Oakland’s Best Restaurants showcase everything from elevated comfort food and artisan pizzas to local classics and international flavors. Many of the same amenities that make Oakland so beloved by the college kids — walkable streets, a variety of great restaurants, easy access to cultural institutions and entertainment — make it a great place to live regardless of how long it has been since you bought a textbook. Whether you’re young enough to call the Cathedral of Learning “Cathy” or old enough to remember Forbes Field, the allure of Oakland has endured for good reason. The next time you’re in the neighborhood, plan to try out these restaurants, cafes, and other eats.
The Best Restaurants, Cafes, and Other Food Spots in Oakland
The Porch
221 Schenley Drive | 412.687.6724
A favorite among Oakland-area faculty, staff and students who want to treat visitors to a good meal, The Porch is a low-fuss offering easily accessible to those on the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University campuses. You can’t go wrong with its selection of artisan pizzas (we recommend the Bianca: fresh goat cheese, fig jam, baby arugula & truffle oil), paired with a good selection of beer and wine. Snag a seat outside when the weather is nice.
Butterjoint
208 N. Craig St. | 412.621.2700
You’re making a reservation for the fanciest — and maybe the best — meal you’ll find in Oakland.
Cork and Crust
5130 Bigelow Blvd. | 412.546.0040
Pair glasses of wine with pizza, pasta and other Italian fare at this restaurant inside The Oaklander Hotel.
Dave & Andy’s Homemade Ice Cream
207 Atwood St. | 412.681.9906
This neighborhood icon reopened in 2024, charm and ice cream quality intact.
Eat Unique
305 S. Craig St. | 412.683.9993
Salads, sandwiches, bakery items and other bites make for a quick breakfast or lunch.
Gene’s Place
3616 Louisa St.
In the neighborhood, this is the dive bar to rule all dive bars.
Oishii Bento
119 Oakland Ave. | 412.687.3335
Grab Korean and Japanese comfort food such as bento boxes, hand rolls and udon.
Pamela’s Diner
3703 Forbes Ave. | 412.683.4066
The Oakland outpost of this local chain may be the most well-known spot for breakfast in the neighborhood.
Redhawk Coffee
120 Meyran Ave.
Pop in for artisanal coffee — just a hop, skip and jump from Pitt’s campus.
Union Grill
413 S. Craig St. | 412.681.8620
Come for the classic American fare with access to outdoor seating and room for large parties.
Plus, take time to check out where to shop, as well as discover Oakland’s top attractions and landmarks, too.
Story by Amanda Reed
Polaroid by Evan Okun