Best of 26 lunch restaurants in Oakland

Discover our curated list of top-ranked lunch restaurants in Oakland, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like Homeroom, NIDO's BackYard, Buttercup, Grand Lake Kitchen - Lake Merritt, Portal. Let's explore together!

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1. Homeroom

Authentic Mexican cuisine in a homey setting

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (2790 Review by google)
  • Address:

    400 40th St, Oakland, CA 94609, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of Mexican dishes, cozy atmosphere, friendly service
  • Cons:

    Portions can be small for the price, hit-or-miss quality, cash-only
  • Popular Menu:

    Mole enchiladas, carnitas torta, horchata
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website
Indulge in the ultimate mac & cheese experience at Homeroom, a true paradise for mac & cheese enthusiasts. Whether you opt for a custom creation or dive into one of their tantalizing specialties, satisfaction is guaranteed. The restaurant's stellar Yelp reviews piqued my curiosity, and I can testify that Homeroom lives up to its glowing reputation. Revel in the innovative twists on classic mac and cheese dishes that this establishment offers, each bite brimming with cheesy goodness. Homeroom proves that sometimes all you need is a comforting bowl of expertly crafted mac and cheese to elevate your dining experience to new heights.

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Affordable Nightlife

2. NIDO's BackYard

Community-focused backyard atmosphere with live music

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (1412 Review by google)
  • Address:

    104 Oak St, Oakland, CA 94607, United States

  • Pros:

    Outdoor seating, pet-friendly, happy hour specials, live music events, locally sourced ingredients
  • Cons:

    Limited parking, can get crowded, reservations may be needed for popular events
  • Popular Menu:

    BBQ ribs, craft burgers, local beer selection
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website
NIDO's Backyard offers a mixed dining experience. While the salsa left much to be desired, the guacamole managed to salvage the dish. However, the overall menu seemed overpriced and lacking in variety, which may leave solo diners or vegetarians feeling limited in their choices. On the upside, the vegan burrito proved to be a standout option worth the visit, showcasing the restaurant's capability to cater to different dietary preferences. The outdoor seating arrangements added a charming touch to the ambience, enhancing the dining experience. Overall, NIDO's Backyard balances out its shortcomings with delightful surprises and attentive service that keeps customers satisfied and coming back for more.

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Mid-Range

3. Buttercup

Locally sourced, organic ingredients with vegan and gluten-free options

  • Time:

    7 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (2579 Review by google)
  • Address:

    229 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94607, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide selection of vegan and gluten-free options, cozy atmosphere, great for brunch
  • Cons:

    Limited dinner service, slow service during peak hours, hit-or-miss food quality
  • Popular Menu:

    Vegan pancakes, tofu scramble, avocado toast
  • Price Range:

    $10-$20
Phone Directions Website
Experience the charm of Buttercup, where culinary delights and refreshing libations await. Indulge in a delightful breakfast spread served alongside a well-stocked bar at this beloved establishment. Whether it's a romantic rendezvous or a casual craving, Buttercup's classic omelettes and tantalizing strawberry margaritas are sure to leave you craving for more. Don't miss the chance to savor the flavors that have kept patrons coming back for generations.
While the parking area may be snug, the cozy ambiance and swift seating at Buttercup make it worth the while. Even with a party of seven, we were comfortably accommodated within minutes. Revel in the welcoming glow of the well-lit interior, accentuated by ample natural light streaming in, creating a perfect setting for memorable dining experiences.

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner
  • Downtown Spots

4. Grand Lake Kitchen - Lake Merritt

Offers a unique dining experience with a view of Lake Merritt

  • Time:

    9 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (1435 Review by google)
  • Address:

    576 Grand Ave, Oakland, CA 94610, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of menu options, casual and family-friendly atmosphere, great location near Lake Merritt
  • Cons:

    Some reviews mention slow service and hit-or-miss food quality
  • Popular Menu:

    Brunch, burgers, and salads
  • Price Range:

    $ - $$
Phone Directions Website
Grand Lake Kitchen - Lake Merritt is a fantastic choice for brunch. Celebrated a birthday here and even the pickiest eater was impressed with the polenta bowl. The dishes were all delightful and the mocktails were a refreshing touch. Personally, the French toast and bacon were a standout - a visit for these and the mimosas is well worth it. While the ambiance leans towards the modern and trendy side, the service was exceptional, making a return trip for the breakfast staples a definite plan.

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots
  • Lunch

5. Portal

Authentic Korean cuisine in the heart of Oakland

  • Time:

    11 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (1280 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1611 2nd Ave, Oakland, CA 94606, United States

  • Pros:

    Central location, Offers delivery, Wide selection of dishes
  • Cons:

    Some reviews mention long wait times, Hit-or-miss food quality, Limited seating
  • Popular Menu:

    Bulgogi, Japchae, Bibimbap
  • Price Range:

    $10-$20
Phone Directions Website
A bustling hub, our group indulged in a scrumptious array of garlic fries, mimosas, corned beef hash, French toast, and chicken and waffles. Surprisingly delightful flavors despite the restaurant's hectic ambiance. Undoubtedly, the best fries in Oakland captivated our palates.The brunch hype is real, though for a more relaxed experience, opt for a leisurely afternoon on the patio with a generous serving of fries and a cold beer. An ideal setting for unwinding and relishing in the simple pleasures of good food and good company.

TOPICS

  • Personal Celebrations
  • Italian Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Hidden Gems

6. Brotzeit Lokal

Scenic Bay views, authentic Oktoberfest atmosphere

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (1298 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1000 Embarcadero, Oakland, CA 94606, United States

  • Pros:

    Spacious outdoor seating, German-authentic menu, variety of sausages and beers
  • Cons:

    Pricey for some items, limited vegetarian options, hit-or-miss service
  • Popular Menu:

    Bratwurst, Pretzels, German beer
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website
Brotzeit Lokal is a bustling hotspot with improved offerings. The fish is a standout, though the fries are average; do not miss out on the delectable corn chowder. The picturesque view of Coast Guard Island adds charm, reminiscent of bygone days. This German eatery boasts a cozy outdoor beer garden, making it a perfect spot to enjoy quality time by the water with friends. The food is delightful, and the lively atmosphere guarantees a good time, with limited parking available.

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Waterfront
  • Cheap Eats
  • Dinner

7. Cholita Linda

Hearty, delicious food that brings Peru to Oakland

  • Time:

    11 AM to 10 PM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (1808 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4923 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, CA 94609, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Peruvian food, welcoming atmosphere, affordable prices
  • Cons:

    Limited parking, small space that can get crowded, cash-only
  • Popular Menu:

    Belly-stuffing Chicharron sandwiches, tender Lomo Saltado, tasty Ceviche
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options

8. Forge Pizza

Hand-tossed pizzas with locally sourced ingredients and unique flavor combinations

  • Time:

    11:30 AM to 8:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (1121 Review by google)
  • Address:

    66 Franklin St Suite 100, Oakland, CA 94607, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide range of pizza options, craft beers, and cocktails; cozy ambiance; offers delivery and takeout
  • Cons:

    Pricier than some pizza places, limited seating, hit-or-miss service
  • Popular Menu:

    Artichoke and SPINACH Pizza, The HOT Honey and PEPPERONI Pizza, Garlic Knots
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots

9. Pomella

Innovative and flavorful dishes, artisanal cocktails, warm ambiance

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (620 Review by google)
  • Address:

    3770 Piedmont Ave Unit B, Oakland, CA 94611, United States

  • Pros:

    Modern Asian fusion cuisine, cozy atmosphere, creative cocktails, vegetarian and gluten-free options, popular brunch spot
  • Cons:

    Reservations may be difficult to secure, limited parking, may be pricey for some, small dining area, some dishes have strong flavors
  • Popular Menu:

    Pomella fried chicken, duck confit rice bowl, grilled swordfish, brussels sprouts, dirty fries
  • Price Range:

    $20-$40
Phone Directions Website
Discover Pomella, a gem that offers delectable fresh dishes served in a charming outdoor setting. Explore their impressive salad selection boasting creative combinations, paired perfectly with their house-made fruit drinks. While the alcoholic beverages may lean on the pricier side, it's a small price to pay for a taste of the Bay Area vibe. The bustling weekend crowd speaks volumes about its popularity, with small mezze dishes reminiscent of Spanish tapas offering a mix of delightful surprises and occasional letdowns.

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Mid-Range

10. Wood Tavern

Featuring a fireplace and pet-friendly patio

  • Time:

    11:30 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (752 Review by google)
  • Address:

    6317 College Ave, Oakland, CA 94618, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide selection of beers, friendly staff, cozy atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Limited vegetarian options, can get crowded, parking can be difficult
  • Popular Menu:

    Wood-fired pizza, buffalo chicken wings, mac and cheese
  • Price Range:

    $-$$
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots
  • Vegan Options

11. Belotti Ristorante E Bottega

Authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy bottega setting

  • Time:

    11:30 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (751 Review by google)
  • Address:

    5403 College Ave, Oakland, CA 94618, United States

  • Pros:

    Excellent pasta and sauces, friendly service, charming atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Menu could be more diverse, slightly pricey for the portion sizes, limited seating
  • Popular Menu:

    Tagliatelle Bolognese, Risotto ai Funghi, Tiramisu
  • Price Range:

    $20-$40
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

12. Shakewell

California-style Southern comfort food and craft cocktails

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (851 Review by google)
  • Address:

    3407 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland, CA 94610, United States

  • Pros:

    Delicious food, friendly service, trendy atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Can get crowded, some dishes are hit-or-miss, expensive for the portion size
  • Popular Menu:

    Chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, fried chicken sandwich
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Fusion Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots

13. 10th & Wood

Cozy neighborhood bar with a lively atmosphere

  • Time:

    8 AM to 4 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (442 Review by google)
  • Address:

    945 Wood St, Oakland, CA 94607, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide selection of drinks, cozy atmosphere, great for groups
  • Cons:

    Prices can be a bit high, can get crowded, limited food options
  • Popular Menu:

    Craft beers, cocktails, small plates
  • Price Range:

    $15-$20 for drinks and food
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Lunch

14. The Cook and Her Farmer

Emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and sustainable practices

  • Time:

    11 AM to 7 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (269 Review by google)
  • Address:

    510 9th St, Oakland, CA 94607, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide selection of local and organic ingredients, Cozy and welcoming atmosphere, Delicious farm-to-table dishes
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, Can be on the pricier side, Menu can change frequently
  • Popular Menu:

    Fried Egg Sandwich, Beet and Burrata Salad, Porchetta Sandwich
  • Price Range:

    $15 - $30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Hidden Gems

15. Town Fare by Chef Michele McQueen

Phone Directions Website

16. Plenty

Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots

17. La Guerrera’s Kitchen

A taste of Oaxaca in the heart of Oakland, California

  • Rating: 4.7/5 (159 Review by google)
  • Address:

    907 Washington St, Oakland, CA 94607, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Mexican cuisine, family-owned and operated, committed to tradition and community
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, cash-only policy, may have long lines during peak hours
  • Popular Menu:

    Pupusas, tamales, mole negro
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Downtown Spots
  • Vegan Options

18. Kitchen Story Oakland

Features a unique and modern take on American and Asian fusion cuisine

  • Time:

    9 AM to 2:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (459 Review by google)
  • Address:

    5422 College Ave, Oakland, CA 94618, United States

  • Pros:

    Modern decor; warm and welcoming atmosphere; extensive brunch menu
  • Cons:

    Can get crowded, long wait times; expensive for brunch; limited parking
  • Popular Menu:

    The Kitchen Story Benedict, Millionaire's Bacon, FedEx Waffle
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Fusion Cuisine
  • Breakfast

19. Left Bank Brasserie

Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Waterfront
  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Celebrations

20. Cafe Uccello

Cozy and quiet atmosphere, Perfect for remote work or studying

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (155 Review by google)
  • Address:

    340 14th St, Oakland, CA 94612, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers a variety of coffee and tea drinks, Vegan-friendly options available, Comfortable and spacious seating area
  • Cons:

    Hit-or-miss service, Limited food options, Inconsistent food quality
  • Popular Menu:

    Cappuccino, Chai Latte, Avocado Toast
  • Price Range:

    $ - $$, depending on the order
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Social Gatherings
  • Breakfast

21. Aman Cafe

Phone Directions Website

4021 Broadway, Oakland I order roti for the table every time I see it on a menu, then monopolize far more than my share and wonder sadly, as I pick up the last crispy bits, where it all went. What a treat, then, to eat at a restaurant where these flaky, buttery flatbreads are the centerpiece of the meal: equally delicious wrapped in a stew of curried chicken and root vegetables like golden beets (a revelation!), as when dipped . more simply, in the restaurant's signature creamy coconut sauce. And of course, just in case, you should leave room for a sweet roti sprinkled with sugar for dessert. Purely comfort food. (Luke Tsai/KQED)


22. Kitava

Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Gluten-Free
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Downtown Spots

23. Bocanova

Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Fusion Cuisine
  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots

24. Brenda's Oakland

Local favorite for breakfast and brunch

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (797 Review by google)
  • Address:

    4045 Broadway #101, Oakland, CA 94611, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide selection of vegetarian and vegan options, friendly staff, cozy atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Limited parking, can get crowded during peak hours, hit-or-miss service
  • Popular Menu:

    Tofu scramble, breakfast burrito, vegan pancakes
  • Price Range:

    $-$$
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

25. Parche

Authentic Mexican food in a casual setting

  • Time:

    11 AM to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.8/5 (195 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2295 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide range of Mexican dishes, friendly service, large portions
  • Cons:

    Some dishes may be too spicy for some, cash-only, hit-or-miss quality
  • Popular Menu:

    Burritos, tacos, tamales
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

Located in Oakland, Parche brings the vibrant flavors of Colombia right to your plate. With a solid 4.8 rating, this place is clearly a local gem. Diners love the hearty lunch menu that promises a true taste of Colombia. From addictive suckling pig appetizers with fried yucas to the perfect balance of sweetness in Arepas con Chocolo, every bite is a trip to South America. The patch not only captures the authentic Colombian essence but also elevates it, as seen in dishes like empanadas de ajiaco and cocada. The cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and refreshing drinks like “que chimba” make this place a must-visit for anyone looking for a culinary getaway to Colombia without leaving Oakland. Rating: Price: 2295 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612, USA (510) 922-9687 Website


26. Limón

Homemade food prepared with love and tradition

  • Time:

    11 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.2/5 (284 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2450 Valdez St, Oakland, CA 94612, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Costa Rican cuisine, warm and friendly service, cozy atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, may have to wait during peak hours, cash-only policy
  • Popular Menu:

    Casado, Gallo Pinto, Patacones
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Fusion Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Mid-Range