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Dinner spots

A dinner spot that feels like a destination in its own right rather than just a place to refuel.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Oken image 1
Oken image 2
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Restaurant

Cat-themed Asian fusion spot shines with stylish lighting and family-style Korean and Japanese dishes. Dinner offers a welcoming atmosphere and carefully prepared dishes. Busy and upbeat, it blends upscale comfort with lively vibes.

Dinner service offers a welcoming atmosphere with carefully prepared dishes. The menu reflects the deli's style, creating a unique dining experience.

People are saying

"I found the salad and all the dishes to be amazing."

"The Maitake Tempura was outstanding and beautifully presented."

"The dinner spots here are mindblowingly fantastic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as Oken is often fully booked.

2

The menu features family-style dining with cold and hot appetizers.

3

Oken is kid-friendly, making it suitable for families.

02
Daytrip Counter image 1
Restaurant

Bright yellow decor and comfortable cushioned seats create a happy vibe for early, casual dinners. Whole birds offer a hearty dinner option that reheats well. A lively volume and casual bar area keep the atmosphere fun and inviting.

Whole birds serve as a hearty dinner option and reheat well for leftovers. Early, casual dinners accommodate family visits comfortably.

People are saying

"I found the chicken in the salad to be flavorful and juicy."

"You should not sleep on the cookie; it's insane."

"The rotisserie chicken with schmaltz sauce is a revelation for dinner."

Good to know

1

The meal costs less than $18 per person when shared among three people.

2

Everything is customizable, including gluten-free options.

3

The restaurant offers both inside and street side dining options.

03
To The Moon image 1
Korean restaurant

Small space with minimalist black decor and elegant orchids sets a chilled mood. Open late with complimentary snacks and drinks, perfect for late-night dinners. Friendly service and cozy vibe make it great for casual group meals.

Late-night dinners work well here with a relaxed vibe. Groups find it suitable for casual evening meals with friendly service and a comfortable atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Korean beef short rib soup is so rich and flavorful."

"The seafood pancake was packed with a ton of good seafood."

"The dinner spots here have really tender and flavorful dishes."

Good to know

1

To The Moon opens until 2am on weekends and 1:30am on weekdays.

2

The last order is taken at 1:30am.

3

Prices are competitive compared to similar Korean restaurants in the area.

04
Colombo Club Inc image 1
Banquet hall

Banquet hall offers historic charm and hosts large dinners with 300 to 500 guests. Cocktails flow upstairs before moving downstairs for meals where the pledge of allegiance is recited. Events include fun raffle and birthday prizes during dinner.

Dinner events draw 300 to 500 attendees and include a pledge of allegiance before the meal. Guests enjoy cocktails upstairs before moving downstairs for food, with raffle and birthday prizes during dinner.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentically Italian."

"The dinner spots here taste authentically Italian and celebrate heritage."

Good to know

1

The club hosts events like birthday dinners that are highly recommended to attend.

2

Usually, between 300 and 500 people attend the dinner events.

3

The pledge of allegiance is always recited before every dinner.

05
KungFu Mala 쿵푸마라 功夫麻辣 image 1

Modern hot pot spot shines with spicy broths and a self-service bar. Dinner draws a lively crowd dressed for dates and hangouts. TVs play K-pop videos, adding to the casual, fun vibe.

Dinner hours bring a lively crowd dressed in cool outfits for dates and hangouts. The spot works well for both special occasions and casual dinners, with Tanghulu available as a dessert option.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be super tasty and delicious."

"You can build your own soup with tons of toppings and spice levels."

"I loved customizing my own hot pot dinner spots with so many options."

Good to know

1

There is a small parking lot available behind the restaurant.

2

The restaurant offers build-your-own noodle or noodle soup bowls with Ala Carte grilled items.

3

Caution, it can get pricey if you load up your bowl.

06
Bardo Lounge & Supper Club image 1
American restaurant

Mid-century modern design creates a warm, intimate space with wood paneling and cozy nooks. Live music and a stylish bar add a sublime atmosphere perfect for dinner. Cocktails shine in this sexy ambiance, ideal for both dates and family dinners.

