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Best Fun Restaurants in Oakland

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358 restaurants available nearby

A photo of MUA restaurant
1. MUA
4.4
Awesome(1374)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Oakland
Booked 17 times today
MUA is known for its open atmosphere, eclectic décor, art events and, of course, its delicious food. Ideal for large parties or intimate gatherings, the spacious dining room creates a relaxed, casual vibe for guests to enjoy their meals. A large selection of wines, cocktails and beers make MUA a great spot for an evening out with friends. Family owned and run Mua was one of the first restaurants to open in what was then Auto Row in Oakland, in 2008. After their first 2 restaurants, Pastoral in Berkeley (first opened in 1982 while still students, 37 in the architecture program at Cal and San-Ju painting at SFAI) then later Soizic (Jack London Square, 1996), they wanted to shift gears from heavily curated menus to more comfort-based fare catering more to the eclectic and artistic community in Oakland. Today you’ll find people of all ages and backgrounds, from Too Short to Jerry Brown.
A photo of alaMar Dominican Kitchen restaurant
2. alaMar Dominican Kitchen
4.6
Exceptional(195)
Price: Expensive
• Caribbean • Oakland
Booked 6 times today
alaMar is a Contemporary Dominican Kitchen located in the hip Uptown Oakland area. Bravo TV's Top Chef Season 18 Contestant, Chef Nelson German, dives deep into his Dominican culture at alaMar by offering a regional menu of foods he grew up on that his mom, grandmother, and Aunt Maritza would cook and NYC-style Dominican street foods he enjoyed as a child. German brings a unique take to family recipes with his contemporary NYC twist on traditional dishes, including his popular braised oxtail dish. There is indoor seating and a dog-friendly patio with heaters for al fresco dining. The not-to-be-missed craft cocktail program reflects Caribbean influences such as the signature Mamajuana cocktail.
A photo of Calabash restaurant
3. Calabash
3.9
Excellent(77)
Price: Moderate
• Jamaican • Oakland
Booked 2 times today
Like its namesake, Calabash—restaurant, market and bar in Uptown Oakland—is a place of global innovation; a home for creative local chefs and producers to bring the uniqueness of their culture and flavors to The Town.
A photo of Commis Dining Room restaurant
4. Commis Dining Room
4.9
Exceptional(1229)
Price: Very Expensive
• Californian • Oakland
Booked 12 times today
Commis in Oakland is a Two-Star Michelin rated fine dining restaurant by James Beard Foundation Nominated Chef James Syhabout that serves a multi-course Tasting Menu.Diners at Commis are invited to linger for 2.5 to 3 hours over an multi-course meal in a warm, comfortable and relaxing dining room appointed by glowing glass light pendants, dark furniture, bare walnut tables, dim lit candles and floral arrangements. Delivered by the attentive service staff and sommeliers, the cuisine of Commis showcases some of the best Northern California ingredients that are in season through modern and classic cooking techniques. The cuisine aims to bridge the flavors, textures and temperatures of the East and West with every course with the intention to excite and satisfy.
A photo of Burdell restaurant
5. Burdell
4.5
Awesome(149)
Price: Very Expensive
• Soul food • Oakland
Booked 21 times today
Burdell is a Soul Food restaurant in the Temescal neighborhood of Oakland from James Beard Finalist, Chef Geoff Davis.Named for and inspired by his maternal grandmother, Burdell, the restaurant reflects her love for well-set tables, entertaining guests, shared meals, and laughter. Burdell is centered on nostalgia, family recipes, thoughtful and sustainable sourcing, and the forgotten impact of Black farming, ranching, fishing, foraging, and culture on American cuisine and hospitality. The menu highlights farmers and artisans harvesting and creating excellent products around us. Paired with the food is a robust list of wine and beverages from producers around the World-focusing on wines that are farmed and crafted with care and sustainable practices.
A photo of ACRE Kitchen and Bar restaurant
6. ACRE Kitchen and Bar
4.6
Exceptional(640)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Oakland
Booked 64 times today
ACRE is an ingredient-driven menu of California/Mediterranean cuisine served witha welcoming, neighborhood approachability.*20% gratuity will be added to all parties 8 or more.
A photo of Bardo Lounge & Supper Club restaurant
7. Bardo Lounge & Supper Club
4.8
Exceptional(486)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Oakland
Booked 22 times today
Recommended in the MICHELIN Guide for California 2021-2023. Located in Oakland’s historic Grand Lake District, Bardo is a neighborhood lounge and restaurant inspired by the comfort and camaraderie of a mid-century dinner party. Drawing on the celebration and elegance of old school entertaining, we envisioned a space for friends and neighbors to enjoy amazing food, cocktails, conversation and great music. Our lounge is a swank living room, furnished with hand-picked finds from antique and vintage markets from Palm Springs to Portland. Our mezzanine dining room features a rotating menu of fresh, seasonal supper-fare with local and sustainably sourced meats, fish and produce. While we think the food, drinks and atmosphere are all great reasons to visit us, it’s the relationships with our friends, neighbors and guests that is the driving force behind Bardo.
