Best of 29 takoyaki in Oakland
Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, is making waves in Oakland. These delectable ball-shaped snacks, filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, and green onion, are cooked to perfection in a special takoyaki pan. Takoyaki in Oakland can be found at various farmers markets, food festivals, and specialty restaurants, offering a taste of Japan right in the heart of California. Whether you're a fan of Japanese cuisine or just looking to try something new, takoyaki in Oakland is a must-try!
- 1. Shinmai
- 2. Marufuku Ramen
- 3. Fuji Summer Japanese Restaurant
- 4. Geta
- 5. Yoshi's
- 6. Kansai
- 7. Ebiko
- 8. Judoku Sushi
- 9. Coach Sushi
- 10. Kotobuki Japanese Restaurant
- 11. Sushi Park
- 12. Noka Ramen
- 13. Quickly
- 14. T4 Oakland
- 15. Soba Ichi
- 16. RnR Sushi & Bowls
- 17. Sweetheart Café & Tea
- 18. Tastee Steam Kitchen
- 19. ABURAYA
- 20. Itani Ramen
- 21. MENSHO
- 22. Judoku Sushi
- 23. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
- 24. Mujiri
- 25. Haruki Japanese
- 26. Yonsei Handrolls
- 27. Quickly
- 28. Stretchy Dogs Korean Corn Dogs & Boba Tea
- 29. Dela Curo Curry
1. Shinmai
Friendly staff, Cozy atmosphere, Locally owned

The takoyaki, or octopus balls, at this establishment are truly exceptional. They are cooked to perfection, with a crispy exterior and a soft, doughy interior. The sauce that accompanies the takoyaki is also a standout, with a rich and flavorful taste that complements the dish well.
Overall, the takoyaki is a must-try for anyone visiting this location. The combination of the crispy exterior and soft interior, along with the delicious sauce, makes for a truly enjoyable culinary experience. Whether you are a fan of octopus or simply looking to try something new, the takoyaki here is sure to delight.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
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2. Marufuku Ramen
Authentic Japanese ramen and small dishes, made with traditional ingredients and methods

Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, is a must-try dish at Marufuku Ramen. The exterior of their takoyaki is crispy and golden brown, while the interior remains soft and warm. The chewy texture of the dough combined with the flavorful filling of diced octopus, green onion, and pickled ginger creates a delicious taste that is incredibly similar to takoyaki found in Japan.
Marufuku Ramen's takoyaki is a standout dish that any visitor should not miss. Its perfect texture and authentic taste are reminiscent of takoyaki commonly sold in Japanese street food stalls. The combination of chewy dough, savory octopus, and tangy pickled ginger offers a unique and satisfying flavor explosion that will transport you to the bustling streets of Japan.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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3. Fuji Summer Japanese Restaurant

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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4. Geta
Uses octopus imported from Japan, wide variety of toppings

Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, is known for its crispy exterior and soft, doughy interior filled with savory diced octopus. At a local eatery, the takoyaki did not disappoint. It was cooked to perfection, with a crispy exterior that gave way to a soft, warm interior. The diced octopus within was flavorful and plentiful, adding to the overall deliciousness of the dish.
The eatery's takoyaki stood out for its perfect balance of textures and flavors. The exterior was crispy and golden brown, while the interior was warm and doughy. The diced octopus was tender and well-seasoned, adding a savory depth to the dish. Overall, the takoyaki was a delicious and satisfying experience, with each bite offering a burst of flavor and texture. Whether you're a fan of Japanese street food or just looking to try something new, this takoyaki is not to be missed.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
- Lunch
5. Yoshi's
Authentic Japanese cuisine with a cozy atmosphere

Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, is a must-try dish, especially at Yoshi's, where it is cooked to perfection. The exterior of the takoyaki is crispy, while the interior is soft and flavorful.
The delicious taste of the takoyaki is due to its perfectly cooked texture. The outside has a satisfying crunch, while the inside is tender and mouthwatering. It is a treat for the taste buds that should not be missed.
TOPICS
- Waterfront
- Dinner
- High-End
- Asian Cuisine
6. Kansai
Authentic Japanese cuisine, friendly service, vegetarian options available

Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, is renowned for its delicious combination of a crispy exterior and a soft interior. At Kansai, this culinary experience is elevated to new heights, offering some of the best takoyaki outside of Japan.
Visitors to Kansai are consistently wowed by the quality of their takoyaki, which features a perfectly crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior. If you're a fan of this classic Japanese dish, Kansai is not to be missed.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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7. Ebiko
Authentic Japanese street food, Casual atmosphere

