unique personality that makes every visit feel special.
The staff is friendly, attentive, and professional, ensuring smooth service and a comfortable experience from start to finish. Their hospitality adds to the overall enjoyment of the venue.
If you’re looking for great cocktails, delicious food, and a fun, upbeat atmosphere, The Double Standard is a fantastic choice. Highly recommended and well deserving of five stars! 🌟🍸✨”
“This place is a true gem. We sat at the bar. Bartenders were great to speak with and knowledgeable. Made fantastic drinks. They really do have the best wings and the tater tots are great also.”
“This place deserves its high rating. I have eaten here many many many many times and it’s consistently delicious and the service is always fantastic. It’s worth the long wait times.”
“My BF lived in Oakland for a couple of decades and never been here; so we thought we’d give it a try. Seems quite authentic, though we couldn’t quite stomach the fermented pork sausage. The fried version was good of course. Jeo Pa Dach was excellent, as was the quail. We’ll come back to try other dishes! It’s a small, simple, no frills restaurant.”
“They're always so nice to me here! Mama loves the craft cocktails and the book curations. We live nearby so it's a favorite neighborhood hang, and we appreciate all the thought that went into the menus.”
“Stopped by this spot in Oakland to check out their food. Had heard they had gray Puerto Rican food but wanted to check it out for myself. Got lucky and had the owner/chef there and gave wonderful recommendations, samples and the history behind his grandmothers famous rice and beans. Once in a lifetime experience. We left full, and excited to spread the word. This place is a must stop, you won’t be disappointed! The black building with the Puerto Rican flag on top makes it easy to spot. Chef Eric has a big heart and great food. We will be back VERY SOON!!!”
“The selection of ciders and natural wines by the glass or flight here is unbeatable. We live close by and find ourselves visiting to grab a glass per person often. Vibes are so chill. We also love their olives!! Outdoor area dog friendly.”
“I got superb service the other day. I am a regular shopper here and made plans to do Passover shopping myself but as the coronavirus outbreak came along my plans have changed. I was worried I wouldn’t be able to get all my shopping done in time and get everything I need for the holiday. I emailed Yuval my shopping list with all my special requests and got top of the live service. My order was ready the next day and Yuval did not miss a thing! He took the time to go over the whole order with me to make sure I have everything I want and need. I highly recommend shopping here, other then the great variety of items you will get really taken care of. Thank you and Chag Sameach!”
“Wonderful hospitality and warmth coming from the Host Ty Do letting me know more about the Cambodian culture. And BIG Wow on the Sea Food dish: 637. SALMON IN GARLIC BASIL WINE SAUCE : Poached salmon topped w/ roasted garlic, basil, & black mushroom in reduced wine sauce. It's divine! It's my new hot restaurant spot in The Little Town of Alameda.”
“food was excellent..service was great...if u want excellent authentic Italian food...this is the place for you ..”
“Nach drei Wochen „Roadtrip“ durch die USA haben wir uns gefreut dass in der Nähe unseres jetzigen Hotels dieses Restaurant/dieser Biergarten ist. Gut zubereitetes, ehrliches Essen. Ich bin selber leidenschaftlicher Hobbykoch in Deutschland und muss sagen: gut, wirklich gut. Das Sauerkraut könnte ein wenig „knackiger“ sein, aber es war trotzdem lecker. Und das „Früh Kölsch“ könnte ein weniger günstiger sein (schreibt ein Kölner 😉) Vielen Dank und euch weiterhin viel Erfolg”
“Thrilled to share a five-star review for Henry, Kylie Ann and Alta Vina. I've been a customer here since they opened in June 2025, and I'm so impressed by the thought, care and love that have gone into building this business in its first year.
Henry is a wine expert who's always thinking of how to enhance the space, elevate the experience and refine the selection of wines he serves. His focus on finding the best small batch wines from California (Alta and Baja!) is laser-sharp and is matched only by his focus on finding new, meaningful, fun ways to bring in new customers and regulars alike.
Henry and the whole team are so welcoming to everyone who comes in the door. My partner, my dog and I always feel at home when we stop by.
