Oakland Restaurants

There are some excellent restaurants to be enjoyed in the city, reflecting the cultural diversity of both the city and California in general. California is the leading agricultural state, so there is an emphasis on fresh local produce.

Local Cuisine

It might not be easy to pinpoint exactly what local Oakland cuisine is, but with California being the most populated and ethnically diverse state in the USA, then you begin to get an idea. Californian food reflects that diversity, and is a fusion of many different styles. In particular Mexican, Asian and Pacific Island cuisine.

California is also the leading agricultural state in the USA so fresh local produce is a focus, with many popular dishes including locally grown avocado, artichoke, figs, citrus fruit, almonds, and mushrooms, with beef and chicken the most popular meat. California also has a vast wine industry and produces some excellent wines.

Californian, and indeed Oakland cuisine tends to focus on these influences and local produce, but there are also some particular dishes that stand out. For example, The Cobb Salad, which was invented when Bob Cobb was searching his fridge for a late night snack and created a salad with avocado, tomato, watercress, chicken, egg, bacon and cheese, topped with French dressing.

Where to eat

There are good eateries to be found all over town, ranging from expensive and original restaurants to the ubiquitous fast food joints, common throughout the country. For Italian food, Oliveto is considered the best in Oakland, with a world-renowned chef, and some great tasty home cooked Italian specialities, often prepared in the wood-burning oven.

Citron on College Avenue, with a focus on French, Mediterranean, and Californian cuisine, is one of Oaklands most popular restaurants. The menu changes regularly, but always with an emphasis on the freshest locally produced food, with both a fixed price and a la carte menu available. It is always very busy so booking in advance is recommended.

Also on College Avenue is Garibaldis, a good place to go for large portions and American classics, as well as some good Mediterranean dishes. The wine list here is interesting, and its a nice place to dine. If American classics are what youre looking for, then, on the same road, youll find Barneys Gourmet Hamburgers, with a vast range of burgers and great side orders.