Takoyaki at Ebiko is a must-try for anyone who loves this popular Japanese street food. The takoyaki at Ebiko is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, just like the authentic takoyaki you would find in Japan, particularly in Osaka, where the dish originated. For those who have had the pleasure of trying takoyaki in Osaka, Ebiko's version will undoubtedly bring back fond memories.
Overall, the takoyaki at Ebiko is a delicious and authentic representation of this beloved Japanese street food. The exterior is crispy and golden brown, while the interior is soft and filled with savory bits of octopus. The accompanying sauce and toppings add an extra layer of flavor, making this dish a standout. Whether you're a fan of takoyaki or new to this delicious treat, Ebiko is definitely worth a visit.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Lunch
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8. Judoku Sushi
Homemade sauces, Local ingredients, Cozy atmosphere

The takoyaki, or octopus balls, are a popular Japanese street food with a delicious taste and unique texture. They are characterized by their crispy exterior and soft, doughy interior filled with tender pieces of octopus. The version I tried was expertly cooked, resulting in a perfectly balanced contrast in textures and a delicious overall flavor.
The takoyaki served here is not to be missed. With a golden, crispy exterior and a soft, pillowy interior, each bite is a delight. The tender pieces of octopus inside add a savory depth to the dish, making it a must-try for fans of Japanese cuisine. The popularity of this dish is well-deserved, as it showcases the unique and delicious flavors that can be found in Japanese street food.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
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9. Coach Sushi
Locally sourced ingredients, vegetarian and gluten-free options

Takoyaki, or octopus balls, are a popular Japanese street food with a delicious taste and unique texture. At Coach Sushi, the takoyaki is perfectly cooked with a crispy exterior and a gooey interior, filled with tender pieces of octopus and flavorful toppings. The combination of ingredients creates a savory and satisfying taste that is sure to delight. Whether you are a fan of Japanese cuisine or looking to try something new, takoyaki is a must-try dish at Coach Sushi.
If you are looking for a standout dish at Coach Sushi, the takoyaki should not be missed. These bite-sized balls are a delicious and memorable part of the meal. With their perfectly cooked exterior and flavorful filling, takoyaki is a dish that is sure to impress. If you have the opportunity to dine at Coach Sushi, be sure to order the takoyaki and enjoy this delicious and authentic Japanese street food.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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10. Kotobuki Japanese Restaurant
Having a wide variety of traditional Japanese dishes and a cozy atmosphere

Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, is known for its crispy exterior and soft, doughy interior filled with savory ingredients. At this establishment, the takoyaki stands out for its exceptional flavor and texture. The exterior is expertly cooked to a golden crisp, while the inside remains soft and pillowy. Each bite reveals a delicious combination of ingredients, resulting in a perfectly balanced and satisfying dish.
Visitors to this establishment are sure to be impressed by the quality of the takoyaki. The dish is skillfully prepared with great attention to detail, resulting in a final product that is both delicious and visually appealing. The savory filling, combined with the crispy exterior and soft interior, creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile that is sure to please even the most discerning palates. Whether you're a fan of Japanese cuisine or simply looking to try something new, the takoyaki here is not to be missed.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
- Dinner
11. Sushi Park
Family-owned sushi restaurant since 2007

Takoyaki at Sushi Park is a must-try for anyone who appreciates this popular Japanese street food. The exterior is crispy, while the interior is pleasingly soft, creating a satisfying contrast in texture. The flavor is also impressive, making it a delicious choice for any meal.
If you're looking for exceptional takoyaki, Sushi Park is the place to go. With a perfectly crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress. Whether you're a fan of Japanese cuisine or just looking to try something new, these takoyaki are a must-try.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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12. Noka Ramen
Local favorite with friendly service and cozy atmosphere

The takoyaki at this establishment is truly exceptional. Its balance of flavors makes it a standout dish, with a delicious sauce that complements it perfectly. This takoyaki closely resembles the authentic Japanese version, with a crispy exterior and a soft, delicate interior that melts in your mouth.
Visitors to this restaurant are in for a treat with the takoyaki. Its crispy exterior provides a satisfying crunch, while the interior is soft and flavorful. Those who have tried takoyaki in Japan will be pleased to find that this version is just as delicious and authentic-tasting as the original. The sauce used in this dish further enhances its flavor profile, making it a must-try for fans of Japanese cuisine.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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13. Quickly
Authentic Japanese street food

Quickly's takoyaki is a standout dish, known for its delicious flavor and versatility. It can be enjoyed on its own or accompanied by a wide selection of drinks. However, there is room for improvement as the takoyaki can occasionally be overly doughy in texture. Despite this, it still makes for a satisfying snack, particularly when paired with Quickly's popular bubble tea.
In summary, Quickly's takoyaki is a recommended treat for those looking for a tasty bite and a refreshing beverage. The occasional doughy texture may detract from the overall experience, but it remains a popular choice among customers. The variety of drinks to pair with the takoyaki adds to the appeal, particularly the bubble tea, which complements the dish well.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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14. T4 Oakland
Vibrant atmosphere, Friendly service, Vegetarian options available

