A delightful brunch scene in Oakland

Last updated: 2025-04-07

Popular Brunch Spots in Oakland and Surrounding Areas

Oakland’s brunch scene blends The Town’s diverse culinary influences, from soul food at Souley Vegan to Japanese-American fusion at Hopscotch. The East Bay’s weekend ritual brings together locals seeking everything from Brenda’s Creole-inspired dishes to Mediterranean flavors at Shakewell.

From uptown hotspots like Calavera’s Mexican-inspired brunches to quick trips across the bridge to Berkeley institutions like Bette’s Diner, Oakland’s brunch options reflect the area’s laid-back yet sophisticated food culture.

Explore The Town’s best brunch spots below!

Bette's Diner (Berkeley)

What to Expect

Cast-iron skillet Dutch Baby pancakes

Description

Berkeley's iconic Bette's Diner serves up classic Southern-style brunch with legendary Dutch Baby pancakes that draw crowds from across the Bay Area. Their fluffy, oversized German-inspired pancake is a signature dish, baked to golden perfection in cast-iron skillets and served with seasonal fruit compotes. The cozy, bustling diner offers a quintessential Berkeley breakfast experience with hearty portions and a warm, neighborhood atmosphere.

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Brenda's

What to Expect

Southern-inspired biscuit flights with innovative flavor profiles

Description

Brenda's Oakland offers a vibrant Southern-inspired brunch experience featuring bold, soulful cuisine. Their famous buttermilk biscuit flights showcase creative flavor combinations, with standout options like crawfish, cheddar, and classic versions. The restaurant delivers a lively, energetic atmosphere perfect for weekend brunch enthusiasts seeking hearty, New Orleans-style comfort food with California flair.

More Info: Brenda's

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Calavera

What to Expect

Mexican regional brunch with artisanal mezcal program

Description

Calavera brings vibrant Mexican brunch to Oakland's Uptown district, specializing in authentic regional cuisine with a contemporary twist. Their weekend brunch features standout dishes like chilaquiles verdes with crispy tortillas, slow-braised pork, and perfectly poached eggs. The restaurant's Day of the Dead-inspired decor creates a lively, colorful atmosphere perfect for weekend gatherings, with an impressive mezcal and cocktail selection complementing their bold, flavorful menu.

More Info: Calavera

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Hopscotch

What to Expect

Southern-California fusion brunch with inventive comfort food

Description

Oakland's Hopscotch delivers a creative California-inspired brunch featuring Southern-influenced comfort food with an innovative twist. Their signature Fried Chicken & Waffles combine crispy buttermilk-marinated chicken with bourbon maple syrup, showcasing the restaurant's bold flavor profile. The industrial-chic dining room provides a relaxed urban atmosphere perfect for weekend gatherings, with craft cocktails complementing their hearty brunch menu.

More Info: Hopscotch

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Shakewell

What to Expect

Mediterranean-inspired brunch with Spanish chorizo hash

Description

Shakewell offers a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired brunch experience in Oakland's Temescal neighborhood. Their signature Spanish-influenced dishes feature standout items like chorizo hash with crispy potatoes, poached eggs, and spicy romesco sauce. The restaurant delivers a lively atmosphere with an open kitchen, craft cocktails, and a stylish urban setting that attracts food enthusiasts seeking innovative brunch options.

More Info: Shakewell

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Souley Vegan

What to Expect

Southern-style vegan comfort food brunch experience

Description

Oakland's premier vegan brunch destination serving bold Southern-inspired plant-based comfort food. Signature dishes include crispy fried tofu 'chicken' and waffles, loaded vegan biscuits with herb gravy, and innovative soul food reimagined without animal products. The casual, vibrant space celebrates plant-based cuisine with authentic Southern flavors and generous portions that satisfy both vegans and non-vegans alike.

More Info: Souley Vegan

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Every brunch spot listing goes through our comprehensive 30-step review process combining AI technology with human expertise. We maintain unbiased listings (except for clearly marked featured spots) to ensure you get accurate, reliable brunch information.

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