A photo of Grand Lake Kitchen - Lake Merritt restaurant
8. Grand Lake Kitchen - Lake Merritt
4.7
Exceptional(658)
Price: Moderate
• American • Oakland
Booked 28 times today
Grand Lake Kitchen - Lake Merritt is a blast! The reviews are filled with praises about their 'good food', 'delicious cocktails', and 'great service'. The atmosphere is described as 'friendly' and 'cheerful', making it a 'fun dining experience'. Plus, their 'menu options' have 'something for everyone'!
A photo of Mago restaurant
9. Mago
4.8
Exceptional(70)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary Latin • Oakland
Booked 9 times today
Mägo is a family owned and operated fine dining restaurant from Chef Mark Liberman. We offer an exciting tasting menu cooked over wood fire, offering our take on Contemporary Colombian fare, anchored in an understanding of using Northern California ingredients, simple flavors in bold combinations.Our tasting menu focuses on ingredients that are at their most peak in deliciousness .This usually means produce that is in season, which in turn means they are their most flavorful, which is one of the reasons why we change our menu daily. In order to ensure the proper planning of your evening, please allow for 2.5 hours.We also offer an a la carte dining experience at our bar that is available for walk in guests.The restaurant’s informal atmosphere features an open kitchen surrounded by intimate tables, outdoor heated garden patio and chefs counter seating. From the warm greeting you receive upon entering until your final goodbye, we invite you to feel at home.
A photo of Yoshi's Oakland restaurant
10. Yoshi's Oakland
4.7
Exceptional(8281)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Oakland
Booked 84 times today
Yoshi's has served Japan's best traditional dishes to Bay Area patrons since 1972. The menu highlights artfully arranged sushi, fresh grilled seafood, classic Japanese dishes, and vegetarian fare. Patrons can kick off their shoes in the traditional Japanese tatami seating or dine at tables. Expert sushi chefs create sushi and sashimi to order either in the restaurant or in the jazz house. Start the evening in the cocktail lounge before dinner or have a nightcap after taking in a show in the jazz house.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • NancyVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •35 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We ordered the brown butter brussels sprouts and both of us got the hamburger with gluten-free buns. They were very good; the meat was tender and fries were crispy. The sprouts were very tasty. The only thing I would change is I would ask for the buns to be toasted next time. A very unique, fun vibe too.
    More info
    MUAPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Oakland
    •
    4.4
  • Kimberly
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Felt like home for a Sunday brunch. The vibe is super chill and I love that they encourage you to keep your phone off the table and be present to enjoy good food with good people. Flavors are on point with the chicken & waffle, biscuits and gravy, croquettes, and donut holes. Fried items (chicken, croquettes, donuts) had the perfect texture, were light and not greasy. Portion size is just right to leave you full. Quality food made with love. Staff is attentive and friendly. Looking forward to trying dinner items very soon.
    More info
    BurdellPrice: Very Expensive• Soul food• Oakland
    •
    4.5
  • SumitVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •55 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Fantastic —This is one of the three best restaurants in Bay area as far as I am concerned..( The other two being Californios in SF and The French Laundry in Yountville )..food is fantastic and the service is to equal to it…
    More info
    Commis Dining RoomPrice: Very Expensive• Californian• Oakland
    •
    4.9
  • Willie
    San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 5, 2024
    Every Dish was DELICIOUS! It felt like I was in Santo Domingo! I can't wait to return for more of those Oxtails, the Plantains, and the shrimp criolla!
    More info
    alaMar Dominican KitchenPrice: Expensive• Caribbean• Oakland
    •
    4.6
  • Jonathan
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 9, 2024
    Excellent food and excellent service. I will be coming back for more! I highly recommend.
    More info
    CalabashPrice: Moderate• Jamaican• Oakland
    •
    3.9

Discover best fun restaurants in Oakland

Discover a vibrant dining scene in Oakland, where the keyword "fun" perfectly captures the essence of popular restaurants in the area. Whether you're looking for a lively atmosphere, engaging service, or creatively curated menus, Oakland's eateries provide an exciting culinary adventure. These restaurants are renowned for their delightful fusion of flavors and a warm, inviting ambiance that makes each dining experience uniquely enjoyable. From innovative Asian cuisine to classic Mediterranean dishes, the variety ensures there's something for everyone. The common thread among these dining spots is their commitment to quality and a joyful dining environment, making them perfect for both casual outings and special occasions. Oakland's dining scene is not just about great food but also about creating memorable moments with friends and family. So, if you're in the East Bay and looking for a fun place to eat, these restaurants in Oakland promise to deliver an exceptional experience.

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