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Best Hot Spot Restaurants in Oakland

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48 restaurants available nearby

A photo of alaMar Dominican Kitchen restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(193)
Price: Expensive
• Caribbean • Oakland
Booked 9 times today
alaMar is a Contemporary Dominican Kitchen located in the hip Uptown Oakland area. Bravo TV's Top Chef Season 18 Contestant, Chef Nelson German, dives deep into his Dominican culture at alaMar by offering a regional menu of foods he grew up on that his mom, grandmother, and Aunt Maritza would cook and NYC-style Dominican street foods he enjoyed as a child. German brings a unique take to family recipes with his contemporary NYC twist on traditional dishes, including his popular braised oxtail dish. There is indoor seating and a dog-friendly patio with heaters for al fresco dining. The not-to-be-missed craft cocktail program reflects Caribbean influences such as the signature Mamajuana cocktail.
A photo of Yoshi's Oakland restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(8242)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Oakland
Booked 69 times today
Yoshi's has served Japan's best traditional dishes to Bay Area patrons since 1972. The menu highlights artfully arranged sushi, fresh grilled seafood, classic Japanese dishes, and vegetarian fare. Patrons can kick off their shoes in the traditional Japanese tatami seating or dine at tables. Expert sushi chefs create sushi and sashimi to order either in the restaurant or in the jazz house. Start the evening in the cocktail lounge before dinner or have a nightcap after taking in a show in the jazz house.
A photo of Grand Lake Kitchen - Lake Merritt restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(653)
Price: Moderate
• American • Oakland
Booked 34 times today
Grand Lake Kitchen - Lake Merritt is a hot spot for its warm hospitality, delicious food, and fantastic service. It's a go-to place for catching up with friends, having business dinners, or just enjoying a casual brunch. The food is consistently praised as delicious, interesting, and comforting with good cocktails. The atmosphere inside and out is frequently described as great, friendly, and down-to-earth. The place is generally busy and gets a mix of locals and visitors, making it a reliable spot for food by the lake.
A photo of La Marcha restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1196)
Price: Expensive
• Spanish • Berkeley
Booked 38 times today
La Marcha Tapas Bar, located in Berkeley, California, is a culinary gem led by Chef Sergio Monleon and Chef Emily Sarlatte. Known for its innovative Spanish cuisine, La Marcha offers signature paella dishes and a variety of delightful tapas. The restaurant has earned accolades including listed in the Michelin Guide, Best of the Bay awards, and recognition among the top 5 Spanish restaurants by several publications. Situated near landmarks such as UC Berkeley and BAMPFA, it boasts a cozy, rustic atmosphere perfect for any occasion. Committed to community service, Chef Sergio, Chef Emily, and the team actively participate in local and global charitable initiatives. Join us at La Marcha Tapas Bar for an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the vibrant flavors and culture of Spain.
A photo of Millennium Oakland restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1318)
Price: Expensive
• Vegan • Oakland
Booked 29 times today
Since 1994 Millennium has been committed to providing fresh, innovative vegan cuisine. Millennium offers globally inspired plant-based fare in an inviting fine dining setting. Working with small farms, our menu changes constantly to showcase the finest local, sustainable, and organic produce at its peak. Thoughtfully blending flavors from around the world with classic techniques, we create vibrant dishes that are exciting to diners of all kinds. Our bar features inventive cocktails highlighting our house-made infusions and fresh juices, as well as craft beers and an internationally recognized wine list.
A photo of House of Prime Rib restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(15754)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steak • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 210 times today
62 years of loyal customers can't be wrong. We are grateful to all of our customers, employees, and critics (...though we may not always agree!). The only way to find out the truth is with a visit. Oft imitated, never duplicated. Thank you in advance.
A photo of Kokkari Estiatorio restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(9088)
Price: Expensive
• Mediterranean • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 137 times today
Kokkari (pronounced “Ko-Kar-ee”) is a small fishing village located on the islands of Samos in the Aegean Sea, whose name is derived from the small onions that were once produced in the nearby fields. Its fertile soil and Mediterranean climate translated into an abundance of fresh produce as well as treasured seafood and game. Legend tells that Kokkari is the site where Orion, a mighty hunter and a young man of gigantic stature and great beauty, fell in love with the daughter of the king of Chios. For the love of her, Orion forged the island for wild game and seafood to prepare elaborate banquets in celebration of their love. Today, we hope you will enjoy your own celebration as you dine at Kokkari Estiatorio on food “fit for the Gods” prepared with an Aegean palate and the style of innovative California fare.
