The East Bay, stretching from Richmond to Fremont and as far east as Livermore and Antioch, is a powerhouse in the Bay Area’s vibrant restaurant scene. With a diverse array of cuisines and dining experiences, from cash-only taquerias to Michelin-recommended destinations, the East Bay offers something for every palate and occasion.
In This Article
Key Points
- The East Bay is home to a wide variety of excellent restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments
- Cuisines span the globe, including Mediterranean, Indian, Afghan, and more
- Notable cities for dining include Oakland, Berkeley, Richmond, Fremont, Livermore, and Antioch
Casual Dining Delights
For those seeking a laid-back atmosphere and delicious food, the East Bay has plenty to offer. Oakland’s Homeroom Mac + Cheese serves up comforting bowls of gooey goodness, while Berkeley’s Bette’s Oceanview Diner is a classic spot for breakfast and brunch. Don’t miss the crispy waffles and fluffy pancakes.
In Fremont, Papillon Restaurant offers a taste of the Mediterranean with dishes like lamb shank and moussaka. For a quick bite, head to one of the many excellent taquerias, such as El Tacostao in Oakland or Carnitas El Canelo in Richmond.
Trendy Bars and Small Plates
The East Bay is also home to a thriving bar scene, with many spots serving up creative cocktails and delicious small plates. In Oakland, Mua is a popular choice for its eclectic decor and tasty bites like the pork belly bao and fried chicken.
Berkeley’s Iyasare offers a modern take on Japanese cuisine, with dishes like ocean trout tartare and wagyu beef skewers. For a more casual vibe, check out Honor Kitchen & Cocktails in Emeryville, where you can sip on a craft cocktail while noshing on kimchi deviled eggs or a burger.
Pizza, Tacos, and Burgers, Oh My!
No discussion of East Bay dining would be complete without mentioning the area’s excellent pizza, tacos, and burgers. For pizza, head to Benchmark Pizzeria in Kensington for wood-fired pies with creative toppings like honey and sopressata.
Oakland’s Tacos El Ultimo Baile serves up some of the best tacos around, with fillings like al pastor and lengua. And for burgers, don’t miss True Burger in Oakland, where the classic cheeseburger is a thing of beauty.
Global Flavors
One of the great joys of dining in the East Bay is the opportunity to sample cuisines from around the world. In Oakland, Asmara Restaurant serves up delicious Eritrean and Ethiopian dishes, while Kamdesh Afghan Kabab House offers hearty portions of kebabs and rice.
For Italian fare, head to Belotti Ristorante in Oakland for handmade pastas and other classic dishes. And for sushi, Kirala in Berkeley is a local favorite, with fresh fish flown in daily from Japan.
Fine Dining and Special Occasions
When a special occasion calls for a more upscale dining experience, the East Bay has plenty of options. In Oakland, Commis is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant serving up inventive tasting menus, while Oliveto offers a refined take on Italian cuisine.
Berkeley’s Chez Panisse, founded by Alice Waters, is a pioneer of the farm-to-table movement and offers a regularly changing menu of seasonal, locally-sourced dishes. For a unique dining experience, head to the Anaviv’s Table in Richmond, where diners are seated around a communal table and served a multi-course meal with wine pairings.
Vegan and Vegetarian Eats
The East Bay is a haven for vegan and vegetarian diners, with plenty of options for plant-based meals. Oakland’s Millennium Restaurant offers an upscale vegan dining experience, with dishes like black garlic risotto and smoked king trumpet mushrooms.
For a more casual option, try The Butcher’s Son in Berkeley, a vegan deli serving up sandwiches, salads, and more. And for a quick bite, head to Flacos in Berkeley for vegan tacos and burritos.
Food Trucks and Street Eats
No tour of East Bay dining would be complete without mentioning the area’s vibrant food truck scene. From Filipino fusion at The Lumpia Company to gourmet grilled cheese at The Melt, there’s a food truck for every craving.
Keep an eye out for Off the Grid, a regular gathering of food trucks that takes place in various locations throughout the East Bay. And don’t miss the Alameda County Fair in the summer, where you can sample everything from deep-fried Oreos to giant turkey legs.
FAQ
What are some of the best restaurants for a special occasion in the East Bay?
Some great options for a special occasion include Commis and Oliveto in Oakland, Chez Panisse in Berkeley, and Anaviv’s Table in Richmond. These restaurants offer upscale dining experiences with inventive menus and top-notch service.
Are there any good vegan or vegetarian restaurants in the East Bay?
Yes, the East Bay has plenty of excellent vegan and vegetarian restaurants. Some top picks include Millennium Restaurant and The Butcher’s Son in Oakland, and Flacos in Berkeley. These spots offer delicious plant-based meals in a variety of cuisines.
What are some casual dining options in the East Bay?
For casual dining, try Homeroom Mac + Cheese or Bette’s Oceanview Diner in Oakland, or one of the many excellent taquerias like El Tacostao in Oakland or Carnitas El Canelo in Richmond. These spots offer laid-back atmospheres and delicious, affordable food.
Where can I find good global cuisine in the East Bay?
The East Bay is home to a wide variety of global cuisines. For Eritrean and Ethiopian food, try Asmara Restaurant in Oakland. Kamdesh Afghan Kabab House, also in Oakland, serves up delicious Afghan dishes. For Italian fare, head to Belotti Ristorante in Oakland or Oliveto Cafe & Restaurant in Oakland.
What are some good spots for pizza, tacos, and burgers in the East Bay?
For pizza, Benchmark Pizzeria in Kensington is a great choice. Tacos El Ultimo Baile in Oakland serves up some of the best tacos around, while True Burger in Oakland is a go-to spot for classic burgers and fries. These casual spots offer delicious takes on classic American fare.
