Thornhill Coffee House

Cafe · Merriwood

Thornhill Coffee House

Cafe · Merriwood

1

5772 Thornhill Dr, Oakland, CA 94611

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Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null
Thornhill Coffee House by null

Highlights

Thornhill Coffee House is a cozy neighborhood gem in Oakland, serving delicious sandwiches, bagels, and expertly crafted coffee in a welcoming atmosphere.  

Featured in Eater
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5772 Thornhill Dr, Oakland, CA 94611 Get directions

$1–10

Information

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5772 Thornhill Dr, Oakland, CA 94611 Get directions

+1 510 339 8187

$1–10

Features

Tap to pay
reservations
wifi
outdoor seating

Last updated

Mar 6, 2025

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"Oakland kindergarten teacher Nancy Steimle says she first heard about Thornhill Coffee House from colleagues five years ago. Now, she’s hooked on the shop’s tuna sandwich, made with lettuce, tomato, and avocado, which she usually orders alongside an iced chai. Thornhill Coffee House isn’t likely to earn a spot in the Michelin Guide, but the neighborhood favorite is noteworthy for something else: how integral it’s become to its Oakland Hills community. Lunchbox-style sandwiches, breakfast bagels, and the standard coffeehouse drinks are workhorses of the menu. But it’s the care taken with each item — whether it be the thick cucumber slices nestled into the tuna sandwich, the frozen coffee cubes that give the iced coffee a bonus buzz, or a fiery-fresh green papaya salad that’s always made to order — that have created a loyal clientele." - Laura Smith Borrman

How Thornhill Coffee House Became an Anchor of This Oakland Community - Eater SF
View Postcard for Thornhill Coffee House

Farzin - Seyed Lavasani

Google
Thornhill Coffee House is an absolute gem! From the moment you walk through the door, you’re greeted by the warm and inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The atmosphere is cozy and eclectic, perfect for a relaxed catch-up with friends or a productive work session. The baristas are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their craft. They take the time to recommend brews based on your preferences, and their espresso drinks are simply divine. I highly recommend trying their signature Thornhill latte, which strikes the perfect balance between rich espresso and velvety steamed milk, topped with a hint of sweetness. The selection of pastries is equally impressive. The almond croissant I enjoyed was flaky and buttery, making it the perfect complement to my coffee. They also offer a range of vegan and gluten-free options, ensuring that everyone can find something delicious. The community vibe is palpable here, with local art adorning the walls and frequent live music events adding to the charm. It’s clear that Thornhill Coffee House is not just about great coffee; it’s a space where connections are made and memories are created.

Nikki Eddy

Google
Kudos to the crew at Thornhill Cafe. Thank you for always taking good care of me. I love your green smoothies. They're refreshing and just make you feel good and your breakfast bagels are awesome. It's my favorite place to stop when I'm working in the hills of Oakland. Doesn't seem to matter how many people are in there. You still get us in and out in no time. You're the best!!

sage fenton

Google
Such a cute family owned cafe! I loved walking in and feeling so welcome! Service was quick and food was yummy!

Daniela Nuñez Zurita

Google
Lovely little coffee shop. Please remember to support your local businesses, skip the larger coffee chains and go get a cup of joe at this lovely shop ☕️ I got an iced oat latte prepared to perfection, their staff is super sweet also! Great pastries and sandwiches as well.

E & J Chang

Google
Cosy. Happy. Yummy little coffee house. Owner Tena is very passionate and friendly. She greets everyone with her beautiful smile 😃like family . Make you feel at home . Delicious Bagels and excellent coffee latte . Thx you Tena ( excuse my wrong spelling )

Matthew Plese (CatechismClass)

Google
Could be better. Coffee and the sandwich were very basic. Nice staff. The interior looked outdated. They don't accept credit card. And they have a strange looking hindu statue that made me very uncomfortable.

Eli S

Google
Excellent service. Lady is so sweet. Very helpful. Always happy. Good food 👍

Hannah Meinking

Google
Cute place. Barista was on the phone while making my drink. The milk was frothy and warm. A rather unappealing $6 late and overall experience. I won't be back.

Anthony D.

Yelp
Like Café Nervosa from Frasier (from the TV show in the '90's) but convenient to Montclair Village. Great sandwiches, great egg salad, tuna salad, chicken salad, ham & turkey. Great service, Fine Ambiance! Go see Tyda!

Jose Manuel C.

Yelp
Showed up to the place because my Mrs. Was cat sitting. The place has sandwiches and coffees. The place is NO credit debit cards but takes Venmo. They also sell pastries, quite yummy to do the breakfast there, great sandos and atmosphere, the people of the neighborhood stroll in like the one guy working there is family. Bit busy but great service , quite yummy I would recommend

Bobby M.

Yelp
Nice, warm, friendly neighborhood coffee shop! Good coffee, teas, breakfast, sandwiches & good cheer here! I come here as much as possible - owner Thyda is super nice and this is a happy place!

Kevin B.

Yelp
This is definitely my favorite café I've ever been to. One of my good friends walks here and gets coffee every day and that's how I found out about the place. I really enjoy coming here and having lunch with my family. The owner Thyda and her family and employees are all so friendly. It's a cozy little shop with a very inviting feel to it. Everything here is great but my favorite is definitely the chicken salad sandwich ! I feel like I could eat it every day and never get tired of it it's so good. I really like the snack bars that they sell there called Handlebar. Looking forward to returning soon!

Naomi A.

Yelp
Sometimes you just want a delicious, simple,fresh lunch at reasonable prices! That feels hard to find these days in the Bay Area, but this cafe is it! The owner is lovely and they provide great, friendly service. A great spot if you are in the area.

Bria A.

Yelp
Yummy and cute! Very mom and pop style. Hopefully they accept card soon, but great menu nonetheless.

Buka M.

Yelp
The food at the Thornhill Coffee house is great the drink selection is huge and they have a great variety of food options. The food is very quickly made and their coffee self serve station that has many different blends. They have lots of art and decorations indoors.

Spotlight O.

Yelp
Great atmosphere. Thyda and family are outgoing and friendly with everyone, everyday. Large menu (and delicious), great for breakfast or lunch.

Ajay G.

Yelp
Best place to get coffee, snacks, and food in the Montclair Village area. Wonderful neighborhood spot with warm, peaceful, and friendly vibes. Owner Thyda is a beautiful human being and makes the experience 10x better!

Keira B.

Yelp
All I can say is the best place ever I've always loved it. There have really good options. The owner is super nice. It's pretty quick sometimes it's busy but that's what I would expect. It's next to school and the kids come after school. it's cute and a family place where you can feel like you just are at home. most recently I got a vitamin water and they have really good options.

Carolyn G.

Yelp
Great neighborhood spot, right next to Thornhill elementary. The owner is warm and friendly and knows most people by name. Great selection of pastries, and the best Pad Thai and Vietnamese Spring Rolls (call in advance to order). Enjoy!

E W.

Yelp
I have been coming to this coffee shop for about 20 years. My kids would come in the morning and afternoon, for hot chocolate, sandwiches, snacks or just to say Hi. Thyda has watched my kids grow up as I have watched hers. Even now I still go by just for nostalgia and have a nice cup of coffee to sit and watch the cars go by. It is a family-run business and I will continue to visit for 20 more years. Thank you Thyda for many years of hot coffee and your friendly smile.

Nenna F.

Yelp
Espresso & Club Soda Several things Ive learned about campaigning...you have to campaign. Some issues dont effect everyone. Some ppl operate in kindness, respecting ppl, and doing their best already! I see small business owners do things to create community. Creating the spaces they want to see close to their home, kids school etc its a beautiful world out in Oakland! Learn more about it

Mia M.

Yelp
The service was amazing and sooooo kind! We found this hidden gem by accident and so thankful we did! This was the best sandwich I've had in sooooo long! Would totally go back for another everyday if I could! Locals come in and it gives some small town appeal and I love it!

Geoff M.

Yelp
Great service and a fun host! Good coffee along with a wide selection. My new go to coffee joint!

Natasha S.

Yelp
Was looking for a quick coffee and came by Thornhill thanks to my fellow Yelpers! Ordered the gingerbread latte and wasn't disappointed. Was warm, flavorful, and spiced. The perfect pick me up for a Sunday afternoon. Would definitely be back!

J. M.

Yelp
We stopped here wnroute to the Oakland Zoo and it was a well worthwhile stop. I ordered an iced latte and to my surprise there was frozen espresso cubes integrated in the drink so it was delicious from start to finish. The lady had a seasonally delicious peppermint mocha and said the service was amazing. Little man got extra taken care of and got a perfectly tempered hot chocolate with cream and rainbow marshmallows. He was in heaven.

Gabrielle C.

Yelp
Food is good. Love this location, with lots of beautiful trees. Parking is a little hard, as there's an elementary school next door. Thyda, the shop owner, has been so sweet. I've been able to showcase some of my art work too.

Linda F.

Yelp
The space is great. Thyda, the owner, and her children will serve you and know your name the next time you come in. Food made with care. Wonderful nghbrhd place. Outside seating in front. You can sit with your drink as long as you want. Parking isn't bad if you can walk a few steps. Service at the counter. Great lattes!

Ebonie L.

Yelp
The owner is very warm, loving and caring. She's very professional the ambience and environment is awesome, she offers home cooked wheels with reasonable prices. I am able to sit here for 30 minutes or so and enjoy my lunch and continue on with my day.

Tehsin D.

Yelp
This coffee house is what my child always asks me to go to, not only there food and snacks are good, the customer service is over the top so I highly recommend this coffee house.

Andrew L.

Yelp
Super nice local spot, owner is friendly. I just got a salmon bagel on asiago and jalapeno with capers and tomatoes, soooo good. Got a green smoothie with mango as well, amazing. Would definitely recommend!

Gregory W.

Yelp
Thor hill is Avery unique coffee house to me. The owner and her son were the only two working. The environment was warm and friendly. I had a turkey sandwich. It was made to order using all fresh ingredients. Other customers came in they were all greeted with a smile and warmth. The parking was tight. And they take cash or Vimeo. It answered the old questioned, "If Andy, had a coffee shop in Mayberry, how would that feel?"

Rohit K.

Yelp
This little quaint place in Oakland is a hidden gem! We were exploring the area and stopped by. I have to say that the selection was amazing! Even the regular drip coffee hit the spot on a cold rainy afternoon. The baked goods were great too with the coffee. We had the cupcakes and macaroons. Highly recommended!

Tracy A.

Yelp
This is the closest coffee and food to my work at Thornhill Elementry. I've unfortunately only had time to go there once so far after hearing wonderful things from my colleagues since we went back to in-person in March 2021. I plan to rectify that tomorrow by picking up lunch for our full PD day on campus. I've already tried their breakfast sandwich and drip coffee. The food is delicious and Thyda, the proprietor, is phenomenal at Customer Service.

Mary E.

Yelp
A friendly spit of great coffees and teas, and good food. They don't at present take credit cards, but your cash is always accepted. Street parking is usually available. It's small inside, but the outside tables are quietly lovely, and the service extremely friendly.

Dara L.

Yelp
Best cafe ever! Good food and drinks. Thyda is so friendly and sweet. Our kiddos love taking walks to the cafe.

Jenny C.

Yelp
My best friend and I stopped in and had a couple delicious Italian sodas after taking a walk in the neighbor. The staff are incredibly warm and friendly, makes the spot extra inviting.

Amanda S.

Yelp
If you're in town or passing by, you have to come to this place! It's a great spot to have a nice coffee with some friends or family, or just to come by on your own and enjoy their beautiful decorations and warm and cozy ambient. Everybody here is friendly and attentive and really make you feel at home. 5 out of 5 stars for me!

Maria D.

Yelp
A small coffee house with excellent food. Had the BLT and a cup of fruit. The fruit was so fresh and tasty. The BLT was one of the best I have had in a long time. Service is very good. Definitely would recommend this place.

Leon H.

Yelp
I have been coming here for almost 20 years and it's a great coffee shop with good drinks and amazing warm service. Family owned and operated and a good local business worth supporting.

Evelyn E.

Yelp
Today is a busy mom week. Living the single mom of 4 life until Friday. Finishing my work deadlines into the evening, I went to bed at 2:30am... With early pick ups at 11:30 & 1:30. And again at 3:05 & 4:00... I needed some peace and quiet to relax my anxieties of my insane schedule. A little breakfast & coffee, too! I wanted to try something different than the usual hustle and bustle of people moving at a fast pace in Montclair Village & Lake Merritt. Yelped for coffee & found this 4.5 star gem. Tucked away in Montclair. Near Thornhill Elem. you'll find this coffee shop. Away from busy streets. You can hear children playing in the distances and birds chirping. The owner, a lovely Cambodian lady, knows all the regulars. She plays with the babies while a mom has a bit of breakfast. She even helped a mom roll out her stroller to the car as the mom held her toddler. She went out with a dog treat to say hello to an dog owner on their morning walk around the neighborhood. She works almost 7 days a week. And her college age children come home on the weekends to give her some time to relax. If your looking for a place to slow down for the busy world and relax, this place is it! Don't expect a barista to rush your order. Expect to have a touching conversation with an immigrant woman who went from not knowing English to becoming a small business owner. Except to share your story as well and leave with a big warm hug & a gentle smile! This place is the definition of above and beyond service with a smile! Now on to the breakfast goodies: The coffee was amazing! She'll overflow your cup and ask you to sip it to make sure you enjoy. It was a bit too warm for me to sip. But, I liked that she doesn't waste a drop. She said if my raspberry mocha is too sweet, just add extra house coffee! That's so generous to offer that option. AND the Lox Bagel was the best I've ever had! You'll never see me at Noah's Bagels again! I don't know if it's the brand of smoke salmon or the fact that she's passionate about her cafe that made it taste like your body is embraced in a cozy cloud. I felt like my meal was made with such love! After my bagel, I walked out with my still hot mocha. Took a deep breathe under the redwoods that provide the cafe with shade. I walked over to my car with the biggest smile. And was ready to start my day. But, without the stresses and anxieties I originally woke up with. I think I may go there after morning drop offs this week to get that feeling of relaxation to jump start my day. But, now I'm wondering if they have WiFi so I can get some work done there as well.

Kaci D.

Yelp
I'm sorry this place must have been cool before the pandemic but yesterday when I went the only coffee they had were canisters of dark roast and decaf, so you have to pour yourself a coffee. Which was kind of confusing because they had the coffee menu with lattes and stuff. So I ended up getting a sandwich and he made my egg in the microwave and half of the sandwich was cold.

Gayle L.

Yelp
Everything Thyda makes is with love. My favorites are her Spring Rolls and breakfast sandwich. She makes a perfect americano, just the way I like it! Thornhill Coffee House is special! Just like Thyda!

Tiffany A.

Yelp
Great service, they are really good about call in orders. We will usually call in and drive down on our way to work!

Ginny L.

Yelp
I found this place because it's across the street from my vet's office. Great chai lattes with the perfect amount tif sweetness made piping hot and iced coffee with coffee ice cubes. The food is straightforward and solid. For a quick bite I'll order the BLT but if I have time to spare, the pad Thai is really good here. It just takes a bit of time to make. The best part of this place is the owner, Thyda. She is so genuine and welcoming, and seems to remember everyone that walks in the door. From time to time I'll see a young woman working there - I'm guessing it's her daughter or niece. She's just as sweet and friendly. I live closer to Piedmont Ave., which has several poplar coffee shops but I often prefer driving an extra 5-7 minutes for that feeling of home at Thyda's.

Zhei H.

Yelp
This is a very small cafe! The light inside is dim and old, I went in and ordered a cup of honey vanilla latte last week, the taste is usually made at home! While waiting for my drink! I took a look at the hygiene of the store! It's almost like a mess! I think giving one star is too much! I don't know those so-called 5-star reviews will feel particularly nauseous! I do! Never come back again!

