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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown Oakland

Cafes and coffee

The ritual of a morning coffee in a local cafe provides a necessary moment of stillness before the day begins.

Based on 727 Opinions
+724
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Updated April 2026
01
The Caffè by Mr. Espresso image 1
The Caffè by Mr. Espresso image 2
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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.

Coffee quality stands out as exceptional, making it a favorite spot over other renowned shops. The cafe offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere in downtown Oakland.

Espresso here stands out with its Italian-style preparation served in a beautiful cup. Basic options like drip, lattes, and americanos are consistently top notch and the staff remembers orders and names.

People are saying

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

"The cafe's drinks are unique and creative, especially the butterscotch latte."

"I thought the espresso was the most delicious in the US."

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
modern coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Small, beautiful space opens into a bright, quiet atrium and a secluded courtyard ideal for meetings. The atmosphere feels loving and stylish, with good seating options and reliable wifi. It maintains a calm vibe suitable for work or casual coffee.

Stylish coffee shop with high quality coffee and a bright, quiet atrium. The cafe stays open after hours with working wifi.

Coffee here stands out for its burnt cinnamon latte with oat milk and Blackstrap Molasses Latte, both rich and flavorful. The latte art and foam ratio are precise, complementing the excellent quality of the brews.

People are saying

"I found the coffee and lattes here to be amazing."

"The burnt cinnamon latte with oat milk at this cafe is so yummy."

"I loved the burnt cinnamon latte with oat milk."

Good to know

1

The wifi works well, making it a great spot for remote work.

2

The bathrooms are clean and well-maintained.

3

There are a few tables and bar top seating available.

03
Sana'a Cafe image 1
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.

Cozy space offers a peaceful and zen atmosphere ideal for working or studying. Coffee and pastries stand out, especially the rich Adeni chai and delicious cheesecake, paired with welcoming and generous staff.

Coffee here offers a unique Yemeni flavor with a spicy tea coffee taste. The Sana'a latte stands out, especially with ice cream and honey that stays thick and creamy like a dessert.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the rich and flavorful coffee here."

"I loved their vast selection of delicious pastries and baked goods."

"This cafe is so cozy and welcoming, it's perfect for relaxing."

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.

04
Motivāt Coffee Roasters image 1

Coffee shop offers a quiet patio with plenty of outdoor seating and a cute parklet. Atmosphere stays friendly and cozy despite a small, hole-in-the-wall setup. Space includes a takeout window and good wifi, attracting a steady flow of people who enjoy relaxing or coworking outside.

Affordable prices and a quaint, hole-in-the-wall vibe stand out here. The cafe features a cute parklet and includes a co-working space alongside the coffee shop.

Coffee here features carefully brewed drinks with a strong taste of strawberries in some cappuccinos without added sugar. Staff are knowledgeable and friendly, offering a variety of options like oat vanilla lattes and cold brew coladas.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be delicious and very good."

"It's a nice little spot with plenty of pleasant outdoor seating."

"This cafe is so cute, especially the parklet."

Good to know

1

Motivāt Coffee Roasters has no indoor seating; all seating is outdoors.

2

The outdoor seating is limited, so arrive early for a spot.

3

They offer a rotating menu of coffee beans for variety.

05
City Cup Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy coffee shop offers early opening hours and wifi access for work. It serves spectacular sandwiches and almond croissants praised for quality and price. The spot attracts a casual crowd seeking a convenient place near downtown.

An adorable mom and pop spot with a New York cafe vibe and wifi available for work. Offers great customer service and a little bit of everything in a cozy setting.

Strong, flavorful coffee stands out with options like espresso drinks, cold brew, and iced coffee. Pastries and lattes, including a London Fog tea latte, complement the casual coffee experience.

People are saying

"The coffee here is strong and flavorful."

"This cafe has a little bit of everything I needed."

Good to know

1

The cafe opens early, making it a great spot for breakfast.

2

Expect a casual atmosphere suitable for meetings or relaxing.

3

The cafe offers a variety of coffee and food options.

