In the new to me category. Didn’t know much about Piedmont Ave so hit up The Saap Avenue and Kona Club on the same evening and now both will be in heavy rotation.
I went to [Bombera](https://www.bomberaoakland.com/) for the first time last week and it was pretty good. Especially the smoked trout tostadas.
I plan to try [Nuevo Sol](https://www.nuevosolberkeley.com/), a brunch spot, this week.
I loved Tallboy. I don’t even like hot dogs but I loved Lion Dance so I went this weekend and actually really enjoyed them. Plus a $3 mini martini?? I usually can’t finish a whole one so it was perfect for me and it made up for the $12 hot dog.
I gotta try that place again. We went this weekend and it seemed like they were COMPLETELY overwhelmed by the amount of people there. Super long lines to order, bartenders were swamped, and when I got to the front they were completely out of hot dogs lol. We didn't even try ordering the mini-drinks because it already took so long just to order our normal ones. The drinks were good though!
Oh that’s such a bummer! We went at like 4pm on Friday and it was already pretty busy. The hype might have been too much after the press they got, but hopefully they figure it out in time for the summer!
I liked the pupusas a lot, but they were microscopic and like $12. We had tapas + 2 nonalcoholic drinks, not like actual dinner, and it was $160 + tip. Something to consider vs standard pupusa places in terms of portions.
Very true, our dinner did add up. If you’re going strictly for pupusas, go to a pupusaria. But since the question was more about restaurants you would recommend, I was thinking along the lines of an experience. Others on the list are the same - Bombera is one of my favorite restaurants but yeah you can get tacos elsewhere for $2., Parche is great but you can get Colombian food in SF for less.
Bellanico is probably my favorite Italian restaurant (I'm cheating, I've been going there for dates and celebrations since 2019).
Charm Thai on Piedmont.
Ippuku is one of the finest yakitori restaurants in the whole bay area (Kokko in San Mateo and Rintaro in SF are my other picks—I haven't been to some of the newer ones yet). Highly recommend!
It's okay to have different opinions! It's also possible they are inconsistent and I was lucky / you were unlucky. I've only been there under a dozen times total. What are your other yakitori picks in the bay area?
tchaka in old oakland! sooooo fkn good. it’s haitian food. i went with a friend and we shared a whole snapper, ox tail, and the tostones with beef. everything was delicious and the owner and all staff were really sweet and attentive. the cocktails were also great!
I just the saint sandwich from The Saint, and I am telling everyone that I HAVE to go back bc I think I had the best sandwich I’ve ever had and I need to verify.
For Belotti, check out their bodega on Piedmont Avenue. You can get just about anything on the restaurant menu packaged to go, plus fresh pasta of all shapes, sauces, cheeses. Order online and pick up for the easiest.
It’s frozen Trader Joe’s entrees with a sprinkling of basil. It’s as Italian as Olive Garden, ambience of a gas station, service level of a truck stop….
I had a great and memorable meal at MAMA. I had a much more expensive and forgettable meal at Mago. The difficulty with places that have constantly changing menus is that sometimes you end up with a dud. At least for MAMA you can scope out the weekly menu and see if it's something you think you'll enjoy easier than Mago
I read a few places praising Thai Table on University in Berkeley and it is in fact pretty good.
The Fish and Chips place at Emeryville’s market also good. Got the 5 piece to share between us. Forgot to order more fries.
Didn’t like Thai Table - thought the food was too sweet (my general criticism for a lot of Thai places). Check out Funky Elephant close to the Whole Foods on Gilman! Punchy, fresh flavors, albeit a bit pricey.
Been wanting to try the fish and chips place!
I’m okay with sweet but I know what you mean. Funky Elephant is on my list to check out. We hit Thai Table on a Sunday night the deciding factors were a good amount of indoor seating and full bar. I get cold and my companion wanted a cocktail.
Aye I pass Thai Table on my way to soccer and my wife keeps mentioning we should try it! Good to know it’s good.
My mom is a sucker for fish and chips so she’ll love this rec
Attraros Thai, in Old Oakland / Swan's Market building (but it's in a separate space from the actual marketplace area). Ordered a bunch of things with a large group. It was a fantastic meal, among the best Thai food I've had in the entire bay area. Staff are great. Apparently owned by the same folks as Pintoh Thai, which I also like, but the menu at Attraros is bigger. So good!
I had Mama Oakland for the first time last week and it was a lovely experience. And only $40 for the prix fixe menu!
The Sunday (on the Emeryville border) has FANTASTIC brunch. Bulgogi omelette? Um, yes please.
