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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Downtown Oakland's best

Authentic tea

A cup of tea that respects the tradition of the leaf rather than rushing the steep.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Sana'a Cafe image 1
Sana'a Cafe image 2
Sana'a Cafe image 3
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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.

Delicate pots and cups enhance the authentic experience. Decor reflects Yemeni culture. Ingredients stay fresh and high quality for Middle Eastern coffee, tea, and pastries.

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."

"The staff here are so friendly and make you feel right at home."

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
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.

Food offers authentic Pakistani home cooking with a homemade taste that feels comforting. Dishes like dum biryani deliver authentic flavors without excessive spice.

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."

"The authentic Pakistani food here tastes like home."

"I loved the strong and tasty chai here."

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.

03
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.

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."

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

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

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.

04
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.

Authentic South Indian flavors shine in the chutneys and sambar. The idly and dosa offer a genuine taste of South India rarely found elsewhere.

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 found the food here to be authentic and great comforting food."

"I enjoyed the nice tea and dosa here."

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.

05
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.

Freshly steamed buns come with tea, enhancing the experience. A pot of hot jasmine tea starts the service, with four types available for one dollar each. Staff notice when cups are empty and offer prompt refills without asking.

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."

"They kept my tea topped up and it was hot and tasty."

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.

06
Kamdesh Afghan Cuisine image 1
Afghan restaurant

Spacious Afghan restaurant with traditional decor and cushion seating creates a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. The place offers prayer space and caters to large groups, blending home-style warmth with authentic Afghan culinary spirit.

Offers authentic Afghan dishes with rich flavors and generous portions. Uses halal meats and maintains a hospitable vibe throughout.

Chai stands out as a notable choice here, worth trying on its own. Hot tea is served well and sometimes offered complimentary when issues arise with orders.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, with incredible flavors."

"I found the Afghan food here to be authentic, rich, and full of traditional flavor."

"The tea here was good, just like the flavorful food."

Good to know

1

They offer a $22 buffet during special occasions like Ramadan.

2

Reservations are recommended for large groups and special events.

3

Expect generous portions, especially during buffet service.

07
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.

The tea lounge offers a serene space with better tea and great service using iPads for ordering. Staff refill tea quickly, and tea charges are clearly communicated upfront.

People are saying

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

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

"Tea is $1.65 to $2 per person, but more in banquet rooms."

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.

08
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.

Hot tea arrives quickly once seated, served as a complimentary touch. It offers a pleasant pause while waiting for food.

People are saying

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

"I found the noodles to be authentic Chinese."

"The Shan Dong Chicken is so good, perfectly crispy."

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.

09
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.

Extensive selection of boba drinks includes classic milk tea, fruity flavors, and adventurous options. Drinks like taro milk tea and matcha lattes balance sweetness and creaminess well, with chewy tapioca pearls. The Hong Kong Milk Tea features a strong tea base and just the right sweetness.

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 milk tea here is excellent and wonderful."

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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