Best Southern American Restaurants in Oakland

140 restaurants available nearby

1. MUA

4.4

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 12 times today

MUA in Oakland is a haven for those who crave authentic and heartwarming Comfort Food. Established in 2008, this family-owned gem delights with its eclectic and open atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for both large parties and intimate gatherings. Renowned for dishes like the blackened catfish, butternut squash mac n' "cheese," and crispy tofu, MUA has become a staple in the Oakland community. Guests rave about the food's deliciousness and the ambiance, with one patron exclaiming, "The blackened catfish was amazing... Great service and an even better atmosphere." Whether you're in for the vibrant art events or the soul-satisfying cuisine, MUA promises an unforgettable dining experience that highlights the best of Comfort Food.

2. Haus Of Chefs

new

4.3

Awesome(8)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 18 times today

Haus of Chefs is an innovative concept that pairs culinary talent with a ready-made professional kitchen, inside an upscale restaurant with a full bar.

A photo of Smellys Creole Catering LLC restaurant

3. Smellys Creole Catering LLC

4.3

Awesome(56)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 7 times today

Smellys Creole Catering LLC in Oakland is a haven for Soul food lovers, celebrated for its exceptional dishes that resonate with authenticity and flavor. The rave reviews are a testament to its culinary prowess, with diners praising the "melt-in-your-mouth catfish" and the "perfectly seasoned crack n cheese." The restaurant's ambiance enhances the dining experience, imbued with soulful music and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Diners consistently commend the generous portions and the quality of the meals, making it clear why Smellys is a top destination. Whether it's the tender oxtails or the flavorful garlic noodles, every dish promises a delightful taste of Soul food cuisine.

A photo of Bardo Lounge & Supper Club restaurant

4. Bardo Lounge & Supper Club

4.8

Exceptional(481)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 14 times today

Bardo Lounge & Supper Club in Oakland’s Grand Lake District stands out as a premier destination for exceptional Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service, continuously recommended in the MICHELIN Guide from 2021-2023. The lounge, reminiscent of a mid-century modern living room, offers a swanky retreat where guests can indulge in "the best cocktails in Oakland" and a "creative and varied cocktail menu" that pairs beautifully with seasonally inspired supper-fare. Praised for its "perfectly balanced" drinks and vibrant ambiance, Bardo is a favorite for both locals and newcomers. Guests rave about the attentive service and the elegant, cozy setting, making it the perfect spot for a sophisticated night out. Whether it's for a casual drink or a special occasion, Bardo promises an unforgettable experience with every visit.

5. Burdell

4.5

Awesome(135)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 10 times today

Burdell, nestled in the vibrant Temescal neighborhood of Oakland, stands out as a beacon of exquisite Soul food cuisine. Led by James Beard Finalist Chef Geoff Davis, the restaurant pays homage to his grandmother, infusing traditional Soul food with innovation and sophistication. Diners rave about the authenticity and elevated flavors, describing dishes like the pickle brined fried chicken as “elevated to the highest level of execution” and the BBQ shrimp as “the best I’ve ever had.” Every dish, from the smothered rabbit to the slammin' chocolate cake, is crafted with care, showcasing the best local produce and sustainable practices. The experience of dining at Burdell is consistently applauded as “a special dining experience” with an atmosphere that combines nostalgia and modern flair, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly remarkable Soul food journey.

A photo of Commis Dining Room restaurant

6. Commis Dining Room

4.9

Exceptional(1227)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 8 times today

Commis in Oakland stands out as a beacon of Californian cuisine, offering a unique experience that melds the bounty of Northern California with a flair for innovation. With its proud Two-Star Michelin rating, Commis showcases the region's finest ingredients through a multi-course tasting menu crafted by James Beard Foundation Nominated Chef James Syhabout. Guests rave about the “delicious from beginning to end” meals and the “perfect” wine pairings that enhance the dining experience. The use of modern and classic techniques to bridge Eastern and Western flavors ensures that each dish is not just a meal, but a story of California itself. The "wonderful gem in the East Bay" offers an "unforgettable experience" making each visit a cherished memory.

7. Z Cafe & Bar

5.0

Exceptional(378)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 1 time today

Z Cafe & Bar in Oakland not only dazzles with its vast selection of over 100 vodkas but truly shines with its scratch-made American cuisine. Renowned for its best-in-town happy hour, the restaurant delivers an unforgettable dining experience with a seasonally changing menu that captures the essence of peak flavors. Patrons rave about their experiences, noting, "Best salmon I have ever tried," and celebrating the "delicious and always on-point" wings and sliders. A local favorite, Z Cafe & Bar pairs culinary excellence with a welcoming atmosphere, making every meal a delight. Whether you're in for the acclaimed chicken piccata or the vibrant ambiance, Z Cafe & Bar promises an authentic taste of American cuisine right in the heart of Oakland.

8. Pierre Pierre

4.4

Awesome(118)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 19 times today

At Pierre Pierre in Oakland, California, the Steakhouse cuisine is celebrated with an authentic Southern flair that is both unique and delightful. As one reviewer raves, "Every bite was bursting with flavor," highlighting the expertly grilled steaks that are a testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality. The ambiance of rustic charm combined with Southern hospitality provides a perfect backdrop for indulging in steaks that are infused with authentic southern spices, ensuring a savory delight in every bite. Diners are consistently impressed, noting the "great dining experience," and the "wonderful staff" that complements the exceptional food. Pierre Pierre stands out not just as a place to eat, but as a culinary experience that embodies the warmth and richness of Southern cuisine right in the heart of downtown Oakland.

9. Commis Bar

4.8

Exceptional(32)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 3 times today

Commis Bar in Oakland offers a sublime exploration of Contemporary American cuisine through a meticulously curated 4-course menu, emphasizing top-tier Northern California ingredients. The intimate setting, with only 10 bar-height chairs, ensures a personalized dining experience. Guests rave about the "food perfection" and describe their dining as "an exercise in flavour perfection," highlighting dishes like lamb, sea bream, and cod for their "amazing and differentiated flavors." Commis is not just a meal; it's a gastronomic journey that encapsulates the essence of modern American cooking. Whether you're a first-timer or a returning aficionado, Commis promises a remarkable culinary adventure that's well worth the visit.

A photo of Left Bank - Jack London Square restaurant

10. Left Bank - Jack London Square

4.4

Awesome(536)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Oakland

Left Bank Brasserie in Jack London Square, Oakland, epitomizes the essence of Contemporary French/American cuisine. Nestled by the Oakland waterfront, it offers a culinary journey into the heart of Paris with a menu that features authentic French dishes like beef bourguignon and escargot, crafted with local and organic ingredients. Patrons rave about its "incredible ambiance" and "AMAZING food," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity shines through its extensive cocktail menu and expertly-curated wine selection, complementing the vibrant, social atmosphere that captures the joie de vivre of a true Parisian brasserie. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, Left Bank promises a memorable experience with every visit.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

S
Sheila
San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Very friendly and helpful staff! The food was scrumptious!! We’ll definitely be back!
More info
Pierre PierrePrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Oakland
•
4.4
N
Nancy
San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on 23 Nov 2024
Celebrated my Dad's 80th Birthday listening to great Live music and eating delicious food! We will definitely be back SOON! Cheers & Love Biscuit & Blues and we will see you soon!
More info
Biscuits and BluesPrice: Expensive• Southern• Downtown / Union Square
•
4.7
E
Erin
San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
5.0
Dined on 20 Nov 2024
Prelude is such a gem that we are lucky to have in the Bay Area. In an era where tasting menus can often leave you underwhelmed and needing a slice of pizza at the end, Prelude did the exact opposite. While I did opt for the caviar supplement and added on the sweetbreads dish from the ala carte menu, even without the extras I still would have left full to the brim. Some can’t miss dishes are the stuffed chicken wing, the catfish dumplings, the aforementioned sweetbreads, and the pork chop. The service was warm, friendly, and attentive, and I found the by the glass wine options superb- I was particularly fond of a pour of a very special 1996 Chenin Blanc with dessert. I look forward to returning to Prelude again and again.
More info
PreludePrice: Expensive• Californian• Financial District / Embarcadero
•
4.6
L
Laura
San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
4.0
Dined on 20 Nov 2024
First time at Hard Knox Cafe. We chose it because of the reviews and its proximity to the Legion of Honor. We met my niece and nephew and the staff was very accomodating of guest arriving at different times. The food arrived quickly and was very hot which was terrific. The portions are very generous and we had dinner the next night on the leftovers. The food was flavorful without being spicy. We ordered fried chicken dinner with yam fries and salad; ribs with corn and coleslaw; spicy fried chicken with collard greens and another vegetable; and a pulled pork sandwich with fries. We all enjoyed our food and will definitely be returning.
More info
Hard Knox Cafe on Clement StreetPrice: Moderate• Southern• Richmond District
•
4.8
C
Chadvip
San Francisco Bay Area •7 reviews
5.0
Dined on 7 Nov 2024
Excellent food! Highly recommended. Looking forward to going back.
More info
Hard Knox Cafe on 3rd StreetPrice: Moderate• Southern• Potrero Hill / Dogpatch
•
4.6

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Oakland

Southern american

Best Southern American Restaurants in Oakland

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140 restaurants available nearby

1. MUA

2. Haus Of Chefs

3. Smellys Creole Catering LLC

4. Bardo Lounge & Supper Club

5. Burdell

6. Commis Dining Room

7. Z Cafe & Bar

8. Pierre Pierre

9. Commis Bar

10. Left Bank - Jack London Square

See what locals rave about

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