Best Southern American Restaurants in Oakland

139 restaurants available nearby

1. MUA

4.4

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 8 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.

A photo of Smellys Creole Catering LLC restaurant

2. Smellys Creole Catering LLC

4.6

Exceptional(66)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 6 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!

3. Haus Of Chefs

4.4

Awesome(24)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

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 Bardo Lounge & Supper Club restaurant

4. Bardo Lounge & Supper Club

4.9

Exceptional(494)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 26 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. Z Cafe & Bar

4.2

Awesome(380)

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.

6. Burdell

4.5

Awesome(174)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 20 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.

A photo of Commis Dining Room restaurant

7. Commis Dining Room

4.9

Exceptional(1235)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 8 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. 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.

9. FLUID510

4.1

Excellent(5)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Oakland

FLUID510 is a love letter to the experience of Oakland; diverse, passionate & fun. It's downtown's destination for food & fun times! FLUID510 is open for food & beverage Wednesdays through Fridays at 4pm and open for our delicious, fun brunch program every Saturday & Sunday at 11am. We have Happy Hour until 6pm every day.We are the perfect place for your celebration especially brunch birthdays.We host DayThinking Trivia Brunch every 1st & 3rd Saturday from noon to 2pm and starting Sunday, January 26th, 2025 a Drag Brunch on the 4th Sunday of the Month produced by The Port Bar. FLUID510 is the host of 5 nights a week of HellaFunny HellaSecret Comedy. Tickets for those must be purchased on Eventbrite or FunCheap.com

10. Pierre Pierre

4.3

Awesome(144)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Oakland

Booked 23 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.

‘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

M
Megan
Philadelphia County •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
The service was awesome and the team was so supportive. The food was amazing and it was definitely a place we will return to.
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Pierre PierrePrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Oakland
•
4.3
P
PatrickVIP
Houston •23 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Exceptional execution on all fronts: a delicious meal, outstanding service, beautiful restaurant. The bartenders will make you excellent and unique cocktails, the som is extremely knowledgeable and will provide a range of options to pair with your meal.
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PreludePrice: Expensive• Californian• Financial District / Embarcadero
•
4.6
K
KathieVIP
San Francisco Bay Area •144 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Always wonderful service, deliciously made and served comfort food. Thank you for yet another enjoyable experience.
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Hard Knox Cafe on Clement StreetPrice: Moderate• Southern• Richmond District
•
4.8
M
Marcia
San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
4.0
Dined on 11 Jan 2025
We had a great time! The entertainment was terrific, and because the audience was small the performer was able to interact with us, making it special. The fried chicken dinner was seasoned perfectly, the catfish dinner was delicious. Cocktails were great, and staff were attentive and friendly.
More info
Biscuits and BluesPrice: Expensive• Southern• Downtown / Union Square
•
4.6

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Best Southern American Restaurants in Oakland

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139 restaurants available nearby

1. MUA

2. Smellys Creole Catering LLC

3. Haus Of Chefs

4. Bardo Lounge & Supper Club

5. Z Cafe & Bar

6. Burdell

7. Commis Dining Room

8. Commis Bar

9. FLUID510

10. Pierre Pierre

See what locals rave about

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