50 Best Cafes in Oakland

“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.“

“It's a wonderful place. I didn't like the dish that I ordered, but the chef came out and asked who was the taste of my dish and I told her I didn't like, and she offered to me another dish, she brought me a vegetarian dish, 😅 It was so delicious. I love it, ❤ great place.“

“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.“

“Very nice and cute little Ethiopian cafe. I definitely need to bring a friend or two with me to do the coffee ceremony!!! But from what I experienced with the veggie plate, pretty good run of the mill Ethiopian food. Lots of people hanging out and having a sip of coffee or other drinks.“

“Really great spot for some Egyptian food. The restaurant is tiny and has an authentic feel to it but is fine for take way for very small group dining. We tried the shawarma and it was amazing. One of the best shawarma I've ever had. Very unique. The sauces and the veggies really make it but the chicken itself is very tasty too.“

“Petit Cafe is a hidden gem! The warm ambiance, delightful pastries, and rich coffee make it the perfect spot to unwind. The staff are friendly, and every visit feels like a little escape from the hustle and bustle. Highly recommend!“

“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…“

“It is close to Ashby Bart Station. They have all kinds of sweets and drinks too. I like the decorations too.“

“100%recomendado lo mejor el café ☕️ super rico 😋 👌 lo mejor muy bonito el lugar“

“The breakfast biscuit is sooo fluffy and delicious. I decided to order one day after looking for a restaurant that had beef bacon, so glad I did. It’s very filling and enjoyable.

I just had it for the second time today and it was still so good.“

“I am a regular at this local and family-owned business, and I will say that this place DOES not disappoint.
Located right off of Foothill, it's at a prime location where you won't miss it -- because the coffee shop is right on an intersection.

The first time I went here, I was immediately blown away by the smell of the cafe de olla. As you can imagine, having a craving for it would have instantly brought me to it -- and it did. The owner, Sal, is always so welcoming each time. There's something about the coffee shop with the art and her energy. Their cafecito is one of the best in Oakland. She'll even ask if you want milk and sugar in your cafe de olla (when some cafecito places don't). Not just that, they also make the different pastries and arroz con leche from the kitchen (and from local sources as well).
They also make tamales as well -- from what I've heard! And their chilaquiles are also the BEST as well.

I would give this place a try when y'all have the chance!“

“Best breakfast sandwich in the area, and best prices too!!
Today’s special was chorizo and I was thrilled they let me add chorizo as the meat option to the breakfast croissant.
This was the best tasting breakfast sandwich, truly cooked and assembled to perfection, and the service is friendliest in the town for sure. Thanks Dimond cafe!!“

“the place is very nice plus the view across the street is like a gigantic mirror ! you should see it for yourself !!! it really is something to look at while having your coffee.... it is spectacular !!!! and of course, the staff were super sweet !“

“The staff is absolutely nice and professional. The vibes in side are great. I ordered a iced strawberry matcha and it was delicious! I just hate the neighborhood that it is in. If only we can pick up that little shop and place it in a better neighborhood. But everything else was superb.“

“Dawit is the best! Truly a great guy and great coffee, I enjoy our conversations and always come back. I enjoy the habesha coffee, it reminds me of my family back home in Sudan and the same spices we use. Check it out, you won’t be disappointed.“

“The delightfully friendly staff serve up truly delicious caffeinated concoctions...a wonderful way to start the day.“

“Everything about this place, from the ownership to the food to the ambience to the friendly staff, is 5-star. I highly recommend Cafe 15 ;-)“

“Great local and family owned coffee shop. It's small but we appreciated the space and the wonderful service very friendly and she made our breakfast sandwiches to order. They take cash, Venmo, and Zelle just a heads up but that wasn't an issue for us. Would highly recommend to anyone.“

“Their drinks are fantastic, the food is delightful and the vibe of this place is one of the best in the Bay.“

“I saw the ratings and didn't know what to expect. Brought my family here to avoid the Berkely Parents' Weekend crowds. I was so pleasantly surprised the quality of the food and service. The roti is so fresh - perfectly crispy and chewy. The spices on the food and house coconut dipping sauce offered so much flavor - we were all blown away. Our kids loved the Thai Tea. Accomodates vegan taste buds and all other dietary preferences.“

“This review is on their coffee. I’m a coffee snob for health reasons, bad coffee burns my UT. Red bay, High Wire, 4 Barrel, bird and bear is my standard. So if this is your vibe be reading.

