Homeroom
If you're in the mood for some ultimate comfort food, look no further than Homeroom. This cute, airy restaurant decorated with all things school paraphernalia specializes in one thing: Mac & Cheese. And this isn't your grandma's blue box of "Mac N Cheese" as the different varieties range from your classic cheddar mac to more adventurous versions like goat cheese mac, trailer mac with hot dog and crushed potato chips, Mexican mac with chorizo, chipotle, jack cheese and cilantro, and even vegan or gluten free mac so noone is left out. Some of the varieties are constant staples while others change from time to time. All dishes can have various different ingredients and crunchy toppings added to them. In addition to the cheesy goodness, Homeroom also features various breakfast and lunch special sandwiches, homemade desserts and a delicious selection of local beers and wines.
Marica
Marica Restaurant is truly a dining option gem. The menu highlights California Cuisine, with most ingredients being organic and sustainable. The specials change frequently. The mussels appetizer is a favorite, as are the dollar oysters, and you can't go wrong with the lobster, rib eye, and chocolate souffle. Marica Restaurant also features an affordable prix fixe three-course dinner; be sure to check their website to see the choices available. Reservations are recommended.
Shandong
Shan Dong Restaurant located in Oakland's Chinatown specializes in Mandarin cuisine. Especially popular are the fresh, homemade dumplings, pancakes and rolls, as well as their tasty hand-made noodle dishes. The decor, however, is minimal and showcases the traditional Chinese culture. Try the special Shan Dong dumplings or the always delicious sesame noodles. Shan Dong also offers an extremely affordable lunch special, all lunch entrees served with rice. If you live nearby, they offer free delivery for dinner within one and a half miles.
This famous Chicago-style pizza company is always packed with UC students, families and out-of-towners. No one seems to mind the 20-minute (or more!) wait for the stuffed masterpiece. The pizza is made as thick as a pumpkin pie (yes, you do need a knife and fork), and the ingredients are put on upside down with tomatoes on top, meat on the bottom. So filling and so delicious, count on bringing home leftovers. For those with a slightly lesser appetite, they also serve thin crust pizzas that are just as delectable.
This beloved, trendy and delicious San Francisco favorite comes to the East Bay. Located in Oakland's emerging "Gourmet Ghetto," this popular Bay Area restaurant never has a shortage of interest. Sample interesting and exotic menu items like the Rainbow Salad or the Tea Leaf Salad (made with fermented tea leaves), both featured on the Food Network. Burma Superstar is a great restaurant if you're in the mood for something a bit different and every bit as delicious. Note that Burma Superstar does not accept reservations, so you may be in for a bit of a wait, but the food is well worth the wait.
Located in the heart of the chic Rockridge area, Wood Tavern is arguably one of Oakland's favorite restaurants. Saying that they have pretty good dishes is a vast understatement. The menu changes frequently but might include dishes like seared duck breast, steaks and freshly made pastas. While the restaurant tends to crowd up, especially during peak hours, an airy breeze (when weather permits) and a friendly staff help to cultivate a casual atmosphere. Equipped with a full cocktail menu and over 70 wines, you can even stop in just for an after-work drink and leave satisfied.
Cholita Linda focuses on Latin American comfort food made with love. It's our goal that every bite be filled with the tradition, flavor and warmth that makes Latin America so special. Our specialties are our delicious tacos, grilled sandwiches, salads and comfort plates.
Mua
Mua Oakland is one of Oakland's most hip and trendy places to be when it comes to nightlife and good times. Mua serves up delicious New American cuisine, but infused with all kinds of global influences. Popular items include the delicious and juicy half pound Hamburger, the Soft-Shell Crab Po'Boy, Berkshire Pork Lettuce Wrap, among many, many more. In addition to the tasty food, Mua turns into a place to see and be seen after dinner time, with great music, potent drinks and interesting people all mixing together to make for a great night.