James K.

Yelp
The food and coffee is great but the best part about this place is the owner. She is very friendly and a lot of fun to talk to. I'd definitely recommend coming here.

Noah M.

Yelp
Wonderful, cozy local coffee shop with great food. I have come by several times for coffee, lunch and snacks. Each time the food and coffee are excellent and the service even better. Today I stopped in for a quick sandwich and realized I forgot my wallet. Thyda who is the owner sent me away with a sandwich and drink and said pay me next time you are in the area. What a refreshing experience. Local community oriented coffee shops do still exist. This is a great example. If you want a local spot for coffee and breakfast or lunch where you will be remembered and probably recognize some regulars as well...this is your spot. Highly recommended. Thank you Thyda for the delicious sandwich today. I'll be by soon to pay my tab :)

Ruben G.

Yelp
Amazing friendly service! I got the morning glory bread slice and a honey vanilla latte which were both so good! They add coffee ice cubes to the latte so it doesn't taste as watered down at the end which I thought was pretty thoughtful of them. Felt super homie. Will definitely be coming back.

Greg O.

Yelp
Good selection of coffee, baked goods and sandwiches. Tita, the proprietor, is a delight!

Vivian H.

Yelp
The most friendly , warming family owned cafe at Thornhill ... I went by to enjoy a cup of latte and surprisingly taste better than my expectation .. with a beautiful design of roses matching the tattoo of my hand are way more than thoughtful.. I will sure return for my latte :-)

Hannah P.

Yelp
It had been a couple of decades since I was last here, but I was pleasantly surprised to find it still under the same ownership. Montclair is a place that while safe and cozy, can lack charm. Thornhill coffee shop makes up for that. It's a coffee shop that feels like home, run by an absolutely wonderful woman that treats everyone like family. I can't speak for the drinks (of which there are a wide variety), but the food is great. Anything with vegetables is very fresh and the flavors well thought out. Average prices. Many breakfast bagels, croissants, and sandwiches but also Pad Thai and spring rolls. On days that school is in session you'll find a crowd of parents - and kids depending on the hour. If that's not the atmosphere you're looking for then go early afternoon or weekends.

Mike S.

Yelp
First time ordering here. Two solid sandwiches. I'm coming back to try everything on the menu

Tania H.

Yelp
I'm shocked at the positive reviews of this cafe and especially the owner. I've never experienced such blatant racism and prejudice. I was sitting with my younger brother doing our homework after ordering drinks and food while we waited for his sister to get out of her class at Thornhill Elem. We were only there for a little while until the owner confronted us and asked me to leave because her other customers (she gestured to the white women standing there) weren't coming in because we were sitting in the cafe. I was shocked and angry, and still am. It's obvious the owner would prefer to serve her white customers and if you look anything other than that, she'll literally run you out of the cafe, paying customer or not. Stay away from this establishment

Michelle P.

Yelp
I love Thornhill Coffee house! A local's spot with an owner who has the biggest heart, delicious coffee and tasty sandwiches. Highly recommend getting iced drinks, which come with coffee ice cubes, and striking up a conversation with Thyda, who will most certainly improve your mood. Lovely outdoor seating options, which can fill up, so snag a spot if its available!

Brandon T.

Yelp
Amazing staff, constantly checking up on you and ensuring you are happy with your food/drinks. Speedy service, and great coffee! There specialty latte's are amazing!

Natalie N.

Yelp
A neighborhood gem! Not only is the owner one of the nicest folks you'll ever meet, the coffee and food are excellent. Like, surprising taste and quality for a little coffee shop like this. Their sandwiches are excellent; the ingredients all very fresh and high quality. They have fresh brewed iced tea, and all manner of treats and tastes to grab on your way through. It's also a great spot to snag a seat, inside or out, and enjoy the surroundings and company. I really hope the neighborhood doesn't take a place like this for granted!

Nina M.

Yelp
Moderate price. Great service. Just remember to bring CASH