So, the coffee is ok. Not bad but not impressive. They use Costco milks. So from taste point of view. It’s already boring without even drinking it.

I had a sourdough Breakfast sandwich. Ingredients were pretty standard, but it was pretty tasty with some hot sauce and ketchup.

Coming here is more of a “I need something now” vs “I want a tasty treat”

I will be back as they do have some other great offerings.

My search for great coffee in this area continues.“

“Town Fare is excellent. Just ate here at their last Sunday brunch which happens monthly. It was buffet style. Chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits were superlative. The location in the Oakland Museum is super stylish and classic. This restaurant needs to be supported.“

“I mean what more can you ask for.

Brioche was perfectly toasted.

Sausage was juicy and delicious.

Sauce was creamy and tangy.

Egg were well seasoned and very tender.

All for less than $10

What a gem.

Bonus the iced late was smackin'“

“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®“

“Awesome chill space to catch up with someone. All kinds of flavors so you don’t even have to like kava to find something you like. Melo Colada was heavy on sweet/colada and I loved it. Melo Chai and Cream were also delicious. Go for happy hour 3-6pm I believe for $2 off drinks“

“We never had Ethiopian food before, I don't even know how to order.
After the owner kindly suggested the most popular items, we tried the lamb & the fish, and I was blown away.
Price-wise, it's inexpensive and delicious.
Love the decor here, it's comfy and neat, you can even work here with the music and the delicious coffee or specialty healthy tea called Renaissance ( love the name).
Glad I get to try this restaurant even though I just curiously walked by.“

“The classes are fun and energetic, the staff super nice, and I love getting to grab a healthy snack after class!“

“Kind owners and workers. Bright open space, I have never been on a weekend, but always find space and an outlet here. The tea and coffee is strong and dialed, with excellent flavors and fun specialty drinks. The food is also simple and well seasoned, I had an abscess in my throat at the time and couldn’t stop eating their basil beef rice bowl. So bomb! Wow!“

“great food & atmosphere! 5 stars!!“

“Incredible experience. The staff were genuinely kind and humble, which made everything feel even more special. You can tell they really care about what they do—the coffee was expertly made, and the sushi was some of the freshest and most flavorful I’ve had. Truly impressed. Highly recommend.“

“One of my favorite places“

“So good, really enjoyed the chicken wrap and that almond croissant 🥐❤️‍🔥 Croissant is unbelievably good ( and I mean it, as I lived in Paris and I do know the real thing taste ) So now it’s my « To go » favorite place to grab food for lunch !“

“great location downtown Oakland. price is good. Food is good.“

“This hidden gem in downtown Oakland is everything you hope for in a true mom-and-pop restaurant—and more. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with genuine warmth that makes you feel like part of the community.

The lunches are simply outstanding: hearty, nourishing, and clearly made with care. Every dish feels thoughtfully prepared and satisfying without being heavy.

What really sets this place apart, though, is the heart behind it. The owners are incredibly friendly and take the time to connect with their customers, creating a welcoming space that goes beyond just great food. It’s the kind of place that brings people together and makes downtown Oakland feel like a neighborhood.