Highly recommended.”
“This place is really good. Great quality of food. Very good flavor. Good atmosphere. I love it! On top of that, everyone is always very friendly. Highly recommend!”
“Tummy comfort food in great post-industrial space. Friendly service, craft cocktails. Good menu options and specials. Outdoor tables also available.”
“We’ve eaten here several times and never disappointed in the slightest. Highly recommend the salmon collar and the chocolate lava cake is amazing. The specials are always creative and delicious.”
“It was the friendliest salsa scene I've been to in years--Sunday at four to eight. And the food was gorgeous, and the staff super helpful.”
“Amazing service and amazing ambiance. The rolls are HUGE and delicious. They are also beautiful and vibrantly colored with the different types of rice wraps. The atmosphere is something straight out of a lo-fi music video…”
“This Ethiopian Restaurant has been our family fave across 4 generations💚 Over the years: my grandma, my father, me, and my son…we dine and we bring friends! Highly recommend the restaurant and check out their partner Brundo Spice Company—spices and retail items available at the restaurant as well. The marvelous new location on San Pablo Ave. is vibrant, spacious, and inviting✨ Try the Vegetarian Sampler with extra Injera, followed by a Traditional Ethiopian Coffee Latte and dreamy Tiramisu. Sheer divinity!💗”
“I’ve recently cut out all dairy and pretty much all meat, although I will make an exception for special occasions and eat meat seldomly. anyway the options here are delicious if you’re a vegan! Their menu is full of tasty choices. U couldn’t be happier with my recent door dash orders”
“Loved my birthday dinner tonight! Portions small for the prices in our opinion. A scallops main dish with 3 scallops is small. Drinks were amazing, decor fabulous and great service. My son had to go eat more food afterwards as he was still hungry. Bigger portions would be good. Loved everything else! Great choices, appetizers, main dishes and creative drinks were delicious. Kind of surprised knowing they knew it was my birthday that they didn't offer me a birthday "something" to make it special. For these prices I would expect something.”
“😀First visit here after years of walking past it. The veggie combo and meat combo platters were among the best I've had at Berkeley and Oakland's many great Ethiopian restaurants. Service was very fast and friendly and outdoor back-patio was peaceful. I will be back soon and often.”
“This was super delicious, and everyone was very friendly. I met the chef and he was kind enough to give our table free dessert! Don't be afraid to try new things here... No regrets! The beef, lamb, lentils, and bread were my favorites 😋”
“I’ve been coming here for years now and just now decided to write a review. The sushi is amazing, I’ve made my way down the list and tried all the rolls but my favorite ones are the Shiki, Samurai and the Double Sake. They are super fresh and so delicious. They’re always as delicious as the last time. Also, service is super nice, they recognize me at this point and are always happy to see me come in again. My favorite sushi spot in Oakland hands down. Also for a great price!! Don’t sleep on Sushi Park!!”
“Wow! Back in the palace of blended drinks and fine seating arrangements. The frozen drinks were theatrical, but colder than expected. Please sip with caution. The wooden interior reminded me of what it means to be alive. I am wistful for the glittered sea shell toilet seat. Where are they? Please. Someone respond. If you come here, you will leave. Then, you will come back. Here.”
“Walking by, I always thought this place was abandoned. It’s not, it just opens 4-8. After 2 years I finally went to try their food. My burger was delicious. Service was good, family own/run. A good amount of customers for a Thursday evening. Will be back when Im craving bar-ey food.”
“I am Salvadoran. I had the hongos pupusa, the chicken pupusa, the yuca con chicharrones. Every bite was an adventure. The Salvadoran dishes are made so creatively. Flavors stayed on your tongue as the sauce of la yuca. The drinks exceptional good. I had the mango verde cocktail….so rico. It was like eating Salvadoran food on fine china.”
“the wontons were super delicious and filled with a really good amount of meat. the spicy oil they used tasted amazing and added a lot of flavor.
the noodles were really good too. my only complaint is they were extremely greasy, but that might just be how the dish is cooked. overall still very tasty.”