The takoyaki offered at this establishment is quite tasty, though some customers may find the portion size to be a bit small relative to the cost. However, the snack is a good accompaniment to their bubble tea. For those who have tried the takoyaki, they found it to be delightful, with a crispy exterior and a soft interior, just as one would prefer.
This establishment's takoyaki is a recommended choice for those who enjoy the dish. Despite the small portion size, the taste and texture of the takoyaki are enjoyable. The crispy exterior complements the soft interior, creating a satisfying snack. Furthermore, it pairs well with their bubble tea offerings, leading to an overall positive experience for customers who choose to order the dish.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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15. Soba Ichi
Authentic Japanese street food, Slurpy soba noodles

The takoyaki offered at this location is truly exceptional. Its perfect balance of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish. The crispy exterior combined with a soft interior creates a delightful contrast, while the generous amount of octopus inside adds a savory touch. For those who enjoy this popular Japanese street food, it is definitely worth a return visit just to savor this delicious treat again.
Takoyaki is a must-try dish, and this place does not disappoint. The exterior of their takoyaki is crispy and golden brown, while the inside is soft and tender. The generous helping of octopus inside ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Overall, it is a delightful surprise and a welcome addition to any meal. Whether you are a fan of Japanese cuisine or just looking to try something new, the takoyaki at this establishment is sure to leave a lasting impression.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
16. RnR Sushi & Bowls
Offers vegetarian and gluten-free options

Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, was delightfully tasty and expertly prepared at an unspecified location. Its deliciousness is highly recommended for anyone who has the opportunity to try it. As an appetizer, takoyaki provides a satisfying start to any meal, particularly when paired with sushi rolls at RnR Sushi & Bowls.
The takoyaki, featuring small balls filled with diced octopus, was a delicious and enjoyable appetizer at RnR Sushi & Bowls. This savory dish, characterized by its crispy exterior and gooey interior, served as an excellent start to a sushi-centric meal. Overall, takoyaki is a must-try appetizer, especially when dining at RnR Sushi & Bowls, where it complements the sushi rolls perfectly.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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17. Sweetheart Café & Tea
Cosy atmosphere, specialty Asian-inspired desserts, handmade Japanese pastries

Sweetheart Café is a must-visit location in the Bay Area for anyone looking for delicious takoyaki. The exterior is crispy and provides a satisfying crunch, while the interior is soft and flavorful. It is a standout option for takoyaki in the area.
In addition to its exceptional taste and texture, Sweetheart Café's takoyaki also boasts high-quality ingredients. This ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor. Whether you are a fan of takoyaki or are trying it for the first time, Sweetheart Café's version is not to be missed.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Lunch
- Dinner
18. Tastee Steam Kitchen
Authentic Japanese street food, cozy atmosphere

Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, has a delicious flavor but its doughy texture may not suit everyone. The outside of the takoyaki is crispy, while the inside is soft, reminiscent of the authentic takoyaki in Japan.
The flavor of takoyaki is spot on, capturing the essence of traditional Japanese cooking. However, the texture could be improved, as some people may find it too doughy for their preference. Despite this, the crispy exterior and the soft interior make for a delightful eating experience.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
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19. ABURAYA
Friendly service, cozy atmosphere, vegetarian options

Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, is delightfully prepared at Aburaya. The exterior is crispy, while the interior remains soft and filled with ingredients such as octopus, green onion, and tempura scraps. The accompanying sauce enhances the flavor, making the dish even more satisfying.
Aburaya's takoyaki is a highly recommended dish, reminiscent of the authentic Japanese version. The contrasting textures, along with the delicious sauce, elevate the taste experience. Just like takoyaki in Japan, Aburaya's version is cooked to perfection, with crispy edges and a soft interior, making it a noteworthy dish.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
20. Itani Ramen
Authentic Japanese ramen and takoyaki spot in Oakland

Takoyaki, a popular Japanese street food, was enjoyed and described as delicious. The flavor was praised, but the portion size was noted to be a bit small for the price. Itani Ramen was the specific location where the takoyaki was consumed and appreciated for its expert cooking technique.
The takoyaki, a sphere-shaped snack made of a batter filled with diced octopus, was cooked to perfection at Itani Ramen. The delightful taste was enhanced by the quality of the ingredients, elevating the overall experience. Despite the small portion size, the delicious flavor made it worth the cost. The establishment was specifically highlighted for its excellent preparation of takoyaki.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
21. MENSHO
Uses high-quality ingredients imported from Japan