Sexy ambiance sets a distinct mood for dinner. It suits both dates and family dinners with a full-on vibe.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here are phenomenal, with finely crafted flavor profiles."

"I thought the Caesar salad was definitely something to rave about."

"The vibe here is super cool, like stepping into the 1950s."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

2

Parking can be tricky; consider side streets for better options.

3

Prices are on the higher side, but the quality is excellent.

07
Desilicious image 1
Pakistani restaurant

Small space with an open kitchen creates a family-owned vibe and cozy atmosphere. Dinner servings are generous, often enough for leftovers, making it a favorite dinner spot. Warm, welcoming environment feels like a hidden gem with homely charm.

Plenty of food comes with dinner here, often enough to eat the next day. Frequent visits happen for both dinner and sometimes lunch.

People are saying

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

"The naan here is crunchy and sprinkled with sesame seeds."

"The food at these dinner spots is fresh and delicious!"

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.

08
Bocanova image 1
Latin American restaurant

Spacious dining with an open kitchen and local art sets a cozy vibe with dim lights and soft Peruvian music. Monthly dinner clubs offer community gatherings perfect for anniversaries or company dinners up to 22. Enjoy top-notch mezcal and passion fruit margaritas at full espresso and cocktail bars.

Monthly dinner clubs create a chance to meet new people and share stories. The spot suits special occasions like anniversaries and company dinners for groups up to 22.

People are saying

"The food here is thoughtful, beautifully prepared, and genuinely delicious."

"The seafood here, like the moqueca, is rich, creamy, and packed with tender fish."

"The dinner here, especially the Brussels sprouts and empanadas, is amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3 to 6 pm with $2 oysters.

2

Valet parking is available at the Marriott across the street.

3

Bocanova has outdoor seating that is dog-friendly and equipped with heaters.

09
The Monk's Kettle image 1

Gastropub blends a dark, moody atmosphere with a heated back patio perfect for dinner. It offers a curated beer selection and a cozy vibe that suits family meals and relaxed evenings.

Great patio seating enhances dinner with a relaxed vibe. The spot suits family dinners well and offers a welcoming atmosphere for evening meals.

People are saying

"You'll find a great beer selection with a solid variety."

"I found the burgers here to be amazing and on point."

"The burgers and chicken sandwiches here are flavorful and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until midnight for late-night dining.

2

Parking is available on College Ave., just 50 feet from the entrance.

3

The restaurant offers a kids menu with crayons for young diners.

10
Khana Peena Indian Cuisine image 1

Enjoy chicken tikka masala with naan and rice in a family-friendly setting. Indoor and covered outdoor areas feature beautiful patio and artwork. The menu offers both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes with unique options.

Dinner here features a chicken tikka masala served with naan and rice. The full dinner often includes a dal soup side that adds a comforting touch.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and freshly prepared."

"The chicken tikka masala here is a standout."

"I loved the chicken tiki masala with naan and rice for dinner."

Good to know

1

Parking can be problematic but there are spots available across the street.

2

Prices are higher than typical Indian cuisine, so bring your wallet.

3

Khana Peena offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

11
Alma Bar Cocina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Rustic Mexican spot shines with authentic cuisine and a vibey music atmosphere. Perfect for last-minute catering and casual dinners on weekdays or weekends. Space feels like a stylish Baja taqueria with limited seating.

Offers reliable last-minute catering and serves as a consistent choice for weekday and weekend dinners. Dinner options fit well for casual Tuesday nights and Friday outings.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is packed with flavor."

"I had some great tacos at this Late Night Spot."

"The chicken tinga and carnitas tacos are super yummy."

Good to know

1

Alma Bar Cocina is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

2

Tacos cost only $4 and come in large portions.

3

The restaurant offers both meat and vegetarian options.

12
Kotobuki Japanese Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Enjoy fresh sushi and specialty rolls in a kid-friendly setting with roomy seating. Large portions of sushi and Tonkatsu make it ideal for family dinners. Casual vibe with sports on TV and enjoyable music adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

Family dinners for groups of eight fit comfortably. Combination dinners with sushi and sashimi or Tonkatsu come in large portions, often enough for two meals. Adding amaebi enhances the dinner experience.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing and the portions are generous."

