25 Best Restaurants in San Leandro, CA
This article was written by local contributor Matthew Jones & edited by the Travel Lens team.
Oh, San Leandro, California!
This hidden gem of a city has been my home for years, and I've fallen in love with the diverse and delicious culinary scene here.
Over time, I've had the pleasure of tasting my way through the best restaurants this city has to offer, and let me tell you – it's been quite the gastronomic adventure!
With a mix of long-standing institutions, trendy hotspots, and everything in between, San Leandro has something to satisfy every palate.
In this article, I'll be sharing my all-time favorite restaurants in San Leandro, California, so you, too, can experience the mouth-watering flavors of this wonderful gem!
Tio's Grill
Being a part of this neighborhood, I've always been on the lookout for great dining options.
When I heard about Tio's Mediterranean Grill, I was beyond excited to try it out.
To my absolute delight, Tio's did not disappoint!
The food, ambiance, and service have quickly turned this place into a local favorite.
I started with the bademjan, an eggplant appetizer that ended up being a fantastic choice.
The Greek salad was well-sized and flavorful, with herbs and oils perfectly balanced.
As for the main course, the beef and chicken combo was amazing - the meat was well-marinated and juicy, and even the vegetables were cooked to perfection.
Chinese Super 5 Kitchen
As a resident in the area, I can't help but share my love for Chinese Super 5 Kitchen.
Whenever I'm craving some delicious Chinese food, this is my go-to spot.
Their beef broccoli, pork with mixed veggies, and shrimp with cashews are some of my all-time favorites.
The portions are quite generous, and the pricing is really good, making each order a satisfying meal for me.
One thing to note is their location.
It is right off the 880, adjacent to a clean and well-run motel.
While it might not be very noticeable from the road, once you find the entrance to the motel lot where their parking is, there are well-marked signs leading you to the pick-up spot.
The service is fast, and the food is always fresh and of excellent quality.
Roccabs Cafe
I recently discovered Roccabs Cafe.
This charming creekside café quickly became my favorite go-to spot for lunch breaks and weekend getaways.
The first thing that struck me was the lovely outdoor patio with a serene view of the creek.
It's the perfect place to enjoy a meal al fresco and take a breather from my hectic daily routine.
They are quick with their service, and I've never had to wait long for my order.
On my first visit, I tried the egg salad sandwich, and it was absolutely delicious.
Since then, I've been coming back regularly to try more of their menu offerings.
Their salads are fresh and full of flavor, and the panini I had last time was simply mouthwatering.
Bluebird Pizzeria
Ever since I moved to the San Leandro area, I've been on the lookout for the perfect pizza joint.
I've tried a few, but nothing quite hit the mark until a friend recommended Bluebird Pizzeria.
Their New York-style pizzas are simply amazing, and they offer a variety of half-and-half pizzas to choose from.
I particularly appreciate that they cater to those with dietary restrictions, like my child, who has a dairy allergy.
They offer a no-cheese pizza that's surprisingly tasty, and you can even add toppings to it.
The dining room itself is bright and cheery, with upholstered booths that provide a cozy atmosphere.
I've become a fan of their cheese and pepperoni pizza slices, which I sometimes grab on the go or enjoy while waiting for my pie to bake.
Next on my list to try is their Grandma pizza, which I've heard has the freshest cheese and ingredients.
Slice House
I recently visited Slice House in San Leandro, and I must say, it's hands down the best pizza I've had in the area.
I've been on the hunt for a great pizza place for quite some time, and I'm glad to have finally found it.
Tony Gemignani, a world-renowned chef famous for his pizza-making skills, has truly outdone himself with this establishment.
I remember trying his pizza at the now-closed Pyzano's in Castro Valley back in the late '90s, and I'm happy to report that Slice House carries on the tradition of excellent pizza.
I ordered a 13-inch pepperoni pizza for about $21 (before tip) and picked it up on a Saturday afternoon.
The restaurant was not too crowded at the time, but it's quite small, and I imagine it fills up quickly on busier days.
Fortunately, they also offer outdoor seating.
The pizza itself was absolutely amazing – the best pepperoni pizza I've ever had.
The crust and toppings were incredibly flavorful, and each slice was generously covered in pepperoni.
Marina Restaurant
Oh, the joys of living near Marina Restaurant!
I've been a loyal customer for years, and they never fail to deliver scrumptious food and exceptional customer service.
My all-time favorites are their Cameron Diablo, clam chowder, and Chile Verde.
The dishes always taste fresh and well-prepared, and the homemade sauces just add the perfect finishing touch.
One of the things I love about Marina Restaurant is the cozy, unpretentious atmosphere.
Poke Kitchen
I recently visited Poke Kitchen after hearing amazing reviews, and I must say, it truly lived up to the hype.
The exterior and neighborhood may not be too impressive, but once you step inside, you'll be blown away by the quality of the food they offer.
