Whether you’re visiting Oakland for the weekend or you’ve lived here your entire life, these brunch spots are a must-eat. We know that brunch is the most important meal of the day, especially on the weekends and special occasions such as Mother's Day, Easter and more. So we decided to list some of best brunch spots in Oakland that you need to try. Disclaimer: these aren’t the only brunch spots we are drooling over.
Grand Lake Kitchen
With two delicious locations, Grand Lake Kitchen gives you more to love. Both locations have a sleek modern look—providing you with an abundance of Instagram-worthy moments, and we cannot rave enough about the food. Try the pastrami benedict, the savory French toast, or a beauty bagel—but don’t let us tell you what to order. You’ll be back soon, trust us.
Grand Lake Kitchen is located at 2042 MacArthur Blvd and at 576 Grand Ave.
Kitchen Story
Located in the heart of Rockridge, Kitchen Story is a California cuisine restaurant that proudly represents a combination of cultures between California (spicy, avocados, and cilantro) and Asian influences. Kitchen Story serves a creative American breakfast and brunch menu with a touch of Asian influences. They provide a top-quality food in a friendly, relax and fun atmosphere to create a heaven for people who love great food and drinks.
Kitchen Story is located at 5422 College Ave.
Mockingbird
You are in for a treat for breakfast at Mockingbird. If you and your friends want to feel like you are dining like kings, this is the place you want to go. The interior is chic; the food is delicious, the plating is spectacular, do we need to go on? The menu has a lot of great choices, but for the potato lovers out there, try the Moroccan Spiced Chicken Hash.
Mockingbird is located at 416 13th St.
Oakland Grill
Nothing beats a traditional breakfast, and Oakland Grill delivers that—and more (you gotta try their famous crab cake benedict). Walking in, the friendly staff and the smell of food are the first to greet you. Whether you’re eating breakfast or lunch, you can taste a little bit of Oakland tradition in every bite.
Oakland Grill 301 Franklin St.
Plank
Located in a picturesque setting, overlooking the waterfront, plank is a unique Oakland experience where friends and family can gather. plank’s brunch menu features cuisine that utilizes local ingredients and represents the melting pot of cultures in California, featuring a variety of dishes such as their salmon benedict, stuffed french toast, and much more!
Plank is located at 98 Broadway
Portal Cafe
How can Portal Cafe not be included on this list? The food is delicious, especially their famous Garbage Breas. Even their weekend playlist is filled with classic jams from Erykah Badu, Solange, Kaytranada, and even Thundercat. If weather permits, ask to sit on the patio for a great view of Lake Merritt and a great vibe. Eat at Portal with a friend so that you can try everything, but if you’re riding solo, we recommend the GCCB. The patio is also pet-friendly so may enjoy brunch with your furry friend!
Portal Cafe is located at 1611 2nd Ave.
Shakewell
The menu is continuously changing to keep you on the edge of your seat, but not to worry; everything is delicious. Sweet or savory, breakfast, or lunch, Shakewell has a huge variety of choices to pick from. Not only do you need to try this spot for breakfast but also because the co-owner, Jen Biesty, is one of Food Network’s Chopped Champions.
Shakewell is located at 3407 Lakeshore Ave.
Town Fare Café
The cuisine at Town Fare pays tribute to Chef Michele McQueen’s Southern roots and Oakland upbringing. While the backbone of the menu may be rooted in food for the soul, the menu highlights the diversity and cultures that exist in the Oakland community. This can be found in their delicious Soul Brunch menu, available every Sundays from 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Menu includes favorites such as their Chicken and Waffles, their Low Country Shrimp & Grits, and the Best Ever Fried Chicken Sandwich!
Town Fare is located inside the Oakland Museum of California (OMCA) at 1000 Oak St.
When brunching in Oakland, it’s hard to choose just one place. Stop by them all and tag us on Instagram at @visitoakland at your favorite spots to eat in Oakland!
See all that The Town has to offer! Check out our Digital Inspiration Guide and start planning your trip!
