Oakland's Best Brunch [Updated 2025]

Having indulged in countless brunches around the city, I've curated a list of twelve standout spots that truly capture the essence of Oakland's vibrant culinary scene.

From cozy cafes to bustling eateries, each place offers unique flavors and atmospheres perfect for your weekend gathering.

Whether you crave classic comfort foods or innovative dishes, this list has something to satisfy every palate.

Join me as I take you through my top picks, ensuring your next brunch outing is nothing short of spectacular!

Portal

Highlights
Picturesque lake views
Best burger experience
Great outdoor patio
Friendly and charismatic staff
Perfect for group outings

Portal in Oakland is an absolute gem, effortlessly melding delicious food with stunning views. Picture this: glistening lake water right outside your window while you sip on a perfectly brewed coffee. It's the kind of vibe that makes you want to linger—and trust me, you will!

Their burger is, without a doubt, the best I’ve ever had during a brunch outing. Juicy, flavorful, and crafted to perfection, it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds. Don’t even get me started on their outdoor patio—it's spacious and inviting, making it the ideal spot for groups looking to catch up over leisurely bites and lively conversation.

Adding charm to the atmosphere is the friendly and charismatic staff who genuinely seem to enjoy serving their guests. The upbeat energy they bring to the place makes the brunch all the more enjoyable.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxed day out with friends or just a serene spot to unwind, Portal definitely hits the mark. With its enviable location and scrumptious offerings, it's a must-visit for those in search of the best brunch in Oakland!

You might also want to check out the best clam chowder in San Francisco.

Me and Jungle Cafe

Highlights
Avocado and smoked salmon toast
Cozy atmosphere
Charming patio
Generous portions
Affordable prices

Me and Jungle Cafe is like a cozy hideaway that you definitely want to include in your weekend brunch plans. As I settled into the charming patio, which felt inviting and warm, I was already falling in love with the vibe. The avocado and smoked salmon toast was calling my name—I mean, who could resist? The portion size was generous and beautifully plated.

What I truly appreciated was the affordability of the menu items without sacrificing quality. Each bite of that toast was rich with flavor, balancing the creamy avocado with the smoky depth of the salmon. It felt like a hidden gem that knows how to deliver deliciousness without emptying your wallet.

The atmosphere was quaint and friendly, ensuring that your brunch experience is as delightful as the food itself. Watching the hum of brunch-goers enjoying their meals only added to the ambiance of this gem. Overall, my visit to Me and Jungle Cafe confirmed that brunch can be a joyous occasion, and I can't recommend this spot enough if you're looking to indulge in a fabulous meal while soaking up the Oakland sun!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Half Moon Bay.

Brenda's Oakland

Highlights
Delicious beignet experience
Excellent service available
Cozy atmosphere on Fridays
Mouthwatering biscuits
Flavorful mac & cheese

Brenda's Oakland is a delightful gem that truly knows how to elevate brunch to a whole new level. The moment I stepped inside, I was enveloped in a cozy atmosphere that felt like a warm hug on a chilly morning. The service was nothing short of stellar—attentive yet unobtrusive, making me feel like a cherished guest rather than just another customer.

But let’s talk about the food—oh, the food! The highlight of my visit had to be the mouthwatering biscuits that practically melted in my mouth. They were flaky perfection and paired beautifully with homemade jam. And if you have a penchant for comfort food, don’t miss out on their flavorful mac & cheese, which is simply divine; creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying.

Then came the beignets. I had heard tales of their legendary status, but nothing could prepare me for the actual experience. Each bite was a little cloud of sweetness that had me dreaming of a second visit before I even finished the first! If you’re seeking an unforgettable brunch in Oakland, make your way to Brenda's—it's a feast for the senses that you won’t want to miss!

You might also want to check out the best cafes in San Francisco.

Almond and Oak

Highlights
Fantastic brunch spot
Great food and atmosphere
Delightful baked french toast
Friendly front-of-house staff
Well-designed ambiance

Almond and Oak quickly became one of my favorite brunch spots in Oakland. From the moment I stepped inside, I was welcomed by a well-designed ambiance that seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern elegance. The atmosphere felt alive yet cozy, making it the perfect backdrop for a leisurely weekend indulgence.

The highlight of my meal was, without a doubt, the delightful baked French toast. Its rich flavors and fluffy texture were nothing short of divine, transporting me to brunch heaven with every bite. Paired with a perfectly brewed cup of coffee, this dish truly encapsulated the essence of a perfect brunch experience.

What truly stood out, however, was the friendly front-of-house staff. Their warm smiles and attentive service added a personal touch that made me feel right at home. It was refreshing to be greeted with such genuine enthusiasm.

Overall, Almond and Oak gracefully marries great food with a welcoming atmosphere, proving itself as a must-visit destination for anyone in search of the best brunch in Oakland. If you haven’t stopped by yet, it’s time to treat yourself to a meal that’s as delicious as it is delightful!

You might also want to check out the best dim sum in Chinatown.

Parche

Highlights
Authentic flavors
Generous portions
Beautifully decorated space
Fun atmosphere
Great for celebrations

Nestled in the heart of Oakland, Parche is a delightful find that exceeded all my expectations for a brunch outing. Upon stepping in, I was greeted by a beautifully decorated space that buzzed with a fun atmosphere, setting the perfect tone for a leisurely Saturday.

As I explored the menu, the authentic flavors leaped out at me. I couldn't resist trying their signature dish, which was not only generously portioned but also a symphony of taste that danced on my palate. Each bite was a celebration of culinary creativity, leaving me eager to come back for more.

What truly impressed me was the sense of community that enveloped the place. While enjoying my meal, I observed friends and families enjoying their celebrations, making it a great spot for gathering. The servers were equally warm and attentive, enhancing the overall vibe.

In a nutshell, if you're searching for a brunch that combines bold flavors, vibrant surroundings, and a carefree spirit, look no further than Parche. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and you may just find your new favorite brunch spot!

You might also want to check out the best tacos in San Francisco.

FOB Kitchen

Highlights
Delicious Filipino Cuisine
Attentive and Friendly Staff
Intimate and Pleasant Decor
Great for Special Occasions
Charming Atmosphere and Music

FOB Kitchen in Oakland is an absolute gem that whisked me away on a delightful culinary adventure. The moment I stepped inside, I was embraced by an intimate atmosphere that perfectly blends warmth and charm. The playful tunes in the background made for a lively brunch experience while never overwhelming the senses.

Now, let’s dive into the heart of it—the food! As a fan of bold flavors, I found their Filipino-inspired dishes to be nothing short of a revelation. Each bite told a story, bursting with authenticity and creativity. Whether it was the rich, garlicky adobo fried rice or the comforting longganisa breakfast platter, every dish was a delightful surprise that invited me to come back for more.

The staff were attentive and friendly, ensuring that my experience was as pleasant as the food itself. This spot is perfect not only for brunch but also for celebrating special occasions with loved ones. If you’re hunting for a place that combines comfort, flavor, and a cozy vibe, I highly recommend FOB Kitchen. You'll leave with a full belly and a happy heart!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in San Francisco Little Italy.

Grand Lake Kitchen - Lake Merritt

Tucked away near the picturesque Lake Merritt, Grand Lake Kitchen is a brunch oasis that steals the show. The vibrant atmosphere mingles with the scent of freshly brewed coffee, creating an inviting backdrop. I ordered the delicious avocado toast topped with poached eggs — a perfect blend of crunchy and creamy. Their house-made pastries are a must-try, particularly the flaky almond croissant that practically melts in your mouth. As I soaked in the lively ambiance, I couldn't help but feel the welcoming spirit of this gem. For a delightful twist on traditional brunch, Grand Lake Kitchen is an unforgettable destination that should not be missed!

You might also want to check out the best food in Alameda.

Kitchen Story Oakland

Kitchen Story Oakland is a delightful gem that elevates the brunch experience to new heights. The moment I stepped in, I was greeted by a warm ambiance and friendly staff that set the perfect tone. I indulged in their famous Millionaire's Bacon, which was irresistibly sweet and savory. The French Toast soared with flavor, drizzled in a tantalizing caramel sauce that danced on my palate. Each bite felt like a celebration! Complimenting the meal, their house-made chai has just the right kick to perk you up. Overall, Kitchen Story is a must-visit for anyone craving a brunch that packs a punch!

You might also want to check out the best cookies in San Francisco.

Buttercup

Nestled in the heart of Oakland, Buttercup is an absolute treasure for brunch lovers. The cozy atmosphere welcomes you like a warm hug, while the menu dazzles with creative twists on classic dishes. I indulged in their fluffy pancakes, which are topped with a heavenly berry compote that dances on the palate. The savory avocado toast, adorned with a poached egg, was a delightful mix of creamy and crunchy. The staff was genuinely friendly, enhancing the cheerful vibe. If you’re hunting for a brunch spot that sings with flavor and charm, look no further than Buttercup!

You might also want to check out the best tattoo shops in San Francisco.

Low Bar

Nestled in the heart of Oakland, Low Bar is a delightful gem that effortlessly combines a relaxed vibe with mouthwatering brunch offerings. I savored their perfectly fluffy pancakes, drizzled with house-made maple syrup, while the chilaquiles danced on my palate with a vibrant explosion of flavors. The cozy atmosphere was accentuated by inviting decor and friendly service, making it an ideal spot to kick back with friends. Don’t skip the café de olla for a unique twist on your coffee! If you're seeking a brunch where deliciousness meets laid-back charm, Low Bar is a must-visit.

You might also want to check out the best eats in San Francisco.

Aman Cafe

During my recent brunch adventure at Aman Cafe, I was delighted by the vibrant atmosphere and eclectic menu. I indulged in their fluffy pancakes, which were drizzled with a house-made syrup that danced between sweetness and tartness. The avocado toast, topped with perfectly poached eggs, was a visual feast—Instagram goals achieved! To wash it down, their artisanal coffee blend had me craving a second cup. Aman Cafe isn't just a meal; it's a cozy escape where each bite tells a story. I highly recommend it for anyone looking to elevate their weekend brunch experience in Oakland!

Chop Bar

Nestled in the heart of Oakland, Chop Bar offers a delightful brunch that’s as inviting as its decor. I savored the House-Made Chili Verde Breakfast Burrito, bursting with flavor and just the right kick to wake up my taste buds. Their signature Bloody Mary was a refreshing companion, expertly balanced with spices. The atmosphere buzzes with the warmth of community, making it the perfect spot to unwind. Whether you’re catching up with friends or enjoying solo, Chop Bar is a culinary gem that turns ordinary brunch into a vibrant experience. Don’t miss this slice of brunch paradise!