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Oakland's best

Tea and chai

Steaming chai is the only way to settle into a tea house. It provides a steady rhythm to the afternoon.

Based on 542 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Sana'a Cafe image 1
Sana'a Cafe image 2
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Coffee shop

Small space with authentic Yemeni decor and traditional seating creates a cozy atmosphere ideal for studying or relaxing. Plenty of outlets and WiFi support work, while a quiet back area suits meetings or prayer. The vibe is welcoming and calm, attracting students and friends catching up.

Adeni chai stands out with its rich flavor and careful preparation. It tastes strong but not bitter, making it a consistent favorite and pairs well with sweet treats like pistachio milk cake.

Adeni chai stands out with its rich flavor and consistent quality. The milk tea is also flavorful and pairs well with pistachio milk cake.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the rich and flavorful coffee here."

"The Adeni chai here is rich, flavorful, and made with care."

"I found the Adeni chai here to be rich and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Sana'a Cafe is open until midnight, making it a late-night option.

2

The cafe is dog-friendly, allowing pets on the patio.

3

WiFi and power outlets are available for those who want to work.

02
Jebena Cafe image 1

Open, airy space with Ethiopian cultural touches creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Soft jazz and Amharic conversation blend with the aroma of coffee, making the vibe lively yet relaxed. Cozy seating and friendly energy invite both socializing and quiet moments.

Chai comes in spiced and sweet varieties, including a hot latte and an iced version that blends creamy sweetness with bold flavors. Ethiopian spiced chai adds a unique twist to the selection.

Chai lattes come comfortingly sweet and spicy, brewed to highlight rich Ethiopian flavors. The tea features exotic spices and is served with care, often including samples to enjoy later.

People are saying

"I had the best coffee and amazing food at this Cafe."

"I loved the exquisitely spiced Ethiopian tea here."

"The chai here is exquisitely spiced and comfortingly sweet."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

The cafe offers a variety of traditional Ethiopian coffee and tea.

3

Parking is generally easy to find in the surrounding area.

03
Highwire Coffee Roasters image 1

Coffee shop features cozy indoor/outdoor seating with good airflow and a chill, low-key atmosphere. It draws a loyal following and gets crowded on weekends, with limited seating and bustling energy. Nearby transit and street noise influence the outdoor experience.

Strong, hot chai stands out here with a rich, masala spice blend. This chai matches well with coffee offerings and delivers a bold flavor.

Strong, hot chai stands out here, especially the masala chai which ranks highly among east bay coffee shops. Iced tea and decaf coffee also offer really tasty options for tea lovers.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the superb coffee and the variety of very nice biscuits."

"Their masala chai was hot and strong."

"Their masala chai was the best I had experienced."

Good to know

1

Highwire Coffee Roasters opens at 6am daily.

2

Parking is available in the nearby BART lot for free on weekends.

3

Expect crowds and longer wait times on weekends.

04
Poppy Bagels image 1
Bagel shop

Small shop with cute decor and speckled stools offers a buzzy atmosphere and spacious outdoor patio where kids and dogs can roam safely. The vibe stays chill despite the crowd, making it a pleasant spot to spend time. Bagels come with fresh ingredients and unique flavors, often praised for their quality and presentation.

Spiced oatmilk chai stands out with its fabulous spiciness and flavorful profile. Options include adding espresso or mixing with cold brew for a fresh twist.

Spiced oatmilk chai stands out with its fabulous spiciness and rich flavor. Options include adding espresso or enjoying it iced, making it a versatile and addicting choice alongside bagels.

People are saying

"I'll get the green bagel again next time I'm in town."

"The back patio is a spacious, safe place for kids to run around."

"I loved the spicy chai tea latte; it was so addicting."

Good to know

1

Expect about 20 minutes for your order to be ready.

2

There is limited indoor seating due to construction on the patio.

3

The outdoor patio is a nice spot for enjoying bagels on sunny days.

05
Damask Rose image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy coffee shop filled with extensive floral decorations and big open windows creates a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. Soft chairs and ample power outlets support long stays for reading or working. Mediterranean-inspired menu offers thoughtful flavors including vegan options.

Chai here comes from a homemade recipe, not a premixed blend. Options include a Kashmiri chai latte and choices to serve it unsweetened or with exotic syrups.

Chai lattes come from a homemade recipe and can be served unsweetened or with exotic syrups. The Kashmiri chai latte stands out as very tasty, paired well with Syrian flatbreads and zaatar flatbreads.

People are saying

"This cafe is adorable and beautifully decorated with flowers."

"I loved the homemade chai latte and zaatar flatbreads."

"I found the chai latte to be excellent and not overly sweet."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited, so consider alternative transport options.

2

They offer oat and almond milk alternatives for dairy-free options.

3

The outdoor seating area has great shade until early afternoon.

06
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.

Chai tea comes in a small iron kettle with a memorable aroma that stands out. The chai latte, including versions with oat milk, offers a smooth and comforting flavor.

Chai tea comes in a small iron kettle with a memorable aroma and a flavor that feels like a trip to another time. Indian tea suits the season well and pairs with excellent espresso.

People are saying

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

"The chai tea's flavor transported me, washing away my stress."

"The chai latte here is a real treat."

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.

07
Delah Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop with authentic Middle Eastern decor and a calm, relaxing atmosphere. Offers comfy seating areas and free Wi-Fi, attracting those looking for a cozy spot rather than a quiet study place. Music plays loudly, creating a lively vibe that suits socializing more than focused work.

Rich and woody Adeni chai stands out with customizable sweetness levels. The Yemeni chai latte offers a flavorful twist, paired well with milk cakes for a dreamy combo.

