Wood Tavern

"Some nights, we just want to pretend like we’re a permanent resident of the Claremont Hotel. And that’s when we go to Wood Tavern. Every dish at this upscale American restaurant feels like it was made with more care than a miniature replica of the Tribune Tower. You’ll want the cheese board, the charcuterie, the pappardelle, the juicy pan-roasted chicken, and the coffee pot de crème for dessert. Despite the fancy food, this place feels more like a casual bistro, or a cozy ski lodge - but one with perfect service." - Lani Conway

"Oakland staple Wood Tavern serves up fine Californian fare in a relaxed setting." - Dianne de Guzman, Clair Lorell, Paolo Bicchieri

"There’s always a crowd at this neighborhood standby, where friends, families, and chic couples congregate for drinks at the copper-topped bar. Flanked by organic groceries, indie bookstores and antique shops, its environs speak of peace, weaving a bohemian spell that captivates both regulars and rookies alike.Seasonal Californian cooking with an Italian bent dominates this tavern's menu, and a "butcher block" of well-prepared charcuterie--like herb-flecked rabbit terrine wrapped in prosciutto--is a prudent way to start your meal. A touch of Calabrian chili adds welcoming heat to the combo of morels, Italian sausage, and sweet corn that sauce a bowl of al dente bucatini. For dessert, warm bread pudding with a coffee-chocolate sauce is utterly devourable." - Michelin Inspector

"Wood Tavern is the corner bistro of your dreams — that cozy, neighborhood spot you go back to again and again, knowing the food will never disappoint. A Rockridge favorite for more than a decade, the upscale yet casual American brasserie is always bustling. Simple dishes shine here, but that doesn’t mean it’s boring: the pan-roasted half chicken with with lemon-rosemary jus or the grilled double-cut pork chop, served with a marsala cream sauce, are both good choices. It’s also popular for lunch, with the Niman Ranch burger served on a La Farine baguette, as another standout on the menu." - Clara Hogan, Eater Staff

"The Rockridge standby is serving burgers and pastrami sandwiches for take-away from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m." - Luke Tsai