The Signature Bowl with its massive portion size was my go-to choice, and the combination of fresh salmon, ahi tuna poke, shrimp, salad greens, rice, and tropical fruits was absolutely delightful.
I was pleasantly surprised by the competitive pricing, making it an excellent option for a delicious and affordable meal.
The spicy tuna and lion king rolls were to die for, with the perfect amount of spice, and the seaweed salad was a great addition to the meal.
As a fan of Thai iced tea, I was pleased to find it on the menu, and it was the perfect beverage to wash down the delicious sushi rolls.
Top Hatters Kitchen and Bar
I recently dined at Top Hatters Kitchen and Bar with a couple of friends, and I must say, it was truly a delightful experience.
This charming light-filled neighborhood venue is known for its seasonal, family-style dishes with an international flair.
We had heard about their stunning cocktails, and they definitely exceeded our expectations.
What I loved most about this place were the interesting dishes that were perfectly executed, with the quality of the food being top-notch.
The flavor contrasts and blending really hit the mark, making it a memorable dining experience.
The seating, both inside and out, is comfortable and welcoming.
The prices were a bit steep, with our bill coming out to around $60 per person.
But considering the quality and uniqueness of the dishes, I believe it was worth the cost.
Hawaiian POKE
Let me tell you about my favorite poke spot in town - Hawaiian POKE.
This place is simply amazing!
I've tried quite a few poke places around, but I always find myself coming back to this gem.
They offer a great variety of fresh and high-quality proteins, a wide range of veggies, and the most generous servings you can imagine.
Honestly, it's the best value for your money.
You can check out their website here.
I usually go for a medium-sized bowl and load it up with almost every vegetable and topping they have available.
I also love experimenting with different combinations of their sauces, which adds a unique twist to my bowl each time.
The edamame and seaweed salad are always fresh, and while their spicy poke sauce may be a bit too hot for some, I enjoy the kick it adds to my bowl.
Minami Sushi
One of my favorite sushi spots in town has to be Minami Sushi.
Their stylish, minimalist decor creates the perfect atmosphere for indulging in their creative rolls and Japanese cuisine.
Every time I visit, I'm impressed by the freshness and quality of their food.
They usually start with serving some edamame as a snack, accompanied by a glass of water.
The rolls are always beautifully crafted, and the food arrives quickly after placing an order.
I've tried their takeout option too, and the food never disappoints.
The sashimi bento, which comes with chicken teriyaki and ton katsu, is a personal favorite.
The fried calamari is also a must-try, and the prices are quite reasonable for the quality you get.
Angry Ramen
One of my favorite places to grab a bowl of ramen is Angry Ramen.
This spacious, industrial-cool spot has an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs make your ramen fresh to order.
They even offer a few beers to pair with your meal.
I can confidently say that Angry Ramen has some of the best ramen I've ever had.
The soup base is rich, smooth, and full of vibrant flavors.
The appetizers are also a must-try, especially their unique fries.
What's even better is the portion-to-price ratio – it's a fantastic value for your money.
The atmosphere is always welcoming, and the customer service is top-notch.
One time I tried their black garlic ramen and angry tantanmen, along with fried octopus and angry fries as side dishes.
The noodles were perfectly chewy, and the soup was incredibly smooth and flavorful.
It's definitely one of the best traditional ramen options in the Bay Area.
Mama Lupe's Cocina
As a big fan of Mexican cuisine, I was ecstatic when I discovered Mama Lupe's Cocina in my neighborhood.
I had heard great things about it from multiple residents and decided to give it a try with a couple of friends.
The moment we stepped in, we were impressed by the decor and the friendly atmosphere.
I ordered the "pick 3 combo" - an enchilada, crispy taco, and a soft taco, which were quite good.
M friend loved her nachos.
The prices were reasonable, and the food portions were generous.
The service was excellent, which made our dining experience even more enjoyable.
Since then, I've revisited Mama Lupe's for a Friday afternoon lunch, and I can't get enough of their flavorful dishes made from fresh ingredients.
I particularly loved the flautas and the fish.
Plus, they have a full bar, so you can enjoy a drink or two with your meal.
One thing that really stood out was their dedication to cleanliness.
Every time a table is cleared, they disinfect and wipe down the tables and chairs thoroughly.
It just makes you feel more comfortable dining there.
Red Pepper Pizza
Every time I crave some delicious pizza, Red Pepper Pizza is my other go-to spot.
I have been a regular customer for over a year now, and they never disappoint.
The pizzas are always 100% amazing, with that good old-fashioned crust that I love.
What makes their pizza even better is the gooey cheese and their incredible ranch sauce, which is a must-have accessory for me.
One of the things I really appreciate about Red Pepper Pizza is their selection of halal meat options.
Their halal pepperoni pizza is a personal favorite of mine, but they also offer a great variety of delicious Yemeni dishes.
The tables are always clean, and the overall atmosphere is enjoyable.
Saigon House Restaurant
I'm so glad I discovered Saigon House Restaurant right by my bank, as it has quickly become one of my go-to spots for delicious and affordable meals.
I love the warm and friendly atmosphere inside, making me feel right at home every time I dine there.
One of my favorite dishes is their garlic noodles with Korean BBQ, full of flavor and absolutely satisfying.
I also appreciate the variety of vegetarian options they offer, like the stir-fried tofu with vermicelli (#72), which I plan on trying on my next visit.
Their chicken noodle soup is another must-try, with a serving size so generous that it can easily be shared by two people.
As my kitchen is undergoing a makeover this month, I've been on the lookout for a place where I can enjoy a wide range of dishes in a comfortable setting.
Rocky's Charcoal Grill
One of my favorite spots to grab a bite in the neighborhood is Rocky's Charcoal Grill.
This compact eatery may not have a lot of seating, but it more than makes up for it with its delicious build-your-own burgers, chicken, and ribs.
Whenever I eat there, I know I'm in for a treat with their burgers cooked over charcoal and toasted buns.
They always serve fresh lettuce, onions, and tomatoes, and you can order your burger just the way you like it.
Their fries are always hot and fresh, never sitting under a heat lamp.
I'm particularly fond of their banana shakes, though they have other flavors too.
The quick and friendly service always makes me feel welcome, and it's definitely deserving of a tip.
I've tried various burgers from their menu, but my favorite has to be the Chubaburger.
The juicy meat patties have that perfect charcoal flavor, and it's topped with melted cheese, grilled onions, mushrooms, guacamole, bacon, and fresh toppings.
Their garlic fries are also a must-try – they're always nice and crispy.
Kendejah Restaurant
I absolutely love Kendejah Restaurant!
Whenever I'm in the mood for some authentic African cuisine, this is my go-to place.
Their traditional Liberian meat, seafood, and vegetarian dishes are simply delightful.
The colorful wall murals and art add a warm and welcoming atmosphere to the dining experience.
The hot sauce is a must-try, and you can even buy a bottle to take home.
The take-out service is also very efficient – my orders are usually ready within 20 minutes of placing the call.
I just wish I could try their daily special menus for a whole week!
Fifth Wheel Food
One of my favorite spots in San Leandro has always been Fifth Wheel Food.
It's a true gem that I cherish and make sure to visit for my birthday breakfast every year.
This old-school diner has been a classic since 1946, and it never fails to hit the spot with their delicious omelets, pancakes, and sandwiches.
Recently, I stopped by for their Traditional Breakfast with Korean BBQ pork, and it was nothing short of amazing.
The dish was full of savory flavor, and they even offered to toss in some sautéed jalapeños, which made it even better.
Harry's Hofbrau
One place I always enjoy visiting in my city is Harry's Hofbrau.
This cafeteria-style spot is known for its hand-carved meats, especially the whole roasted turkey.
Whenever I want some comfort food, this is the perfect spot to satisfy my cravings.
The restaurant has a dining hall style where you order your food and then pick your tables.
I love the fact that Harry's Hofbrau has something for everyone.
Whether you're a fan of ham, corned beef, or turkey, you're sure to find something you like.
The mashed potatoes and red cabbage are tasty side options, but my favorite part of the meal is definitely their red velvet cake.
It's moist, soft, and has a mild cocoa taste that's simply irresistible.
Paradiso
I can't help but share my recent dining experience at Paradiso in San Leandro.
The moment I walked in, I was impressed by the stylish and cozy ambiance, especially the tent dining with open fires.
The menu offers a fantastic selection of global foods and international wines, making it difficult to choose what to savor first.
When I finally settled on my order, I was absolutely delighted with the blend of flavors and ingredients.
The freshness of the fruits and vegetables was evident, and the blend of food styles was intriguing and satisfying.
I started with the brussels sprouts, prawns, and the incredible crab and avocado dish that quickly became the star of the show.
The portions were generous, making it easy to share among my party of three.
For my main course, I tried the prime rib, which was soft and juicy, living up to the recommendations I had heard from others.
The entrees come in hearty portions, and the menu offers several pasta, chicken, and fish dishes, providing something for everyone.
To complement my meal, I explored their extensive drinks list and found a delightful wine to pair with my dinner.
Boulevard Burger
I can confidently say that Boulevard Burger has become one of my favorite spots to grab a bite.
Their 1950s-style eatery offers a cozy atmosphere with friendly service, making it a perfect place to enjoy their delicious grass-fed beef burgers and sweet potato fries.
One of the things I appreciate most about this place is their variety of options, including veggie burgers for my vegetarian friends.
Personally, I can't get enough of their Kobe beef burger.
I have to agree with the review above, it's probably the best burger I've ever had in my life.
