The Most Delectable New American in Oakland

Ballast Point

★★★★☆ 4 (92) • $$

"Date: Wednesday, June 12th, 2024Time: 6:15pmParty of: 2Meal: Dinner before a concert at ChaseReservations Made: via OpenTable the day before*16oz California Kolsch ($9)*Belgium Pretzel Bites ($15)*Broiled Deviled Eggs ($12)*Spinach Artichoke ($16)*Garlic Parmesan Fries ($12)*16oz Longfin Lager ($9)*Surcharge ($3.65)A girlfriend and I were going to the Janet Jackson concert at 8pm. We figured we should meet up for some food beforehand. I looked around and this was the only place offering reservations at a time that worked with the concert and was after work hours. I would highly recommend making a rez as it was busy when I got here.You scan the QR code on the table and order everything online. You can't request glasses of water or anything, so make sure to remember to ask when your drinks and food are delivered. No one checks on you or anything. I still tipped 20% since I just do that automatically, but there's really no service in the traditional way here if you think about it.The food was fine. Just your typical bar bites. Tho the fries were my fav. Very garlicky and savory. Definitely the best dish. The pretzel bites were too fluffy and chewy in the wrong way. I wanted the texture to resemble a carnival soft pretzel. The cheese was also too thin. The beers were good. I'm not much of a beer drinker if there's liquor around, but it's easy to sip on. They were out of the beer that reminded me of a belgian witbier, so I picked the ones above.Convenient if you want to grab some drinks and food before going to Chase Center where a 16oz beer runs $16. Definitely better on my pocketbook. REVIEW #3454"

Chaplin’s Sports Bistro

★★★★☆ 4.1 (688) • $$

"I can't believe I've never written a review for Chaplin's before. I went on a Friday night just to grab some drinks with friends. They had a DJ to my surprise and really gave the place a good vibe. We got lucky and were seated in a booth right as we walked in. They have ample parking, but also have street parking available. I got a Moscow mule which was good and some Cajun fries. The Cajun fries had a kick to them if dipped in the chipotle mayo. The service was great with the team checking in every 10 mins to see if we need another drink or food item. I would highly recommend you check it out.Just wanted to add that I went and they had the Formula 1 Australian GP Practice 2 playing so I think they play the Formula 1 GP's here. Great to know I found a spot where I can go watch and have a drink!"

Southside Spirit House

★★★★☆ 4 (358) • $$

"Attended a private party in August. Very nice, clean interior and ambiance. The bartenders were quick and generous with their pour. Enough room for a DJ, private concert, dancing and seating for those socializing at the bar or in the lounge area. Our food was catered in, I am not sure of their menu options. Parking is not far and secure."

Naglee Park Garage

★★★★☆ 3.8 • $$

"Absolutely love this charming restaurant! Love that they have outdoor seating and an extra star because they have the CUTEST mascot dog named Barona. She's a sweetheart and so well behaved. Let's start with the ambience... at night it's really pretty with the string lights. Their menu is simple and changes often. I stick with the burger and the fries. I've also had the salmon fettuccine and the portions were Humungous! Enough for leftovers for another meal for the next day. A great place tucked into the beautiful Naglee park neighborhood. Parking is limited and shared with House of Bagels but the hours are different so you shouldn't have to worry about parking. Just a chill place to see the cutest dog, grab a drink, and support a local business!The owner was super nice and came to check on me and Chris my server was wonderful! Will be back again to try the different menu."