"The takeout rolls were excellent and fresh."

"The fish here is so fresh and delicious for dinner spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

The restaurant is kid-friendly, but there is no dedicated kids menu.

3

Prices for most rolls are around $20, with some combo rolls costing $16-$18.

13
Lo Coco's image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian spot serves high-quality pasta and delicious pizza in a relaxed, intimate setting. Dinner feels like visiting grandma, with accordion music adding charm. Weekdays seat quickly; weekends get crowded but stay friendly for groups.

Italian dinners come with accordion music and a vibe like stopping by grandma's house. Weekday dinners seat quickly without reservations, and weekends get crowded but still friendly for groups.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, tastes like it's straight from Italy."

"The staff's outstanding service made our dinner spot experience amazing."

"It's a cozy place with a warm atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; seating is first come, first serve.

2

The restaurant can comfortably accommodate up to four people.

3

Expect a wait to be seated during busy hours.

14
Mẹ Và Con Vietnamese Kitchen image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese spot offers a spacious dining room and a cute outdoor patio with heater. Dinner shines with banh khot and beef carpaccio after 3pm, plus all-day banh khot on Saturdays. Atmosphere blends jazzy music with a lively, echoey vibe.

Dinner features banh khot and beef carpaccio available after 3pm on weekdays. On Saturdays, banh khot serves all day. Prices stay reasonable with some fusion twists.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here is amazingly delicious and fresh."

"The beef pho broth was rich, deep, and flavorful."

"The banh khot here is light, crispy, and refreshing."

Good to know

1

Banh khot and beef carpaccio are only available during dinner hours after 3pm.

2

There is plenty of free parking available at the restaurant.

3

Parking can be quite full during peak times, so arrive early.

15
Lazeez Kitchen image 1
Middle Eastern restaurant

Middle Eastern spot offers warm atmosphere and outdoor seating for a relaxed vibe. Dinner menu shines with top notch options perfect for early meals. Friendly crowd adds to the welcoming energy throughout.

Dinner options here are consistently top notch with a menu that suits both lunch and dinner well. The spot works well for an early dinner with solid choices.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's lamb is so good it melts in your mouth."

"The Chicken Shawarma is delicious, fresh, and hot off the grill."

"The lamb dishes at these dinner spots are so good they melt in your mouth."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is family-owned and offers a unique blend of Eritrean and Middle Eastern cuisine.

2

Portion sizes are large, providing good value for the price.

3

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and hygiene standards.

16
Gangnam Jajang image 1
Korean restaurant

Korean spot serves authentic K-Chinese cuisine in a steamy, crowded space with a friendly atmosphere. Dinner starts early with a busy crowd arriving after 5:30, making it lively and popular. Two music stations add to the energetic vibe but can be distracting.

Dinner happens early here, with a busy crowd arriving soon after 5:30. The food offers a consistent experience that brings people back for more.

People are saying

"The Korean food here, especially the jjampong, is great and reminiscent of Korea."

"The Korean fried chicken here is so tasty and juicy."

"I thought the dinner spots here were excellent and cheap."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait for a table during lunch hours, especially on weekends.

2

The parking lot is tiny and probably big enough for ten cars.

3

Arriving early is recommended due to limited seating.

17
Perle Bar image 1

Bar blends cozy indoor seating with casual outdoor tables for a relaxed vibe. Dinner and brunch serve incredible meals with excellent cocktails. Live music adds energy, but TVs inside can distract from the charm.

Dinner offers an excellent experience with options that suit lunch, dinner, or drinks. Both dinner and brunch deliver incredible meals.

People are saying

"The brunch here is the best I've had in the Bay Area."

"The Bar's menu is creative and the dishes are beautifully prepared."

"I found this place to be an amazing dinner spot."

Good to know

1

Parking is free at the garage by the farmers market.

2

Getting there early enough to find parking should be sufficient to avoid issues.

3

The brunch was a special prix fixe menu for Easter.