The quality of the ingredients and the flavor combination is just unbeatable.
Aside from their burgers, I love their sweet potato fries and onion rings - they are always perfectly crisp and flavorful.
The fact that they have a well-spread seating area both inside and outside makes it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family.
The availability of beers and wines adds a nice touch to the dining experience, too.
Another bonus is the parking lot adjacent to the building, which makes it easy to find a parking spot every time I visit.
Taqueria Los Pericos
There's a hidden gem in our town that I love going to for great Mexican food - Taqueria Los Pericos.
It's a small storefront eatery located here, and they serve up some delicious jumbo burritos, pozole, and carne asada, among other dishes.
They have a pretty extensive menu, including some fantastic drink options like aguas frescas and fresh orange or carrot juice.
My personal favorite dish is their crunchy tacos, and I've heard their pozole is also great.
The service is always top-notch, making the whole experience even better.
The salsa bar is a nice touch, too – I love how vibrant and flavorful the salsas are.
JP Seoul Tofu House
I've always been on the lookout for authentic Korean cuisine.
Finding a restaurant that serves great Korean food is not easy, but I'm happy to say that I finally found the perfect spot - JP Seoul Tofu House!
Last weekend, my family and I decided to dine in at JP Seoul Tofu House, and we had an amazing experience.
The service was fast and friendly, and the food was absolutely incredible.
We ordered spicy tofu, white tofu with Galbi, and Bulgogi 2 combinations.
Even my 2-year-old baby enjoyed the white tofu soup and most of the side dishes, which were cooked to perfection.
My picky partner even commented that the food felt healthy and wholesome.
I highly recommend trying their bibimbop and kimchi stew, which had just the right amount of spice.
Kigawa Bistro
One of my favorite spots to grab some delicious Japanese food in town is Kigawa Bistro.
I can't get enough of their amazing food and great atmosphere.
I always appreciate how they are willing to adjust the spiciness of the ramen broth to my taste.
The toppings are always on point, and I'm a sucker for a perfectly cooked medium-boiled egg.
The chicken teriyaki is another favorite of mine, with the flavor marinated all through the meat, which remains moist on the inside and nicely seared on the outside.
I also enjoy the tempura, which stays crunchy even as it cools.
The side salad is impressive, too, made of real greens, not just iceberg lettuce, and the house dressing is just the right amount.
Manor Grill
Just the other day, I was looking for a new place to grab lunch and found Manor Grill on Google Maps.
I wanted a good sandwich, so I went ahead and tried the Monterey Chicken as recommended.
The chicken was flavorful, and the service was fast, efficient, and very pleasant.
Plus, it's not far from my job, so it's a convenient spot for a quick meal.
I also saw a police officer enjoying his break there.
Also, the prices are fairly affordable.
Kanda Ramen & BBQ
My constant search for good food led me to this hidden gem called Kanda Ramen & BBQ.
Located in a busy plaza, I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised by the delicious and affordable food they offer.
The first time I visited, I ordered the fried soft-shell crab, which was absolutely delicious.
I also tried their black garlic ramen, which was cooked well but didn't have a strong garlic taste like I expected.
Nevertheless, it was still enjoyable and paired nicely with the warm sake I ordered.
On a subsequent visit, I had the spicy tonkotsu ramen, which turned out to be the best I've ever had in the Bay Area.
The grilled whole squid was simple yet perfectly cooked, and the fried oysters were crunchy and briny.
Their chicken gizzard, chicken, and beef skewers were also packed with flavor, reminding me of a yakitori place in Tokyo that a Japanese friend once took me to.
The best part is you can choose your own spice level for the ramen, which I discovered on my second visit.
I opted for spicy and extra spicy, and it made the meal even more enjoyable.
The ambiance of the place is also worth mentioning, with calming lighting and decor that makes dining there a relaxing experience.
And as someone who appreciates customizable sweetness, I appreciated that their iced tea allows you to add sugar yourself.
Final Thoughts
San Leandro has a diverse and vibrant culinary scene, offering a variety of delicious options for every palate.
From my countless visits to Tio's Mediterranean Grill for their mouthwatering kebabs to satisfying my sushi cravings at Minami Sushi, there's never a dull moment when it comes to dining out.
Whether you're a local or just visiting, you're sure to find something to tantalize your taste buds in our city.
Recent posts
10 Incredible Breakfast Spots in New Orleans You Need to Try
12 Incredible Restaurants in Lancaster PA, You Need to Try
12 Incredible Restaurants in Asheville, NC You Need to Try
22 Best Things to Do in Old Town Alexandria, VA
25 Best Things to Do in Westport, CT
20 Best Things to Do in Westport, MA
16 Best Things to Do in Woonsocket, RI
26 Best Things to Do in Huntsville, AL
30 Best Things to Do in Altoona, PA