Brenda's Oakland

Name: Brenda's Oakland
Address: 4045 Broadway #101, Oakland, California, 94611, US
Telephone: (510) 929-0510
Price range: $$
Rating: 4.2

$$ • Southern, Cajun, Pet Friendly

Hours:
4045 Broadway #101, Oakland
(510) 929-0510

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About Brenda's Oakland

Brenda's Oakland offers exceptional comfort food, including the best fried chicken in the East Bay and delicious beignets. The shrimp and grits are also a highlight, with top-notch consistency, cheese, and shrimp. Sides, such as homemade strawberry preserves and biscuits, are solid. The service is excellent, timely, and friendly, with a professional and direct staff. The restaurant is a great spot to support a Black-owned business, with a commitment to integrity and cleanliness. The outdoor seating area could be improved, but the food is consistently "bomb" and worth a visit. Customers praise the quaint atmosphere, amazing and fresh-tasting food, and pleasant table service. The biscuits, beignets, and shrimp and grits are standout menu items, though some find the beignets too dense. The vibe features jazz music that sets a relaxed tone, and the large windows and patio seating create an airy, community-connected feeling. To-go orders are taken at the inside counter, and check-in is at the patio entrance. The staff, not wearing uniforms, provide warm greetings and attentive service without rushing. The food, including the shrimp and grits, is flavorful, with perfectly cooked shrimp and a creamy, cheesy base balanced by fresh tomatoes, onions, and scallions. The chicken and biscuits are also popular, with handmade jam as a must-try. Many customers feel that nothing in the Bay Area compares to the Southern-style home cooking at Brenda’s, praising dishes like catfish, mac n cheese, collard greens, and po’ boys. Overall, Brenda’s offers a laid-back atmosphere, stellar service, and food that feels like real Louisiana home cooking, making it a favorite for friends and visitors alike.