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.

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.

A short walk up the Embarcadero, Ramen Station serves eight-hour tonkotsu with house-made chashu via a fun self-serve, train-station-themed kiosk. Bay views, easy parking, open daily.

A warm, longtime neighborhood cafe on Park Boulevard serving espresso, smoothies, and made-to-order panini — the spicy Torta Cubana is the local favorite. Free wifi and cozy seating.

Chef Abby Dair's family-run, Black-owned Eritrean and Ethiopian spot in North Oakland, with aromatic tibs, injera, and a standout vegetarian menu. The Shewhat Combo is the move.