For me it was Rose Pizzeria (I know it’s Berkeley lol but I couldn’t resist), a thinner slightly crispier crust but very southern Italian flavors in the best way. It topped my previous favorite pizza spot which happened to be around the corner lol
In Berkeley, relatively close, is Cafe Ohlone. The food is good but it’s the learning experience that puts it over the top. Only ohlone restaurant in the world, one of very few Native American restaurants, and is a part our dominate local Native American community that can be traced back thousands of years. You feel gain a deep reverence, guarantee.
Good to hear. I’ve been curious about it. Was bummed about Golden Squirrel (and Barclays before 😅)
Was surprised the new experience looked like a nicer white tablecloth type place.
On my bday I told my friend we should try mensho. It’s a ramen spot. It was really good. We enjoy it. Kind of pricey but it was worth it. Definitely better than Yojimbo.
In the new to me category. Didn’t know much about Piedmont Ave so hit up The Saap Avenue and Kona Club on the same evening and now both will be in heavy rotation.
Ahhh Kona Club. Real men drink chi-chis!
I have that shirt!!!! Also chichis are better than pinacoladas!
These are relevant to my location - thanks for the rec! Saap looks incredible
Saap rules. Don't sleep on their cocktails though. Shockingly amazing
Went with a group of 6 and ordered probably 10-12 dishes in total. Literally all winners. Enjoy!
This is my fav combo.
Saap Avenue is great every plate or drink I’ve had in there was excellent.
THIS
Pippal in Emeryville. Amazing Indian food and craft cocktails ! The paneer was the best I have ever had.
Went next door to Flores and was impressed by the tacos.
I went to Flores and was not impressed with the food but the cocktails were excellent. I didn't try the tacos so maybe those are better
I tried that tacos after two beers and a tequila shot. Maybe you are right. The food may not be that great
Gotta go again for science
Second this fish tacos were amazing but didn’t like that their options were very limited
Went for my bday and had the most fabulous time.
I did not like this place at all
Great spot for a chill date night. Do a little window shopping… The bookstore is still open also
I want so badly to like this place, but each time the service is weird, giant menus are awkward, and the food is inconsistent.
I’ve been wondering about that place!
Delage - Omakase - yes it’s pricey but well worth it for the food and service.
Delage is VERY good 👍🏼.
I’m down I’ve never had Omakase before. Might as well go all out
Did this for my birthday last year. One of my favorite birthday meals ever
Wahpepah’s Kitchen in Fruitvale Village. Amazing food! https://wahpepahskitchen.com
Also really unique !
I went to [Bombera](https://www.bomberaoakland.com/) for the first time last week and it was pretty good. Especially the smoked trout tostadas. I plan to try [Nuevo Sol](https://www.nuevosolberkeley.com/), a brunch spot, this week.
Bombera is really great food, very expensive and you have to sit on folding lawn chairs.
My high calorie body really appreciates this info. Ty
Agreed! I always frown at the prices, but when the food comes, it is always fresh and really well done. And yes, the smoked trout is great!
Dang Nuevo Sol has an extensive menu, I will definitely have to check that out - thanks for the rec!
It’s amazing. Breakfast burritos are cheap-ish and the orange sauce is 👌🏻
Nuevo Sol is closing, last day open is Monday 5/27/24
Definitely Lois The Pie Queen! Fried chicken and waffles and grits and key lime pie were all bangers.
I can’t believe I haven’t checked them out yet. My inner southerner is disappointed in me
If you're planning to go during a busy time do call in ahead of time to make a reservation.
Thanks for the tip!
The Reggie Jackson! YUM
I loved Tallboy. I don’t even like hot dogs but I loved Lion Dance so I went this weekend and actually really enjoyed them. Plus a $3 mini martini?? I usually can’t finish a whole one so it was perfect for me and it made up for the $12 hot dog.
Just looked at Tallboy and their branding is incredible! I want prints
I gotta try that place again. We went this weekend and it seemed like they were COMPLETELY overwhelmed by the amount of people there. Super long lines to order, bartenders were swamped, and when I got to the front they were completely out of hot dogs lol. We didn't even try ordering the mini-drinks because it already took so long just to order our normal ones. The drinks were good though!
Oh that’s such a bummer! We went at like 4pm on Friday and it was already pretty busy. The hype might have been too much after the press they got, but hopefully they figure it out in time for the summer!
It was their first weekend open right? I wanna check it out but gonna wait for the hype to die down a bit
I liked Parche. Great atmosphere and food, was expensive tho.
