Calabash — Restaurant in Oakland

We had such a wonderful time at Calabash last Friday night. The environment is welcoming and comfortable, Our waiter was so lovely that we wanted to take him home with us, and the food and drink were amazing.

The three of us shared a carafe of Rum Punch. The rum was so smooth that we didn't even taste it, but we could feel it by the time our food was served.

My husband and friend ordered the Jerk Chicken and I had the Jerk Chicken and Shrimp Pasta. We all three agreed that the spice levels were perfect - and that covers spice attitudes ranging from a "Mayo is Spicy" level to "Let's add more hot sauce". The chicken thighs were perfectly cooked, the red beans and rice were perfectly cooked and the plantains were so good that my husband didn't even save me one! I was completely happy with my pasta dish. All of the components were cooked to perfect doneness and the tomato cream sauce was delicious. We skipped dessert because the portion sizes were generous and we just couldn't fit anything else!

Oh! The Restroom! It's all Gender, with a common ante-room for hand washing, with individual full doored toilet rooms. But the lighting, the whole vibe, of the anteroom was so lovely. I would have been happy to find a chaise lounge and hang out in there, it was so inviting. Very nice design!

We will...

We made a reservation as we weren't sure. Got there at 11:45ish, there was only one table eating so we were relieved as we were late. Very nice atmosphere, would make a great event/private party space (they hosted a Black Healers networking event recently!) We were warmly greeted and sat down. My friend got the Duck with Grits, Tomatoes, and Capers and the Kingston Rum Punch (the punch was AMAZING). I got the Lemon & Garlic Chicken with Carmalized Carrots. Mine was supposed to come with jasmine rice and butternut sqaush salad, but the kitchen subbed it for rice & beans??? lol Our dishes came out fast too.

The veggies were the most flavorful part of both dishes (no shade). We both loved the carrots. My chicken was tender and rice & beans were good. We were both filled and had leftovers. As we ate, the restaurant quickly filled up, so get here when they open! People's dishes around us looked and smelled good too lol esp. the Challah Cinnamon French Toast and the Lunch Special Jerk Chicken Pasta. Will definitely come back and try...

Calabash is an absolute gem in Oakland, serving up bold and flavorful Afro-Caribbean and Jamaican dishes that leave a lasting impression. I had the 10-hour braised pulled beef sandwich, and it was nothing short of incredible—tender, rich, and melt-in-your-mouth like butter. Every bite was packed with deep, savory flavor.

I also tried the jerk chicken sandwich, which was equally delicious and came topped with perfectly fried plantains—adding the perfect touch of sweetness and crunch. Speaking of plantains, I ordered them as a side too, and they were crispy, golden, and addictive.

Calabash truly brings the taste of international comfort food to the Bay Area. If you’re craving a hearty, soulful meal with Caribbean flair, this spot is a must-visit. I’ll definitely be back to explore more...