The 25 Best Restaurants In Oakland - San Francisco - The Infatuation

"Burdell is a fantastic soul food restaurant in Temescal that feels like you’ve stepped back in time. Family photos hang by the host stand, vintage ovens are next to pews and cane-backed chairs, and groovy hits from the ‘60s and ‘70s play. Dinner is like getting dropped into an intimate family meal, but here, the chef cares a lot more about fancy presentation. There’s a decadent chicken liver mousse spread over a wonderfully crispy cornmeal waffle, balanced and vinegary greens, and an impressive roast pork neck topped with honeynut squash that cuts like a knife through butter. Service is unhurried but embrace it, especially since you’re spending quality time with your tablemate over a bottle of wine. Get access to exclusive reservations at this spot with Chase Sapphire Reserve. New cardmembers get $300 in annual dining statement credits." - lani conway, julia chen 1