Food enthusiasts in Oakland are in for a treat as Oakland Restaurant Week returns from March 20-30, 2025, promising to showcase an impressive array of culinary delights across the city. This much-anticipated event celebrates Oakland’s vibrant and diverse food scene, bolstered by the city’s recent accolade as the #1 Best Food City in the U.S. by Condé Nast Traveler. With more than 160 participating restaurants, there’s something to tantalize every palate.
Peter Gamez, President and CEO of Visit Oakland, emphasized the city’s rich cultural tapestry, stating, "We speak 125 languages in Oakland. That translates into our food, and the diversity that we bring is also giving us that recognition in our cuisine." Such diversity is not just a buzzword; it translates to a culinary experience unlike any other.
This year, the restaurant week promises an exciting lineup of exclusive menus and unique promotions designed to liven up the dining experience. Local eateries will offer specially curated prix-fixe meals allowing diners to discover new flavors or revisit beloved favorites. One standout participant is Jaji, which recently opened its doors in early 2025, specializing in a modern take on Afghan cuisine. Owner Paul Inglesias expressed the significance of participating in this event, saying, "It's so important to participate because it's kind of the way we get to showcase who we are."">
Another long-time participant, Pomella, a well-loved Middle Eastern restaurant, has also committed to this year’s Oakland Restaurant Week. Chef and owner Mica Talmor stated, "We've been participating in this event every year. We love it. It's a great opportunity to try new things that you haven't yet." This warm sentiment showcases the community spirit that drives many local establishments.
Meanwhile, for those interested in variety, the Oakland Restaurant Week aligns with other dining events in the region. Berkeley Restaurant Week occurs alongside it from March 21-31, 2025, with its own unique themes focused on indulgent chocolate offerings. For Oakland, the emphasis continues to be on celebrating its recent recognition, and it comes at a fortuitous time for local business owners looking to attract value-savvy diners.
The Oakland tourism bureau provides a comprehensive list of participating restaurants, which boasts over 145 listings. However, not all of the restaurants have finalized their menus yet, making the exploration a bit of a treasure hunt. A wide variety of eateries will offer exclusive deals. For example, Cocobreeze is known for its Caribbean-style curries and roti wraps, and it will highlight special entrees on specific days, including oxtails on both Saturdays during Restaurant Week.
Additionally, Tarts de Feybesse, Oakland's newest French bakery, plans to delight guests with their specialties like tarte flambée with smoked carrots and pea shoots. Oh G Burger x Chimmelier, a collaboration between a renowned KBBQ establishment and a new chicken outfit, will offer locals a $15 lunch deal, allowing diners to get a smash burger or fried chicken sandwich, fries, and a drink for less than the cost of similar meals in the area.
Taking a more upscale approach, Jaji presents a three-course, $65-per-person dinner prix-fixe, which includes high-end options like confit duck dumplings and whole trout. Such pricing and menu offerings showcase the culinary sophistication emerging in Oakland's dining scene.
Burdell, which has received significant acclaim for its reinterpretations of soul food, also embraces the occasion with a special offering of smothered pork chops for two, accompanied by a rich wild mushroom and bacon gravy. Diners looking for something uniquely cozy can visit Anja's Kitchen in Berkeley, where nostalgia meets innovation with a pork schnitzel sandwich.
Pyeong Chang Tofu, another exciting participant, will offer a prix-fixe featuring their signature tofu stew, which has garnered admiration from locals and critics alike.
Combining affordability with taste, Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya is presenting a three-course dinner prix-fixe at $54, featuring favorites from their extensive menu, including wagyu nikomi hamburg steak—essentially a gourmet, savory meatball steeped in delicious brown gravy.
Meanwhile, notable newcomer Myungrang will delight foodies with complimentary taiyaki pastries, uniquely fish-shaped, with the purchase of any dog or tteokbokki during the restaurant week—a fun perk that many diners will appreciate.
The culinary offerings available during Oakland Restaurant Week are not just about the food; they also embody the spirit of community and celebration, as locals come together to enjoy their city’s diverse flavors. As the event runs from March 20 to 30, food lovers will find it the perfect opportunity to explore and support local dining establishments.
For those keen to discover more about the participating restaurants and specific deals, further information can be found on the website of Visit Oakland, encouraging residents and visitors alike to savor the rich and flavorful tapestry of Oakland's food scene.
