An Alameda burger favorite on Park Street with Food Network cred, serving East Coast-style burgers on challah, Nashville hot chicken, and a chopped NY hero — with a bar next door.

One of America's last great piano bars, going since 1933 near Lake Merritt. Nightly live piano sing-alongs, business-card-covered walls, strong drinks, and classic American fare.

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.

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.

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.