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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Downtown Oakland

Authentic seafood

A meal that stays true to its roots is the only thing that will satisfy a craving for seafood.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Las Guerreras image 1
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Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant inside a lively market with open seating and a cute patio area. Atmosphere feels relaxed and happy, welcoming dogs and featuring live music. The place fills up at lunchtime and offers a self-service style in a spacious setting.

Food delivers authentic Mexican flavors with a clear focus on authentic vegan options. Every dish carries a genuine, delicious taste true to its roots.

Fish tacos stand out with excellent flavors and a fresh, delicious taste. The pescadilla taco offers a balanced mix of spicy, creamy, and fish elements.

People are saying

"This is my new favorite lunch spot for delicious tamales."

"The fish tacos here are so fresh and delicious."

"The food here tastes authentically regional to Guerrero, Mexico."

Good to know

1

Las Guerreras is located inside Swan’s Market in uptown Oakland.

2

The area gets packed at lunchtime, so plan accordingly.

3

Parking is street parking, so watch out for restrictions.

02
Cairo Station Café image 1

Small restaurant with Egyptian-themed decor and eclectic wall art creates a cool, casual vibe enhanced by Egyptian jazz music. Doors open fully to the street, offering outdoor seating for people watching and a cozy upstairs nook. The atmosphere stays lively late into the night, attracting night owls with its authentic Middle Eastern energy.

Authentic North African and Egyptian dishes stand out with traditional spices and flavors. The koshary and shrimp falafel showcase genuine Middle Eastern cooking without anglo-American twists.

Shrimp falafel stands out with perfectly cooked shrimp and authentic spices. The shrimp falafel wrap combines these flavors into a top tier seafood option.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and tastes great."

"The shrimp falafel here is top tier, cooked perfectly."

"The Egyptian food here is so authentic, especially the koshary and shawarma."

Good to know

1

They are open till 2:00 a.m.

2

The meal cost only $15, making it a good deal.

3

Be sure to bring cash to tip the staff.

03
Rose Garden Uptown image 1
Thai restaurant

Small space blends modern Instagram aesthetics with traditional woven trays on walls, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. The vibe stays chill and intimate, with hard wooden chairs and casual seating. The menu focuses on authentic Lao and Thai dishes with generous portions and many vegan options.

Small quaint spot serves authentic Lao and Thai food with flavorful dishes like laab seen featuring raw and optional bile. Laos cuisine here tastes really authentic and delicious.

Sweet fish stands out with its delightful flavor. Pad Kee Mow features seafood that blends well with the dish. Lao papaya salad includes fermented crab and fish sauce for authentic taste.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and incredibly flavorful."

"The seafood here is amazing, especially the Pad Kee Mow."

"The authentic Lao food here has all the right flavors."

Good to know

1

During their first month (August 2024), they offer a 20% discount.

2

There is ample parking available nearby.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegan options.

04
Battambang image 1
Cambodian restaurant

Cozy and small with warm, welcoming atmosphere and family-run energy. Lighting is dim and decor feels dated, creating an intimate but simple setting. The place draws those seeking authentic Cambodian flavors in a quiet, unpretentious environment.

Dishes deliver an authentic Cambodian taste rarely found in the US. The food offers a phenomenal and genuine flavor that reflects traditional recipes.

Seafood dishes include crab fried rice, Battambang noodles with shrimp, and catfish. Shrimp appears in several dishes like fried rice and smoky shrimp eggplant.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and tastes like home."

"The menu had unique dishes with familiar ingredients, but with slight flavor differences."

"You have to try the crab fried rice; it's a must-order."

Good to know

1

Finding parking during dinner time is difficult due to 2-hour street parking limits.

2

The prices are reasonable for the area, making it a good value.

3

You can get endless tea for only $1.

05
Imperial Soup image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, family-run Chinese restaurant offers dim sum all day and double-boiled soups served in ceramic containers. Cozy and friendly atmosphere attracts those seeking authentic Cantonese flavors and non-traditional dishes. Prices stay reasonable, making it a casual spot for comforting meals.

Soups stand out for their authentic flavor. The menu features classic Cantonese dishes and some items hard to find elsewhere, offering a genuine Chinese lunch experience.

