In just a few years, I have watched downtown Oakland blossom from an urban ghost town to a booming, eclectic mix of unexpected beauty. I officially became an Oaklander when I was nine, moved to San Francisco for college, immediately moved back after graduation, and have been living in Oakland for the last four years. This specific part of the city – a combination of Downtown, Old Oakland, and Uptown – has always held a special place in my heart. Here are a few of my favorite spots.
Restaurants
Hopscotch
If I were planning a birthday party for myself at a fabulous Oakland restaurant, chances are I would opt to throw it at Hopscotch. This chic American-Japanese-fusion restaurant has killer charm and personality and an impressive menu to boot, which makes picking a main entrée incredibly challenging.
Winners here are the Buttermilk-Fried Chicken and the First Base Burger. If dinner isn’t exactly your thing, be sure to stop by for their awesome brunch menu. The Cinnamon Twist French Toast is literally the stuff that dreams are made of.
Pho 84
You’ll most likely pho-get about other Vietnamese places after experiencing Pho 84 for the first time. Its signature soup is packed with rich flavor. And if pho isn’t really your thing, you can choose from one of the many, many other options that this charming restaurant has to offer. Pho 84 has – hands down – the best vermicelli tofu bowl that I’ve ever had. And best of all, it has a soy-based sauce option if fish sauce isn’t your condiment of choice. Extra points for the super-sweet staff and the restaurant’s cozy vibe; it’s an adorable date location.
Other Restaurants Worth Checking Out
Ike’s Place, Stag’s Lunchette, Le Cheval, Duende, Liba Falafel, Sweet Bar Bakery, and Hawker Fare
Cafes
Donut Savant
Nestled in the heart of downtown Oakland lies Donut Savant. The first time I stumbled into this humble establishment, I was overwhelmed by the rich selection of gourmet goodies. DS currently offers 16 different flavors, including cron’ts, bars, and cake donuts.
If you’re looking to just slightly cheat on your diet, they have bite-size coconut doughnut holes. Or if calories aren’t a concern, you can go for it and get a full-blown apple fritter – you will not be disappointed. I may or may not have shed a tear when I tried their maple bar for the first time. Donut Savant’s hours are a bit wonky, but it recently started accepting online orders, which makes in-store pickups a breeze.
Awaken Cafe
Like to surround yourself with art and killer food? Awaken Cafe has you covered. In addition to being a pristine coffee shop, which makes for an excellent work/study place, this spacious cafe also turns into a venue for poetry readings and live music for local talent, and its walls are adorned with art from Bay Area artists. Awaken offers a delicious variety of handcrafted sandwiches, salads, espresso drinks, and beers. My go-to is almost always the avocado toast, which is served with just the perfect amount of fresh pepper.
Tierra Mia Coffee
If you’re on the run and just want a good old cup of joe or something a bit more fancy, without compromising your time, I recommend swinging by Tierra Mia Coffee. Its drip coffee will make you weak in the knees, and they truly make the best horchata latte around.
Other Cafes Worth Checking Out
Modern Coffee, Aroma Cafe, Farley’s East, and Brown Couch Cafe
Bars
The Ruby Room
If vampires were real and yearned for a drink among good company, chances are they’d go to the Ruby Room.
There is something hopelessly charming about this downtown watering hole, from the individuals that it attracts to the overall dim dungeon vibe.
Dogwood
Cozy, rustic, and heaven on earth for all of you whiskey lovers out there, Dogwood has all the traits that one might want in a bar. A good chunk of its drinks are nods to classic Prohibition-era libations and have a real kick to them. My favorite is the Bridgeport. In addition to its bar menu, Dogwood also has a fabulous grilled-sandwich bar.
Other Bars Worth Checking Out
Make Westing, Plum Bar, The Trappist, Bar Three Fifty-Five, Cafe Van Kleef, and Fauna
Shopping
Oaklandish
Chances are you’ve heard of Oaklandish, whether you were born and raised in Oakland or you’re a recent transplant.
This boutique of T-shirts and other city-pride paraphernalia is the perfect place to pick up gear to show off your Oakland pride. My personal favorite must-have item is the Biker Zip Hoody.
OwlNWood
OwlNWood is a one-stop shop for local designer brands and amazing vintage finds. If you’re looking for a truly unique gift or special piece for your wardrobe, chances are you’ll find it here.
Other Shops Worth Checking Out
Vamp Vintage Art & Music for the People, Oakland Surf Club, SoleSpace, FIVEten Studio, Marion and Rose’s Workshop, and Umami Mart
Things to Do and See
The Fox Theater
I vividly recall when the Fox was completely boarded up and covered in dust, and now this venue really brings a whole new air of life to downtown Oakland after 40 years. The Fox reopened its doors in 2009. From Lorde to Die Antwoord, dozens of impressive shows take place here every month. Make sure to bookmark the Fox’s calendar, and check back regularly to make sure you aren’t missing out on your favorite performers.
The Paramount
Much like the Fox Theater, the Paramount is a downtown classic. This gorgeous venue was fully restored in 1973, and since then, it has housed a number of different events, from the Oakland Ballet’s annual TheNutcracker performance to famous guest speakers to $5 classic-movie evenings. The theatre itself is absolutely breathtaking. If an upcoming event isn’t striking your fancy, you can still visit for a tour of its majesty for just $5.
The Cathedral Building
This iconic Gothic-style building is just so gorgeous, you cannot help but wonder what sort of view awaits you at the top floor. The architecture is incredibly fascinating, and I cannot help but think that if Bruce Wayne resided in Oakland, he would make this entire structure his home.
Off the Grid
I am the ultimate lover of food trucks. Every Friday evening, a medley of them make their way to the Oakland Museum of California to set up for Off the Grid. OMCA admission is half-off; there is always live music; and there are a number of little pop-up bars right outside of the museum. Off the Grid is an incredible option for those who’re just getting off work, eager for a quick and tasty meal, and looking for a fun early-evening outing. Off the Grid happens on every Friday (with a few holiday exceptions) from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Art Murmur/First Friday
Downtown Oakland transforms into a festive art and party scene on the first Friday of every month. The streets are filled with vendors, performers, and proud Oaklanders. Everyone should experience at least one First Friday, even you San Franciscans.
UptownArt Park
Across from the Fox Theater is the Uptown Art Park, which contains several oversize fixtures by various artists. Many of the pieces made their grand debuts at Burning Man. My favorite piece is Trumpet Flowers by acclaimed artist Karen Cusolito. This semi-permanent exhibit is a darling place for spontaneous photo shoots.
Other Things to Do and See
Pro Arts Gallery, Joyce Gordon Gallery, Old Oakland Farmers' Market