Ceron Kitchen

★★★★☆ 4.1 (523)

"Visited Ceron with 3 friends for Saturday brunch. Place opens at 10am and was empty...it's unfortunate as the interior is beautiful and aesthetically gorgeous (Modern Mission style) from the former business (Otaez Mexican Restaurant). *sigh* The vibe almost transports you to dining in the City without going across the bridge and circling for parking. The menu is creative and interesting so plenty of items to try. Options for brunch: eggs Benedict, chicken and waffles, simple breakfast with coffee cake and sandwiches. I opted for the French dip sandwich which was presented well and enjoyed the accompanying potato salad. Though good I probably wouldn't order again and try a seafood dish .Friends enjoyed their dishes and what really finished off the meal was the chocolate silk dessert. Light chocolate mousse with a chocolate-crust with varying textures of chocolate gelato, candied hazelnut and chocolate tuile.Our server/host was the Owner/Executive Chef Juan Jaquez - very welcoming, engaging, and mentioned he formerly was head chef at Paradiso, San Leandro for 15 years....i knew the food was different after the pandemic and time he left to open Ceron! I really enjoyed the food when he was there and will have to return to Ceron to try their dinner service. Service was efficient and attentive even after more people arrived.Place is a great venue for a special occasion and meet up with friends. I'd definitely return to try some of their appetizers and eyeing the Berkshire Pork chop. Everything looks delicious albeit pricing on the higher side with like spots. Nevertheless, I'll give it a try if Juan is in charge of dinner service! :) Parking lot in back with metered street parking. Outdoor patio up front (facing Webster) and bar area is great when weather permits or if you have a pet. Highly recommend visiting Ceron!"

Inn Kensington

★★★★☆ 4.2 (327) • $$

"A cozy neighborhood diner, with friendly staff who remembers everyone's names. Good food Definitely worth a visit!"

Z Café & Bar

★★★★☆ 4 (466) • $$

"So I'm sad to say we have been sleeping in this place over the last 6 years! Had no clue it even really existed although I drove past it plenty of times! I honestly thought it was a new establishment until I found out it's been here for a long time! One of my favorite parts of this place was the interior architecture. You can tell from all the crown molding this building has history and has been around a long time! I love it! To me it has a story and I wish I knew what it was. The food is also delicious. I wish I would have known sooner plus they have a super good happy hour menu! We will be back to try that soon. The service was top notch however, we did come when they had literally just unlocked the doors so it was just the two of us. We will have to go back during busier hours and see if it's still as good. All in all definitely worth a try!"

Wahpepah’s Kitchen

★★★★★ 4.7 (265) • $$

"The presentation of the food is excellent and the menu is truly unique. My favorite things were the maple latte and the frybread taco (even though it's a little hard to hold!). The cornbread was a little dry but still tasty, and the acorn crepe was a perfect dessert to share."

Low Bar

★★★★☆ 4.2 (165) • $$

"Someone referred us to Low Bar on a local FB page...so glad he did! We went there for an early dinner before a concert at the Fox a couple weeks ago. Loved it and went back last weekend with our 28-year old niece. The food AND service were great! We ordered several different things and shared. Got a second order of a couple things!Low Bar has a casual local hangout kind of feel with a good vibe. Love the Photo Booth! The first time we took BART and walked; last weekend we parked in the public lot across the street. The lot can be reasonable ($5?); however, if there's a 'special event' at the Paramount, the fee is a flat $20. We are older than what appeared to be their usual demographic (we're in our early 60's); nevertheless, we felt comfortable and had a great time!Looking forward to going back!"

Neptune's

★★★★☆ 3.7 (584) • $$

"Went for breakfast burritos. The burrito was good but not amazing. For $11-12 (pretty standard price in the area) that can be forgiven. However, what was absurd was the up charge for the "meal" which was about $4-$5 extra for just a few tater tots. They also tasted stale and like they were from the frozen aisle. Also, the girl at the window isnt very friendly -- almost feels like you're burdening them by giving them business. If you go, call ahead and make sure you just get the burrito. I think they threw in some junk fees on our bill too -- not sure how two breakfast burritos made it to $30 (and then asked for tip after bad window service, lol). Won't be back any time soon."

Provisions

★★★★☆ 4.1 (481) • $$

"I had the fried chicken sandwich. Unfortunately, I found it very bland. I was hoping for some flavor.I ordered my fries well done and unfortunately, they came not well done and cold. I did ask for the fries to be as ordered and they did fix it."

