Oakland's soul-food-restaurant per capita is pretty impressive, especially considering its 3,000 miles from the South. That's thanks to a strong African-American culture that's been part of the city's fabric since the founding. With a hunger for Southern comfort food, we set out to find the best soul food in Oakland -- and we know that we've missed a bunch. Let us know and we'll add your favorites to the list!
Iconic Soul Food Restaurants in Oakland
Burdell
Named for and inspired by Chef’s maternal grandmother, Burdell reflects her love for well-set tables, shared meals and laughter. Burdell is centered on nostalgia, family recipes, and sourcing — and on the forgotten impact of Black farming, ranching, fishing, foraging, and culture on American cuisine and hospitality.
What to Eat: Blackened Black Cod, the Boiled Peanuts and the Pan-Roasted Chicken
Location: 4640 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, California 94609
Home of Chicken and Waffles
Got a late-night craving for chicken and waffles? Head over to the Home of Chicken and Waffles in Jack London District. This 60's style diner has an entire menu dedicated to different chicken and waffles combos!
What to Eat: Paiges Palette - 2 Southern Fried Chicken Wings, Egg, and Waffle
Location: 247 4th Street, Oakland, CA 94607
Lois the Pie Queen
Lois the Pie Queen passed away, but her son continues her legacy by continuing to put out delicious food at their local go-to spot. Come down for breakfast or lunch for pancakes, grits, biscuits, and waffles.
What to Eat: Best Ever Fried Chicken Sandwich and the Gumbo Ramen
Location: 1000 Oak Street, Oakland, CA 94607
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.
What to Eat: Sweet Potato Pie
Location: 851 60th St., Oakland, CA 94609
Southern-Style Vegan in Oakland
Souley Vegan
Tamearra Dyson, owner of Souley Vegan has been cooking her signature vegan dishes since the age of 18. Chef Dyson, a vegan from an early age believes in cruelty free eating. Enjoy your usual go-to dishes like gumbo, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy but with a vegan spin.
What to Eat: Toasty Burger and Creole Pop’ens
Location: 301 Broadway
Vegan Mob
The Mob Meals are barbecue plates with your choice of proteins and sides: the smackaroni mac and cheese and collards are standouts, and fried chicken fans will like the spicy fried chicken (the Cajun seasoning is recommended). The gumbo is also a fan favorite!
What to Eat: The famous Mob Meals
Location: 500 Lake Park Ave, Oakland, CA 94610
Where to find the best BBQ in Oakland?
Everett & Jones
In 1973 Dorothy Turner Everett opened Oakland's beloved Everett & Jones BBQ & soul-food restaurant. This family-owned business continues to thrive and is a great place for live entertainment!
What to eat: Two Way Combo with Collard Greens
Location: 126 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94607
Horn Barbecue
A Bib Gourmand establishment, Horn Barbecue is not one to miss! Its "West Coast'' style of barbecue draws inspiration from Texas, the South, and the chef's own family traditions. The restaurant has become a neighborhood staple. Customers rave about the hot links, pulled pork, beef ribs, brisket, oxtails, and whole ducks served here. Matt Horn, the owner, cooks with the passion and purpose of a chef who knows that he has a responsibility to represent the best of his people. “I am their story,” says Matt. “We are their wildest dreams.” The dream is Horn Barbecue.
What to Eat: Hot link, ribs, and brisket with a side of their potato salad.
Location: 464 8th St, Oakland, CA 94607
Smokin' Barbecue
Smokin' Woods BBQ offers a variety of smoked meats, including beef brisket, pulled pork, and ribs, as well as sides such as mac and cheese, collard greens, and some of the best cornbread in The Town. Smokin Woods BBQ has a casual and friendly atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family.
What to Eat: Ribs, chicken, and their decadent banana pudding.
Location: 4307 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland, CA 94609
Roderick’s BBQ
Roderick's BBQ is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for delicious and authentic barbecue in Oakland. With a menu featuring classic favorites like brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The restaurant's cozy and welcoming atmosphere, paired with their friendly and attentive service, make for an all-around exceptional dining experience. Whether you're a barbecue aficionado or a first-timer, Roderick's BBQ is sure to leave you satisfied and craving more.
What to Eat: Pulled pork, tri-tip, cajun catfish, and their flavorful greens.
Location: 2708 98th Ave, Oakland, CA 94605
See all that The Town has to offer! Check out our Digital Inspiration Guide and start planning your trip!
