Oakland’s vibrant culinary scene is filled with diverse and innovative dining experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these top restaurants in Oakland are must-visit spots that offer everything from soul food to creative Asian-inspired dishes.
Burdell
Address: 4640 Telegraph Ave., Oakland
One of the most anticipated restaurant openings of 2023, Burdell delivers an inviting atmosphere coupled with the excitement of a big Sunday supper. Chef Geoff Davis playfully reinterprets soul food favorites like the deconstructed chicken and waffle ($18), where the poultry component becomes liver mousse and crisp skin drizzled with a maple vinaigrette. Main courses like the pork neck ($39) with mushrooms and peach jam are complemented by excellent curated sides like greens ($13) dusted with berbere. Burdell makes great use of its limited license with inspired sake and vermouth cocktails, like one washed with coconut.
- Indoor Seating
- Vegetarian Options
- Top 25 Restaurant
- Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
- Drinks: Beer, wine, sake, and low ABV cocktails
- Hours: Dinner Wednesday-Sunday, brunch Sunday
- Website
Ok’s Deli
Address: 3932 Telegraph Ave., Oakland
After much anticipation, Ok’s Deli (pronounced Oak’s) transitioned from a pop-up to a small sandwich shop in North Oakland in 2022. Chef Albert Ok pays homage to the Asian American experience through the deli format, with a fine dining pedigree. A Spam-stuffed bánh mi ($16), Sichuan peppercorn-dusted hot chicken ($16), and a pig head sisig bolillo sandwich ($20) are but a few of the fantastic, creative and Asian-inspired options you might encounter. Despite these modern entries, the deli also leaves room for more traditional options like turkey or Italian. There are a few mainstays, but the menu evolves with the weather: If it’s cold outside, you’re more likely to see hot sandwiches. There are a few tables on the sidewalk, if you want to eat there.
- Takeout
- Delivery
- Outdoor Seating
- Top 25 Restaurant
- Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
- Drinks: Soft drinks
- Hours: Lunch Thursday-Monday
- Website
Tacos Oscar
Address: 420 40th St., Oakland
From the off-the-wall creative taco combinations to the rasquache-chic setting, Tacos Oscar is like the Herbie Hancock of taquerias, full of funky personality. Originally started as a pop-up in 2014, this taqueria, now housed in repurposed shipping containers, treats tacos and tostadas with fun whimsy. The charred broccoli ($4), for example, has the energy of a concerned parent telling you to eat your vegetables, but makes it delicious with crunch and spice. The egg taco ($5), a weekend brunch item, is one of the taqueria’s trademarks, where simple elements like an egg and salsa macha play off each other to create genius. The tostadas, meanwhile, are like edible plates beautifully embellished with seasonal produce, spiced with seed-filled seasonings like Egyptian dukkah.
- Takeout
- Outdoor Seating
- Vegetarian Options
- Top 25 Restaurant
- Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
- Drinks: Beer and wine
- Hours: Dinner Thursday-Monday, brunch Saturday-Sunday
- Website
Commis
Address: 3859 Piedmont Ave., Oakland
As Oakland’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, Commis is a culinary landmark. Chef James Syhabout offers an exquisite tasting menu that evolves with the seasons. The multi-course experience highlights the best of local produce, meat, and seafood, prepared with precision and creativity. Dishes might include delicately cured fish, savory custards, and impeccably crafted desserts. The intimate setting and exceptional service make Commis a must-visit for fine dining enthusiasts.
- Indoor Seating
- Top 25 Restaurant
- Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
- Drinks: Wine pairings available
- Hours: Dinner Wednesday-Sunday
- Phone: 510-653-3902
- Website
Nyum Bai
Address: 3340 E 12th St #11, Oakland
Nyum Bai offers a vibrant and authentic Cambodian dining experience in Oakland’s Fruitvale district. Chef Nite Yun celebrates her heritage with a menu that features traditional dishes like num pang (Cambodian sandwiches), machoo kroeung (sour soup), and amok (a coconut milk curry). The restaurant’s colorful decor and lively atmosphere enhance the dining experience, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
- Takeout
- Indoor Seating
- Vegetarian Options
- Top 25 Restaurant
- Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
- Drinks: Beer and wine
- Hours: Lunch and dinner Wednesday-Sunday
- Phone: 510-500-3338
- Website
Belotti Ristorante e Bottega
Address: 5403 College Ave, Oakland
Belotti Ristorante e Bottega is a beloved Italian eatery known for its handmade pasta and authentic Italian dishes. Chef Michele Belotti crafts each dish with care, using traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients. Standout dishes include the agnolotti del plin, filled with roasted meats and drizzled with sage butter, and the pappardelle with wild boar ragu. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends.