Mäksē Restaurant - Vacaville

★★★☆☆ 2.9 (320)

"I love this place, love jazz music and the bartender Alexander is the best and so kind. I'm surprised not many people come here. The food is absolutely delicious."

The Rendez-Vous

★★★★☆ 4 (91)

"Excellent bar and atmosphere. Great for meet ups lots of local love from the neighborhood."

Creekwood

★★★★★ 4.5 (536) • $$

"I have not been there since they are first opened.Went on saturday night dinner.1) same nice decor, clean, modern look2) Waitress is attentive and nice3) Ordered Gaupacho cold tomatoes soupvery tasty4) ordered mushroom pizza, I have more high expectation, somehow, when they first opened, I felt their pizza is better than saturday.5) ordered Gnocchi in pesto sauce, very tasty according to my husband.6) dessert tiramishi's size is very big, good value."

Stratus Restaurant and Bar

★★★★☆ 4.1 (16)

"Your basic hotel restaurant, offering a reasonable menu.Decent quality and service, and pricing."

Steins Beer Garden & Restaurant

★★★★☆ 3.6 • $$

"I am really puzzled by the reviews here and the ratings that go with it."I had a great time!" "This is my go-to place!" And then 4 stars. I sincerely hope some of these folks have bosses who give them glowing reviews and then say "4/5 though".Had a great time here and it was packed. Buddy and I met up for drinks and even though I had dinner, I was tempted by the menu. All the tables looked like they were having a great time as well. Great ambiance for a group or smaller party."

Warehouse Cafe

★★★★☆ 4 (406) • $$

"Definitely worth the drive and cook unique iconic location . Recommend going on a Friday or Saturday night and order the prime rib dinner. Note they are cash only but they have an ATM onsite.Be sure to stop by the whimsical gift shop while you're there. You won't find any other place like this place"

Executive Order Bar & Lounge

★★★★☆ 4.3 (161)

"If you are still contemplating, this is your sign to book and come through! I had the best experience booking and hosting my partner's 30th birthday party with about 35 guests altogether. The guests loved the food, drinks, music, and vibes!! Will definitely come by again soon. CHOOSING EXECUTIVE ORDER: One month prior to the event, I was searching for a venue that suited our needs for food, drinks, music, vibe, and pricing. I had been researching 20+ places including Executive Order. Once I heard back from them with the details and options for my event, I knew they were the one! I had specific requirements that I wanted for this event and the owner was extremely helpful, open, and responsive to all of my inquiries. There was never a moment of uncertainty since they presented me with so many options for food /catering and beverages for that night that were clearly outlined in our email communications. Expectations could not have been clearer. AN UNFORGETTABLE NIGHT: From the initial event booking inquiry until even an hour after our space rental had ended, the staff were the most kind and attentive to our large group. The staff went above and beyond in checking in with me upon arrival one hour before our event and until one hour after the event. They had the space prepared for me more than one hour in advance and helped me setup! Truly grateful for their compassion and willingness to go above what was asked of them for that night. As the night began and guests arrived, they kept me updated with the status of the food coming out and the drink tab. They even helped me coordinate shots around the room to make a toast, light the birthday cake, and cut the beat for the music for us to sing happy birthday. A CLOSER LOOK INTO FOOD, DRINKS, MUSIC:FOOD: The food/catering was too easy to do - it is an excel sheet / google sheets! I strongly recommend the duck fat fries, buffalo wings, and sliders (turkey or chicken). All of it was a HIT. Guests ate it up and came asking me for more! DRINKS: The choice to opt into a pre-paid open bar was a no-brainer. All the guests had a great time ordering to their hearts desires and the bartenders were amazing in receiving all the guests and creating the drinks. Even though shots were the most popular, a few of the guests chose something off their drink menu which they told me was delicious as well. MUSIC: On the night of our event, there was a live DJ playing 90s hip-hop and R&B. The vibe was perfect for the scenery and the DJ was super supportive of our large group - taking requests and coordinating fade outs for us to have a celebratory moment filled with speeches, singing happy birthday, and cake blowing. And once our moment concluded, he played us out with a birthday banger, never missing a beat! Special thanks to John Eric, Dave, T, Ryan, DJ Mark, and the rest of the staff who made that a night to remember! I could not imagine the night going more smoothly."