I can’t recommend it highly enough!“

“I walked in, I was welcomed by the warm and cozy atmosphere that instantly made me feel at home. The space is inviting, with a charm that reflects Filipino hospitality—genuine, friendly, and full of heart. The owner and staff greet you like family, and the vibe is perfect whether you’re meeting a friend or just enjoying a quiet coffee break. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to stay a little longer.“

“I wanted to try everything here! Had breakfast pastries, miso chicken bowl, desserts, and lattes and mochas on numerous occasions during my trip to the area. All were wonderful and tasted homemade. Egg tart was so smooth, flavorful, and not rubbery. I want to know their secret to this! My other favorite item is the walnut chocolate chip cookie. Omg so decadent!“

“Great atmosphere. Clean and pleasant. Great place to have meetings and/or study. Really comfortable booths and open seating. Plugs at tables. Great selection of foods and drinks. Had a green iced tea and a black iced green tea that were great. Breakfast sandwich was wonderful too. Not greasy or heavy but it was a large portion.“

“Shapeshifters is a great place for seeing artistic ideas, either to give or to get and the beer isn't bad either. Come out and support local artists they'll be glad you did and so will you.“

“This is hands down my favorite coffee shop! The coffee here is consistently amazing. You can taste the care and quality in every cup. The owner goes above and beyond with customer service and truly cares about the coffee he serves. You can tell he takes pride in every detail, from the beans to the presentation. It’s rare to find a place that feels this personal and welcoming. Highly recommend to any true coffee lover!“

“A fantastic addition to the neighborhood and a model for a community oriented business in West Oakland! The cafe is a
chill space for coffee and treats, and the restaurant, open most evenings, offers delicious comfort food at reasonable prices.“

“I love this place so much, great place to chill or work. Their Salvadoran horchata latte is so addictive (I have ordered nothing but it since I first went there), and if you happen to be there when Azukar has their food I highly recommend it!! Their wraps and empanadas are so flavorful and incredibly unique.“

“Customer service is always welcoming, if you're social there's always a good conversation waiting or if you want to work with headphones on that's an option. The coffee or tea is great along with good food choices.“

“This is truly a neighborhood establishment. The people who work here are super kind and seems to greet and know everyone who walks through the door. The man who works there offered me free refills and added a complimentary espresso shot in my ice coffee. Really warm and sweet vibes here :)“

“Best food and gift shop!🤗🤩“

“Great place to go to grab something to eat. Either solo or with company. Very nice service and the food was outstanding! I got the breakfast burrito! They have parking in the back of the restaurant so you don't have to pay for meterd parking (if you don't want too).“

“I started going here like 4 months ago and I cannot stop coming back their sandwiches are so fresh and they have the softest rolls. I don't know what they put on it but it is very delicious and flavorful. Their service is very fast I go there all my lunch break and it doesn't take longer than 5 minutes. The staff is also very polite.“

“This coffee place is definitely a place where you wanna go, when there's not that much people. I love the modern and hip vibe of the building in itself -- the decor inside the place a really cozy yet light environment.

I love how active they are about giving back to the community. That to me shows a lot. They're also proudly Latina and women-owned too, so that in itself shows a lot.I walked in and got an horchata latte -- and needless to say, they were one of the best ones I've ever gotten. It tasted really silky, not too sweet, and the cinnamon taste wasn't overbearing. One thing to note - they are closed on Tuesdays, which is odd. I will not question that.

They are also a vibe as well -- great hospitality and they treat everybody who comes in like familia. Now THAT is how you run a local and small-owned business and have regular customers like me go back time by time.

I definitely will be back to support this establishment!“

“Such a great vibe, beautiful local space, SUPER coffee and pastries, amazing service. Do yourself a favor and go if you are community minded and kind and love coffee and pastries.“

“I wanted to take a moment to highly recommend Shalom Fast Food for anyone looking for the best breakfast and exceptional service in the area. Having experienced their offerings firsthand, I can confidently say that their food quality and customer service stand out above the rest. If you’re considering a place to enjoy a memorable breakfast, Shalom Fast Food is an excellent choice. Please feel free to reach out if you would like more information or a personal recommendation.“

“What a truly wonderful experience. My husband and I stumbled upon Im Moment Kaffee by total coincidence on our way to a Ballers game, and it is a total gem. The owner is such a warm, kind soul—she was so incredibly patient and sweet while my toddler ordered. The atmosphere is amazing, filled with great music and a welcoming vibe. You can taste the care in their food and drinks; the breakfast sandwiches are made in-house, and the coffee is incredible and deeply rooted in culture. They even went above and beyond to make me an off-menu iced cardamom latte, which was absolute perfection.“