18
Yimm Oakland image 1
Thai restaurant

Cozy space with beautiful seating and a chill vibe offers a flavorful dinner with fresh ingredients and spicy dishes. Attentive staff make meals relaxed before the rush, though noise rises when busy, making conversation tough.

Cozy and bright space offers a flavorful dinner with attentive staff. Plenty of room before the dinner rush makes for a relaxed meal.

People are saying

"The pumpkin curry is perfectly prepared and absolutely delicious."

"The seafood here is so fresh, it's the best part of the meal."

"The praram plate is a delicious peanut-curry-chicken dish."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available but can be limited during busy times.

2

Expect smaller portion sizes for takeout compared to dining in.

3

The kitchen closes at 9 PM, so arrive early to order.

19
Calabash image 1
Restaurant

Quaint interior offers a chill vibe with moderate Jamaican music. Dinner shines with jerk oxtails and curry goat in a quiet setting. Smooth rum punch complements casual meals and social gatherings.

Dinner features a quiet atmosphere with dishes like oxtail and rice standing out. Meals can be shared in arranged settings with strangers.

People are saying

"The food here is bold and flavorful, especially the oxtail."

"The bathrooms here are sparkling clean and have individual rooms."

"The dinner entrées here are scrumptious, especially the oxtail."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for busy weekend brunches.

2

Brunch is only available on Sundays, with a special menu.

3

Expect a wait if arriving after opening, as the restaurant fills up quickly.

20
Hanshin Pocha image 1
Korean restaurant

Korean street pub buzzes with lively energy and K-pop music on big screens. Spacious booths and tables create a cozy vibe perfect for casual dinners. Attentive service makes it great for friends gathering after work.

Korean dinner here features attentive service that adds to the experience. Friends gather after work for a casual, enjoyable meal.

People are saying

"It's the perfect late-night spot for Korean food vibes."

"The fried chicken is crispy outside and juicy inside."

"The spicy chicken feet here are fall-off-the-bone tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until 12:30am, perfect for late-night dining.

2

Parking options include street parking and a nearby T-Mobile plaza.

3

Around $50 per person is enough for generous portions.

21
Bay Leaf Indian and Himalayan Cuisine image 1

Spacious dining area creates a cozy atmosphere with pleasant music that supports conversation. Dinner serves fabulous flavors quickly, making meals both enjoyable and satisfying. Warm, inviting vibe blends modern decor with a relaxed pace for a comfortable experience.

Dinner offers quick satisfaction with fabulous flavors. Meals come out well prepared and enjoyable.

People are saying

"I found the food delicious, with great flavor and spices."

"The vegetarian dishes here are fresh, hot, and amazing."

"The dinner here is so flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended for larger groups.

2

The restaurant offers generous portions suitable for sharing.

3

Vegan and dairy-free options are available on the menu.

22
June's Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small pizzeria offers open kitchen and industrial assembly line for pizza. Warm vibe with Motown music and exposed wood beams. Dinner is lively and loud, perfect for groups who enjoy upbeat energy.

Dinner here features pizza as the main option. The setting is loud, requiring raised voices to converse during the meal.

People are saying

"The Margherita pizza's sauce was elegant and complemented the fresh mozzarella."

"The atmosphere here is so cool and stylish."

"This Margherita pizza was honestly one of the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

After 9 pm, only margherita pizza is served.

2

Expect a long wait during peak hours.

3

Parking is limited at the pizza place.

23
JAVI’S COOKING "Empanadas Argentinas" image 1

Casual Argentinian spot offers authentic empanadas and steak milanesa for dinner. Shaded outdoor seating and car dining create a relaxed vibe. Enjoy Argentine wines and vegetarian options while watching fútbol and sipping yerba mate.

Frozen empanadas offer a quick and easy dinner option. The steak milanesa serves as a hearty meal that lasts through multiple sittings.

People are saying

"These empanadas are so tasty, especially the Pavo and champiñone."

"I thought the sandwiches were pretty big and so tasty."

"These empanadas are hot, crispy, and delicious."

Good to know

1

If ordering online, give yourself 30 minutes in advance.

