Best of 20 comfort food in Oakland
Discover our curated list of top-ranked comfort food in Oakland, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like Southern Café, Homeroom, Buttercup, Touch of Soul, Lois The Pie Queen. Let's explore together!
- 1. Southern Café
- 2. Homeroom
- 3. Buttercup
- 4. Touch of Soul
- 5. Lois The Pie Queen
- 6. Homeroom To Go
- 7. Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken
- 8. Southie
- 9. Smellys Creole Catering LLC.
- 10. Quick Bite
- 11. Flip N Soul
- 12. Dixon’s
- 13. The Cook and Her Farmer
- 14. Brenda's Oakland
- 15. Burdell
- 16. Dinner House
- 17. Oakland Street Food Co.
- 18. Kenny's Heart & Soul
- 19. Trap Kitchen Oakland
- 20. Sirhandsstreetfood
1. Southern Café
Unique Southern cuisine with a California twist, Made-from-scratch meals using local ingredients

My order of succulent oxtail, served with a delectable spread of rice and beans, creamy mac and cheese, and tender green beans, truly captured the essence of Southern cuisine. While the mac and cheese impressed with its gooey perfection, the green beans soared to new heights when intermingled with the rich gravy. A visit to Southern Café promises not just a meal, but an authentic culinary journey through the heart of soul food.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
2. Homeroom
Soul food with a modern twist in a cozy setting

Step into Homeroom and prepare to be enchanted by a world where mac and cheese reigns supreme. As one of the most lauded establishments on Yelp, this restaurant promises a memorable dining experience filled with creativity and indulgence. Embrace the essence of pure comfort with each velvety bite, as Homeroom elevates an American classic to new heights. Discover the magic that unfolds when passion for food meets culinary expertise, resulting in a symphony of flavors that will linger in your memory long after the meal is over.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
3. Buttercup
Unique vegan and vegetarian breakfast and brunch options

Navigating the cozy confines of Buttercup, one is struck by the intimate setting bathed in natural light. While the parking may be snug, the swift seating for our group of seven exemplified their efficiency. As conversations flowed and laughter filled the air, the well-lit surroundings added a touch of charm to our dining escapade. For a memorable dining experience that marries convenience with culinary excellence, Buttercup stands out as the quintessential choice.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
4. Touch of Soul
Family-owned restaurant serving traditional Southern comfort food

5. Lois The Pie Queen
Family-owned and operated since 1958, Specializing in pies

Traveling from Washington, DC, I stumbled upon Lois The Pie Queen through an Instagram post and found a piece of home in the Bay Area. A top-notch find for breakfast in Oakland, my family and I were warmly greeted and seated by the delightful Ricki, an outstanding waitress.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Breakfast
6. Homeroom To Go
Family-owned business since 1992 with delivery and online ordering options

However, some items like the $6 cold cheese biscuit and $15 "elote" mac n cheese may not meet expectations. The latter lacking in cojita cheese and chili, leaving much to be desired. Consider crafting these dishes at home for a more satisfying and customizable experience, as Homeroom To Go falls short on optional add-ons.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
7. Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken
Family-owned business with a rich history, known for its friendly service and addictive fried chicken recipe.

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
8. Southie
Cozy neighborhood bar with an emphasis on craft beer

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Breakfast
9. Smellys Creole Catering LLC.
Authentic Creole cooking using traditional recipes and techniques

TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
10. Quick Bite

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Vegetarian Options
- Breakfast
11. Flip N Soul
Known for their unique and flavorful pancake combinations

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
12. Dixon’s
Cozy local pub with a welcoming atmosphere

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
13. The Cook and Her Farmer
Chef-driven, farm-to-table restaurant with a focus on quality and sustainability

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
14. Brenda's Oakland
Committed to using local and organic ingredients

TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Lunch
- Dinner
15. Burdell

16. Dinner House

TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
17. Oakland Street Food Co.

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
18. Kenny's Heart & Soul
19. Trap Kitchen Oakland
Authentic Cajun-inspired soul food

TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
20. Sirhandsstreetfood