“Beautiful space. Alicia and her team are lovely hosts as well. I’ll be back again soon!”
“First time having Chicago style deep dish pizza and it was so tasty. The sauce is so good.”
“Really delicious and fresh fish here. Staff is attentive and helpful. We went relatively early and there was no wait. The timing of the food worked well too. If there is any hesitancy it's just that the cost adds up quickly (about $50- per person) with two cocktails and two sparkling waters and no dessert.”
“Millennium is my favorite vegan res! Excellent customer service, people, and atmosphere! The food is more than something to eat; it is something to experience!”
“Pad kee mao didn't quite hold up in take out but would love to try some of their offerings in dine-in someday. The chili oil also spilled in the bag in take-out”
“Moo Bong Ri is one of my favorite Korean restaurants in the area, especially when I'm craving something warm and comforting. Their gukbap is the reason I keep coming back. The broth is rich, flavorful, and comforting without being too heavy, and the portions are very satisfying.
The food always tastes fresh, and the side dishes complement the meal perfectly. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, and the service is friendly and efficient.
If you're a fan of Korean comfort food, I highly recommend trying the gukbap here. It's one of the best I've had, and I'll definitely be back for more!”
“Great tasting and nicely presented food (though not traditional Afghan) in pretty setting, but beware of high noise level and close-set tables plus inattentive unprofessional service on busy nights.”
“I’d gatekeep this place, if I was evil. Fantastic establishment. Oysters are sourced for flavor and not for brand; I’d say they have the best selection in the local area. Food is cooked to perfection and with care. Recipes are Californian, except for - and don’t sleep on - their Buffalo (NY) options such as the fleck and the wings. Excellent stuff. Service is chill and wonderful backyard.”
“Omg! this place ess awesome! the chicken & waffles were to die for.. I will be returning.soon!”
“My gf and I had an amazing time here. The food was good, the price was right, and our server Amanda was amazing. She was so attentive and friendly. Definitely my favorite ramen place in the Bay. Keep up the good work guys 😺”
“We reserved a party of 13 at Bocanova for Mother's Day to celebrate my mom, aunt and grandmother.we were seated in their beautiful main dining room and I have to say that for such a difficult day for restaurants the execution was flawless. The food was delicious, we started with the empanadas, beef, shrimp and mushroom, their Peruvian classic ceviche as well as brussel sprouts and cauliflower and they were all delicious. We followed with almost one of each for main courses and we all just shared, standouts were the Lomo Saltado, whole branzino, seared scallops, Brazilian moqueca and chicken a la brasa. We're all still talking about the food, service and ambiance. What a great experience, thank you Bocanova and entire team for such a memorable dining experience, you can tell that they work as a team and it shows! Can't wait to go back.”
“Falooda and I must say that it was so rich in taste , flavours & very authentic.”
“Mama’s is always fabulous! Great food, great people. What more can you ask for??”
“The food here is superb! My new fav Chinese restaurant in the east bay. Wholesome cuisine. Gentle and spiritual atmosphere. Those who work here are gentle and sweet.”
“Just came to this Gem last night and we had SUCH an amazing time! The drinks were 🔥 🔥🔥 Cristine is a true mixologist and totally set the vibe 👌🏼They have cute games you can play like connect 4, card games, Jenga, and a cute Photo Booth. The vibes were everything! The music was a perfect Blend playing reggae, 90’s, and even some bad bunny💃🏼 awesome spot to go to for date night 👌🏼🔥 will definitely be back! You are awesome Cristine!!!”
“A Hidden Gem!
I was initially hesitant to come here because, at the time of writing, this place had fewer than 100 reviews. But I’m so glad I gave it a chance!
This place is genuinely good and definitely worth revisiting. My only criticism is that the chicken in the tom yum soup was a little dry, which honestly isn’t shocking. A lot of places dry out their chicken, and getting it right is hard!
But the Thai papaya salad and beef Laab Seen were excellent. Bright, spicy, flavorful, and absolutely worth ordering. This place deserves more attention!”