Chai stands out with its Adeni chai, known for being flavorful and customizable with a no-sugar option. The tea pairs well with milk cake, creating a unique and tasty combo.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was the best I've ever had."

"I thought the Adeni chai was perfection."

"I found the Yemeni tea here to be quite good and very strong."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in front of Delah Coffee.

2

Seating can be limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

WiFi is available but may be slow and unreliable.

08
Desilicious image 1
Pakistani restaurant

Small space with an open kitchen where cooking is visible creates a family-owned vibe and cozy atmosphere. Warm, welcoming environment feels like a hidden gem with homely charm. Upstairs area offers additional seating for small parties.

Chai comes dum style, simmered lightly with a milky profile rather than bitter. Staff prepare it directly in your cup when requested.

Chai comes dum style, simmered lightly with a milky taste rather than bitter. They prepare chai directly in your cup on request.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly balanced with spices."

"I loved the strong and tasty chai here."

"The chai here is milky, strong, and heavenly."

Good to know

1

The restaurant can have a wait time of up to 20 minutes for food.

2

Expect to pay over $100 for a meal for 2-3 people.

3

Credit card payments incur an extra 10% fee, which is illegal in California.

09
Biryani Tika Kabab (برياني تكا كباب حلال)Halal Indian & Pakistani Cuisine image 1

Spacious Indian restaurant with colorful Pakistani decor and an authentic vibe creates a warm, family-like atmosphere. The place balances a cozy sit-down experience with a focus on takeout. The energy feels inviting and homey, reflecting rich cultural elements.

Authentic Pakistani chai stands out with a rich, classic flavor. The doodh pati chai offers a creamy, outstanding taste that complements the meal well.

Chai here is authentic Pakistani chai with a rich, creamy flavor. The doodh pati chai stands out as outstanding and pairs well with dishes like biryani and lamb curry.

People are saying

"I thought the biryani was the best Indian food I've ever had."

"You have to try their doodh pati chai; it was outstanding."

"Their authentic Pakistani chai is amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers authentic Pakistani cuisine with generous portions.

2

The total cost is around $42 with tax and tip for two people.

3

The prices are very good for the generous servings.

10
Yafa Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy space with bold flavors and elegant decor creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Plenty of charging spots and free wifi support working or relaxing. Friendly vibe encourages lingering over coffee and treats.

Adeni Chai offers a great complexity and tastes like Indian desi chai. It can be tweaked to suit preferences and stands out as a hot beverage option.

Adeni Chai offers a great complexity and stands out as a top hot beverage. The menu includes a selection of high-quality teas alongside coffee and pastries.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be strong and authentic."

"You have to try the Adeni Chai; it's the best hot beverage."

"The Adeni Chai had a great complexity to it."

Good to know

1

Yafa Coffee offers a selection of high-quality coffee, teas, and pastries.

2

All food items at Yafa Coffee are halal.

3

Yafa Coffee is conveniently located near the airport.

11
Kinfolx image 1

Gorgeous space filled with afro centric artwork and comfy seating creates a lively atmosphere where many work on laptops with headphones. The vibe is warm and welcoming, reflecting a strong sense of community and culture. Frequent live DJs add to the laid-back, energetic environment.

Rich and creamy chai lattes stand out here, especially the dirty chai made with care every time. Both chai and matcha lattes offer excellent flavor and a frothy texture.

Chai and matcha lattes stand out with their rich flavor and creamy froth. The spot offers a versatile tea selection alongside coffee and wine, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's a thoughtful, calm space that feels right for working."

"I loved their chai latte; it was rich, creamy, and frothy."

"Their chai lattes are excellent, rich with flavor and creamy."

Good to know

1

Kinfolx does not accept cash; only credit cards and mobile payments are allowed.

2

Wi-Fi at Kinfolx is restrictive and blocks many popular websites.

3

Arrive early to secure a seat, especially during busy hours.

12
Tea On Piedmont image 1

Bright space with Scandinavian decor and natural lighting creates a calm, inviting atmosphere. Comfortable seating with Wi-Fi and power outlets supports work or relaxation. The vibe stays peaceful, making it suitable for quiet chats or solo time.

Iced chai latte offers a strong spiced chai flavor with oat milk and is not overly sweet. Some find the iced chai harsh, even burning the throat.

Freshly brewed teas stand out with exceptional matcha and a unique barley tea latte. The shop offers excellent boba and a variety of delicious iced teas served early in the day.

People are saying

"I loved their delicious tea, especially the jasmine oat milk latte."

"It's a great spot to get work done and just hang out."

"I enjoyed the tasty, spiced chai latte."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult near the cafe.

2

You can bring your own cup for a small discount.

3

The menu includes customizable drinks and seasonal additions.

13
ID Cafe image 1
Indian restaurant

Basement cafe with open kitchen and simple interiors offers a casual, welcoming vibe. Seating is self-service with about six tables in a clean, modest space. The atmosphere suits quick, authentic South Indian meals with a focus on crispy dosas.

Masala Chai comes with sugar on the side to add yourself. It pairs with dishes like idly and dosas. The chai has a decent flavor but could be stronger.

Chai captures attention with its rich flavor that holds focus until the last drop. The tea pairs well with dosa, creating a satisfying combo.

People are saying

"The Indian food here, especially the dosas, is amazing."

"I enjoyed the nice tea and dosa here."

"You have to try the Masala Chai with the idli and dosa."

Good to know

1

ID Cafe offers unlimited vegetarian dosa nights on select days.

2

The restaurant is located in the basement level of the Ramada Inn.

3

Prices at ID Cafe are reasonable compared to other Indian restaurants.

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