Known for its vibrant cultural scene and gorgeous sunny summer days, Oakland is the perfect destination for a meal out on a beautiful patio. This list will help you discover some of the best restaurants in The Town that have outdoor seating that is ideal for a sunny day with a loved one.
Brenda’s Oakland
Chef Brenda brings her New Orleans roots to The Town with her third establishment, Brenda’s Oakland. From fried chicken, and beignets, to good ol’ gumbo, your southern food itch will be fulfilled here at Brenda’s!
Must Try: Beignets (flavors range from chocolate to savory crawfish), that are served hot and fresh all day.
Address: 4045 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94611
Bocanova
Bocanova, the Pan-American Grill & Restaurant, is back in downtown Oakland after a six-year hiatus. Co-owned by Martin Ladera and Chef Rick Hackett, the restaurant is committed to creating a supportive and engaging environment for its staff. If you're looking for a modernized and bright space in downtown Oakland, be sure to make a reservation at Bocanova.
Must Try: Anything on their brunch menu, including their pork in chile verde with a poached egg, cotija cheese, tortilla strips and avocado.
Address: 1111 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94607
Daughter Thai Kitchen
Calling all Instagram foodies, this one's for you! Daughter Thai Kitchen brings delectable Thai food and photo-worthy decor, perfect for your Instagram feed. Hanging floral decor and fairy lights make the outdoor seating area perfect for a romantic date night in the Montclair Village.
Must Try: Pad See You that also comes in a gluten free and vegan option. If you’re there to try any of their famous cocktails, go for the Island Thai Tea that is made with silver rum.
Address: 6118 Medau Pl, Oakland, CA 94611
Drake’s Dealership
Drake’s Dealership provides the ultimate casual experience with great food and of course great brews! Their outdoor seating area has plenty of seating for any large group that may come to celebrate a birthday, host a meeting, or just plan to chill! The brewery also has fire pits scattered across the establishment perfect for anyone who tends to get chilly.
Must Try: You can’t go wrong with their Uptown pizza, which is topped with mozzarella, sausage, and go ol’ bacon. You can pair that with a Denogginizer Double IPA to get the full Drake’s experience.
Address: 2325 Broadway Auto Row, Oakland, CA 94612
Enssaro Authentic Ethiopian Cuisine
The restaurant's cozy and inviting atmosphere, combined with its authentic Ethiopian dishes, makes it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. With its friendly service, delicious food, and cultural ambiance, Enssaro Authentic Ethiopian Cuisine is definitely worth a visit.
Must Try: Lamb tibs, vegetarian combo, and the Enssaro special kitfo.
Address: 357A Grand Ave, Oakland, CA 94610
Lake Chalet
Dubbed one of the best waterfront restaurants in the Bay Area, Lake Chalet offers indoor and outdoor seating options with stunning views of Lake Merritt. The restaurant also offers private event spaces with a seating capacity of up to 200 guests.
Must Try: For breakfast their crab & shrimp benedict, and for their braised short rib that comes with creamy garlic mashed potatoes on the side.
Address: 1520 Lakeside Dr, Oakland, CA 94612
Left Bank Brasserie
Left Bank Brasserie is an authentic Parisian-style brasserie known for its simple, seasonally changing French menus crafted by founder and acclaimed Chef Roland Passot. Located on the waterfront in Jack London Square, the restaurant offers a full menu with an extensive cocktail list.
Must Try: Their grilled sausage that is made in house and served with roasted fingerling potatoes on the side.
Address: 55 Webster St, Oakland, CA 94607
Nido’s Backyard
This restaurant is known for being the Bay Area's first agave garden that offers seasonal Mexican cuisine and agave spirits and cocktails. The motto at Nido's Backyard is "Mi BackYard es su BackYard," which means that everyone is welcomed to enjoy Oakland's weather, margaritas, and fun times.
Must Try: Their guacamole paired with chips never misses, as well as their La Picosa cocktail.
Address: 104 Oak St, Oakland, CA 94607
Oeste Bar & Cafe
Oeste Bar & Cafe is a Black-owned lounge located in the Old Oakland neighborhood. It features Southern-inspired cuisine and a rooftop deck for guests to enjoy. The establishment is a trusty all-day hangout, serving seasonal homey fare.
Must Try: Their classic Mac N’ Cheese does not disappoint. Add some grilled shrimp on top to make the dish more fancy!
Address: 722-730 Clay Street, Oakland, CA 94607
Plank
The premier entertainment destination that offers something for everyone! This 50,000 square feet facility features state-of-the-art bowling lanes, arcade games, billiards, live music, and a full-service restaurant and bar. Whether you're looking to enjoy a night out with friends, host a corporate event, or celebrate a special occasion, Plank has everything you need to have a great time.
Must Try: Their garlic parmesan wings with a French margarita on the side.
Address: 98 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94607
Portal Oakland
Not only do they have the most perfect outdoor seating for a summer day, but Portal Oakland also has a delicious extensive menu perfect for anyone’s taste buds. They are also known for their friendly staff and their short distance walk to Lake Merritt.
Must Try: For brunch try their chilaquiles, for dinner try pesto and pine nut pasta with grilled chicken.
Address: 1611 2nd Ave, Oakland, CA 94606
Square Pie Guys
Square Pie Guys is a Detroit-style pizza joint that offers a wide range of pizza options with creative toppings and quality ingredients. Their new outdoor patio serves as the perfect spot to treat your team at work, and you also have the ability to rent out the space for any birthday parties, hangout, or work meetings!
Must Try: Their Big Von pizza, ingredients include white sauce, italian sausage, pepperoni, and Mike’s Hot Honey. The pizza was named and made by legendary 106.1 KMEL radio personality, Big Von.
Address: 499 Dr. Huey P. Newton Way, Oakland, CA 94607
The Cook and Her Farmer
This establishment is run by a dynamic duo who are passionate about bringing fresh, locally-sourced food to their community. The bar's menu features a wide variety of delectable oysters and fine wines, all carefully curated to provide customers with the best possible food experience. The Cook and Her Farmer's commitment to sustainable agriculture and support for local farmers makes it a standout destination for foodies and environmentally conscious diners alike.
Must Try: Their fisherman stew or their vegetarian lasagna. Please advise that items on the menu can be sold out so make sure you check the menu before you head in.
Address: 510 9th St, Oakland, CA 94607
Did we miss a spot? Please email us at marketing@visitoakland.com and we will kindly add the Oakland establishment to our list.
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