Cafe Pacifica

★★★★☆ 4.1 (320) • $$

"Such an awesome local place! Picked up a couple of bagel sandwiches (highly recommend the Land Lubber) and we were in and out in 5 minutes. It does get pretty packed on the weekends so come early. Not that much seating indoors but you're just a few minute walk from the beach. Come support a local business!"

The Walnut Tavern Bar & Grill

★★★★★ 4.5 (91)

""Walnut Tavern" seems like a perfectly fitting name for the overall ambiance. The lighting, windows and wood details create an upscale, cozy feeling. The menu has good variety. Our party of 6 ordered warm olives and calamari to share. The olives were the stand-out and amazing (I almost got a serving order). The two salads were good, and eaten as meals, the burgers were good and satisfying. They came with salad or fries. I would opt for the salad next time since the fries were the kind with a crumbly coating which I don't enjoy. The Root Vegetable blend with spicy tomato coulis was delicious. We were well taken care of by our servers who were attentive but also gave us space. I'd love to return"

LB Steak - Bishop Ranch

★★★★☆ 4 (715) • $$$

"A friend has been to telling us about a great Happy Hour at LB Steak and that we need to meet up to try it out. We made it happen on a recent Friday. We arrived at 4:05 and were sat at one of the bar tables. The happy hour is from 4-6pm and is for seating at the bar and the tables in the lounge area. The area was pretty much full already. There's a TV on the bar wall that was on a sports channel.The menu consists of six Bites items, wine (sparking, red, white and rose), rotating beer selection, two mock tails, and four cocktails. I got a beer, and we shared the loaded tater tots and each got the Wagyu burger.The loaded tater tots were topped with bacon bits, chives, and a four cheese béchamel. Good size bowl of tots. The Wagyu burger came with lettuce and tomato with cheese add-ons at $1 and fries and dill pickle wedge. The burger was good with toasted buns, but felt the patty could have been thicker. Our waitress was friendly and food came out in a relatively quick. A good happy hour at City Center San Ramon."

Chez Panisse

★★★★☆ 4.1 • $$$$

"This was my first time at this very well known restaurant by everyone except me. My son, who just moved to Berkley told us that we must come here based on our love of great food and we managed a reservation for the cafe. Street parking was relatively easy, actually we parked a block ahead of the restaurant only to find plenty of street parking ahead.The Cafè is so cozy with a very classic-comfortable venue. The open kitchen was visible from our table and I couldn't take my eyes off of all the action while we were dining. Our server came over to us seconds after we sat down to introduce himself and give us an overview of the restaurant.We'll start wit the bread which was nice and warm and the butter was excellent. After perusing the menu we decided on the Rock Fish for me and the grilled Pork main dish. We had decided earlier on the share the goat cheese salad. The main dishes were amazing. So fresh and tasty, There was something about the meal that made it special.Service was incredible and we felt very comfortable with the team confirming with his that all was good and we did not need anything in addition to what we had. Dining here is on another level. We were so happy to be able to secure a reservation and look forward to our next visit. It was also fun to be able to photograph the kitchen staff after dinner. Everyone is so friendly here.KUDO's to the tam at Chez Panisse."

Crepevine Restaurants

★★★★☆ 3.5 (953) • $$

"I love this place. The staff is so warm and friendly and they have a great menu. The Spanish omelet, the gluten free pancakes, all of it is fantastic. If you are looking for a casual meal with friends and family, here is the spot. Have fun."

Tomate Cafe

★★★★☆ 3.8 (753) • $$

"How has my mom not been here? She would love it. I came with my dad at least once, possibly twice.The food is very good. It's breakfast food, nothing extraordinarily innovative, but it looks and feels very clean, which is something I don't normally notice or comment on.The real attention-getter, the reason you come here, is its surprisingness and quaintness. You don't expect to find a place like this where it is in West Berkeley, but it's here! And you're not imagining things.I'll definitely be back, but I tend not to think of Berkeley anymore, which is understandable and sad and justified, but ancient. (Make mine a 99.)"

