Ain't Normal Cafe — Restaurant in Oakland

Ain't Normal was a place my partner and I would grab a drink after completing our errands up College Ave. I asked them to grab a seat while I went in to order a mocha for them. While they were preparing the drink, I noticed the staff muttering among themselves about someone that had sat down outside in their seating section. In remembrance of Father's day we splurged and got a sandwich from Boichik Bagel's. I never thought my partner having an unopened Boichik bagel sandwich out on a table would be something to cause an issue with the staff. We didn't see signs stating that outside food/drink was not allowed. The staff didn't wait even one minute to make the judgment to confront my partner asking whether or not they are waiting for someone inside. After my partner said that they were waiting for me inside, the staff stated the tables were for customers only and no outside food was allowed. In short, asking them to leave. The only positive thing I can say about Ain't Normal is that they allow you to bring your own cup. This experience left a bad taste in our mouths and we don't feel comfortable revisiting this establishment again.

If you are reading this review looking for an alternative option for a place you don't have to worry about being judged by the staff, The Chocolate Dragon down the street pulls an excellent shot of espresso with silky smooth steamed milk and has the nicest people working there you...

Great Matcha latte with Oat milk… & the Avocado Toast is ‘divine’ and the people are really great.

Urgent Reminder:

Despite the recent devastating news of 18,000 dairy cows perishing in a Texas dairy farm fire, our barista still asked if "Whole Milk is okay?" as their default question. It's high time we make a conscious effort to shift to a more sustainable option. Hence, it would be greatly appreciated if we could switch to asking, "Is Oat Milk okay?" as our default question when taking orders.

Let's take a moment to reflect on the bigger picture and consider the impact of our choices on the environment. Thank you for your consideration in making a positive change.

In comparison to dairy, Oat milk requires 60% less energy, produces 80% fewer gas emissions, uses 90% less water, and occupies 80% less land - all of which are crucial to the survival of our ecosystem in the ever-changing modern world. Moreover, Oats consume the least amount of water, even when compared to other plants. Unlike cow's milk, Oat milk doesn't cause any harm to animals.

We appreciate your consideration in making a sustainable choice that benefits both our planet and its inhabitants. Thank you for being...

This used to be my favorite place in Rockridge for a breve cappuccino until I had the misfortune of meeting the owner this afternoon. He was not only rude and aggressive about my therapy dog - I had been paying $5 or $5.50 plus a tip for my breve for months, which is already more than any other coffee bar in the area, when he instead rang me up for $6.50(!) I pointed this out and he said the other baristas had been making a mistake but he was the owner, so I ordered a $4(!) espresso instead. The espresso, while made from nice quality coffee and exceptionally strong, tasted burnt. What was worst about this experience was that he served me a brimming glass of sparkling water with my for-here espresso but neglected to offer a tray, so that when I carried the espresso and water to my table, with my dog, my jacket, and a Street Spirit from a homeless person outside in one hand, I spilled it all over my things.

I will try Souvenir coffee next, or head back to Hudson Bay which serves a decent espresso and has friendly service! I won't be coming back here for a while.

I give the service zero stars today but the coffee is still good quality, and I used to love the cappuccino art, it...