Oakland

Oakland is a major port city, just East of San Francisco and across the Bay Bridge. Oakland’s diverse population of half a million population makes it one of the best places for food in the US. For example, one of the largest Ethiopian populations outside of Ethiopia is in Oakland. My favorite spot (though I still have many to try) is Enssaro. Even though it’s just across the Bay Bridge, the weather is surprisingly much better than in San Francisco: they get on average 260 sunny days per year.

My list of place to try is endless. These are some of my favorites.

The Ramen Shop

The is hands down my favorite ramen place in the Bay Area, US, and maybe even the world (and I’ve been to Tokyo twice). Started by three Chez Panisse alumni, this one of a kind ramen menu changes daily, inspired by seasonality and what is available at the farmer’s market. They have vegetarian ramen, as well as meat based ramens. The limited menu also serves up killer appetizer and rice bowls.

Oliveto

Oliveto is located in Rockridge, Oakland and is know for its pasta dishes due to its unique partnership with Community Grains. Oliveto brilliantly showcases these artisanal grains in their dishes, while bringing awareness to the dangers of industrial milling and the commodification of wheat by supporting artisanal, small-scale wheat production. Community Grains’ mission is to create a thriving and self-sustaining grain economy in Northern California, and by eating at Oliveto you are not only supporting that mission, but also this Italian neighborhood restaurant.

Curbside Creamery

Curbside Creamery makes traditional and vegan ice cream - but I just come here for the vegan ice cream, which is cashew based and incredibly creamy. If I make the trek over here, I’m getting it in a chocolate waffle cone or an ice cream sandwich.

Mockingbird

Dining at Mockingbird single handedly convinced me that I need to eat in Oakland more often. With easy parking, no need for reservations, and a relaxed atmosphere, my friends and I shared a wonderful dining experience. Without a doubt, if this restaurant were situated in San Francisco, people would be lining up out of the door and reservations would be made months in advance.

The chef, who is also a San Francisco native, brings her Italian-inspired California cuisine to the table. The dishes used ingredients familiar to me, but she prepared the local ingredients in a fashion that I had never envisioned before. For example, nearly every restaurant in the Bay Area has Brussels sprouts on their menu when they are in season. At Mockingbird, the Brussels sprouts carried a different pungency because the chef chose to smother them in lemon garlic confit aioli and blue cheese. I also couldn’t not pass up the Meyer lemon tagliatelle with asparagus, herbs, and Parmigiano Reggiano. I loved everything we tasted.

Firebrand

Firebrand specializes in wood fired bread and pastries. The loaves for sale are rustic and a beautiful caramelized brown. I especially love their buttery pretzels and their golden raisin and fennel baguette.

Faction Brewing

I discovered Faction Brewing in my late 20s - too late in my opinion! This spot is literally on the water with sweeping views of the San Francisco skyline. The beer is made in house, and the large outdoor area makes it great for groups. If you are planning on staying outside, bundle up because in it can get windy and chilly even on a sunny day.

Funky Elephant

Funky Elephant is technically in Berkeley, but it is worth the detour from Oakland. This peanut sized Thai eatery has some of the most incredible Thai street food, complete with little plastic tools outside of their restaurant. Coming here with friends, I was reminded by my delicious times eating from vendors in Thailand. The place might be casual, but it has struck a nod from Michelin.