Shrimp dumplings come out delicate and flavorful. Steamed fish disappears fast, showing its appeal. Garlic clams and razor clams with crab roe offer fresh, tasty bites.

People are saying

"The soup here is so flavorful and delicious."

"The dim sum here, especially the chicken buns, is the best I've had."

"The shrimp dumplings were delicate and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

The set menu offers excellent quality and value for $19.

3

Dim sum is served all day, providing a variety of options.

06
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.

Dishes feature authentic spices and balanced flavors that capture the true taste of Peshawar. The chicken biryani and chicken makhni come freshly prepared, tender, and flavorful with perfect spicing.

Tandoori Fish stands out as a large, flavorful dish that many order repeatedly. Other seafood options include fish prepared in a tandoori style that is both affordable and highly praised.

People are saying

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

"The authentic biryani here is bursting with flavor and perfectly spiced."

"You have to try the tandoori fish; it's amazing and affordable."

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.

07
Ming's Tasty image 1
Chinese restaurant

Dim sum spot with authentic dishes and friendly, casual atmosphere. Interior feels spacious yet simple, contrasting with a rundown exterior and yellow lighting that softens the space. Busy and lively at lunch, it quiets down while maintaining a genuine vibe.

Dim sum offers authentic Cantonese flavors with a classic Chinese cafe vibe. Dishes taste delicious and true to tradition.

Shrimp dishes stand out with plump shrimp and perfect dough texture in the dumplings. Shrimp rice noodle rolls and crispy spring rolls come with a generous shrimp filling that satisfies well.

People are saying

"I thought the dim sum here was truly tasty and amazing."

"I found the dim sum here to be super authentic and delicious."

"The dim sum here is great, especially the shrimp."

Good to know

1

Arrive early on weekends to avoid long lines; expect wait times during peak hours.

2

Parking is limited; nearby public parking is available and affordable.

3

Prices are very reasonable, offering great value for dim sum dishes.

08
hay yue restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Clean, new space offers authentic Cantonese comfort food with large, fresh portions and moderate prices. Popular clay pot rice draws early orders, and menu includes customizable dishes not listed openly. Atmosphere feels welcoming amid a neighborhood recovering from recent challenges.

Food matches authentic Cantonese flavors found in East Asia. Menu stands out for its genuine taste rarely seen in the US.

Seafood pan fried noodles stand out for their freshness and flavor. The menu also features curry fish, scrambled eggs with shrimp, and dishes like steamed pork ribs with pumpkin and claypot rice.

People are saying

"I found the Cantonese comfort food here to be very nice."

"I found the food here to be authentic, like what I'd find in East Asia."

"The seafood pan fried noodles were delicious and super fresh."

Good to know

1

The prices are moderate, around $20-$25 per dish.

2

Portions are large and fresh, providing good value.

3

Customizations for clay pot rice are available, including larger sizes.

09
Vien Huong Restaurant image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small Vietnamese noodle house offers authentic Chow Jew noodle soups with homemade chewy egg noodles and a thoughtful addition of kidney. Dining room feels tidy and authentic despite a modest exterior. Cash-only spot gets crowded on weekends and attracts mostly young people due to rising prices.

Noodles here deliver a truly authentic Chinese taste. The dining room feels tidy and genuine, matching the food's quality despite a modest exterior.

Seafood dishes feature a mix of shrimp, fish balls, and fried fish cakes paired with rice or egg noodles. Clear broth soups highlight the seafood flavors alongside pork and kidney toppings.

People are saying

"I loved the chewy, homemade egg noodles in the soup."

"I found the noodles here to be really authentic and savory."

"The seafood noodle soup has a light, clean broth with fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cash only, so bring cash for your meal.

2

Parking is limited to metered street parking, which can be challenging.

3

Expect longer wait times on weekends due to crowds.

10
Peony Seafood Restaurant image 1
Dim sum restaurant

Large space with banquet-style tables suits family gatherings and big groups. Atmosphere is lively and noisy, with a welcoming vibe despite crowding. Dim sum is fresh and authentic, offering a wide variety and traditional flavors.

Dim sum and banquet-style dishes showcase authentic Cantonese flavors. The menu consistently delivers delicious and traditional options.