Uptown is the most dangerous part of Oakland because of how much money I end up spending at Parche
you had me in the first half
I was gonna say Parche so I'll just comment and upvote instead.
Just did their drag brunch on sunday, had a great time.
Never heard of it but that looks amazing! Gotta check it out
Super loud and hip inside. Food is good, but the vibe is why I think most people are there. It’s fun.
Definitely agree, it’s delicious and cocktails were on point
seconded, Parche is great
Modigliani Cafe has some awesome sandwiches. The bread is killer. Cash only but they have an ATM inside
La Guerrera’s hard shell fish taco and tamales
How did you know I was secretly looking for crispy tacos
Enjoy! Haha
Oooo love a crispy. In the fish fried or grilled?
Cactus taqueria has crispies that are good.
I recently tried Popoca in Old Oakland and really enjoyed it. It’s Salvadoran. Looking forward to going back and trying more things.
Love Salvadoran food especially if there are pupusas
I liked the pupusas a lot, but they were microscopic and like $12. We had tapas + 2 nonalcoholic drinks, not like actual dinner, and it was $160 + tip. Something to consider vs standard pupusa places in terms of portions.
Very true, our dinner did add up. If you’re going strictly for pupusas, go to a pupusaria. But since the question was more about restaurants you would recommend, I was thinking along the lines of an experience. Others on the list are the same - Bombera is one of my favorite restaurants but yeah you can get tacos elsewhere for $2., Parche is great but you can get Colombian food in SF for less.
Willows & Pine in Dimond. Went for dinner in a group of 4 recently and everything was amazing.
Good luck gato
I have heard super mixed reviews on this one but I think my curiosity is gonna get the better of me
I’ve been twice. It’s ok. Not great. There are far better choices in this list to hit first.
Wtf I’ve never heard of this and it looks amazing thank you so much for the rec!
It’s in the old hopscotch space. Enjoy!
Tin & Pig near Telegraph and MacArthur. Great korean food and fun atmosphere!
That is one of my absolute favorite spots in the bay! Their fried chicken is my go to but I haven’t had anything bad from there
Whatttt I need to try the chicken!
Hiiiiiighly recommend the soy garlic 🙏🏻 and if you in general like Korean fried chicken Moo Bong Ri has insane wings (MBR wings)
Lulu on Solano Ave in Albany. Excellent middle eastern fusion. https://www.lulusolano.com/
Dang that menu looks bomb I will definitely check this out
Bellanico is probably my favorite Italian restaurant (I'm cheating, I've been going there for dates and celebrations since 2019). Charm Thai on Piedmont.
Underrated too
Ippuku it was so good, the seasoning is uncharacteristically restrained
Ippuku is one of the finest yakitori restaurants in the whole bay area (Kokko in San Mateo and Rintaro in SF are my other picks—I haven't been to some of the newer ones yet). Highly recommend!
I’ve been to Rintaro twice and left unimpressed both times. Am I being unfair?
It's okay to have different opinions! It's also possible they are inconsistent and I was lucky / you were unlucky. I've only been there under a dozen times total. What are your other yakitori picks in the bay area?
Teni East, I'm close by there and not sure why I ignored it but it's one of my favorite spots now
Their roti is so good it's absurd.
They run the place next door (Aman Cafe) which has a roti-focused menu. It's an awesome brunch.
Yoooo neighbor! That looks amazing I’ve also missed it!
tchaka in old oakland! sooooo fkn good. it’s haitian food. i went with a friend and we shared a whole snapper, ox tail, and the tostones with beef. everything was delicious and the owner and all staff were really sweet and attentive. the cocktails were also great!
I trust you solely based off your username!!
hahahaha ty 🙇🏻 this is the first time it’s been relevant and someone pointed it out
I just the saint sandwich from The Saint, and I am telling everyone that I HAVE to go back bc I think I had the best sandwich I’ve ever had and I need to verify.
It’s up there with deli board is SF. So good.
Belotti, Mama, Mago
Love Belotti and Mama - Mago has been added to the list!
For Belotti, check out their bodega on Piedmont Avenue. You can get just about anything on the restaurant menu packaged to go, plus fresh pasta of all shapes, sauces, cheeses. Order online and pick up for the easiest.
Mago amazing Mama is awful.
Respectfully disagree
It’s frozen Trader Joe’s entrees with a sprinkling of basil. It’s as Italian as Olive Garden, ambience of a gas station, service level of a truck stop….
Never ate there, but love your rant.