- Takeout
- Indoor Seating
- Top 25 Restaurant
- Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
- Drinks: Wine and cocktails
- Hours: Lunch and dinner daily
- Phone: 510-788-7890
- Website
The Wolf
Address: 3853 Piedmont Ave, Oakland
The Wolf offers a modern take on classic American cuisine in a chic, inviting setting. The menu features seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and a variety of dishes that range from comfort food favorites to innovative culinary creations. Popular items include the Wolf Burger with gruyere and caramelized onions, and the roasted chicken with seasonal vegetables. The restaurant’s stylish decor and friendly atmosphere make it a great spot for both casual dining and special occasions.
- Takeout
- Indoor Seating
- Top 25 Restaurant
- Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
- Drinks: Full bar
- Hours: Lunch and dinner daily
- Phone: 510-879-7953
- Website
Homestead
Address: 4029 Piedmont Ave, Oakland
Homestead is a cozy, farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on locally sourced ingredients and seasonally inspired dishes. The menu changes regularly to reflect the freshest produce and best ingredients available. Diners can expect to find hearty, comforting dishes like roasted meats, seasonal vegetables, and house-made pastas. The warm, inviting atmosphere and attentive service make Homestead a favorite among Oakland foodies.
- Takeout
- Indoor Seating
- Vegetarian Options
- Top 25 Restaurant
- Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
- Drinks: Wine and cocktails
- Hours: Dinner Wednesday-Sunday, brunch Saturday-Sunday
- Phone: 510-420-6962
- Website
Shakewell
Address: 3407 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland
Shakewell offers a lively and eclectic dining experience with a menu inspired by Mediterranean and Spanish flavors. Chef Jen Biesty and her team create vibrant dishes like paella, tapas, and wood-fired meats. The restaurant’s energetic atmosphere, colorful decor, and friendly service make it a popular spot for brunch, dinner, and everything in between. Don’t miss the churros with chocolate dipping sauce for dessert.
- Takeout
- Indoor Seating
- Vegetarian Options
- Top 25 Restaurant
- Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
- Drinks: Full bar
- Hours: Brunch and dinner daily
- Phone: 510-251-0329
- Website
Daughter Thai Kitchen
Address: 6118 Medau Pl, Oakland
Daughter Thai Kitchen brings bold, authentic Thai flavors to Oakland’s Montclair Village. The menu features traditional Thai dishes with a modern twist, like the spicy basil chicken, tom yum soup, and massaman curry. The vibrant decor and warm, welcoming atmosphere make it a great spot for a casual meal or a special night out. Be sure to try one of their signature cocktails, which are expertly crafted to complement the bold flavors of the food.
- Takeout
- Indoor Seating
- Vegetarian Options
- Top 25 Restaurant
- Payment Options: Credit cards accepted
- Drinks: Full bar
- Hours: Lunch and dinner daily
- Phone: 510-823-2354
- Website
Oakland’s dining scene offers something for everyone, from innovative and creative dishes to comforting and traditional flavors. Explore these top restaurants and experience the best of what Oakland has to offer!
FAQs
Which restaurant in Oakland offers the best soul food?
Burdell is renowned for its inventive soul food dishes like deconstructed chicken and waffles and pork neck with mushrooms and peach jam.
Where can I find creative Asian-inspired sandwiches in Oakland?
Ok’s Deli offers a variety of creative Asian-inspired sandwiches like Spam-stuffed bánh mi and Sichuan peppercorn-dusted hot chicken.
What is a must-try dish at Tacos Oscar?
The charred broccoli taco at Tacos Oscar is a standout item, combining crunch and spice for a delicious experience.
Which restaurant in Oakland offers a fine dining experience?
Commis, Oakland’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, provides an exquisite fine dining experience with a seasonal tasting menu.
Where can I find authentic Cambodian cuisine in Oakland?
Nyum Bai offers a vibrant and authentic Cambodian dining experience with traditional dishes like num pang and amok.
Which restaurant in Oakland serves handmade pasta and authentic Italian dishes?
Belotti Ristorante e Bottega is known for its handmade pasta and authentic Italian dishes like agnolotti del plin and pappardelle with wild boar ragu.
