Although I’m a San Francisco city girl, I have been trying to get more familiar with Oakland and with a dear friend Kat living there I’ve had the perfect buddy to dine with and explore. Below are some of the Best Restaurants in Oakland I suggest you experience. This is just a start, as I plan to add to this as I visit more fabulous Oakland Restaurants. As always, if you have a suggestion, please send it my way.

The Limewood Restaurant at The Claremont Hotel & Spa Berkeley

It’s no surprise that one of the most luxurious hotels in the East Bay also has some of the best food. Located within the Claremont Hotel Berkeley, a Fairmont property is the Limewood Restaurant.  If you are curious about this stunning hotel, read about my magical stay at The Claremont Hotel & Spa Berkeley here.  The Limewood Restaurant recently launched a new weekend brunch, available on Saturdays and Sundays which I highly recommend.  I have had both dinner, cocktails and brunch here and you can’t go wrong whatever meal you experience. The restaurant offers stunning picturesque Berkeley views, (I recommend eating outside if possible), a beautiful interior setting, delicious food and great service this is an Oakland restaurant to experience.  41 Tunnel Rd, Berkeley, CA 94705

The gorgeous interior design of the restaurant interior.

Exploring the Limewood’s new weekend brunch with my Oakland bestie Kat. What a perfect dining date. A beautiful day, some Rose, delicious eats, and stunning San Francisco views.

A Grilled Shrimp and Grilled Avocado Salad which was delicious!

Hopscotch

For some of the best fried chicken, amazing cocktails, and a beyond retro hip atmosphere check out Oakland’s Hopscotch.  I have been here a few times and every time I enjoy it even more than the last time. And it’s owned by The Chef and his business partner and I love supporting other small business owners like these great guys! 1915 San Pablo Ave, Oakland, CA 94612.

Partners and co owners Kyle Itani and Jenny Schwartz

The bustling interior setting which is a combination vibe of a small diner and a cozy restaurant you never want to leave!

The amazing Fried Chicken in a Fried Chicken Sandwich. I have never had this sandwich but judging by how great the Fried Chicken is, I am sure it’s incredible!

A16 Rockridge

One of my favorite restaurant’s in San Francisco is A16 with incredible Italian food, a relaxed unpretentious setting and incredible wines curated by Owner & Sommelier Shelley Lindgren.  Read more about A16 San Francisco here and if you’re in Rockridge be sure to check out A16 Rockridge. 5356 College Ave, Oakland, CA 94618

Shakewell

Another great gem in Oakland for both brunch and dinner is Shakewell. I visited for brunch and it was bustling. Their waffles are a must as are their delicious cocktails. Plan to wait as it’s quite popular, but like anything delicious, it is worth the wait!  3407 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland, CA 94610

The incredible French Toast, just as delicious as it looks!

Penrose

Acclaimed Oakland Chef Charlie Howell has yet another spot you must experience, Penrose (just across the street from his other location Boot & Shoe Service.  With a lively scene, great food and amazing food it’s a must try in the Lake Merit area. 3311 Grand Ave, Oakland, CA 94610

Beauty Bagel Salon

The best bagels in Oakland are found at Beauty Bagel Salon located in Temescal area. I’ve dined in and carried out here a few times and I highly recommend you be sure to order a bagel with cream cheese (the scallions is my favorite) paired with an Everything Bagel. 3838 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, CA 94609

 Belly Up

For a delicious, laid back atmosphere offering Asian, Mexican & American dishes check out Belly Up. It’s actually next door to Hopscotch (featured above) in downtown Oakland. 1901 San Pablo Ave, Oakland, CA 94612. 

Enjoying a lovely drink outside the restaurant in their street side seating.

The Belly Up tacos were amazing. For sure something I recommend you check out when you visit!

Sweet Belly

Those of you with a sweet tooth or looking for the most instagrammable delicious food check out Sweet Belly located in downtown Oakland. With delicious soft serve ice cream that comes with yummy toppings including some donuts this is a must try in Oakland. 435 19th St, Oakland, CA 94612

Enjoying my Sweet Belly yogurt with some yummy crunchy toppings and a mini donut. I mean I think these are really meant for two or three people to share!

Thanks to the various restaurants in this post who hosted me and a guest to experience their food. As always, I only write about restaurants I personally adore and want to share with my readers.