2

Placing a phone order for empanadas is recommended for quicker pickup.

3

Empanadas cost $5.50 each, which can add up quickly.

24
Mesa Maguey image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, casual spot with energetic dance floor playing salsa and cumbia. Dinner shines with bold mole flavors and often ends with a salsa lesson. Warm, funky decor suits couples and groups, with a back room for events adding versatile space.

Dinner features mole and enmolados with strong flavor. After dinner, a salsa lesson often follows.

People are saying

"These enchiladas verdes are the best Mexican food I've ever tasted."

"You have to try the tacos during Happy Hour; they're the best in Oakland."

"The dinner here is delicious, especially the mole."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available every day with great deals on food and cocktails.

2

Reservations are recommended for larger parties, especially for the back room.

3

Portions are designed for one person, so order extra if you're a big eater.

25
3 Seasons Thai Bistro image 1
Thai restaurant

Small dining room offers authentic Thai flavors with a tasteful, uncluttered decor. Dinner service is steady but some orders get banned without explanation, even on NBA All Star Game Night. Strong takeout focus keeps the neighborhood vibe alive.

Dinner involves Thai cuisine, but sometimes orders get banned without explanation. This happens even on NBA All Star Game Night.

People are saying

"The takeout here is delicious and beautifully seasoned."

"I found the massaman and duck curries to be excellent."

"The food at these dinner spots is so delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Ordering from the website is quick and easy for takeout.

2

The restaurant specializes in authentic Thai cuisine with unique seasonings.

3

Recent remodel enhances the dining experience, now offering more seating.

26
NōKA Ramen & Bar image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant shines with anime decor and a lively vibe. Staff in costumes and a Pikachu mascot add fun for kids. Dinner offers tasty meals and attentive service, perfect for date nights.

Dinner features tasty meals with attentive staff who enhance special occasions. The spot suits date nights and offers nearby options for dessert or drinks.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is amazing and super flavorful."

"It's super kid friendly with a large screen playing Pokémon videos."

"The service for dinner spots was fantastic and attentive."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 5-6 PM, Monday to Friday, with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Parking is available in the nearby Jack London parking garage.

27
Cam Huong image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese takeout shines with authentic banh mi and unique side dishes. Quick dinners include affordable chicken for easy meals. Atmosphere stays basic and efficient with no seating, perfect for grab-and-go.

Offers ready-to-go dinners with options like affordable chicken around $3.50 each. Good for quick meals when skipping cooking.

People are saying

"The banh mi sandwiches here are excellent and their bread are excellent."

"I love this lunch spot for its authentic banh mi and rich pho."

"I always ordered the chicken sandwich at this dinner spot."

Good to know

1

Food is only available for takeout at Cam Huong.

2

There is no seating on-site at Cam Huong.

3

Parking can be challenging at times, especially since it is Oakland.

28
The Alley image 1
Piano bar

Piano bar offers live piano and a jazzy vibe with secret cubby tables. Steak and fried chicken dinners are well-prepared and affordable. Funky decor and a diverse crowd create a local hangout with a smokey bistro feel.

Steak and fried chicken dinners stand out for their quality and reasonable pricing. Few dive bars serve a steak dinner this well-prepared.

People are saying

"This piano bar lets you get on the mic with live instrumentation."

"I found the fried chicken to be hot, juicy, and delicious."

"I found the dinner spots here to be a memorable and unique experience."

Good to know

1

Karaoke sessions happen almost daily, featuring live piano accompaniment.

2

Trivia night is every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

The Alley has a cash-only policy; an ATM is available on-site.

29
Bellanico Restaurant and Wine Bar image 1

Italian restaurant shines with handmade pasta and a great pizza oven. Dinner features wine pairings and outstanding dishes in a relaxed setting. Outdoor patio adds lively vibe but can get noisy.

Offers Italian-style dinner beyond pizza with a focus on wine pairings. Serves outstanding dishes in a relaxed setting.

People are saying

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

"You'll want to save room for their unique and delicious desserts."

"The dinner spots here offer unique and delicious pasta dishes."

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.

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