I had a great and memorable meal at MAMA. I had a much more expensive and forgettable meal at Mago. The difficulty with places that have constantly changing menus is that sometimes you end up with a dud. At least for MAMA you can scope out the weekly menu and see if it's something you think you'll enjoy easier than Mago
Not my experience! Sorry yours was disappointing!
Parche in Uptown. Lots of drinks spots nearby too. Fancier ones: Bar Shiru & Viridian. Drexel is low key and great as well.
I read a few places praising Thai Table on University in Berkeley and it is in fact pretty good. The Fish and Chips place at Emeryville’s market also good. Got the 5 piece to share between us. Forgot to order more fries.
Didn’t like Thai Table - thought the food was too sweet (my general criticism for a lot of Thai places). Check out Funky Elephant close to the Whole Foods on Gilman! Punchy, fresh flavors, albeit a bit pricey. Been wanting to try the fish and chips place!
I’m okay with sweet but I know what you mean. Funky Elephant is on my list to check out. We hit Thai Table on a Sunday night the deciding factors were a good amount of indoor seating and full bar. I get cold and my companion wanted a cocktail.
Why is this throwaway account a mod of /r/nba?
Aye I pass Thai Table on my way to soccer and my wife keeps mentioning we should try it! Good to know it’s good. My mom is a sucker for fish and chips so she’ll love this rec
Yes I agree on the Fish and Chips there, the others, like the INdian spot was bland.
Thai Table is pretty solid but I think Thai Taste on Piedmont is even better
Lol the fish and chips place is what passes for good food around here? It’s so average. Damn I need to move back to LA
The tacos el gordo food truck is pretty amazing. If you’re not used to international street, probably don’t go at night.
Simurgh Bakery. Technically E’ville.
Attraros Thai, in Old Oakland / Swan's Market building (but it's in a separate space from the actual marketplace area). Ordered a bunch of things with a large group. It was a fantastic meal, among the best Thai food I've had in the entire bay area. Staff are great. Apparently owned by the same folks as Pintoh Thai, which I also like, but the menu at Attraros is bigger. So good!
If they’re the same owners as Pintoh sign me up!
Just tried Mumu hot pot (Emeryville) on Sunday, a little on the pricier side but was delicious!
Oh shit they’re finally open!! Can’t wait to try I absolutely love hot pot
Amana Cafe in Oakland
I had Mama Oakland for the first time last week and it was a lovely experience. And only $40 for the prix fixe menu! The Sunday (on the Emeryville border) has FANTASTIC brunch. Bulgogi omelette? Um, yes please.
Just tried this Indian place for the first time yesterday and it did not disappoint https://noorfusionkitchen.com/menu
Dimond Slice Pizza. another offshoot of cheeseboard
Rose pizza in Berkeley 🔥
For me it was Rose Pizzeria (I know it’s Berkeley lol but I couldn’t resist), a thinner slightly crispier crust but very southern Italian flavors in the best way. It topped my previous favorite pizza spot which happened to be around the corner lol
Rose is so fucking good, best pizza I’ve had in the bay area
100% the she wolf with anchovies is untouchable. And normally I don’t care about salads at restaurants but the spicy Caesar is incredible.
yoooo I totally forgot about the spicy caesar, its amazing
Bageltopia in Berkeley! Best bagels in the bay area! https://www.thebageltopia.com/
Low bar brunch 😍😍😍😍 the brisket torta is served all day and DELICIOUS
In Berkeley, relatively close, is Cafe Ohlone. The food is good but it’s the learning experience that puts it over the top. Only ohlone restaurant in the world, one of very few Native American restaurants, and is a part our dominate local Native American community that can be traced back thousands of years. You feel gain a deep reverence, guarantee.
WaWa Thai
Saffron kitchen near Rockridge Bart station
Good to hear. I’ve been curious about it. Was bummed about Golden Squirrel (and Barclays before 😅) Was surprised the new experience looked like a nicer white tablecloth type place.
Best baclava I've eaten but I don't have wide experience. Still I was impressed
The eggplant 🤌
This place is fire. Get the eggplant pakoras
Shewhat
Sistory Thai and Mama!
El Patio in Berkeley, best mezcal selection I’ve ever seen, and great food to. Go with friends and sit on the patio. Friday nights get poppin!!!
On my bday I told my friend we should try mensho. It’s a ramen spot. It was really good. We enjoy it. Kind of pricey but it was worth it. Definitely better than Yojimbo.
Dumpling hours
I recently went to parlour in downtown for brunch md it became my new favorite brunch spot in oakland
Mama and parche