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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Oakland

Cool and interesting places

Made for those who actively seek out environments that challenge their expectations and offer something genuinely interesting.

Based on 665 Opinions
+662
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Updated April 2026
01
The Caffè by Mr. Espresso image 1
The Caffè by Mr. Espresso image 2
The Caffè by Mr. Espresso image 3
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Coffee shop blends Italian style with American flair in a bright, modern space designed like a bar. Atmosphere feels cozy and creative with lively music and a welcoming vibe. Regulars enjoy unique coffee options and a relaxed spot to sit or take away.

Espresso drinks stand out with high quality and interesting specialty options. Classic espresso and pourovers also feature in the menu.

Coffee here is really good and the atmosphere feels cool and nice.

People are saying

"The coffee here is reliably excellent and high quality."

"The atmosphere here is really cool."

"I tried their interesting specialty drinks, like sunchokes with coffee."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so consider using public transport or ride-sharing.

2

The café offers a unique variety of coffee flavors not found elsewhere.

3

Seating is limited, especially during peak hours, so arrive early.

02
Clio’s Books image 1

Bar combines bookstore and cocktail lounge with hidden rooms and cozy nooks for reading or chatting. Atmosphere feels magical and sophisticated, with chess boards and unique seating scattered throughout. Space suits quiet dates or relaxed gatherings, offering a thoughtfully curated, welcoming vibe.

Great 2-chair bar tables sit among shelves filled with interesting books of all ages. Lectures hosted here add to the engaging atmosphere.

Combining a bar vibe with unique book collections creates a cool concept. The spot offers a quiet respite with chess sets and a secret reading room.

People are saying

"This cozy, dimly lit spot among the books is a magical reading spot."

"It's a cool spot with a great vibe and unique book collections."

"The staff here are so caring and friendly."

Good to know

1

Chess night occurs every night at Clio's Books.

2

Clio's Books hosts various events and readings throughout the month.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events to ensure a spot.

03
The New Parkway Theater image 1

Movie theater features comfy couches and quirky decor with tables and coffee tables in screening rooms. Atmosphere feels warm and bohemian, blending a diverse coffee house vibe with a home movie shack feel. Frequent activities in the lobby and mezzanine add to the lively, welcoming environment.

Screenings feature interesting selections that differ from typical cinemas. The crowd and staff add a fun and engaging vibe to the movie experience.

Community events like Cereal Cinema create a cool vibe. The lobby always hosts something cool, and the seating adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's a comfy and welcoming movie palace."

"This local spot hosts so many cool community events."

"I love the interesting movie selections they show here."

Good to know

1

The theater hosts community events like trivia and bingo throughout the week.

2

Karaoke night is every Friday at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

3

Food options include unique snacks beyond standard theater fare.

04
Ramen Station image 1
Ramen restaurant

Decor and sounds mimic a Japanese train station with loudspeaker announcements and JR Rail-themed design. Vending machines offer Japanese snacks and drinks featuring anime characters. Outdoor seating overlooks water, providing a tranquil view alongside the immersive subway atmosphere.

Everything operates contactless with no human interaction. Japanese snacks and drinks come from vending machines, adding to the unique setup.

The spot nails a Tokyo subway vibe with its train station theme and setup. Watching food appear after your number is called adds a cool, immersive touch to the whole experience.

People are saying

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

"I loved the quiet outdoor space with a peaceful waterfront view."

"It's interesting how the setup mimics a Japanese train station."

Good to know

1

Orders are placed through a kiosk or iPad and food is delivered through an opening.

2

Drinks are ordered through a vending machine.

3

There is ample parking that is safe in a parking lot.

05
MENSHO image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant with modern decor and shared tables creates a loud, packed atmosphere that feels cramped but lively. Music adds a loungey, housey vibe while seating includes a section for solo diners. Air conditioning runs strong, sometimes uncomfortably so.

Noodles come with smoked eggs that stand out. Ramen flavors mix chicken broth, ground beef, and spicy scallops for a complex, balanced taste. Vegetarian ramen options add variety.

A super cool vibe fills the space, making it feel fresh and inviting. The atmosphere blends modern style with a welcoming energy that suits all kinds of visitors.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be amazing and flavorful."

"The ramen flavors here are complex and interesting."

"The vibe here is super cool."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so expect to wait during peak hours.

2

During peak hours, there might be a 20-30 minute wait, so it's better to go right when they open.

3

The restaurant offers vegan and vegetarian options for most of its menu.

06
The Fat Lady Bar & Restaurant image 1

Old wooden bar, antique lighting, and vintage decor create a unique, funky atmosphere with a cool, eclectic energy. The space separates bar and dining areas to avoid feeling cramped. Guests enjoy classic American fare alongside craft cocktails like martinis and spritzes.

Eclectic decor and a fabled story create an interesting atmosphere. The place combines great food and cocktails with a unique vibe that stands out.

Buzzing atmosphere carries an eclectic energy with cool decor and good cocktails.

People are saying

"The Date Spots here have generous portions of outstanding food."

"The decor here is really cool and eclectic."

"I found the decor here to be interesting and eclectic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get packed.

2

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm every first Friday of the month.

3

Parking is no longer validated, so plan accordingly.

07
MeloMelo Kava Bar image 1

Kava bar with lush plant wall and soft lighting creates a chill, social vibe that blends island and kitsch styles. Community-style seating and couches invite lounging while music ranges from laid-back to live performances. Space supports creatives and introverts seeking relaxed conversation without alcohol.

Kava offers an interesting experience with a vibe that looks unique and an exterior that appears super cool.

Chilling with good vibes sets the tone here. Drinking kava from a coconut shell adds a unique touch, while the cool atmosphere and friendly bartenders keep things relaxed.

People are saying

"It's a chill place with a laid-back atmosphere and cool staff."

"It's a cozy spot with soft lighting, perfect for date spots."

"The atmosphere here is cool, with everyone chilling and having good vibes."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks during weekdays.

2

Open mic night occurs every Wednesday, attracting local talent.

3

The bar allows patrons to bring their own food or order delivery.

08
Burdell image 1
American restaurant

Rustic décor with vintage charm and stained glass windows creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Funky music and a nostalgic vibe complement the comfortable, casual yet classy setting. Soul food flavors stand out amid a relaxed, stylish environment.

Music sets a fun tone while decor feels personal and unique. Chef’s choice wine pairings bring interesting surprises and the after-dinner drink list offers variety.

The vibe feels cool and trendy with a comfortable and casual yet classy atmosphere. Seating is comfy, though it can get quite hot inside due to no air conditioning.

People are saying

"The American Food's duck was intensely flavored, almost unrecognizable."

"The cornbread here is buttery and dense."

"The chicken and waffles here are perfect."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

Expect to pay around $30-50 per person for a meal.

3

The restaurant can get crowded during Sunday lunch hours.

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Oakland, California

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