06
Good News Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Small hole in the wall coffee shop with a nice, quaint vibe and friendly crowd. Offers efficient pick and go service with reasonable prices and limited outdoor seating. Known for exquisite egg, sausage, and cheese muffins and solid pastries.

Small and efficient, this cafe offers pick and go service with fresh food and fast service. Bagels and coffee stand out, and the staff are kind and community-focused.

Strong focus on Vietnamese iced coffee and iced lattes stands out. Coffee pairs well with bacon, egg, and cheese sandwiches on croissants or bagels.

People are saying

"I loved their delicious Vietnamese coffee."

"Their bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich is a must-try."

"I came here for the great Vietnamese coffee at this cafe."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers a variety of breakfast options for quick service.

2

Prices are very reasonable for the quality of food offered.

3

Limited outdoor seating is available for customers.

07
Oaklandia Cafe x Bakery image 1

Spacious cafe with vibrant decor and a chill, calm vibe suitable for meetings or remote work. Seating includes comfortable sofas, plenty of outlets, and outdoor tables under umbrellas. Unique features include a sci-fi vending machine and a menu with distinctive sandwiches and pastries.

Vibrant decor and a colorful menu create a lively atmosphere. The cafe also offers reliable catering services and serves as a solid spot for working on a laptop outside of typical chains.

Coffee here features deep caramel and chocolate flavors in the lattes. The shop uses locally sourced coffee and offers excellent iced and hot options that pair well with breakfast sandwiches and pastries.

People are saying

"The pastrami sandwich was a perfect lunch after a stressful day."

"The lattes here have amazing, deep flavors."

"The Cafe's chicken sandwiches are tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

The cafe is located inside an office building on the ground floor and is accessible via street parking.

2

The parking situation is not good.

3

Drinks and pastries are reasonably priced, especially compared to a $10 Starbucks matcha latte.

08
Caffe Teatro image 1

Family-run cafe with a hole-in-the-wall vibe and a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Small indoor space opens to a beautiful rotunda view, complemented by good music and outdoor umbrellas. Loud customers sometimes disrupt the otherwise warm and welcoming environment.

A family-run coffee shop with a hole-in-the-wall vibe offers a small, intimate indoor space and outdoor seating with nice umbrellas. The cafe opens to a cozy area with a view of a cool building inside, though it can get loud at times.

Coffee comes out strong and hot, with a rich, smooth flavor that's consistently well-made. The spot suits quick espressos or relaxed breaks, pairing well with healthy sandwiches and loose leaf teas.

People are saying

"The coffee here is rich, smooth, and always well-made."

"The staff here is so friendly and welcoming, it feels like a family spot."

"The cafe's coffee is always strong and hot."

Good to know

1

Caffe Teatro offers a variety of healthy sandwiches and loose leaf teas.

2

They have vegetarian lunch options available.

3

The cafe is family-run, providing a friendly atmosphere.

09
Cafe Uccello image 1

Walls covered in customer drawings create a creative interior with a fun community vibe. Spacious seating areas mix upbeat energy with moments of calm, supported by reggaeton music that adds liveliness. The atmosphere feels welcoming and positive despite some contrasts in room design.

Breakfast sandwiches stand out with high quality ingredients and gluten-free options. The cold brew with lavender syrup offers a unique coffee experience, and the cafe stays open on weekends for convenience.

Coffee features rose cardamom latte, cold brew with lavender syrup, and egg coffee served hot or iced. Excellent quality and attentive service include bringing ice water alongside coffee.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"The coffee and breakfast bagels at this cafe are great."

"I thought the coffee here was the best."

Good to know

1

They offer plant-based and halal options on the menu.

2

The cafe has free wifi available for customers.

3

Expect a wait during busy hours due to catering orders.

10
Coco Cafe Oakland image 1

Small cafe with limited seating and a setup reminiscent of a New York deli offers a quaint, charming atmosphere. Early opening hours attract a steady flow of people seeking affordable, customizable breakfast options and hearty sandwiches. The space feels unpretentious and functional, with a mix of tables and window stools and a quiet, uncrowded vibe.

