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.

Hakata-style tonkotsu ramen with house-made noodles, plus creative cocktails and vegan options. A must-stop in Jack London Square with one of the most fun atmospheres in town.

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.

An all-day Brazilian cafe, kitchen, and craft beer taproom in the Glenview District serving coxinhas, açaí bowls, empanadas, feijoada, and RedBay coffee.

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 warm, community-rooted coffee bar in Old Oakland with in-house roasted coffee and generously built sandwiches — the pulled pork is the local favorite.