Prime Restaurant Silicon Valley

★★★★☆ 3.7 (70) • $$

"After a day of setting up for a convention at the local convention center I was staying in the hotel that Prime is located in. My favorite guy came and met me to have dinner and spend the night. We kept it local by just coming here for food rather than going anywhere else.Outside seating at night is superb. They have this giant propane fire pit with seating all around it. Its near the pool with plenty of seating. I started with the cocktail called the Tangerine Dream. It wasn't that dreamy, to orangey for my taste.The Sliders were great. We split them and it was more than enough food for both of us. On the recommendation from the waiter we went with the Charcuterie Platter. Holy smoked meat was it delicious. The Lamb Salami was incredible. It also came with pickles and Kimchi with a little Brie like cheese on the side. This was a masterpiece of Charcuterie pleasure.I had another mixed drink, the Prime Martini. I also didn't like it. So I went with Gin & Tonics the rest of the night.We sat and talked and enjoyed our little bites and cocktails. It was busy around dinner time but it didn't matter. We had an awesome time. Then when we were done we just got up and went to our room. Its was so easy."

Pear Street Bistro

★★★★☆ 3.6 • $$$

"What a nice find! In downtown Pinole and minutes from my house, Pear Street is a cozy chic eatery with fantastic burgers. Their PSB Burger Station is deliciously flavorful. There is even an egg option. I prefer mine with an over easy egg and medium rare burger and Pear Street didn't disappoint!! The service was super friendly and helpful. Pear Street is rated 3 $$$ but I think it is closer to 2 $$ making this place a great affordable option."

North Light

★★★★☆ 4.3 (270) • $$

"Perfect date night spot! The lady and I pulled up for food n drinks on a Friday night and the vibe was excellent. We sat at a table but they also have counter seats and a back patio that we'll have to check out next time. Wait staff took our orders quickly and the music selection was nice!They're known for their espresso martini which is what I got and it lived up to the hype fasho! I then got a mezcal cocktail afterwards which was even better in my opinion (I love mezcal cocktails!). For food, my girlfriend loved her chicken salad and my burger was alright but wouldn't order again... but the tater totes though, bomb! Definitely will be back, especially for their awesome drink menu! Good spot to take a date or go with friends."

Henry's Bar & Restaurant

★★★☆☆ 3.2 (92) • $$

"5 stars to Maria, our wonderful server, who handled a stressful situation with grace and kindness.We arrived to have a bite before the show at the Greek, and unfortunately, many others had the same idea. So they were slammed. Maria was on it- amazing communication and service. She hustled to make things happen, with a big smile. Even though we weren't able to order dinner, we had a fantastic time and would come back. Great drinks, fantastic service. Thank you, Maria!"

TWO60 Kitchen + Bar

★★★★☆ 4.3 (737) • $$

"My husband and I love coming here for date night. We typically order their calamari for appetizers and their cocktails to start. I like their paloma.Calamari is consistently delicious crisp, not too chewy or dry. For our mains we chose mushroom risotto with beef tips and shrimp and cod pasta.The risotto was perfect and I almost converted my mushroom hating husband to the dark side, but only for a moment. Nevertheless, it was just that good. \The shrimp and cod pasta was all gobbled up before I can have some...typical husband...Other past visits I've had their loco moco, fish and chips and spicy edamame for appetizer."

Ohlone Deli & Catering

★★★★☆ 3.7 (107) • $

"Excellent atmosphere and friendly service make this Mom and Pop type of deli a real treat.It's located right across from Ohlone College, and I recommend the beef gyro. The freezes are a treat as well, and they come with caramel, vanilla, or hazelnut syrup by request.I wish they were open on Sunday (for a relaxing day off with eats), but if you can make it during the week, or on Saturdays before they close, you won't be disappointed.* Note, there is no public restroom, so keep that in mind if you're planning to stop off and sit and eat, while socializing for a while."