A quaint and charming spot with friendly service and decent coffee. It offers simple fare and doubles as a general store with snacks and desserts.

Espresso machine delivers great coffee drinks with a nice selection of coffees and juices. Service stays fast and consistent.

People are saying

"I loved the breakfast burrito with meat, eggs, and guacamole."

"I ordered a vanilla latte with my breakfast burrito."

"The Cafe's breakfast burrito is delicious and customizable."

Good to know

1

Coco Cafe Oakland opens at 7am, which is helpful for early risers.

2

The cafe also functions as a general store with packaged snacks and desserts.

3

There is limited seating available, so plan accordingly.

11
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.

Focus lies on authentic South Indian dosas and idlis that taste great. The cafe keeps things simple with a clean setting and prioritizes flavor over ambience.

Filter coffee comes out tasty and authentic, often paired with dishes like dosa and idli. The coffee experience includes options like tea and homemade-style mango lassi for variety.

People are saying

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

"The dosas at this Cafe are flavorful and perfectly made."

"I loved their filter coffee."

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.

12
Tierra Mia Coffee image 1

Spacious cafe with high ceilings and historic feel features exposed I-beams and wood molding details. Atmosphere mixes loud reggaeton music with a welcoming vibe, suitable for working or studying despite occasional noise. Seating includes tables and hard-back chairs without lounge furniture.

A beautifully designed cafe with a welcoming atmosphere offers a variety of coffee options including caffeine-free choices.

Specialty coffee includes horchata cold brew and the strong Rice and Beans frappe with coffee bean bits. Options cover caffeinated and caffeine-free drinks alongside tasty pastries like banana bread and coffee cake.

People are saying

"The coffee here is delicious, especially the horchata-inspired drinks."

"It's a great work-friendly spot with cozy seating and outlets."

"The horchata latte at this cafe is amazing."

Good to know

1

The coffee shop strictly closes at 5pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

There is ample seating available, but it fills up quickly during peak hours.

3

Wi-Fi is available but can be slow; consider this if you plan to work.

13
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.

Offers delicious drinks with a wine bar option and plenty of seating. Located near public transit, it serves as a strong community spot with standout restroom facilities.

Cold brew stands out with its smooth richness. Mochas lean more towards chocolate while lattes balance coffee and sweetness well. Matcha latte and cappuccino also offer solid options in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"The coffee here is really good."

"This cafe is a warm, inviting, and inclusive community space."

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.

14
Blue Bottle Coffee image 1

Minimalist space with modern industrial design creates a quiet, clean atmosphere that feels almost solitary. Tables suit working but lack power outlets, encouraging brief visits. Organic products and high-quality pastries complement a calm, unassuming environment with a street view.

Offers premium coffee with a focus on quality brews. The beautiful area adds to the cafe's appeal, though the bathroom sometimes lacks toilet paper.

Coffee here features single source beans with perfect roasting and rich, robust flavors. The cold brew stands out with plenty of rich notes and never tastes watered down.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be consistently great."

"The cafe staff here is so friendly and attentive."

"It's a quiet place with a comfortable atmosphere."

Good to know

1

The facility provides easy access for handicapped individuals.

2

The coffee house is dog-friendly.

3

There are no power outlets available to charge devices.

15
Café Gabriela image 1

Sandwiches feature fantastic bread and bold flavors like pulled pork adobo and vegan options with cranberries and almonds. The atmosphere is casual with limited dine-in space and a COVID-style walk-up window. Lunch draws a mix of people seeking affordable, filling meals downtown.

Responsive and flexible team handles orders easily. Food looks gorgeous and tastes delicious. Great spot for lunch and catering.

Pour-over coffee with the house blend stands out for its quality. A walk-up window serves coffee but limits adding milk and sugar personally.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches here to be insanely good."

"The Cafe's boxed lunches were a hit for our event."

"The coffee here is great, served by kind people."

Good to know

1

The 1/2 sandwich and salad combo is a great value at $12.

2

Vegan sandwich options are available upon request.

3

The café has a walk-up window for ordering.

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