Takoyaki at MENSHO is a delicious and satisfying appetizer. These ball-shaped Japanese snacks, filled with tender pieces of octopus, are cooked to perfection and seasoned with a variety of ingredients, creating a burst of flavors in every bite. After enjoying the takoyaki, one can move on to MENSHO's rich and satisfying ramen dishes.
The takoyaki at MENSHO is a must-try for anyone visiting the restaurant. These delightful snacks are expertly prepared with a perfectly cooked exterior and a tender interior filled with pieces of octopus. The seasoning is on point, adding to the overall taste and making it a memorable experience for the taste buds.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Vegetarian Options
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22. Judoku Sushi
Freshly made takoyaki on order, homemade sauce and toppings

The takoyaki served at this establishment is a must-try dish. Its crispy exterior and soft interior create a delightful contrast in texture. The outside is skillfully cooked to a golden brown, while the inside remains tender and moist. The flavors are well-balanced and intense, making each bite a memorable experience.
Visitors to this location should not miss out on the opportunity to taste the delicious takoyaki. Cooked to perfection, each piece features a crispy exterior that gives way to a soft and flavorful interior. The combination of textures and tastes makes for a satisfying and enjoyable culinary experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Happy Hours
23. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
Authentic Japanese BBQ experience, unique dining concept

The takoyaki we tried was delicious, with a flawless cooking style and an explosion of flavor. It was a satisfying experience, with each morsel boasting a distinct taste that left us craving for more.
This memorable dish brought back memories of the street food I had in Osaka. The taste and texture were remarkably similar, transporting me back to the bustling streets of Japan filled with vendors selling delicious treats. The takoyaki here is definitely a must-try for anyone looking for a taste of authentic Japanese street food.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
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24. Mujiri
Family-owned, extensive Japanese menu, cozy atmosphere

Takoyaki at Mujiri is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and satisfying Japanese street food. The takoyaki was perfectly cooked, with a crispy exterior and a gooey interior filled with savory bits of octopus. The flavor was excellent, with a balanced blend of savory and umami that left us wanting more.
Overall, we highly recommend trying the takoyaki at Mujiri. It's a standout dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings for Japanese comfort food. The quality and taste of the takoyaki make it a highlight of any meal, and it's well worth the visit to Mujiri to experience this delicious snack for yourself.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
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25. Haruki Japanese

TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Hidden Gems
- Dinner
26. Yonsei Handrolls
Authentic Japanese hand rolls, cozy atmosphere

The takoyaki at Yonsei Handrolls is a culinary delight. Its exterior is crispy, while the interior is tender, creating a wonderful contrast in textures. The flavors are well-balanced, making it a must-try for anyone visiting the establishment.
If you're looking for a delicious and perfectly cooked takoyaki, Yonsei Handrolls is the place to go. The flavors are well-balanced, and the texture is just right, with a crispy exterior and tender interior. It is highly recommended for anyone looking for a tasty treat.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Happy Hours
27. Quickly
Authentic Japanese street food experience in a casual setting

Takoyaki, or ball-shaped Japanese snacks typically filled with diced octopus, were a decent experience, but they did not stand out as the best I have ever had. The service during my visit was slightly slow, which extended the overall dining time.
The takoyaki offered at this establishment is of good quality, with a delicious filling of tender octopus pieces. However, the waiting times can be longer than expected. Despite the slow service, the staff is known to be affable and kind, making the dining experience more enjoyable.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
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28. Stretchy Dogs Korean Corn Dogs & Boba Tea
Korean-style corn dogs and boba tea with a twist, located in downtown Oakland

The takoyaki is a standout dish at this location, with its perfect cooking and delicious flavor. The exterior is crispy while the interior remains soft, providing a satisfying texture. Those who try it are sure to be impressed and want to come back for more.
Takoyaki is a popular Japanese street food, and this version does not disappoint. The dish consists of small balls filled with diced octopus, tempura scraps, green onion, and pickled ginger, all cooked in a special takoyaki pan. This location's takoyaki offers an authentic taste and texture, making it a must-try for fans of Japanese cuisine.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
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29. Dela Curo Curry
Authentic Japanese curry house, offers vegetarian and vegan options
The individual enjoyed a meal consisting of chicken miso ramen, takoyaki, and a squid salad. Among the dishes, the takoyaki stood out as the favorite due to its delicious taste and perfect cooking. However, the chicken in the miso ramen was a slight disappointment as it was a bit dry.
The reviewer gave the takoyaki a score of four out of five, indicating high satisfaction. The only reason it did not receive a perfect score was the dryness of the chicken in the ramen. The individual seemed to have expected better quality chicken in the ramen, as it was a main dish. Nonetheless, the overall experience was positive, with the takoyaki being the highlight of the meal.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats