20 Best Restaurants in Alameda, CA

Alessandra Gill

Aug 6, 2023 • 23 min read

As an Alameda local, I’ve spent many days and nights exploring the diverse culinary scene of our island city.

Our charming town, nestled between the bustling cities of Oakland and San Francisco, boasts a unique array of gastronomic delights far from your average fare.

From the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread wafting out of our bakeries to the spicy scents of ethnic cuisines filling the air, every corner of Alameda offers a distinctive culinary experience.

This article is your guide to the best restaurants in Alameda, California, the hidden gems and beloved establishments that define our food culture.

Happy dining!

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About this article: This article was written by a local contributor based on their own experiences and those around them. While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note that this is an opinion piece, and there are many other exceptional dining establishments that are not featured here.
Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself

Macondo Colombian Fusion

Oh, how I love the taste of Colombia right here in the Bay Area at Macondo Colombian Fusion.

This place is an absolute gem in the city.

The first time I stopped by, I was drawn in by the enticing aroma of its made-to-order empanadas.

These are not your average empanadas.

They're tender, brimming with flavor, and, dare I say, giving the pizza a run for its money as "best the day after and leave out on the counter."

I couldn't resist the allure of Macondo and found myself eating here thrice within 24 hours of discovering it.

I've since invited numerous friends to share the experience, and none of them has left disappointed.

The respect and love displayed in this place are uplifting and can be savored in every mouthful of their food.

It's as if that love is tucked inside a crispy empanada shell made especially for you.

On another visit, I tried their "Quesabirria Arepa," a cheesy birria packed with pickled red onion, carrots, cilantro, and consommé.

The richness of diverse flavors was stunning, a testament to the freshness of their ingredients.

If you're not into arepas, there are plenty of other options for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

This includes salads, natural juices, and, yes, more of those fabulous empanadas.

So, remember to stop by Macondo Colombian Fusion.

Please note that after trying it once, you may find yourself returning more frequently than you originally intended.

As for me, I'm already looking forward to my next visit.

Mo's Hut

One of the best things about living in this neighborhood is having access to some truly fantastic dining spots.

And among these, Mo's Hut stands out.

Let me tell you, from the first time I heard about this place about a year ago, I've been absolutely hooked!

Their food is exceptional, and I mean that genuinely.

Every single item on their menu is a masterclass in flavor.

The nostalgic island-style cuisine is enough to make your mouth water.

The plate portions are so generous you'll leave feeling satisfied every time.

And the palusami - it's the best I've ever tasted!

The Char Siu pork, teriyaki chicken & beef are all cooked to perfection.

The green bananas cooked in coconut milk are another favorite, but their baked taro is an absolute must-have paired with the palusami.

And don't even get me started on their desserts!

The pineapple pies and the pāpā both are a must-try.

What's even more amazing, their food tastes even better and warmed up the next day; if there are any leftovers, that is!

A friend introduced me to Mo's a couple of months ago.

I've been back almost every weekend because of its welcoming atmosphere, making my dining experience even more enjoyable.

An all-time favorite of mine is their Char Siu Pork - the meat is juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor.

Their recent addition to the menu, the Char Siu chicken wings, is equally delectable.

Another dish I highly recommend is the Laulau - the pork filling is tender and delicious.

The Moon pie is another standout - the crust is always crisp, and the pineapple filling, not overly sweet, tastes divine!

Also, don't forget to try the Ota.

It's akin to ceviche but with coconut milk.

So, if you're in the neighborhood and looking for some amazing food, you know where to go - Mo's Hut, located at the corner of Hesperian Blvd & Paseo Grande in San Lorenzo.

Trust me; you won't regret it!

ALA Mediterranean Grill & Mezzes

Last week, I was in the charming ALA Mediterranean Grill & Mezzes.

What a delightful place it is!

The moment I walked in, I was welcomed by its warm atmosphere, a clear reflection of the culture it represents.

Trusting their expertise, I went with the Trio appetizer and Lamb skewers.

They did not disappoint; each bite was a burst of fantastic flavors, proof of the authentic Mediterranean cuisine they serve.

I was so captivated by the food I completely forgot to take pictures!

The Baklava and rice pudding took me by surprise as I moved toward the dessert.

It was probably the best I've tasted in a long while.

The cozy environment adds value to the whole dining experience.

I also love their outdoor patio, it's just so accommodating, and you feel as if you are dining alfresco in the Mediterranean.

One evening, I was in ALA Mediterranean Grill & Mezzes without reservations.

Despite it being a Saturday and my party being fairly large, with 5 adults and 3 kids, they accommodated us on the back patio.

Meanwhile, its menu is quite diverse and well-priced.

Personally, I'm a big fan of their Kafte and Hummus.

I've also heard great reviews about their beet salad appetizer and lamb kebab entree.

I'm definitely looking forward to trying those on my next visit.

For anyone interested in having a taste of the Mediterranean, you can visit ALA Mediterranean Grill & Mezzes on Facebook to get a glimpse of what awaits you.

I assure you, it's a visit worth making.

Saltbreaker

One of my favorite go-to spots here in town is Saltbreaker.

This charming, small place never fails to deliver an amazing experience.

I remember stumbling upon it by chance, which was a pleasant surprise.

It was a busy night, and the main area and bar were packed, but they offered us a seat in the private room area.

The atmosphere is always lively and welcoming, making every visit enjoyable.

The food at Saltbreaker is always delicious.

With their beautifully crispy skin, their chicken and salmon are a must-try.

The menu is interesting and diverse, catering to a variety of palates.

I can't help but recommend the burrata and focaccia bread appetizer and the cheesecake for dessert, and they're simply divine.

One thing that truly sets Saltbreaker apart is the craft cocktails they offer.

They're friendly and knowledgeable, ready to recommend the perfect drink to pair with your meal.

Service is always prompt and attentive, adding to the overall excellent experience.

Whether it's a casual dinner or a special occasion, Saltbreaker is the perfect destination.

I've even considered using their private space for team or group events.

Remember, it's not a very large place, so making reservations or planning ahead is a good idea.

I'm already looking forward to my next visit!

Phnom Penh House

There are few places in the city that offer food straight out of a Cambodian homestead, and Phnom Penh House does it in style.

My mouth waters at the thought of their beef on a stick.

I have dined at this casual Southeast Asian restaurant more times than I can count, and each visit is a trip down the lanes of Cambodian culinary delights.

The second time I tried Cambodian food was at Phnom Penh House; it didn't disappoint.

When you taste their basil mussels or the coconut juice steamed fish, you will understand what I mean.

The mussels are so flavorful they'll make you go back for more.

The fish, though not a whole steamed fish, but fillets in a bowl, is intriguing.

The coconut juice adds a unique layer of flavor that's interesting but not overpowering.

And the collard greens at the bottom absorbing all the flavor is a treat you wouldn't want to miss.

Also, its stuffed chicken wings filled with curry-flavored vermicelli and BBQ lemongrass pork ribs are some of the must-tries you mustn't miss.

These are the kind of dishes that make a meal at Phnom Penh House more than just food.

They're experiences in themselves.

Also, the basil fried rice is super fragrant, and the tofu curry and calamari medley with mushrooms are some of the best flavors you'll find in town.

Trust me; the portions are more than enough.

The service is as spectacular as the food.

And the best part?

Getting quality food without making a dent in your wallet.

So, if you're looking for a hidden gem in Alameda or just a place that serves good Cambodian food, Phnom Penh House is the place to go.

The Preacher's Daughter

Occasionally, I long for a warm and welcoming environment, accompanied by amicable individuals and satisfying cuisine.

Whenever that feeling comes, I find myself drawn to The Preacher's Daughter, tucked away in a corner of our lovely town.

Their coffee is exactly the pick-me-up you need after a hearty Italian meal.

They serve it with a chu-chu board of assorted meats and cheeses that are just as scrumptious.

Its service is prompt, while the wait time is minimal, and they have live music for a more relaxing vibe.

There's no denying that I have my favorite dishes, such as the Farmer's Daughter sandwich.

It's a must-have once in a while for me.

And it wouldn't be a complete visit without a slice of their beautiful purple ube bundt cake.

I love the décor, and the quality of the ingredients is top-notch.

One of the best things about The Preacher's Daughter is the art.

Beautiful, captivating artworks hang on the walls, giving you something to admire as you enjoy your meal.

Amazingly, you can actually buy some of them.

And if you have a competitive streak, there are board games to keep you occupied, turning a meal into an entire evening of fun.

There's a lot to enjoy about The Preacher's Daughter, whether it's the food, the vibe, or the artwork.

And even if a dish doesn't hit the mark once in a while, there's always another waiting to become my new favorite.

Bhan Mae Vane

I have been a resident of Sunnyvale for most of my life and have struggled to find quality Lao cuisine in the area.

And then I discovered Bhan Mae Vane on a drive to Oakland.

Despite getting stuck in traffic, the journey was so worth it.

As soon as I entered the place, the sight of Ma Pah (grandma) working diligently in the kitchen made me confident that I was in for a treat.

It was a rather spontaneous decision with a couple of friends, but we ended up ordering quite a feast.

Yes, we might have over-ordered for just three people, but who doesn't love leftovers?

The Khao Soy was decent, but the noodles in it really caught my attention.

The portions were generous, enough to leave us feeling thoroughly satisfied.

On my second visit with a group of 7, we arrived a little after 5 pm on a Sunday evening.

We were promptly seated and served water, hot tea, and settings.

Our order consisted of an array of dishes, from Shrimp in a Blanket, Sakoo, and Nam Kao to Chicken Yellow Curry, Chicken Pad Se Ew, Beef Pad Mak Kuer, and BBQ Pork Ribs.

Each dish was a delight, beautifully presented, and downright delicious.

I must say, the food is fantastic, and I am sure to visit again.

It's not every day you find a gem like Bhan Mae Vane serving delectable Lao food.

The Park Street Tavern

Just last weekend, I decided to take my partner out for a surprise dinner.

We landed on The Park Street Tavern, a place we've had in our sights for some time now.

Let's just say it did not disappoint.

We were greeted with excellent service throughout the night from the moment we entered.

I was impressed with the variety of their menu - it catered to both my hearty appetite and my partner's vegetarian preference.

The unique blend of Greek and Italian cuisines presented us with a delightful culinary adventure.

We started with a few mouth-watering appetizers before moving on to the mains.

I ordered a pork chop, which was juicy and tender, while my partner ordered a salmon and orzo, which she absolutely loved.

All in all, the food, cocktails, the ambiance - everything was just a wonderful experience.

I can't wait to go back to the Park Street Tavern and try out more of their terrific dishes.

Abigail's Moroccan Cuisine

Let me tell you about this unassuming neighborhood treasure I stumbled upon - Abigail's Moroccan Cuisine.

Located right by the bay, this spot offers breathtaking views of the skyline and passing ships.

Find more about them here.

One sunny afternoon, I decided to stop by after a long day on the water.

The parking was a breeze, with a lot conveniently located nearby.

The atmosphere was immediately striking.

It was lively yet relaxed, with outdoor tables overlooking the scenic bay.

To my delight, belly dancing was even added to the festive vibe.

Their menu had an intriguing range of options, although it might seem a bit daunting at first glance.

On my first visit, I opted for a Tuna sandwich with onions.

Much to my surprise, the sandwich came with Dutch crunch bread, adding a delightful texture.

The food arrived promptly, indicating their efficient service.

In subsequent visits, I discovered their Lamb Couscous.

It was an exquisite dish that transported me straight to Morocco.

The dish was so authentic; it was as if I'd time-traveled to the past.

Plus, their service is top-notch, making every visit an absolute pleasure.

Abigail's is a BYOB establishment, so feel free to bring your favorite bottle of wine to enjoy with their delicious Moroccan cuisine.

This place is more than just a restaurant; it's a little slice of paradise in our neighborhood.

So, if you haven't visited already, I highly recommend you try Abigail's Moroccan Cuisine.

You won't regret it!

Angela's Kitchen

I've been to Angela's Kitchen quite a few times, and it never disappoints.

The venue is intimate and cozy, the perfect setting for a quiet dinner, with warm decor that fills the space with a homely vibe.

On my most recent visit, I took a chance on the Asian pear and blue cheese salad, and boy, was it a treat.

The tangy blue cheese paired perfectly with the sweet pear, a delightful mingling of flavors.

Moving on to the main course, I went for the lamb shank special, which was an absolute dream.

Cooked to perfection, the lamb fell off the bone effortlessly and was tantalizingly juicy and succulent.

I also tried the butternut squash bolani and the leek and spinach dumplings, which were equally satisfying.

The service at Angela's Kitchen also deserves a special mention besides its delicious menu.

And if you're a cocktail lover like me, this place does not disappoint.

I remember the last cocktail I had there.

It not only tasted good but also had a splendid presentation.

Angela's Kitchen is always my go-to place for special occasions.

It's always a pleasure to dine there, the classic American bistro fare and cocktails making it a place worth visiting.

Trabocco Kitchen and Cocktails

Whenever I and my friends love to go out for a bite, we always head to Trabocco Kitchen and Cocktails.

It's a trendy spot located right in the heart of our town, Alameda.

The restaurant effortlessly combines Californian and Italian cuisine in a lively, spacious, welcoming setting.

One weekday evening, we decided to try our luck without reservation.

When we called, they mentioned only the bar seating was available.

But to our good fortune, we managed to snag a table when we arrived.

If you're a fan of Italian classics, then you'd love the gnocchi I had.

It was absolutely divine, as were the side potatoes.

My friends had equally mouth-watering dishes and agreed the food was a hit.

I've also had the chance to try their lamb shank on a different occasion - it was large, tender, and simply delicious.

One of my favorite experiences at Trabocco was during the Alameda restaurant week.

While shopping nearby, we stumbled upon the place and were greeted by the bustling crowd.

The pre-fixe special, along with additional dishes like the octopus dish and seafood stew, was top-notch and full of flavor.

Trabocco always remains a special place because they are welcoming to their customers.

Trabocco Kitchen and Cocktails is not just about exceptional food and cocktails but also about experiencing joy, camaraderie, and charm.

It's a great place for family gatherings, friendly outings, and celebrating special occasions.

Island Taqueria

As a local of this town, I've been to Island Taqueria (you can find them here: Island Taqueria) several times, and it is one of my favorite spots to grab a quick lunch or dinner.

This family-owned outpost is beloved for its generous plates of traditional Mexican cuisine, always loaded with fresh and abundant ingredients.

From the moment you step into the restaurant, you're greeted by this restaurant's warm hospitality.

They prepare the dish amazingly, while their services always go the extra mile, guaranteeing you a great experience.

The prices are also very affordable, offering great value for what you get.

One thing I love about Island Taqueria is that they cater to everyone's dietary needs.

Whether following a gluten-free diet or enjoying wheat flour, there is something for everyone.

My personal favorite is the Super Nacho.

It is a great size and comes loaded with a variety of toppings.

I highly recommend Island Taqueria to anyone who appreciates good, traditional Mexican food.

Waki Sushi

As a huge sushi enthusiast, I simply couldn't pass up the opportunity to check out this new restaurant in town.

Let me tell you, Waki Sushi on Webster St did not disappoint.

Not only did their food meet my high sushi standards, but it exceeded them.

Every dish was remarkably fresh and delicious - everything I tasted was just splendid, from the oysters to the hamachi carpaccio.

Their Red Dragon Roll is a must-try, and don't get me started on the handrolls!

They were just loaded with fish and tasted like heaven on a plate.

If you're a sushi lover like me, you're going to adore this place.

What struck me most was not just the quality of the food but the quantity as well.

You get incredible value for every dollar you spend here.

In addition to its sumptuous food, Waki Sushi also offers an amazing dining experience.

I recall dropping by for lunch one Wednesday at noon and being pleasantly surprised by their lunch specials.

I opted for the Mini sake don + tonkatsu and was blown away by the quality and the presentation.

The miso soup that came as a side was a delight, especially with the shiitake mushrooms they had added.

It was a nice touch and enhanced the overall flavor.

My Genmaicha tea cup was always refilled without having to ask, which is a sign of its excellent customer service.

And the best part?

They served a non-alcoholic lychee dessert drink at the end of the meal, which was the perfect way to wind down my lunch.

I plan on returning to Waki Sushi, and I can't wait to bring my friends along to try their high-quality sushi and other dishes.

This place has quickly become one of my favorite spots in Alameda, and I'm convinced it's going to be a hit among all sushi lovers!

El Caballo Wraps

I can't help but rave about El Caballo Wraps, a local gem that has been serving up mouth-watering traditional Mexican food in our town.

One of my favorite things about this place is its cozy, family-run atmosphere that immediately makes you feel welcomed.

Their menu is extensive, and I've yet to try a dish I didn't love.

Having a big appetite for Mexican food, I often find myself torn between their succulent Carne Asada and the juicy Grilled Chicken wraps.

One big plus for vegetarian friends, they even offer a range of delicious options like the Roasted Vegetable and Black Bean wraps.

I can't stress enough the freshness of the ingredients they use.

Every bite is bursting with authentic Mexican flavors, from aromatic spices to zesty sauces.

Their wraps are a perfect blend of succulent meats, fresh vegetables, and tangy salsas, each bite transporting me back to the heart of Mexico.

What sets El Caballo Wraps apart is its personalized touch.

You have the freedom to customize your wrap with a plethora of toppings, salsas, and other extras.

This is my go-to spot for a quick lunch and a leisurely dinner with family or friends.

Whether you're a local like me or just passing through town, you'll want to make sure this delightful Mexican eatery is on your must-try list.

Cholita Linda

Last weekend, I finally got the chance to try out this lovely spot in our town - Cholita Linda.

To be honest, I was expecting the food to be a bit more authentic, but it was still enjoyable.

I especially liked the simplicity and reasonable pricing of their menu.

The place operates on a self-service basis, which might not suit everyone but definitely adds to the laid-back atmosphere.

One thing that really stood out was their house, Margaritas - I'd visit again just for those!

I've heard so much about their Cubano sandwich, and it did not disappoint.

The pulled pork was incredibly juicy and tender, while the bread was perfectly toasted.

Expect a more casual ordering process when dining at this spot.

I also sampled their tacos, which had a standout flavor.

The only slight letdown was the rice and beans - I was hoping for Spanish rice but got white rice instead.

But even that was tasty.

One more thing worth mentioning - if you're lucky enough to grab a seat outside, you'll be treated to a fantastic view of the bay.

I can't wait to go back and try their baja fish tacos next time.

Burma Superstar

Oh, let me tell you about Burma Superstar, a lively, cozy place where you can dive into homestyle Burmese cuisine.

You can take a look at their website for an idea of what they offer, but trust me; you'll want to taste it yourself.

It was a rare day when I decided to venture into Burma Superstar with high hopes, and boy, and they didn't disappoint.

I can't say for sure if the food matches what you'd find in Burma or Myanmar - that's a journey I'm yet to embark on - but it was downright scrumptious.

The rice they serve?

Simply beautiful.

The entrees?

Seasoned to perfection.

But what caught me the most was their delightful service.

I was so impressed; I decided to pay a second visit, and maybe a third is in order soon.

The first thing I tasted was their legendary sesame beef; it was the lightest and most flavorful I've ever had.

The vegetable samosas and platha with dip were also a hit for my taste buds.

Their garlic noodles and mango chicken didn't make an everlasting impression but were good nevertheless.

Lastly, don't leave without trying the tea salad and the coconut curry soup.

They're both delectable, and I assure you, they'll make you want to come back to Burma Superstar for more.

Asena

There's this hidden gem in our neighborhood that I can't resist sharing about - Asena.

The cozy gray-walled eatery, adorned with beautiful paintings, is as inviting as the comforting aura of Mediterranean hospitality.

You can check out their website here for a sneak peek into their world.

The food is what sets Asena apart.

Their Mediterranean cuisine has a unique California twist that makes every dish memorable.

I still remember the fresh salad and the exquisite eggplant dish I had there.

The Mediterranean influence was apparent, and the quality of the food was impressive for its moderate prices.

Don't even get me started on their Italian offerings.

I had their Paella and Tiramisu - a delight for any foodie.

For me, the star of the show at Asena has to be their fava bean ravioli with ricotta and fresh mint.

It's simplicity at its best, and it's incredibly delicious.

The housemade focaccia that they serve is the perfect complement to the meal.

And if you’re a wine lover, their great selection of wines is sure to please.

Don't forget to check out their dessert menu - I promise it won't disappoint.

Also, the excellent service at Asena just adds to the overall dining experience.

If you're on the lookout for a great place to dine in the neighborhood, Asena is definitely worth a visit.

Speisekammer

Last week, I decided to switch up my usual dinner routine and indulge in something different.

The choice led me to Speisekammer, a charming German restaurant tucked away in my hometown.

You can find more information about them here.

The moment I stepped on the patio, I was welcomed by a lively atmosphere.

An occasional live band added a vibrant touch to the setting, and I could see myself spending many more evenings there.

One of the things that stood out to me was their fantastic array of drinks, especially German and domestic beers.

I opted for an elderberry soda, which turned out to be a delightful non-alcoholic alternative and something I would highly recommend.

The food was just as impressive, with a menu showcasing authentic German dishes.

They even allow well-behaved dogs on the patio, which is a bonus for a pet lover like me.

The service at the Speisekammer deserves a special mention for their attentive and professional service.

They remembered all our orders without any notepad - an impressive feat in itself.

They even brought out strudels with a candle for the birthdays, adding a personal touch to our celebration.

All in all, Speisekammer is a fantastic spot for a memorable evening.

Whether you're a beer lover, looking for a dog-friendly place, or just want to enjoy a hearty meal in a lively setting, this place has got you covered.

Bacogai

In my constant search for new and delightful dining options in my locality, I chanced upon the hidden treasure that is Bacogai.

This Vietnamese and Lao restaurant is situated on the picturesque eastern side of Alameda.

It offers a delightful range of Southeast Asian cuisine that blends tradition with modern culinary techniques.

From the outside, it has an impressively modern establishment overlooking the peaceful estuary.

Its inviting aura drew me in, and I found myself stepping into a warm and welcoming environment that felt like home.

The service was exceptional, offered by the sweetest family who had a genuine passion for their work.

The food at this place is simply divine.

I was blown away by their duck salad's refreshing flavors, which were complemented perfectly by the crunchy shrimp crackers.

The spring rolls were crispy and delicious, made even more so by the accompanying sauce.

The highlight, however, had to be the personal hot pots.

Whether you prefer a sour seafood pot or a hearty oxtail soup, there's something for every palate.

The soup base flavors are top-tier, and the pork and oxtail hot pots are highly recommended.

What truly caught my attention, though, were the unique craft beer flavors offered there.

It's not every day you find a restaurant that has such a diverse drinks menu, and for a beer enthusiast like me, this was a pleasant surprise.

The crowning glory of my experience at this place was the mouth-watering desserts.

I can't wait to go back and try more of their offerings.

If you, like me, are a fan of Southeast Asian cuisine, Bacogai is bound to become your new favorite spot.

Hashi Gawa

My neighborhood has lots of sushi restaurants, but Hashi Gawa has quickly become one of my favorites.

I recall the first time I dropped in for a celebration dinner; the three-item bento was a lot of food.

The majority of the dishes were quite tasty and reasonably priced.

However, I was slightly disappointed with the salmon nigiri - it didn't live up to my expectations, given the quality I've experienced elsewhere in the area.

They serve pretty quickly despite the restaurant being fully packed.

I guess that's the norm for a Saturday evening.

That said, I wouldn't hesitate to give it another try, maybe at a less busy time or after exploring other local sushi spots.

During their soft opening night, even without a reservation, I managed to get a spot at the bar.

Its welcoming and traditional setting sets a positive tone for the evening.

The mango salad dressing was a unique touch that I hadn't encountered before, and it was surprisingly tasty.

The combo tempura was just as good, but the rolls - the New California roll and Lion King roll - were the real showstoppers.

And I can't fail to mention the chicken teriyaki - easily the best I've ever had in Alameda.

Grilled to perfection, it was a departure from the typical boiled version.

All these experiences have convinced me that Hashi Gawa is a place I'll frequent more often.

It's a true gem in the local dining scene.

Final Thoughts

As a food enthusiast, Alameda, California, continues to enthrall me with its culinary diversity and charm.

The island city has never failed to satisfy my taste buds.

Alameda's culinary landscape has a unique identity—vibrant, diverse, and delightfully delicious, a veritable haven for food lovers like me.

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