Café Leila

★★★★☆ 3.5 (759) • $$

"Quiet, spacious cafe that is perfect for breakfast and they make non-caffeinated lattes! Always a plus in my book since it's hard to find in most other cafes. If this were my neigborhood, i'd be here all the time. The chorizo breakfast burrito was a little pricier than I'd usually spend, but it was super filling and tasty. The amount of tables and the back patio make up for it."

Curbside Kitchen

★★★★☆ 4.2 (73) • $$

"What makes this place great? First - the food. I really enjoyed the lumpia and Bon Mi pork sandwich. My friend ordered the burger and it looked delicious! May order that next time. Second, friendly team in the truck. Third and maybe not in order necessarily, it's outside Armistice Brewery near the Richmond Marina, which offers fantastic beers. Nothing better than beer and lumpia.Definitely worth checking out!"

Wence’s Restaurant

★★★★☆ 3.9 • $$

"I had made reservations yesterday, for 6 P.M. under the name Naomi. for my husband's birthday. I spoke with the hostess about making this very clear to the waitstaff. On whoever was going to be serving us at the time. It was our first time at this restaurant. I thought to give it a try. I had asked the hostess for a booth. However she sat us by four noisy girls that had too many drinks. When finally the waitress came, to take our order. I was not going to talk any louder to place my order so she could hear me. It's obvious that we were not the ones making all the noise. She did not offer to move us to a different table. Eye contact is extremely important in restaurant industry, serving or taking orders. That being said, as a certified culinary student in my past, I know this to be truth. It felt like everything was bent on timing , timing. We sat down, waitress did not say her name, that she would be the one taking care of us that evening. A quick run down of all the specials for that day. I do not do specials, especially since I know it's almost expired food that the restaurant is trying to get rid of. Seems like our waitress was just there to just take our order. Then once our food was delivered. She was nowhere to be found. So when we needed to go boxes, I had to flag down the other waitstaff. My husband said it did not feel like a birthday experience. Added salt on the wound, The hostess had failed to make it a point across the waitstaff. That it was his birthday, and forgot it at the very end. I mentioned it to our waitress, and she did take care of us at that time. The food was OK! Perhaps I've had better going to the cheesecake factory. And you can get crab and lobster. Not at the MP "market price." Which I think is extremely insulting to customers. Because your bill could probably end up anywhere up to $100 to $200 just for a crab or lobster. Every restaurant needs to have vegan options available. Please take out the feta off the beet salad. I do not do any type of stinky cheese. Years in cosmetology school stinky cheese smells like the shit underneath someone's toenails. The two don't go together. My husband said he wasn't feeling good after he sipped the drink he ordered. To add insult to injury, when my husband had changed his mind about not getting chorizo on his mac & cheese. Instead he opt for garlic bread which never arrived at our table. The menu selection is extremely over priced. Unless you're craving crab or lobster, stick with the appetizers, there just as big portions as Ordering the entrées. After all it was a very mediocre experience. I did want a different waitress. There was a younger waitress that helped us out at the very end. That was the highlight of the evening. Thanks to her, I would like to give this restaurant another try. However we will have to do a recap on my husband's birthday. He said he wanted a different experience & wants to go to Five Tacos & Beers."

900 Grayson

★★★★☆ 4.1 • $$

"Love the food. Love the way the menu items are offered. Lots of a la carte options in the cute, neighborhood space."

The Crafty Fox Ale House

★★★★☆ 4.3 (296) • $$

"I suppose most people come here for the beer selection, but as someone who is not well-versed in beer, the highlight for me is the food.I've tried a few of their menu items, including the fried chicken sandwich and the fish and chips. The former is particularly excellent and the quality/flavors are a few notches above typical bar fare. The beer menu is extensive (which is about all I can say about it). The interior is dark and cozy and the service is friendly enough."