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Oakland's best

French toast and brunch

A slow-paced brunch featuring French toast that lets you linger over your coffee without being rushed out the door.

Based on 616 Opinions
+613
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Updated May 2026
01
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Breakfast restaurant

Small space with hard surfaces creates a lively, sometimes noisy atmosphere. Cozy, colorful interior features a hot sauce wall and soft jazzy music, fostering a friendly vibe. Outdoor seating offers heat lamps and wind protection, making it inviting despite limited indoor space.

Stuffed French toast stands out with its unique flavor and delicious taste. It offers a twist unlike typical versions, making it a memorable dish here.

Brunch offers a unique Korean American twist with dishes that stand out from typical American style brunch spots. Food tastes delicious and refreshing, making it a distinct choice for breakfast and brunch.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the chicken and waffles, is really good."

"I loved their unique Korean and brunch fusion dishes."

"This French toast is unique, delicious, and out of this world."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait on weekends without a reservation.

3

There is a 4% charge for using credit cards.

02
Lynn & Lu's Escapade Cafe image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Small cafe with cozy atmosphere and homey garden patio offers a quiet spot for brunch or lunch. Tables sit close together, creating an intimate but sometimes crowded space. Frequented by locals, it serves affordable breakfast dishes with a family-owned vibe.

Fluffy French toast comes in a generous three-piece serving with great eggs and a lot of bacon. The platter stays delicious even as takeout and costs less than nearby spots using regular bread.

Cozy and unpretentious, this spot offers a variety of coffee and food perfect for brunch or breakfast. The atmosphere feels comfortable and inviting, ideal for a sunny day meal.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be great."

"The French toast here is fluffy and delicious."

"I loved the yummy French toast and mimosas at brunch."

Good to know

1

The cafe has limited parking, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Expect longer wait times on weekend mornings due to popularity.

3

Prices for food are generally affordable compared to nearby options.

03
Willows & Pine image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant combines southern flare with classic California touch in a modern, intimate space. Atmosphere stays laid-back and family-friendly with R&B music that supports conversation. Seating includes spacious booths and a cozy main room.

French toast features brioche caramel apple and peach cobbler varieties with generous whipped cream. Some versions have a light batter, and the banana pudding flavor stands out.

Brunch offers a curated menu with dishes like oxtail and grits and chicken pot pie instead of typical eggs and waffles. Options include a la carte choices and vegetarian substitutions.

People are saying

"This American food tastes like home and is so comforting."

"The oxtail with grits for brunch were big and flavorful."

"The Peach Cobbler French Toast was amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary for Saturday dining, even early in the evening.

2

Expect to arrive early for brunch to avoid long wait times.

3

Vegan and vegetarian options are available on the menu.

04
Zocalo Coffee and Kitchen image 1

Bright space with high ceilings and natural light creates an airy, pleasant atmosphere. Friendly vibe with colorful art and outdoor seating invites relaxation near the water. Occasional barking dogs add lively background noise to the welcoming environment.

French toast comes as a casserole prepared in advance, offering a rich and consistent flavor. It pairs well with drinks like dirty chai for a unique twist.

Weekend brunch offers friendly local vibes and fantastic chef work. It serves as a solid spot to indulge on days off.

People are saying

"I got the best dirty latte that I ever had."

"The French toast here is served in a warm, inviting atmosphere."

"I found the weekend brunch here to be a fantastic, friendly spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Parking is limited; consider arriving early or using nearby street parking.

3

Zocalo Coffee and Kitchen is dog-friendly, allowing pets on the patio.

05
Cafe Noir image 1
American restaurant

Bright, inviting space with a friendly vibe and flavorful, standout dishes like ricotta donuts and sweet potato pancakes. Menu offers generous portions with a mix of classic and unique American brunch options. Atmosphere suits casual meals with friends or family, emphasizing warm hospitality.

Banana bread French toast stands out with its decadent and rich flavor. Banana Fosterโ€™s French toast tastes like a dessert, offering a sweet twist on the classic dish.

Offers delicious and decadent breakfast with a focus on sweet potato pancakes. Serves as a terrific little bistro for brunch options.

People are saying

"The breakfast dishes at this cafe are the best I've had."

"I had the best brunch I've had in a long time."

"The banana bread French toast is a decadent delight."

Good to know

1

Ask about daily specials for unique menu items not listed.

2

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid wait times.

3

The portion sizes are generous, suitable for sharing.

06
Bellanico Restaurant and Wine Bar image 1

Italian restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with a great pizza oven and handmade pasta. Atmosphere ranges from relaxed and chill on weekends to a bit noisy, especially on the patio. The place fills up fast, making reservations advisable.

French toast with cream and strawberries stands out for its rich flavor and texture. It offers a memorable, sweet breakfast experience.

Outdoor patio seating creates a relaxed vibe for weekend brunch. The menu features a wide variety of salads, pastas, meats, and fish, all beautifully prepared.

People are saying

"The handmade pasta here is so fresh and delicious."

"I had the best French toast of my life here."

"The French toast at Brunch is out of this world."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly, especially on weekends.

2

Outdoor seating is available for guests with dogs.

3

The menu offers a rich range of Italian dishes to choose from.

07
Blackberry Bistro image 1

Bistro offers cozy atmosphere with colorful decor and charming outdoor seating. It serves a unique menu featuring traditional Eritrean and Ethiopian dishes alongside classic brunch options. The vibe is family-friendly and welcoming, encouraging relaxed, lingering meals.

French toast comes with berries and caramelized bananas or a Buttery Vanilla Orange twist. It tastes rich and sweet, and kids enjoy it too.

Delicious brunch options create a satisfying start to the day. The spot offers a perfect brunch atmosphere for a relaxed meal.

People are saying

"The breakfast service here is super friendly and welcoming."

"The brunch dishes were delicious, especially the chickpea stew."

"I found the French toast to be out of this world."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the Ethiopian/Eritrean dinner menu nights.

2

Parking may take some effort, so plan accordingly.

3

The restaurant accommodates larger groups well.

08
Brenda's Oakland image 1

Cozy indoor space and spacious outdoor patio with radiant heaters create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Music plays loudly, contributing to an upbeat energy that suits brunch, lunch, or dinner. Seating can feel tight, but the overall vibe stays positive and lively.

Bananas foster French toast stands out with homemade whipped cream and rich sauce. Brioche and pecan versions also shine, especially with butter pecan sauce.

Brunch offers indulgent soul-food dishes like shrimp and grits with tomato-bacon gravy. Outdoor patio seating adds to the warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for late morning meals.

People are saying

"You have to try the warm, golden-fried apple beignets."

"This brunch's soul food dishes felt like a warm hug."

"The banana foster French toast is an incredible treat."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features three or four different meat options for tacos.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

3

Street parking is the only option available nearby.

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