Best Southern American Restaurants in Oakland

140 restaurants available nearby

1. MUA

4.4

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 20 times today

MUA in Oakland offers an exceptional taste of authentic American cuisine, standing out for its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic appeal. Known as an "Oakland staple," MUA excels in providing a memorable dining experience. Guests rave about the "delicious classic American bar and grill type food" with standout dishes like the fall-off-the-bone pork spare ribs, which are "absolutely yum." The lively ambiance, featuring a live DJ and art events, complements the culinary delights perfectly. Whether you're there for a date night or a group gathering, MUA's friendly and attentive service ensures a delightful evening embracing the true essence of American dining.

2. Haus Of Chefs

new

4.5

Awesome(19)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 6 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

4.5

Awesome(63)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 13 times today

Smellys Creole Catering LLC in Oakland is a must-visit for true Soul food enthusiasts. Renowned for its "phenomenal, fantastic, and amazing" offerings, this full-service restaurant specializes in Soulfusion, blending traditional flavors with innovative twists. The rave reviews speak for themselves, with diners praising the "excellent food" and "healthy portions" that leave taste buds dancing. The "crab topped oysters" and "fried catfish" are standout dishes, celebrated for their mouth-watering deliciousness. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and attentive service, highlighted by "friendly staff" and personal touches from Chef Smelly himself, ensure every visit is memorable. It's a soul-soothing culinary experience not to be missed!

A photo of Bardo Lounge & Supper Club restaurant

4. Bardo Lounge & Supper Club

4.8

Exceptional(489)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 38 times today

Nestled in the heart of Oakland’s historic Grand Lake District, Bardo Lounge & Supper Club is a beacon of exceptional Comfort Food, celebrated for its “outstanding food” and “impeccable service.” Recognized in the MICHELIN Guide for California, Bardo effortlessly captures the essence of a mid-century dinner party, offering an inviting atmosphere that feels like a “swank living room.” Guests rave about the “wonderful neighborhood gem” where “creative and innovative cocktails” complement a menu boasting local, sustainably sourced ingredients. Each dish, from the “extraordinary summer schnitzel” to the “perfectly prepared local fish,” is a testament to Bardo’s commitment to quality and authenticity.

5. Burdell

4.5

Awesome(163)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 37 times today

Burdell, nestled in the Temescal neighborhood of Oakland, is redefining Californian cuisine with a soulful twist. This exceptional establishment, helmed by James Beard Finalist Chef Geoff Davis, pays homage to his grandmother's legacy by intertwining family recipes with contemporary flavors. The restaurant's commitment to “thoughtful and sustainable sourcing” elevates each dish and supports local farmers and artisans. Diners rave about the “delicious food, strong flavors, and unique modern soul food,” making Burdell a must-visit for those seeking an authentic taste of Californian. With an inviting ambiance and attentive service, it's no wonder Burdell is celebrated as a “true gem” in Oakland.

6. Pierre Pierre

4.2

Awesome(131)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 25 times today

Pierre Pierre in Oakland offers an authentic taste of Cajun cuisine that truly stands out. Located in the historic Tribune Tower, this steakhouse delivers a "culinary gem" experience, as one reviewer enthuses. The menu is a delightful celebration of Cajun flavors, with expertly grilled meats and classic southern sides like collard greens and sweet potato soufflé. Diners rave about the "mouthwatering main course" and the perfectly seasoned appetizers. The ambiance complements the cuisine, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. With attentive service and dishes that burst with flavor, Pierre Pierre promises an unforgettable dining journey into the heart of Cajun culture.

A photo of Commis Dining Room restaurant

7. Commis Dining Room

4.8

Exceptional(1233)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 9 times today

At Commis Dining Room in Oakland, the Contemporary French/American cuisine is nothing short of extraordinary. Awarded a prestigious Two-Star Michelin rating, Commis is a culinary masterpiece crafted by the talented Chef James Syhabout. Diners are treated to a multi-course tasting menu that artfully bridges Eastern and Western flavors. "Delicious from beginning to end," the dishes are praised for their creativity and execution, with reviews noting the "unique, complex, and exceptionally tasty" flavors. The attentive staff and impeccable wine pairings elevate the experience, making Commis a must-visit destination for those seeking an unforgettable dining adventure in the Bay Area.