A photo of The Progress restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2443)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary American • Western Addition
Booked 53 times today
The Progress is a vehicle for a completely local production. Innovative meals are served with memorable wine & cocktails. The Greatest Dinner Party Ever.
A photo of Waterbar restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(10888)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 65 times today
Waterbar is a seafood-centric restaurant located on the waterfront with spectacular panoramic views of the bay and city skyline, exceptional design, and a menu of the freshest sustainable fish and seafood. Featuring stunning outdoor (dog-friendly) dining on the waterfront patio, a relaxed atmosphere and floor-to-ceiling circular aquariums filled with an eye-catching array of fish and marine life from the Pacific Ocean. Waterbar is not to be missed.
A photo of Foreign Cinema restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(8778)
Price: Expensive
• Californian • Mission
Booked 115 times today
Foreign Cinema is a unique dining spot in San Francisco that combines independent films with Californian-Mediterranean cuisine. It's a hit with diners for its creative, flavorful dishes and its chic, fun atmosphere. Reviewers love the restaurant's ambiance and the service is consistently praised. The menu offers something for everyone, with inventive food and beverage options. This place is a winner with its terrific food, great ambiance, and attentive staff.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Ginger
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    A large busy open dining experience before a show is a great way to start the evening. Staff is very friendly & helpful. The menu is sparse but the fish/sushi is fresh but expensive. But you can have a quick bite instead of an entire meal. After dining you line up to find your seat. I like the smaller venue, not a bad seat in the theater, as opposed to thousands of people. I recommend Yoshi’s for a fun night out in Oakland. Take the ferry, drive and park in the huge parking garage next door to Yoshi’s. The Average White Band brought back many memories and continued rocking out the crowd with their soulful band.
    More info
    Yoshi's OaklandPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Oakland
    4.7
  • Kathy
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    I went to Millennium with 2 friends to celebrate my birthday. It had been many years since I last ate there and my memory was that the food was less than average. I decided to give it another chance after I read that the restaurant had Michelin recognition. I'm so pleased that I did. The food was excellent and very interesting. We shared 3 appetizers and 1 main dish along with 1 dessert and a glass of wine. The wait staff was attentive and pleasant. The ambience was warm but the noise level was rather loud for 3 "older" women who wanted to talk to each other rather than scream at each other. Really that was my only complaint. I would definitely go back again.
    More info
    Millennium OaklandPrice: Expensive• Vegan• Oakland
    4.7
  • Shannon
    San Francisco Bay Area •75 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Love this location. Right across from the lake, so maybe a long walk before or after, right? Great lunch. The Brussels sprouts are delicious!
    More info
    Grand Lake Kitchen - Lake MerrittPrice: Moderate• American• Oakland
    4.7
  • Jose
    San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Second time to come here and it was excellent experience as the first time here. Service was excellent and so was the food. Definitely will be on our list of places to go.
    More info
    alaMar Dominican KitchenPrice: Expensive• Caribbean• Oakland
    4.6
  • Laurievip
    San Francisco Bay Area •19 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Excellent food and service! Wish there was some traditional jamon. Otherwise, awesome happy hour deal.
    More info
    La MarchaPrice: Expensive• Spanish• Berkeley
    4.6

Discover best hot spot restaurants in Oakland

Discover the vibrant culinary scene in Oakland's San Francisco Bay Area, where every restaurant is a hot spot offering an exceptional dining experience. These eateries in East Bay's Oakland stand out for their unique flavors, high-quality service, and welcoming atmospheres, making them must-visit destinations for both locals and visitors. From adventurous Thai cuisine to innovative Mediterranean dishes and beyond, each location brings its own distinct charm and culinary delights, without compromising on taste or experience. The dining scene in Oakland is characterized by its diversity and the ability to cater to various palates and preferences, ensuring a memorable meal for everyone. Whether you're looking for a place to have a casual brunch, a business dinner, or a fun evening out with friends, Oakland's restaurants provide not just meals, but exceptional dining experiences. Enjoy the blend of friendly vibes, creative dishes, and excellent service that make these spots true culinary gems in the East Bay.

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