You can’t talk about East Bay dining without mentioning Alice Waters and Chez Panisse. Waters, often referred to as the godmother of Californian cuisine, opened up the seminal restaurant in 1971 with film producer Paul Aratow. When we talk about farm-to-table? She started that concept by emphasizing ingredients and direct relationships with local farmers, ranchers and dairies, as opposed to technique. But the East Bay truly offers the world in terms of culinary experiences.
Feature Photo: Homeroom Mac + Cheese
Berkeley
1106 Solano Ave, Albany
Lulu’s has been around for a bit, but recently underwent a remodel and now continues to serve food that combines Palestinian tradition with a Californian flair. The menu ranges from bowls and wraps to sides like harissa fries and fresh pita.
2126 Center St, Berkeley
Having already been established in San Mateo, Li’s has expanded with a new location set in downtown Berkeley. This eatery specializes in knife-cut noodles (as the name suggests) that come in various forms including soup and chow mein. But, the menu also features dumplings, dim sum and stir fry.
1889 Solano Ave, Berkeley
Now open under a different name, Bangalore Blues (previously known as Pochys Home Style South Indian) is a casual South Indian Berkeley eatery with authentic, powerful flavors representative of the region’s cuisine. Find dishes like crepe-like pancakes (dosas) to plenty of dishes where chicken is the star of the show.
800 Heinz Ave # 19, Berkeley
Bangkok by the Bay is a new Thai spot that recently came to Berkeley, and they’re aiming to do exactly as the name implies by bringing Bangkok to the Bay Area. They serve Bangkok street food staples and Thai cuisine classics, as well as a happy hour five days a week. And to compliment the authentic bites, the modern, slightly elevated atmosphere makes for a pleasant dining experience.
1515 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley
Located right next door to the beloved Chez Panisse, this bar now serves as its extension, with a full bar menu and small bites to pair with your drink. And with its focus on sustainable sourcing, the menus reflect the same principles of the main restaurant, too.
1300 Fourth St, Berkeley
Oakland just became the lucky home to El Mono’s second location, serving the same authentic Peruvian cuisine that’s loved at their original spot in El Cerrito. They have an extensive menu, segmented with options like beef/steak, seafood/fish, veggie/vegan, kids and more, so that everyone can find something. There’s also a nice selection of drinks from the bar so you can sip on something like a strawberry margarita or a mojito.
1313 Ninth St, Berkeley
Michelin-recommended Funky Elephant is the kind of spot where bold flavors and a laid-back vibe come together perfectly. The menu leans into vibrant Thai street food — think chili-laced fried chicken, spicy som tam papaya salad, and irresistible drunken noodles. Don’t sleep on their signature cocktails, either — they pack just the right punch.
2465 Bancroft Way #140, Berkeley
Headlands on Campus is a new hub on UC Berkeley’s campus with a grand opening in October, intended to create a welcoming environment in which students can gather and mingle amidst tasty bites and beer.
2155 Center St, Berkeley
Kopi Bar and Bakery has moved and is now located at the Berkeley Art Museum Pacific Film Archive (BAMPFA). The cafe’s menu takes inspiration from the chef’s Singaporean and Indonesian roots, with refined coffees and teas and a few lunch options that pack flavorful punches.
2512 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley
The Tipsy Yeti is stationed in Berkeley and is sharing a unique fusion of Himalayan/Nepalese cuisine with American. There is a Nepali mains section on the menu with dishes like okra masala, and another section called California Comforts includes options like creamy cajun pasta. There’s also pizza, soup and burger options. Get a drink to pair too and enjoy the fun, family-friendly atmosphere.
1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley
Every week is a different menu at Chez Panisse: Dishes rotate as the seasons change and new fresh ingredients fall into the kitchen’s hands. While the bottom floor has a prix fixe menu, above the formal restaurant is a more casual a la carte cafe.
41 Tunnel Rd., Berkeley
Located in the Claremont Hotel in Berkeley Hills, Limewood serves regionally-sourced cuisine with an incredible ambience and unbeatable Bay views. Go for sunset to have an unforgettable dining experience. We recommend the baked oysters and halibut. Pro-tip, make sure to book in advance on Open Table, they do not accept walk in’s except for drinks and small bites on Friday’s and Saturday’s from 2:30pm to 4pm.
2020 Shattuck Ave., Berkeley
Come for the lively atmosphere, stay for the chips and homemade guac. Comal has a great outdoor bar and patio with picnic tables and heaters to enjoy margaritas as long as you’d like. We recommend the fresh fish tacos and did we mention the chips and guac?
2190 Bancroft Way, Berkeley
Chinese food in a hip and modern setting. Great China is known for their Peking Roast Duck, it’s a must. We also recommend the Double Skin and if you can dine-in rather than take-out.
1512 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley
Since 1971 when its original owners sold the business to their employees, the Cheese Board has always done things their own way. Now the worker-owned collective’s (so Berkeley!) pizzeria, located a few doors away from the cheese shop and bakery, is a go-to destination for anyone with foodie inclinations. Every night it’s open, the pizzeria serves just one insanely delicious vegetarian pizza and salad combo until they run out, and lines are often out the door. The newly added live music performances at both lunch and dinner makes the wait more enjoyable, however. You never know what you might get, but one recent combo — an artichoke, mozzarella, Pecorino Romano, arugula and lemon vinaigrette pizza served with an organic watermelon radish, goat cheese, sunflower seed salad with herb vinaigrette — should give you a good idea. You can also take partially baked pizzas to go from the bakery until 4pm to enjoy at home, and vegan and gluten-free options are available.
2514 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley
As the name might suggest, Lao Garden in Berkeley brings Laotian culture to the Bay Area. Their menu is expansive, ranging from small plates to start your meal off to soups, laab (a spicy minced meat salad), noodles and more.
1335 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley
Sol Taqueria brings authentic Mexican flavors to Berkeley with a menu serving everything from breakfast to dinner. The menu has burritos, plates and tacos, of course, but also has other options such as tortas, or sandwiches.
Oakland
Your new favorite spot for Latin American comfort food has just opened in Oakland’s Temescal neighborhood. 9 Julio Empanada Kitchen sells beautifully folded and perfectly golden empanadas from a menu that combines fresh and local ingredients with a global palate. Taste Cuban picadillo, Jamaican beef or Peruvian chicken, or some of the many veggie options.
4293 Piedmont Ave, Oakland
For a unique fusion of Azerbaijani and Mediterranean flavors, Bistro 4293 is the new kid on the block. You’ll find a blend of tradition with modern flair across their extensive menu with soups, mains, desserts and a variety of both alcoholic and non-alchoholic drinks.
15032 Farnsworth St, San Leandro
Specializing in hand-pulled noodles and dim sum, San Leandro’s Dao Artisan Noodle serves a modern Chinese menu. Bonus: this restaurant follows an open kitchen concept, so you can watch the chefs bring your meal together in real time.
3859 Piedmont Ave., Oakland
Multi-Michelin Star restaurant, Commis, specializes in new American cuisine. Chef James Syhabout’s curated multiple course menu is made up of innovative dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients. For an unforgettable dining experience, Commis will blow you away. Make sure to make a reservation in advance, they do not take walk-ins.
5299 A, College Ave, Oakland
Looking for authentic Thai flavors? Located in Oakland, Delicious Thai Kitchen promises to live up to its name, with an extensive menu including classic dishes like curries, noodles, rice plates and even a section with their signature dishes. The outdoor patio has a comfortable ambience as well, with colorful paper lanterns and flowers to establish a fun, homey feel.
6118 Medau Pl., Oakland
Daughter Thai Kitchen has an incredible attention to detail with the décor creating a one of a kind ambience. The plating of the meals and drinks are equally impressive. They serve both traditional and unique Thai dishes. If you’re looking for a spot that does traditional Thai spice justice, you’ve come to the right place. We recommend the 24-Hour Beef Noodle Soup and the Daughter Thai tacos.
434 25th St, Oakland
This mushroom-centric business started in a bedroom before transitioning to a farmers’ market booth, and now, its first brick-and-mortar located in Oakland. All dishes center around the various types of mushrooms, and while the restaurant is vegan-friendly, it can also appeal to those that do consume meat. You can even purchase your own mushroom grow kit at the restaurant.
898 W Grand Ave, Oakland
With a colorful vibe and tasty smashburgers, fries and shakes, Oakland’s Hyphy Burger is a great go-to when you’re craving a good meal. The ingredients are flavorful and the ratios are good. Go through the drive-through if you’d prefer ease, or have a seat inside.
600 Dutton Ave Ste C, San Leandro
San Leandro’s Fournos is family-owned and serves recipes rooted in Greek and Italian cuisines, with a variety of rich carbs, salads, wings and more on their menu to show it. Check or ask for their list of favorites if you need some guidance when ordering.
5900 College Ave, Oakland
A new location of Forge Rockridge has opened in Oakland, serving the same trusty American comfort and drinks. Stop by for lunch or dinner and check out the pizza menu, with the classics as well as a couple of more interesting flavor profiles like crispy eggplant or cauliflower. There’s also an extensive selection of options for the table, with everything from Wisconsin-style cheese curds to blistered shishito peppers.
400 40th St., Oakland
Mac n cheese galore at Homeroom. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone in terms of mac n cheese toppings, although you can’t go wrong with classic cheese, we recommend adding tender BBQ pork or breadcrumbs or any of their other eighteen add-in options.
3725 MacArthur Blvd, Oakland
Another Bib Gourmand winner, Jo’s Modern Thai mixes well-loved recipes with modern experimentation. Run by Oakland native Kao Saelee, the restaurant harkens to the homey cuisine of Saelee’s family’s restaurant, Racha Cafe in Berkeley. But Jo’s menu, crafted by Chef Intu-On Kornnawong, perfects classics like pad thai while saving time for culinary twists, like a pork laab burger.
2337 Broadway, Oakland
If you haven’t thought of trying Oaxacan food before, you’ll change your mind for Mixé Uptown (pronounced “mee-hay”), a new espresso and mezcal bar in Oakland. There’s an impressive menu of cocktails and other specialty drinks made in house with mezcal drinks of course — try the Oaxacan Old Fashioned. This new hotspot also boasts a mouth-watering menu, with entrées that mirror the Oaxacan inspiration.
5912 College Ave, Oakland
Perfect for plant-based foodies, Millennium prepares a vegan menu that will make even die-hard carnivores swoon. At least, so spake Michelin when it awarded Millennium the Bib Gourmand. This Rockridge restaurant serves innovative dishes from sustainable sources for ever-changing à la carte and tasting menus. Cashew cheesecake, anybody?
6200 Claremont Ave, Oakland
This contemporary Asian restaurant in Oakland currently just serves dinner, but does so effectively. Find a selection of appetizers, soups and entrées, desserts and snacks, plus an extensive beverage menu.
1307 Park St, Alameda
Craving something classic like pad thai or mango sticky rice? Million Spoons in Alameda boasts flavorful authentic Thai food with these items and more. If you aren’t sure which tasty thing to order, check their chef recommended section on the menu.
422 24th St, Oakland
Jaji in Oakland is the first-ever modern Afghan restaurant in the Bay Area, with a majority halal menu that blends traditional and contemporary. Owners Sophia Akbar and Paul Iglesias are already known for their first endeavor, Columbian restaurant Parche. And while alcohol is illegal in Afghanistan, Jaji has an expansive alcohol menu with specialty drinks and cocktails.
1738 Telegraph Ave, Oakland
With now a second location in Uptown Oakland, Yonsei Handrolls delivers the classic, authentic sushi flavors that people know and love but with a twist — they’re served openface. Find flavors like dungeness crab with shoyu butter or American Wagyu with quail egg and yamaimo. If you’re feeling indecisive, try one of the omaka-sets, which comes with five handrolls and an optional sixth.
3308 Grand Ave, Oakland
Oakland gets another new eatery with Sirene, a seafood-forward spot with an emphasis also on their bar service. Come to sip on a cocktail or a glass of wine with a plate of oysters, tuna, shrimp, or another seafood of your choice. There’s also a part of the menu dedicated to choose-your-own-adventure fried chicken, where you can customize your plate from a selection of sides, sauces and add-ons.
1405 Webster St, Alameda
New Alameda Thai restaurant PEAK serves as a brunch spot in the morning and a dinner spot in the evenings. Their brunch menu features two options to choose between — healthy and sweet, with plates like chocolate Ferrer Rocher pancakes to burrata salad. The dinner menu leans a bit more towards traditional Thai, featuring meals like pad see ew and homemade fried rice.
3766 Piedmont Ave, Oakland
Opening in along the foodie friendly main drag of Piedmont in Oakland, Laughing Buddha offers Chinese vegetarian cuisine on what they call “secret garden patio dining.” Their dishes include treats like green dumplings, basil tofu fried rice or numbing spicy Ma Po tofu.
388 Grand Ave, Oakland
MAMA Oakland honors the owner’s late grandmother, carrying on her sugo and meatballs in its thoughtful Italian cuisine. True to its proud family origins, MAMA presents a simple but technically impressive dinner menu, taking the diner through three courses of well-crafted and seasonally inspired dishes. To top it all off, an attentive staff and inviting wine list make the Bib Gourmand winner feel like home.
3762 Piedmont Ave, Oakland
Mägo’s inventive Colombian fare won it a place in Michelin’s California restaurant guide. Whether enjoying the nightly seven-course tasting menu or sitting at the bar for à la carte dining, guests will enjoy wood-grilled meats and produce with elegant cocktails to accompany their meal.
4133 Piedmont Ave, Oakland
Oakland gained a new Thai favorite for locals and visitors alike; Nua Thai blends Thai street classics with a modern twist. There’s a wide selection of curries, a street food menu and more. Try their khao soi — a creamy Thai soup made with a little bit of coconut and a hint of spice. Theirs has been said to be one of the best out there, so be sure not to miss out.
4029 Piedmont Ave, Oakland
Dedicated to farm-to-table ingredients and highlighting the nuances of local produce, Pomet (French for “orchard”) earned its Michelin green star in 2023. Proprietor Aomboon Deasy also works in farming as an owner of K&J Orchards, and Chef Alan Hsu takes Pomet’s agricultural roots seriously when crafting the restaurant’s artful menu — even the wood fire ovens use recycled logs. And after a meal of sustainably sourced meat and “ugly mushroom” pasta, guests receive a complimentary slice of fruit.
4935 Shattuck Ave, Oakland
Nestled in Temescal, Snail Bar specializes in natural wine, crafting seasonal small plates to go with its expert drink selection. Oysters, crudité, charcuterie and fresh produce shine alongside complex vintages and interesting blends. Much more than just a hip atmosphere (which is impeccable in their cozy dining room), Snail Bar won the Bib Gourmand designation in 2023.
RICHMOND
4068 San Pablo Dam Rd, El Sobrante
Satisfy your craving for authentic Korean comfort food at Olchi, a fully family-run spot in El Sobrante. The menu ranges from kimbop — with a vegetarian-friendly option — to hotpot. Try the tuna mayo kimbap (a staff pick), which is rolled rice additionally featuring pickled radish, burdock root, egg, cucumber, fish cake, carrot, sesame oil and sesame seeds.
Livermore
136 Maple St, Livermore
Cured: Fish Bar is one of the latest additions to the abundance of seafood bars cropping up in the Bay Area. Offering raw bar bites, oysters, crudos and other seafood dishes, Cured: Fish Bar utilizes Japanese curing methods and ingredients to make its culinary creations unique and tasty.
This modern Indian bar and canteen is San Ramon’s new hotspot, with a menu and welcoming atmosphere featuring warm, orange hues. Khaki offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian menu options, plus a comprehensive beverage menu with cocktails, mocktails, spirits and wine.
4500 Tassajara Rd C, Dublin
Craving regional Indian cuisine, but with added flare? Look no further than Dublin’s new eatery, Pippal, helmed by the Bay Area powerhouse team Carolina and Jatin Bunty Grewal. The menu features the beloved Emeryville location’s classics, as well as newly innovative and refined dishes. The cocktail program is similarly creative and features diverse ingredients, techniques and traditions. Not to mention, the interior speaks to Art Deco-inspired design.
With a modern American cuisine with a focus on steak of course, there are a slew of of options from the LB steak tartare to various cuts of steak, wagyus and more. There’s also a cocktail menu, for those looking to pair their meal with a creative drink.
2065 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon
In a cozy blend of Californian and Italian cuisines, Rosmarino in San Ramon is the newest romantic and cozy place to get dinner. Keep an eye out for their Apertivo Hour as well, for great deals on spritzes and Italian snacks.
Walnut Creek
1387 Locust St, Walnut Creek
Looking for a lively pub to hang out in? Walnut Creek’s recently added Gibsons Irish Pub is a good choice, with tasteful menu options that honor the Irish name and a combination of elevated cocktails and beer or wine, of course including the classic Irish staple of Guinness. There’s occasional live music and dueling pianos for a fun, interactive twist to your evening.
2065 N Broadway #100, Walnut Creek
Walnut Creek gets a new Mexican fusion restaurant with La Ezkina. On their menu, you’ll find classics like tacos, and options with a more unique twist, such as their halibut kiwi ceviche.
1179 Locust St, Walnut Creek
There’s locations of North Italia nationwide, but now there’s one more — this time, in Walnut Creek. Stop by for brunch, lunch, dinner or happy hour, and enjoy the classic Italian fare.
2979 Ygnacio Valley Rd, Walnut Creek
Not-to-miss authentic Mediterranean just dropped in Walnut Creek with PiddeG. With everything from kebabs and sausage to rice and salad, plus delicious sauces, customers can find a range of their favorite Mediterranean dishes. And of course, the namesake pidde, a Turkish flatbread, is plentiful.
1275 Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek
Located within Walnut Creek’s Broadway Plaza is California-Mediterranean gem Sipeos. While the robust menu certainly makes the visit worth it, so does their inclusivity — there’s a non-alcoholic and low-ABV bar alongside the beer and wine selection, and a vegetarian menu with vegan options available as well.
100 Railroad Ave, Danville
Danville’s Taverna Sorrentina brings modern Italian cuisine to life, with roots in the Italian town of Sorrento. Find dinner and lunch options on the menu, as well as an extensive beverage program featuring many wine options and house-crafted cocktails such as A Night in Sorrento with Sazerac Rye, rhubarb liquor, fresh lemon and sugar.
301 Hartz Ave, Ste 106, Danville
Sushi Tamahime serves authentic Japanese sushi, but with a more casual dining experience in mind. The menu features a ‘Set Menu’ section, with fully predetermined options including one good for kids. There’s also a ‘Nigiri Sushi’ section for those looking to mix and match.
3400 Mount Diablo Blvd, Lafayette
Rooted in rich Filipino cuisine made modern, this eatery in Lafayette mostly serves dinner, but also serves brunch on Sundays. Unique dishes here that you can’t just get anywhere include braised oxtail and the prevalent use of calamansi, a citrus native to the Philippines and Southeast Asia.
