World-class jazz meets modern Japanese cuisine — plus a dedicated vegan and vegetarian menu — at Yoshi's in Jack London Square, an Oakland institution since 1972.

Voted Best Beer Bar in California, The Monk's Kettle in Rockridge pairs an exceptional craft beer list with upscale, from-scratch pub fare worth the trip up the hill.

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.

Established in 2018 in Alameda, California, on vibrant Park Street, The Park Street Tavern serves a menu with fresh ingredients influenced by Greek and Italian traditions.

Oakland's original Nashville hot chicken, born as a 2017 backyard pop-up. Halal fried chicken from mild to scorching, loaded fries, and late weekend hours near the Fox Theater.

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.