“I stumbled upon this and so was rather to try it out, given the high reviews it had. And I'm glad to see that I was not disappointed. The samosas and potato pakoras were absolutely delicious. I'd had this at another restaurant and the difference was so obvious. This was fresher, more decadent, truly loved it. We then had the mixed kabob platter and I loved that they were willing to substitute the shrimp for salmon. It truly was a tasty mix of food, and the portions were actually good enough for two people. If more than two, then that would not be the best option. Dave was also amazing, and worked on meeting my special request. I loved that he wasn't upset about it and even came over to check to see how it was. The level of customer service he showed plus the other waitstaff was very welcome. I certainly would come back here again for sure, and would recommend it to others.”
“Yes I do recommend The Monk’s Kettle. Friendly people and great food😋”
“Absolutely delicious, colorful, healthy food! We ordered takeout for dinner tonight and had the chicken and mushrooms, Mela platter, beef tibs and sambusa. The portions were generous and everything was fresh and seasoning was off the chain!!! Try the brownies for dessert - you will not be disappointed!! When in Oakland, order from Mela Bistro 😋❤️😃”
“Excellent oysters. This place is perfect for a afternoon snack or a light bite with friends. Dinner and kids options are a bit limited, especially if you don't eat burgers.”
“Such great service. SO much so they even lent me a cell phone charger for my dying phone! :) The Salmon is AMAZING. The Crab salad was delicious as well. Will definitely be coming back soon. :)”
“Nigiri combo is excellent! I can’t wait to try the sashimi combo next. I came just before they were closing for lunch and people were steadily coming either to pick up or eat-in up until their closing time. It seemed they were regular customers who are keeping this place a secret and happy to say, I am on it already. Can’t wait to go back.”
Latest Reviews
“Sparkys has been in existence since I moved into this area over 40 years ago. The menu has evolved to include salads (like teriyaki chicken and teriyaki salmon)and some healthier options like quinoa bowls. That said, I still love their bacon cheeseburgers, various fries and tempura zucchini/mushrooms. If you like matcha, the milkshake is a creamy delight!”
“This place sells the most delicious Mexican food in Oakland, and what's even better is their prices are extremely reasonable. If I were to change anything, I just wish they would link up with one of the food delivery services available in Oakland. Being a disabled senior, getting out is sometimes prohibitive for me.”
“My daughter took me and the hubby here for our Thanksgiving celebration since she couldn't come home (Sac) for actual Thanksgiving, we went to her. This was a night I won't soon forget! Having a nice meal with our daughter was a treat, the service was amazing and the food....OMG! Every bite of every dish I tasted was so so delicious! I can't get the butternut soup out of my head it was THAT good! We all ordered different food & shared bites with one another. This night was so enjoyable! Thank you, Sis & Thank you Mama Oakland!”
Most Popular Restaurants
“Outstanding in every possible way. Best fried fish I’ve ever eaten, and everything on the tasting menu was excellent: the corn bread, salad, boiled peanuts, shishito peppers, hushpuppies and beans and rice. So much care has been put into the details, from the food to the atmosphere to the lighting.”
“My husband and I went last night. First time going. Restaurant was packed but I had reservations for outside table. The food was amazing and we had excellent service. We will be back again! Next time will try to sit inside. Looks like a beautiful restaurant with wonderful ambiance.”
“The karahi was full of flavor, perfectly cooked, and tasted just like homemade food. The saag was fresh, rich, and went so well with the naan. Everything was served hot and the staff was very welcoming too. Definitely a place I’d love to visit again with family and friends. Highly recommend if you’re craving authentic desi food!”
“we love the vibe, service and menu at GLK on Grand and have been going there for years. On our last visit we were surprised by how salty the food was. I think the cooks are overly generous with salt. Both our brussel sprouts and the scallops were really over salted. Next visit we will be sure to order low/no salt, and send back anything that's too salty.”
New Restaurants
“Easily my go to favorite place in Oakland and favorite place to bring people that are visiting. All the food is really tasty and affordable. The drink menu is so thoughtful and wonderfully crafted. I like that the place is a giant horseshoe shaped bar so it’s like dinner and a show because these bartenders are working their butts off. One of the best nightlife experiences in the East Bay, hands-down. Oh, also, bonus points for the popcorn machine in the back!”
“This is everything I want from a deli, nothing more nothing less. My son loves the pastrami sandwich and always asks to come here. The Dutch Crunch is on a different level here… feels like a free upgrade to every sandwich tbh! In addition to the pastrami, I also love the Italian and the Ultimate Veggie sandwich. Haven’t tried the panini options but they seem popular bc people are always ordering it when I’m waiting for my order. Oh and huge chip selection is also a plus!”
“Fantastic, flavorful, juicy high quality Chicken Verde and Pork Verde Burritos. They got my special request of no sour cream and extra cheese perfectly. The guacamole inside was so fresh, as was the rice, chicken, and whole beans and real Monterey Jack cheese. This is our new go-to spot for excellent Mexican food. And very good prices and service!”
“Stopped by this spot in Oakland to check out their food. Had heard they had gray Puerto Rican food but wanted to check it out for myself. Got lucky and had the owner/chef there and gave wonderful recommendations, samples and the history behind his grandmothers famous rice and beans. Once in a lifetime experience. We left full, and excited to spread the word. This place is a must stop, you won’t be disappointed! The black building with the Puerto Rican flag on top makes it easy to spot. Chef Eric has a big heart and great food. We will be back VERY SOON!!!”
“Moody chic place that is perfect for a date night. The ambiance is dark and stormy with a moon somewhere. Drinks are tight and crisp. Lots of sitting and standing spots.
I wasn't a fan of my negroni, but the lychee cocktail was incredible. The bartenders were friendly and knowledgeable.
This is my go-to spot for date nights.”
“The BEST meal! We absolutely love this place. Every dish we’ve tried has been fabulous. Definitely start with the mixed place to try a bit of many appetizers. And the Khan Plov is so so good. I had never had Azerbaijani food but this is our new go-to with guests or for a date night in Oakland.”
“Just go! There's a parking lot so you won't need to circle to find a spot. The food is INCREDIBLE!
And they have a little hidden oasis in the back where one can eat a crazy good burger & spiced fries.
It's the little things that matter - the special sauce, the sink in the back where we could wash our hands before / after eating, and the incredible service & smiles we received when we walked in. We'll be back anytime we are in the neighborhood!!”
“Nobody has said it, but this place opened less than 2y ago, and it’s becoming a gathering place for the POC community the way that Starry Plough in Berkeley.
On weekend nights, it’s suddenly become one of the hottest bars in the East Bay, with glitz, glamor, and the occasional celebrity sighting. It can be genuinely hard to get in, and a classy dress code is enforced. The owners are really nice. 51 + TEL!”
“Thrilled to share a five-star review for Henry, Kylie Ann and Alta Vina. I've been a customer here since they opened in June 2025, and I'm so impressed by the thought, care and love that have gone into building this business in its first year.
Henry is a wine expert who's always thinking of how to enhance the space, elevate the experience and refine the selection of wines he serves. His focus on finding the best small batch wines from California (Alta and Baja!) is laser-sharp and is matched only by his focus on finding new, meaningful, fun ways to bring in new customers and regulars alike.
Henry and the whole team are so welcoming to everyone who comes in the door. My partner, my dog and I always feel at home when we stop by.
Highly recommended.”
“A safe place for a celiac person to enjoy the food ride of their lives!!!
This was one of the best food experiences in my life! It was not just a meal...but an EXPERIENCE! Each bite, you went on a journey of flavors and textures that kept changing in your mouth. Layers of deliciousness 😋.
They change their menu up a lot. We had the celery root ceviche that was out of this world! We were not going to order it at first but the waiter said it was the best thing on the menu...and she was RIGHT!
This was followed by the fava bean battered pork belly and the short rib entree that was so tender that an impure thought could cut it! It was meat candy!
The for dessert we did this dark chocolate cake and the olbea!!!! Do NOT miss out on the oblea! Both were just so divine!
The only pain I experienced was wishing I had another stomach to fit more food!
Oh and the mocktails were GREAT!”