Townhouse

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.

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.

A Black-owned Oakland institution since 1973, Everett & Jones serves oak-smoked ribs, hot links, and brisket with legendary house sauce — plus live blues in the Jack London Square music hall.

An easygoing Lake Merritt beer garden with a covered, pet-friendly lake-view patio, a top rotating tap list, and a strong kitchen from daily brunch through dinner.

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 family-owned Peruvian rotisserie in the Broadway-Valdez district, known for spit-roasted chicken with ají amarillo, fresh ceviche, lomo saltado, and pisco sours.