Oakland's beloved Temescal mac and cheese specialist since 2011, with a dozen-plus made-to-order varieties, from Mexican Mac to truffle — plus vegan and gluten-free options.

A short walk down the Embarcadero from our front desk, Quinn's Lighthouse serves seafood, pub fare, and globally inspired specials inside a historic 1903 lighthouse on the water.

A family-run Jack London Square deli serving generously stacked sandwiches, Hot Pastrami, Banh Mi, and a standout philly cheesesteak. Phone ahead — they close at 5pm.

Toriano Gordon's bright-yellow food truck near Lake Merritt serving bold, 100% plant-based BBQ and soul food — smoky "brisket," gumbo, dirty rice, and loaded bowls.

A short drive across the estuary, Ark Chinese Restaurant in Alameda serves outstanding hand-pulled noodles, xiao long bao, and authentic northern Chinese and Cantonese favorites.

Uptown Oakland's neon-lit, award-winning cocktail bar pairs farm-to-glass drinks like the signature Tomato Beef with standout Szechuan salt and pepper wings and umami tots.