I’m an Oakland local and have spent years exploring the food and drink scene here. These are the spots I personally keep on repeat and always recommend when someone asks where to go.
Map
Sections
2
Drinks
Food
Drinks
One of my fave cocktail bars. The menu changes seasonally. If you don’t like sweet cocktails, maybe try a different bar!
Viridian
This place has amazing vibes and the cocktails are clean, simple, and use quality ingredients. It’s a perfect place for happy hour before your dinner plans.
Bar Shiru
I don’t even like beer, yet I find something I like here every time I go. One of my favorite places to hang and get a beer.
Original Pattern Brewing
The Punchdown is one of my fave wine bars in the bay area. The selection is always fun and approachable and the happy hour prices can’t be beat!
The Punchdown - Wine Bar + Bottle Shop
The cocktails here are so good. If you love tequila or mezcal, this is the place for you. Even their small bites are delicious.
Bar César
Food
I haven’t had one bad bite or cocktail at Parche. Everything is delicious and I highly recommend ordering the chicharron!
Parche
I have an obsession with thai food and Daughter Thai is one of my fave thai spots. It may seem a little pricey, but the portions are big and meant to be shared!
Daughter Thai Kitchen
I have so many good things to say about this place, but my advice is to order anything with the green chutney and anything with lamb. Their lamb dishes are so tender and juicy and freaking delicious.
Jaji
Come here when it’s cold and you’re hungry. The ramen here is soooo good and so rich. There is always a wait, so arrive 30-45 minutes before you think you’ll be hungry.
mensho
You have to come here for the burritos (the Señor Sisig is my fave) and if you want a little bevvy, the Ube Hennchata is delicious. Don’t drink alcohol? Try the ube horchata!
Señor Sisig (Oakland)
If you love fried chicken, Aburaya is the spot to go to. They have so many flavors to choose from. The chicken is so crispy on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside.
Aburaya
Juicy burgers at affordable prices. You honestly couldn’t ask for more.
