Cholita Linda

"From an always-busy farmers market food truck in 2008 to three brick-and-mortars (in Oakland, Alameda, and San Francisco), this pan-Latin spot highlights Peruvian, Mexican, and Cuban flavors and is a great place for a tot’s first meal out. Cholita Linda reliably delivers for families: Highchairs available; noise level moderate; aguas frescas flowing; and the combo of sweet plantains, rice, and black beans, all naturally appealing to kids. Fish tacos can be ordered plain, too, while adults revel in carnitas tacos, Cubano sandwiches, and the sweet-tangy-savory picadillo, which marries ground beef, olives, raisins, and peppers in one powerhouse dish." - Justine Jones, Laura Smith Borrman

"Cholita Linda is located on a busy stretch of Telegraph Ave. in North Oakland, and serves Peruvian, Cuban, and Mexican dishes, like tacos, sandwiches, and rice plates with chicken, beef, or fish. But Cholita Linda is our go-to spot for crispy fish tacos, and leaving without trying one would be a mortal sin in our book. The fish is perfectly fried and topped with generous servings of house salsa, crema, cabbage slaw, and sliced radishes. Also be sure to grab one of their house-made agua frescas - they usually have strawberry, mango, passionfruit, and blackberry, which you can also get mixed together. Food Rundown photo credit: Jeremy Chen Baja Fish Tacos Like we said, there’s no way you’re leaving here without trying these. They’re on the bigger side, so two or three should fill you up. Plantains The thick-cut fried plantains are sticky-sweet, slightly charred, and great to share. photo credit: Jeremy Chen Lechón The lechón sandwich is loaded with a thick slab of sweet potato, which is what sets it apart from the other sandwiches on the menu (which are delicious, too). It’s also stuffed with juicy pulled pork shoulder, arugula, salsa criolla, and aioli. Chips and Guacamole Cholita Linda’s guacamole is the best version of what guacamole should be - and it’s great to spoon on top of their tacos." - Julia Chen

"Offers Latin American street food in a vibrant setting reminiscent of a colorful street in Peru. Highlight dishes include the asado sandwich and salad with fried fish."