Culinary

Foodie Special

Looking for the best new Bay Area restaurant? Look no further—it’s right here in Oakland. From Michelin starred restaurants to authentic food trucks, Oakland’s diverse offerings run the gamut. Top chefs from neighboring communities are flocking to Oakland, which has quickly become the hottest dining destination on the West Coast. Craft Beer coinsurers and Wine lovers, dive in to Oakland’s urban wine trail and ale trail, with over 8 wineries and 12 breweries

Sample Itinerary:
48 Hours in Oakland For Foodies

Oaklanders are proud of their city for many reasons, especially the rich ethnic diversity. With over 125 languages spoken throughout the city, Oakland is one of the most diverse cities in the country. It’s no wonder that the cuisine mirrors this variety. Oakland’s nationally acclaimed food scene has quickly become one of the hottest food destinations in the US.

With an abundance of international cuisine to choose from, we had to break the itinerary up by continents. Beware—two days might not be enough time to eat through Oakland!

Day 1: South and North American Foodie Adventures

Start your food adventure with a variety of Mexican restaurants ranging from casual dining at Nido to more formal atmospheres at Tamarindo Antojeria and Dona Tomas.

For a blend of both continents, head to over to Bocanova in Jack London Square for North, Central and South America cuisine, made with sustainable California ingredients. Enjoy tastes from Mexico, Peru, Argentina and Brazil at Rumbo al Sur in the Glenview neighborhood.

For some good ‘ol American cuisine, Oakland provides many options. Head to Pican to experience true Southern hospitality. The restaurant combines the tradition of the South with the sophistication of California cuisine. Nothing says comfort food more than a meal at Homeroom. They specialize in macaroni and cheese made with local artisanal cheeses. Gluten-free vegan options are available, too.

Experience authentic “Oakland Style” BBQ at B-Side BBQ, a new favorite hot spot in West Oakland. For the vegetarians in the group, try the BBQ Braised Tofu entre. Or try Miss Ollies, an exciting new Afro-Caribbean restaurant in Old Oakland. For your burger needs, look no further than Tribune Tavern, located at the bottom of the iconic Tribune Tower, or True Burger, specializing in handmade burgers, shakes and fries.

Give into your sweet tooth craving at Fenton’s Creamery, a historic ice cream parlor and theoriginal birthplace of Rocky Road ice cream.

Day 2: Explore Africa, Asia and Europe — Oakland Style

Begin your new day at one of many Ethiopian and Eritrean coffee shops and restaurants including Addis, Café Colucci and YaYu.

Walk around Oakland’s vibrant Chinatown, the 4th largest in the country. For authentic dim sum, look no further than Restaurant Peony and Shan Dong for vast dumpling selections. Newcomer Hopscotch is an upscale diner serving seasonally inspired cocktails and regional American food with a Japanese flare.

Le Cheval offers Vietnamese cuisine, incorporating French, Chinese and Southeast Asian influences. Burma Superstar‘s regulars don’t mind the wait at this popular Temescal restaurant. Michelin star chef James Syhabout’s Hawker Fare boasts Southeast Asian street food, serving a variety of rice bowls with rich ingredients. Top Chef alumna Preeti Mistry’s Juhu Beach Club offers Indian street food in the Temescal district.

If Italian food is your desire, look no further than Bellanico for authentic, rustic cuisine, and Borgo Italia for Northern Italian recipes sure to satisfy. Lungomare in Jack London Square also offers fresh dishes inspired by Northern Italy’s cuisine.

BONUS TIP: If your visit to Oakland extends into the weekend, try one of the culinary walking tours throughout different neighborhoods: