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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Oakland

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175 restaurants available nearby

A photo of MUA restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1376)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Oakland
Booked 22 times today
MUA is known for its open atmosphere, eclectic décor, art events and, of course, its delicious food. Ideal for large parties or intimate gatherings, the spacious dining room creates a relaxed, casual vibe for guests to enjoy their meals. A large selection of wines, cocktails and beers make MUA a great spot for an evening out with friends. Family owned and run Mua was one of the first restaurants to open in what was then Auto Row in Oakland, in 2008. After their first 2 restaurants, Pastoral in Berkeley (first opened in 1982 while still students, 37 in the architecture program at Cal and San-Ju painting at SFAI) then later Soizic (Jack London Square, 1996), they wanted to shift gears from heavily curated menus to more comfort-based fare catering more to the eclectic and artistic community in Oakland. Today you’ll find people of all ages and backgrounds, from Too Short to Jerry Brown.
A photo of alaMar Dominican Kitchen restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(195)
Price: Expensive
• Caribbean • Oakland
Booked 8 times today
alaMar is a Contemporary Dominican Kitchen located in the hip Uptown Oakland area. Bravo TV's Top Chef Season 18 Contestant, Chef Nelson German, dives deep into his Dominican culture at alaMar by offering a regional menu of foods he grew up on that his mom, grandmother, and Aunt Maritza would cook and NYC-style Dominican street foods he enjoyed as a child. German brings a unique take to family recipes with his contemporary NYC twist on traditional dishes, including his popular braised oxtail dish. There is indoor seating and a dog-friendly patio with heaters for al fresco dining. The not-to-be-missed craft cocktail program reflects Caribbean influences such as the signature Mamajuana cocktail.
A photo of Commis Dining Room restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(1230)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Oakland
Booked 7 times today
Commis in Oakland is a Two-Star Michelin rated fine dining restaurant by James Beard Foundation Nominated Chef James Syhabout that serves a multi-course Tasting Menu.Diners at Commis are invited to linger for 2.5 to 3 hours over an multi-course meal in a warm, comfortable and relaxing dining room appointed by glowing glass light pendants, dark furniture, bare walnut tables, dim lit candles and floral arrangements. Delivered by the attentive service staff and sommeliers, the cuisine of Commis showcases some of the best Northern California ingredients that are in season through modern and classic cooking techniques. The cuisine aims to bridge the flavors, textures and temperatures of the East and West with every course with the intention to excite and satisfy.
A photo of ACRE Kitchen and Bar restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(652)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Oakland
Booked 60 times today
ACRE is an ingredient-driven menu of California/Mediterranean cuisine served witha welcoming, neighborhood approachability.*20% gratuity will be added to all parties 8 or more.
A photo of Bardo Lounge & Supper Club restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(487)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Oakland
Booked 19 times today
Recommended in the MICHELIN Guide for California 2021-2023. Located in Oakland’s historic Grand Lake District, Bardo is a neighborhood lounge and restaurant inspired by the comfort and camaraderie of a mid-century dinner party. Drawing on the celebration and elegance of old school entertaining, we envisioned a space for friends and neighbors to enjoy amazing food, cocktails, conversation and great music. Our lounge is a swank living room, furnished with hand-picked finds from antique and vintage markets from Palm Springs to Portland. Our mezzanine dining room features a rotating menu of fresh, seasonal supper-fare with local and sustainably sourced meats, fish and produce. While we think the food, drinks and atmosphere are all great reasons to visit us, it’s the relationships with our friends, neighbors and guests that is the driving force behind Bardo.
A photo of Grand Lake Kitchen - Lake Merritt restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(663)
Price: Moderate
• American • Oakland
Booked 49 times today
Grand Lake Kitchen at Lake Merritt is a beloved neighborhood gem. The place is cherished for its 'consistently delicious, interesting, comfort with good cocktails and service' as one reviewer put it. It's a favorite spot for many, offering a warm, friendly atmosphere, and an excellent menu of American classics. The reviews rave about the 'amazing' food, 'yummy' cocktails, and the 'fantastic' service. The 'great vibe' and 'good value' make it a neighborhood gem.
A photo of Yoshi's Oakland restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(8301)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Oakland
Booked 63 times today
Yoshi's has served Japan's best traditional dishes to Bay Area patrons since 1972. The menu highlights artfully arranged sushi, fresh grilled seafood, classic Japanese dishes, and vegetarian fare. Patrons can kick off their shoes in the traditional Japanese tatami seating or dine at tables. Expert sushi chefs create sushi and sashimi to order either in the restaurant or in the jazz house. Start the evening in the cocktail lounge before dinner or have a nightcap after taking in a show in the jazz house.
A photo of Millennium Oakland restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1336)
Price: Expensive
• Vegan • Oakland
Booked 12 times today
Since 1994 Millennium has been committed to providing fresh, innovative vegan cuisine. Millennium offers globally inspired plant-based fare in an inviting fine dining setting. Working with small farms, our menu changes constantly to showcase the finest local, sustainable, and organic produce at its peak. Thoughtfully blending flavors from around the world with classic techniques, we create vibrant dishes that are exciting to diners of all kinds. Our bar features inventive cocktails highlighting our house-made infusions and fresh juices, as well as craft beers and an internationally recognized wine list.
A photo of Enoteca Molinari restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(594)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Oakland
Enoteca Molinari is an Italian restaurant & wine bar (with heated outdoor seating) that specializes in house-made pasta and Italian dishes using local and seasonal ingredients. Enjoy our all Italian wine list and don't forget to try some dessert.Please make sure to give us 24 hours of notice if you can't make your reservation. Thank you for your understanding!Grazie mille!
A photo of Limewood Bar & Restaurant restaurant
4.3
Awesome(2462)
Price: Expensive
• Unspecified • Berkeley
Booked 44 times today
Experience a vibrant, casual gathering place with bay view patio seating, showcasing regionally-sourced cuisine. A kitchen inspired by Bay Area artisans is complimented by a spirited bar offering house-crafted cocktails and a well-balanced wine list.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Amitava
    San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    I went to Bardo Lounge & Supper Club on 27th December with my family. There were 5 of us. We were not celebrating any occasion. In one simple word, our impression was that the food was outstanding! Starting from the first course, the Pickled Seasonal Veg, Apple & Parsnip soup, the Fall Salad and the main entre, we devoured the food. Four out of five of us had the 6 oz, Bardo Burger, which was delicious. Incidentally, we noticed only one dish based on fish, with hardly any sea food in the menu! The service was good! All in all, this was a restaurant where we will go again and again with friends and family!
    More info
    Bardo Lounge & Supper ClubPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Oakland
    4.8
  • Leslie
    San Francisco Bay Area •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Acre never disappoints. This was no exception. There was a delay in the kitchen and food was taking longer than usual to come out. We barely noticed because we were with old friends catching up. But the manager came out and apologized and brought us a free appetizer and comped another round of drinks, so we were all good!
    More info
    ACRE Kitchen and BarPrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• Oakland
    4.6
  • Ganna
    San Francisco Bay Area •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    We were back to Commis after 8 years and it did not disappoint! Great, state of art food! We will definitely be back again, hopefully sooner!
    More info
    Commis Dining RoomPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Oakland
    4.9
  • RobinVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •37 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 19, 2024
    Mua was a compmete surprise! Suggested by Open Table, the space is captivating, lively and great food. We had softshell crab, chicken milanese, burrata with grilled veggies in a very good sweet balsamic. Champagne then tea and two excelkent desserts, chocolate pecan pie with ice cream and breadpudding with cremey anglese.Very good value smart food with interesting people.
    More info
    MUAPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Oakland
    4.4
  • Willie
    San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 5, 2024
    Every Dish was DELICIOUS! It felt like I was in Santo Domingo! I can't wait to return for more of those Oxtails, the Plantains, and the shrimp criolla!
    More info
    alaMar Dominican KitchenPrice: Expensive• Caribbean• Oakland
    4.6

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Oakland

Discover the hidden culinary treasures of Oakland in the San Francisco Bay Area's East Bay with our curated selection of "neighborhood gem" restaurants. Each establishment showcased offers a unique blend of atmosphere, cuisine, and exceptional service, embodying the local charm and hospitality that Oakland is renowned for. From American classics to Mediterranean delights and innovative Asian cuisine, these restaurants provide a rich dining experience that caters to diverse palates and occasions, whether it's a casual outing or a special celebration. The dining scene in Oakland is vibrant and eclectic, with eateries that perfectly balance quality, comfort, and creativity, making each meal a memorable event. Patrons can expect to find welcoming environments that pair innovative cocktails with consistently delicious dishes, all served with a smile in settings that range from chic and modern to cozy and traditional. This selection emphasizes establishments that are praised for their great vibes, value, and the ability to turn a simple meal into an extraordinary experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these neighborhood gems in Oakland are must-visit locations for anyone looking to enjoy great food and great times. Join us in exploring Oakland's finest, where every restaurant promises not just a meal, but a journey into the heart of the city's culinary spirit.

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