22 Best Restaurants in Pleasanton, CA
Whether you're visiting for the first time, or you're a local looking to discover a new favorite, join me as we embark on a culinary journey to discover some of the best restaurants in Pleasanton, California.
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Pleasanton 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.
Time Thai Kitchen
One gem had escaped my notice until recently - Time Thai Kitchen.
I was looking for a new lunch spot one afternoon when I stumbled upon this quaint yet vibrant place.
The first things that struck me about Time Thai Kitchen were its neatness and inviting, cozy atmosphere.
It's a relatively small place, but that only adds to its charm.
I decided on the eggplant, beef salad, and drunken noodles, going by the rave reviews I had read online.
I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly the food arrived.
Each dish was deliciously authentic, instantly transporting my taste buds to Thailand.
The beef salad was fresh and tangy, the eggplant was perfectly cooked and subtly flavored, and the drunken noodles had just the right amount of spice.
The portions were also quite generous, offering real value for money.
What made the experience even better was the efficient and friendly service.
Despite the restaurant's small size, it didn't feel crowded or cramped at all.
Pocket Sushi
Just another weekday, I found myself craving some sushi.
So, I decided to visit a popular local spot, Pocket Sushi.
It's a place I frequent about once or twice a month.
You see, I have this love/hate relationship with Pocket Sushi.
Their sushi rolls are simply delicious, but I have to admit, their portions are a bit stingy for the price.
I usually have to eat a quick snack before heading there, knowing that a single roll won't satiate my hunger.
If they could just adjust their portions to match the price or maybe charge a bit less, I'd probably be visiting more often.
But don't get me wrong, the quality of the sushi is top-notch, and I keep coming back for more.
I remember the last time I was there, my family ordered the Trio and the Lion King rolls while I opted for the Dragon roll.
It was packed with flavor and had this unique sesame seed rice covering, which was a pleasant surprise.
The unagi wasn't salty, a common issue I've noted in other sushi places, and overall the roll was like a big, filling sushi burrito.
My dad absolutely loves this place, and I can see why.
On another visit, I had the Mango Madness for a late lunch around 2:30 pm.
It was ready in under 5 minutes, which was impressive for how busy they were.
This roll is a real treat for kids too, as it's eaten like a burrito instead of the usual small pieces.
The Mango Madness was a mix of shrimp tempura, thick-cut salmon sashimi, mango, avocado, cucumber, and cilantro, all brought together by a refreshing lemon aioli.
The size can be deceiving at first glance, but by the time you finish, you'll be surprisingly full.
BentoLicious
Have you ever had one of those days where everything seems to go wrong, and the only silver lining is a delicious, comforting meal at the end?
That's exactly what BentoLicious offered me on a particularly tough day.
As soon as I walked through the door, I was greeted with warm smiles and an atmosphere that felt just like home.
But the highlight?
Their Basil chicken bento box with pumpkin, eggplant, and baby bok choy sides; was like a little piece of heaven bundled in a box.
BentoLicious isn't just a restaurant; it's a Taiwanese food haven that serves meals with a perfect balance of hearty meat and fresh vegetables.
It's a place where each dish speaks volumes about the skill and dedication that goes into its preparation.
I remember ordering the No. 3 chicken dish, which left me amazed.
It was a unique flavor, unlike anything I've tasted around the Bay Area.
The side dishes, cooked to perfection, had just the right amount of flavor and saltiness without being too greasy.
But it's not just about individual meals here.
They also serve family-style meals that cater to a variety of palates.
The food is lightly flavored and reminiscent of a wholesome, home-cooked meal.
Their fried chicken and side dishes are absolutely commendable.
Their business is always bustling, a testament to their fantastic food and services.
Curry Leaves Bistro
I've come across a multitude of different cuisines, but nothing quite hits the spot like Curry Leaves Bistro.
This Malaysian restaurant has quickly become my go-to spot for that robust Southeast Asian flavor.
The authenticity of the food is spot on, my favorite being their Char Kuay Teow which is bursting with wok hei, that essential "breath of the wok."
Another must-try is their Mamak Fried Chicken, Mee Goreng, and Assam Laksa - just keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates on their weekend specials.
But be warned, when they label a dish as "spicy," they truly mean it!
