Modeled after traditional dim sum service, State Bird Provisions lets patrons use the sense of smell and sight to choose their dishes, with cuisine brought in on a trolley for viewing. Each item is creative and innovative, with dishes like sweet corn and chive pancakes, kimchi pork belly with tofu and duck liver mousse with almond biscuit. The space is rather small, yet cozy with an open concept kitchen, and friendly staff.
Got a craving for some authentic deep dish pizza? This hip, fresh joint has food of tantalizing tastes to satisfy even the most jaded pizza enthusiast. Try the Mediterranean chicken pizza, or try the vegetarian pizza, which will have you converted in no time. Little Star also offers thin crusts, which are, honestly, just as good as the incredibly taste-infused deep dishes for which they are famous. With minimalist decor and a blaring jukebox to boot, Little Star will have you hooked.
El Farolito is one of the Mission's most beloved dive taquerias. The lighting is alright, the decor is bargain-basement, but the burritos are huge and the filling is a delicious, slow-cooked Carne Asada, tender chicken, spicy pork, or veggies and guacamole. You will also find tacos and enchiladas. It is a popular place with locals and people looking for a quick meal, especially late at night when most other spots have closed down. The service is quick and efficient. Only cash accepted.
They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so then it is logical to do breakfast right. To experience this, the Pork Store Café is a place to be. Though small in dimension, the food here is huge. Every plate served is colossal, and, more importantly, delicious. It touts lots of meat on the menu (it's called the Pork Store, after all.) Ham, bacon, sausage, chops, all served with eggs, potatoes, toast and endless cups of strong coffee is served up by the friendly wait staff. If you are not feeling carnivorous, order a short stack of pancakes, omelet, French toast, or a veggie and tofu scramble. Sit at a window table or choose a stool at the counter, where you can watch all that fabulous food being prepared.
While the mythical and much-hyped liqueur after which this establishment is named is not served here, many equally potent concoctions are. Specialty drinks, such as the Perfect Pear and the Ginger Rogers, seem to contain pure alcohol, and even a standard margarita packs an unbelievable wallop. If you're looking for something to help mitigate the effects of a strong drink, then ditch the regular bar peanuts for Absinthe's bar snacks. This bar offers bread with a smooth fig spread, croque monsieur and more. The menu changes daily, but any antipasto platter of cured meats is sure to please, as will the particularly rich duck confit. You can enjoy your meal in the main room or at a cafe-style table on the sidewalk, but if you're looking for a quieter spot, book a table in the private dining room.
Located in the heart of the chic Rockridge area, Wood Tavern is arguably one of Oakland's favorite restaurants. Saying that they have pretty good dishes is a vast understatement. The menu changes frequently but might include dishes like seared duck breast, steaks and freshly made pastas. While the restaurant tends to crowd up, especially during peak hours, an airy breeze (when weather permits) and a friendly staff help to cultivate a casual atmosphere. Equipped with a full cocktail menu and over 70 wines, you can even stop in just for an after-work drink and leave satisfied.
Garden Creamery is an ice cream store that serves vegan as well as organic ice creams along with wide range of sorbets and yogurt. They do cater for private events held at any venue that you opt for. The items are served via their own food trucks for large orders, or via food carts for small parties. At reasonable rates and great taste, this multi-outlet dessert store has made a name for itself in San Francisco as well. Worth trying sweets are strawberry pretzel pop, vegan sorbets, coconut based ice creams and genmaicha.
If you are fond of flavorful meats, than Sarah's Latin Taste commands your attention. They serve appetizing meat options in a food truck. The meats are freshly prepared with unique blend of spices and seasonings. When visiting here you can expect a decent service and a great selection of meals. When rushing late for your work, you can also opt for takeaway service or get your favorite meals delivered to your doorstep.
Montesacro Pinseria Romana Enoteca has created quite a name for itself for its unique offerings of Roman-style pizzas called 'pinsa'. Light and crisp in texture, pinsa is low in fat and calories offering a superior quality of dough with high-digestive features. Along with pizzas, the menu features exciting salads, sandwiches, paninis, characuterie and other Italian-inspired dishes. Excellent wines and beers can be combined with the food that adds to the experience. The industrial vibe of the restaurant complete old-brick ovens and rustic wooden tables offer a casual vibe perfect for deep conversations over great food and drinks.