Freshness stands out with fresh steamed fish and juicy large fish slices. The crispy shrimp balls look like lychee fruits and taste great, paired well with other seafood like large lobster and live fish.

People are saying

"The dim sum here is fresh, flavorful, and traditional."

"Parking is available downstairs in the basement."

"I found the dim sum here to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the basement, providing easy access to the restaurant.

2

Dim sum can get busy, especially on weekends, so arrive early.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

11
Gum Kuo image 1
Chinese restaurant

Chinese BBQ joint with authentic Hong Kong-style dishes and an extensive menu featuring large portions. Atmosphere varies from loud and busy at the front to quieter in the back, with consistent service and a no-frills setting. Known for specialties like jook, roast duck, and char siu that attract a loyal, often elderly crowd.

Offers authentic Cantonese food with Chinese fast food style. Service matches the genuine dining experience.

Fish rice porridge and shrimp rice rolls stand out as seafood options here. Some fish dishes may have scales left on, so cleaning can be inconsistent.

People are saying

"The jook here is nostalgic and comforting, perfect with fried donuts."

"I found the Cantonese food here to be authentic and delicious."

"I've been going here for years for their Seafood."

Good to know

1

There is indoor parking downstairs, and the parking fee is reasonable.

2

The menu at Gum Kuo is extensive, including rice dishes, noodles, and American/HK style omelets.

3

The portions at Gum Kuo are large, providing good value.

12
New Gold Medal Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Quaint, hole-in-the-wall Chinese restaurant with provincial decor and comfortable seating. Atmosphere is modest and functional, focusing on food rather than fancy surroundings. Open late, it serves authentic Cantonese cuisine with standout dishes like Peking duck and wonton soup.

Food offers truly authentic Chinese flavors with a tasty and genuine approach. Meals suit groups looking for an authentic dining experience.

Shrimp dishes like shrimp fried rice and honey walnut shrimp stand out here. Salt pepper squid and fried oysters add variety to the seafood options alongside traditional Chinese dishes.

People are saying

"This is a great late night spot for tasty Chinese comfort food."

"I found the authentic food, like BBQ duck and chow mein, to be very good."

"I'll be back regularly for the crispy roast duck."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open until 3:00 am, catering to late-night diners.

2

Free parking is available after 7pm nearby.

3

Street parking is accessible one block from Broadway Street.

13
Shan Dong image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, simple space with hand-pulled noodles made in view and tight seating creates a bustling, noisy atmosphere. The vibe is cozy and functional, packed during meal times with a diner-like charm. Authentic flavors and a strong vegetarian selection define the experience.

Hand-pulled authentic Chinese noodles stand out here. The menu offers a mix of family-style dishes with mostly authentic flavors, though some lean toward American-style Chinese.

Honey walnut shrimp stands out with its sweet and crunchy texture. Handmade noodles appear in several dishes, paired with seafood like shrimp in chow mein and soups with rich broth.

People are saying

"You've got to try the dumplings; they're juicy and delicious."

"You have to try the hand-pulled noodles with seafood; they're amazing."

"I found the noodles to be authentic Chinese."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Shan Dong accepts credit and debit cards, but not Apple Pay.

3

The restaurant offers a large selection of vegetarian options.

14
Shooting Star Cafe image 1

Hong Kong style cafe with bright, bustling energy and modern, cute decor featuring star lights on the ceiling. Small, cozy space with a lively, vibrant atmosphere reflecting multicultural influences. Sounds of kitchen sizzle and clinking teacups add to the warm, inviting vibe.

Menu offers a large selection of authentic Hong Kong food with flavors that match traditional tastes. Some dishes reflect cha chaan teng cuisine while others deliver excellent, genuine flavors.

Walnut shrimp salad stands out with a crunchy texture and sweet flavor. Hong Kong–style dishes include fish roe fried rice and salt-and-pepper chicken wings.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's beef chow fun has amazing wok hay."

"I enjoyed the authentic Hong Kong food and its flavors."

"The seafood here is fresh, flavorful, and satisfying."

Good to know

1

The lunch special deal is only available for dine-in customers.

2

A 15% gratuity is automatically added to the bill regardless of party size.

3

The place is open late, making it convenient to grab a bite.

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Downtown Oakland, Oakland

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