Luckily for those with milder palates, you can request your dishes to be “mild” or even “non-spicy.”
On special occasions, I take the opportunity to pre-order dishes like Ngoh Hiang or Hokkien Bak Zhang.
I was also pleasantly surprised to find they serve a variety of Laksa, the Penang Asam Laksa being a unique and tasty addition to their ever-changing menu.
Venturing beyond their fixed offerings, I've tried a variety of dishes from their "Today's Menu."
The Nasi Kandar with Mamak Fried Chicken was flavorful, while the Asam Laksa offered a unique taste compared to other versions I've tried.
The Karipap (Curry Puff), Pulut Nangka (Jackfruit and Sticky Rice), and Nyonya Kuih Combo (Dessert) lent an exciting twist to my dining experience.
Nestled in a typical plaza, the exterior may seem unassuming, but don't let that fool you.
The interior, while simply adorned, has a comfortable amount of seating.
The Press Cafe
Every so often, I stumble upon a place that instantly feels like home.
That's exactly what happened when I found The Press Cafe in Pleasanton.
This small and bustling cafe immediately caught my attention with its cozy atmosphere and diverse menu.
My day started off right with their delicious Avocado + Egg Tostini.
The seasonings were just right, and it was a joy to indulge in the meal with my bare hands.
To accompany my meal, I got myself an iced vanilla latte.
It wasn’t anything extravagant, but it was a lovely coffee that left a pleasant aftertaste.
One day, I decided to try their Strawberry Seasonal Salad, and my taste buds were sent on a joy ride!
The fresh strawberries mixed with the other ingredients created an explosion of flavors in my mouth.
On the side, I had a Snickerdoodle cookie and a lavender lemonade - such a perfect lunch.
I also noticed my friend’s beet salad, and it looked just as amazing as mine.
On another visit, I decided to give their breakfast menu a try.
I chose the Orange French toast and the Salmon toast with egg.
The French toast was crispy on the outside but fluffy on the inside, and the hint of orange gave it a unique and delightful flavor.
The salmon tasted fresh, and the egg was perfectly cooked.
The Press Cafe isn't just about great food, though.
Bronzes Taqueria
I've been on a quest to find the best Mexican food in the Tri-Valley area.
While there are plenty of options within a stone's throw from my house, I find myself making the 18-mile trip to Bronzes Taqueria time and time again.
At first glance, Bronzes Taqueria might seem like your standard fare Mexican joint - clean, good service, decent food.
But when you take the time to explore the menu, you'll find dishes packed with flavor that make the drive worthwhile.
One of my favorite things about this place is that soccer is always on the TV.
It adds an authentic touch to the atmosphere that I really appreciate.
And let me tell you, their breakfast game is strong.
Whether you're craving a breakfast burrito or chilaquiles, Bronzes Taqueria is the place to go for a hearty late weekend breakfast.
But what really sets Bronzes Taqueria apart is their birria.
This is a dish that's hard to find done right, but they've nailed it.
I've been here four or five times in the past couple of months, and each time the birria has been a highlight.
Another must-try here is the shredded chicken enchilada plate.
It's one of those dishes that, even if you're full, you'll find room for.
Zachary's Chicago Pizza
When it comes to pizza, nothing quite compares to the deep dish at Zachary's Chicago Pizza.
I remember my first time trying it, and boy, was it an unusual and delightful experience.
Just a heads up - it's a seriously cheesy and hearty affair, so much so that finishing it all by yourself can be quite a feat.
Hence why, I always bring a friend or two along to share the cheesy goodness.
Now, let's talk about their Chicago-style pizza - it's an intriguing departure from the norm with the tomato sauce right on top.
The first bite was a revelation.
It was something refreshingly new and delicious.
Service-wise, the folks at Zachary's are a friendly bunch.
Sato Japanese Cuisine
There's no better place to satisfy my sushi cravings than at Sato Japanese Cuisine.
Being a long-time patron of this quiet and comfortable Japanese outpost, I can vouch for the authenticity of the dishes they serve.
The fish is always fresh, and the bento box meals are delightful.
On busy days, you might have to wait a bit if you're ordering from the sushi bar.
But let me tell you, the wait is well worth it.
One of my personal favorites is their Sukiyaki.
It's a hot plate that never fails to hit the spot.
I've also seen families having a great time at Sato.
The prices are also pretty affordable for a sushi spot.
Oyo
Whenever I feel the need for a culinary escape, I make my way to Oyo, a local gem that serves a delightful mix of Caribbean and South American dishes.
Walking into Oyo is like stepping into a brightly-hued oasis, complete with lush palm trees and vibrant paintings that transport you to warmer climes.
The choice between indoor and outdoor seating allows me to match my dining experience with the mood of the day.
I've been to Oyo on numerous occasions, and each visit has been a delicious adventure.
The menu is packed with unique dishes, each beautifully presented and bursting with bold flavors that encapsulate the culinary heritage of the regions they represent.
It's hard to pick a favorite from their menu, but if pushed, I'd have to say it's the Guyanese Cook-Up Rice.
I've shared countless meals here with friends, and we've tried nearly everything on the menu - from the flavorful Jerk chicken and goat curry to the spicy pepper pot and Run Down fish.
But no meal at Oyo is complete without dessert!
I am a firm believer that there's always room for dessert, and Oyo's offerings make it well worth the indulgence.
The Pine tart with mixed berry cabernet ice cream is a fruity delight, and the bread pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert.
But the one that I find myself going back to time and time again is the cassava pone; its solid pudding texture and layers of coconut never fail to satisfy my sweet tooth.
Wild One Grill
For those of you who've yet to discover it, Wild One Grill is a hidden gem right in the heart of downtown Pleasanton.
Nestled on Main Street, this intimate spot may first strike you as a Mexican restaurant, but let me assure you, it offers so much more than that.
The eclectic menu boasts a variety of dishes that go beyond traditional Mexican fare – think poached salmon, pasta, and refreshing salads.
I've been particularly impressed by their willingness to adjust ingredients to accommodate special requests.
But what makes Wild One Grill even more unique is the care and dedication apparent in every aspect of their service.
But even if you're not in the mood for a full meal, Wild One Grill is still the perfect spot to unwind with a glass of wine, watching the world go by.
And if you're a seafood lover like me, let me tell you, this is the place to be.
Hap's Original Steaks & Seafood
I often find myself drawn to the old-school charm of Hap's Original Steaks & Seafood.
Tucked away within our local community, this upscale steakhouse has become my go-to indulgence after a long week.
The moment you step through the doors, you're drawn into a world of elegance and sophistication, complimented by a full bar and a generous selection of wines.
But the star of the show has to be the food.
Be prepared to pay a little extra, but believe me, every cent is worth it.
On my last visit, I celebrated my birthday here, and it was nothing short of phenomenal.
And it's not just about the steaks, although they are some of the best you can find in the area.
But what truly sets Hap's apart for me is the service.
They go above and beyond to ensure that every guest feels special.
Local Poke
My neighborhood has a bounty of eateries, but Local Poke has become my go-to haven when I crave poke bowls.
At a reasonable price of $14.50, I usually order a small poke bowl with sushi rice and salad mix.
This heavenly blend of 2 scoops of local tuna, avocado, seaweed salad, and crab never fails to satisfy my taste buds.
What sets Local Poke apart is their variety of toppings.
They offer 4 types of tobico eggs, ginger, pickled radish, green onions, cucumber, fried onion and garlic, and edamame.
Quality and freshness are a constant at Local Poke.
Their fish is always fresh, and the marinated tuna is remarkably flavorful.
The menu is straightforward, and the selection of fish is great.
The quantity of food is generous for the price, so I often find myself eating leftovers.
But what I appreciate most about Local Poke is their excellent service.
They're one of the rare places that make more food when they run out instead of telling the customers to order something else.
Mumu Hotpot
Sometimes, nothing hits the spot quite like a hotpot meal.
For me, that often leads me straight to Mumu Hotpot.
The first thing you'll notice when you walk in is the clean, bright environment, which immediately sets a welcoming tone.
Mumu Hotpot is not just about the food, it's about the experience, to which their individual soup stations add a unique twist to.
While this setup may seem a bit different from a traditional hotpot place, I have always found it to be an exciting change of pace from the norm.
Their menu might not be the most extensive, but what they lack in options, they more than makeup for in quality.
The ingredients are always fresh and well-prepared, and the sukiyaki broth is pleasantly sweet and rich.
I find the sauce bar to offer a good selection, ensuring there's something to suit everyone's taste.
If you're a meat lover like me, the meat-lover combo is a great choice.
The portions are considerable, so make sure you bring your appetite.
The thinly cut beef is just perfect for hotpot.
I usually go with a group, so we get a couple of soup bases.
The miso soup base and the butter spicy soup base are my personal favorites.
BottleTaps
One evening, I found myself craving some quality brews, so I decided to visit BottleTaps, a place famed for its draft brews and highbrow bar snacks.
Upon my arrival, I was greeted by the lively atmosphere of the establishment.
They had heaters turned on in the backyard, making it a perfect hangout spot for the chilly East Bay evenings.
As if the setting wasn't enough, I was treated to a blissful serenade by a live band.
Their music added an extra layer of dynamism to the already vibrant environment.
I was impressed by the impeccable service.
I chose to order chicken wings, which, while not exactly mind-blowing, were decent enough for a beer place.
But then, their pretzel was a revelation.
It tasted just perfect, complementing the beer wonderfully.
Like any beer aficionado, I was ecstatic upon seeing their wide selection of beers.
The food menu was also impressive, offering a variety of great options to choose from.
I decided to try the pastrami sandwich, which turned out to be really good.
They also had unisex bathrooms, which were a nice touch.
Bill's Cafe - Pleasanton
There's no place like Bill's Cafe, especially for a hearty breakfast.
Nestled in the heart of Pleasanton, on the bustling Hopyard Avenue, it's a beacon of delicious, homemade comfort food that never fails to hit the spot.
From the moment you step inside, you're met with a warm, festive atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.
The team there is incredibly friendly and goes above and beyond to ensure your dining experience is nothing short of amazing.
On several occasions, I've found myself venturing over to Bill's Cafe to start my day.
What's breakfast without pancakes, right?
Well, their banana pancakes are something else!
Topped with soft, scrambled eggs and a side of crispy bacon, it's a meal that leaves you feeling satisfied.
And while the portions are generous, the value for money is excellent.
But the experience doesn't stop at the food.
The space itself is quite large, beautifully decorated, and provides a comfortable dining environment.
Plus, the service, it’s simply wonderful!
McKay's Taphouse & Beer Garden
As someone who’s always on the lookout for unique local hangout spots, I was absolutely delighted when I discovered McKay's Taphouse & Beer Garden.
Nestled in a cozy residential setting, this bi-level gastropub offers much more than just craft beers and bar snacks.
It's like having your own backyard garden complete with games, a perfect place to kick back and relax after a long day.
My taste buds were introduced to what could possibly be the best burger I've ever had - the Jammin burger.
I've been a burger enthusiast for the longest time, but this one was a real game-changer.
It made my lunch feel like a peaceful family barbeque, only better because McKay's really knows how to whip up some delicious grub.
Beer enthusiasts would find the collection at McKay's appealing.
Even though I arrived just an hour before closing time once, I was impressed with the freshness and variety of their beer options.
The atmosphere is perfect for slowly sipping on your beer, unwinding, and just losing track of time.
I'm definitely planning to return to explore more of what they have to offer.
Bob's Giant Burgers
There's nothing quite like a visit to Bob's Giant Burgers.
This unassuming, retro-style diner boasts an impressive menu headlined by its classic, piled-high American burgers.
It's the kind of place where the food speaks for itself, and let me tell you, it sings.
One of my personal favorites is the awesome jalapeno double cheeseburger.
The size alone is imposing, rivaling even that of Nation's Giants, if not surpassing it - and that's saying a lot.
What sets Bob's apart, though, is the quality of the meat.
It's a cut above any chain place you've visited, I guarantee.
Now, for a mere $10 (plus a $2 tip if you're feeling generous), you can experience the best burger this side of Pleasanton.
It's become my go-to spot, my favorite hidden gem in this bustling city.
Don't expect a fancy atmosphere here - Bob's is all about keeping it old school.
But, if you're anything like me, you won't care one bit.
That's because you'll be too busy choosing from a dozen milkshake flavors.
Yes, you heard right - a dozen.
And if you're lactose intolerant, you should know they've confirmed their shakes are dairy-free.
The burgers are indeed 'giant', as the name suggests.
You might even struggle to get your mouth around it for the first bite.
And let's not forget about the service.
Every time I've visited, I've been met with nothing but friendly faces and exceptional service.
Ramen 101
I still vividly remember the first time I stepped into Ramen 101 with my partner.
To my surprise, I later found out from my partner that this was actually a fast food chain - the quality of their service and food had me thinking otherwise!
We decided on teriyaki chicken rice bowls and a few bowls of tonkatsu ramen.
We also decided to try the black garlic ramen simply because it sounded interesting.
We were pleasantly surprised to find that the food not only tasted amazing, but the portions were quite generous too.
On another visit, we decided to try the Pork Belly Miso Ramen, along with the Grilled Squid.
The Miso broth was perfectly balanced – not too salty, and the ramen came with a good number of pork belly slices, a couple of shrimp, and some greens.
The Grilled Squid was the real surprise – tender, perfectly cooked, and with a drizzle of Teriyaki Sauce, it was an absolute delight!
Locanda Amalfi
I've always loved strolling through the local dining scene, and recently I decided to give Locanda Amalfi a try.
As soon as I entered, I was instantly drawn to the charming ambiance.
I decided to start my meal with their Arancini appetizer, a dish I highly recommend to any fellow food enthusiasts.
The creamy rice balls, deep-fried to perfection, are indeed a tasty delight!
Moving onto the main course, I decided to experiment with their Napoli pizza.
Now, I must give you a heads up here - don't expect it to be served in a jiffy.
It took them a rather lengthy 30 minutes to get it on my table.
Not to mention, the taste was just fine, nothing to rave about.
During another visit, I took delight in trying out the eggplant zucchini pizza - a unique blend of flavors that left my taste buds happy.
The vegetarian options here are decent enough, giving you the freedom to choose from a variety of different items on the menu.
Pastas Trattoria
I recently visited Pastas Trattoria, an Italian restaurant known for its wine and sidewalk tables, hoping for a lovely, romantic dinner.
The ambiance is quite charming, with careful decoration that sets a romantic mood.
I found that the pasta was fantastic!
The pumpkin ravioli was also an interesting dish.
The highlight of my meal was definitely the bread, and I liked that the garlic was a bit too strong in the oil provided for dipping it.
Experience Burma Restaurant & Bar
When it comes to dining options in my area, Experience Burma Restaurant & Bar has always piqued my curiosity.
The place has a casually informal vibe with a minimalist interior, which I find quite appealing.
They serve a variety of Burmese dishes, each promising a hearty, homey meal.
On several occasions, my partner and I have tried numerous dishes from their menu.
The crispy chicken, priced at $17.95, hits the spot.
The Platha with veggie curry dip has a lovely doughy texture.
We also enjoyed the Samosa soup.
Sharing the tea leaf salad with shrimp and the basil lamb was a delight.
The food was delicious, and the service was prompt and attentive.
What added to the overall experience were the cloth tablecloths and napkins, which in my opinion, elevated the dining experience and made it feel like good value for money.
Lokanta Grill & Bar
During my many visits to Lokanta Grill & Bar, I have always been enthralled by its avant-garde offerings.
The eatery effortlessly combines Turkish and Greek cuisines, delivering a sophisticated fusion that's not easy to find elsewhere.
The upscale vibe of the restaurant is captivating, and the ambiance is always a delight.
It's no surprise to see the place bustling with patrons, even on a Monday evening.
That's when I took my friends for a birthday celebration there.
During that visit, we indulged in the Branzino, priced at $39.00, and the Musakka for $29.00 - both were sumptuous.
One of the things I particularly enjoy here is the cocktails.
The Lichee Martini and the Chilli Margarita are some of my favorites.
Pairing these with the Lamb-Beef Gyro and Lamb Kebab Combo is a delight.
A bonus is the 20% discount you get between 2:30 pm and 5 pm - every day.
Final Thoughts
Pleasanton truly has a diverse and delightful offering when it comes to dining.
Whether you're a fan of tantalizing Thai cuisine from Time Thai Kitchen, craving sushi at Pocket Sushi, or a lover of traditional American burgers from Bob's Giant Burgers, there's always a spot waiting for you in our city's vibrant food scene.
From steaks to seafood, ramen to bento, pizza to hotpot, it's a gastronomic adventure that's worth every bite.
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