8. Z Cafe & Bar

5.0

Exceptional(379)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 2 times today

The best happy hour in Oakland featuring over 100 vodkas. Serves Scratch-made American Cuisine for Lunch & Dinner. Party Space. The menu changes seasonally to provide flavors at their peak. Z Cafe & Bar carries over 100 vodka selection and offer a variety of hand shaken specialty martinis.

9. Commis Bar

4.9

Exceptional(36)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 5 times today

Located in the vibrant heart of Oakland, Commis Bar offers an unparalleled Contemporary French/American dining experience that delights the senses. This intimate spot, with its 10-bar height chairs, showcases a 4-course menu that highlights the finest seasonal Northern California ingredients. Diners rave about how "flavors jump from the dishes," and the "superb service" that accompanies each exquisitely presented course. The unique combination of modern and classic cooking techniques ensures every visit is a memorable culinary journey. As one enthusiastic diner put it, "Commis is amazing," with "beautiful dishes" and a "fun, surprising, and innovative" atmosphere that leaves you eager to return.

A photo of Grand Lake Kitchen - Lake Merritt restaurant

10. Grand Lake Kitchen - Lake Merritt

4.7

Exceptional(664)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 56 times today

At Grand Lake Kitchen - Lake Merritt, breakfast is not just a meal; it's an experience steeped in authenticity and quality. Diners rave about the "best French toast ever" and the smoked salmon Benedict, which can even be made gluten-free. The avocado toast, adorned with poached eggs and a fresh salad, is another fan favorite. Offering a delightful mix of American classics, the breakfast menu is consistently praised for its delicious offerings and excellent service. Nestled in the vibrant Oakland neighborhood, this charming spot is perfect for a leisurely brunch with friends or family, ensuring a satisfying start to your day.

‘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

J
Jade
San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Great experience! The staff and our waiter was amazing. Donovan was amazing as well!
More info
Pierre PierrePrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Oakland
•
4.2
J
JessicaVIP
Los Angeles •5 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 25, 2024
The food and service were excellent! The pork chop is an absolute must. Drinks were very creative and paired very well with the food. The decor, lighting, and mood inside were very mid century inspired, making for a fun dining experience. We will definitely be coming back!
More info
PreludePrice: Expensive• Californian• Financial District / Embarcadero
•
4.6
B
BVIP
San Francisco Bay Area •134 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 25, 2024
We ordered drinks, which came promptly and were good. Both of us had jambalaya. It was quite tasty. The show started somewhat late, so we had time for another round of drinks. Once the show started, and during and after the show, service was less available. It took us a bit of time to get our check, but we were able to chat with the performers, so it was fun. The parking discount at the Mason-Ellis garage worked out well. We highly recommend Biscuits and Blues for dinner and a show! We'll definitely be back.
More info
Biscuits and BluesPrice: Expensive• Regional American (Southern)• Downtown / Union Square
•
4.7
J
J. Alan
San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 23, 2024
The server Jake was great. We ate at the Dog Patch location (last day open) The food was exceptional. I am looking forward to visiting the Clement location in the future. All the best to the owners and staff at Hard Knox. Merry Christmas. Thank you!
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Hard Knox Cafe on Clement StreetPrice: Moderate• Regional American (Southern)• Richmond District
•
4.8
C
ChadVIP
San Francisco Bay Area •7 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 7, 2024
Excellent food! Highly recommended. Looking forward to going back.
More info
Hard Knox Cafe on 3rd StreetPrice: Moderate• Regional American (Southern)• Potrero Hill / Dogpatch
•
4.6

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Oakland

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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. Pierre Pierre

7. Commis Dining Room

8. Z Cafe & Bar

9. Commis Bar

10. Grand Lake Kitchen - Lake Merritt

See what locals rave about

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