Benchmark Oakland

Aburaya is a punk rock-infused izakaya in Oakland, serving up crispy Japanese fried chicken and inventive small plates in a fun, compact space.

Nestled in Fruitvale, Taqueria El Paisa serves up no-frills, authentic Mexican tacos boasting an impressive selection of juicy meats, including suadero and tripa, all enjoyed in a lively, casual atmosphere.

Savor artisanal wood-fired pizzas and craft brews in a chic industrial setting, complete with a sunny bay-view patio that's perfect for a chill meal.

Tanya Holland's Brown Sugar Kitchen serves up sophisticated California soul food in a stylish setting, celebrated for its standout fried chicken and waffles.

At Kowbird in West Oakland, Matt Horn serves up mouthwatering fried chicken sandwiches, like the spicy Hot Bird, along with tasty mac and cheese in a retro diner vibe.

Dive into La Venganza, an all-vegan taqueria serving mouthwatering Mexican delights like carne asada and pozole, all with flavors that even meat-lovers rave about.

Pizzaiolo is a vibrant spot in Temescal Rockridge, known for its stellar wood-fired pizzas and seasonal Italian dishes, with a cozy back patio perfect for lingering over drinks.

Charming and lively, this diner offers standout brunch classics and housemade treats like gooey pecan sticky buns, all amid a cozy retro vibe.

At Oakland's Low Bar, dive into a lively atmosphere packed with inventive cocktails, mouthwatering elevated tacos, and warming churros in a vibrant, welcoming space.

Bicycle Coffee is a laid-back Oakland cafe with a funky vibe, offering expertly roasted organic brews, tasty pastries, and a community-focused spirit.