Modigliani Cafe — Restaurant in Oakland

This absolute gem of a cafe reaffirmed my faith in the point of eating out, having new shared experiences, connecting with people and their labors of love. As other reviews have amply stated, they make EVERYTHING in-house here, down to the mustard. What stays with me is the pride they take in this making; the way everything has a little story and there’s just joy in being able to share it. I haven’t encountered hospitality like this in a long time-- no-frills, treating everyone like family. Complimentary coffee, free chips for first-timers, generous samples, checking in that you have everything you need, deriving joy just from seeing us enjoy the food. Regulars dropped by just to chat and I could totally see why. Someone who used to work in the kitchen came in and the owner knew it was his birthday. Dogs got a little meatball treat. “Service” doesn’t even cut it. It really felt like a space to just love food and be in community.

The food was fantastic in every way, thoughtful and hearty and balanced in wonderful flavor. Everything had me thinking, ad nauseam: “this is the best _ I’ve ever had.” The best cuban sandwich (crispy perfect panini, delightful pulled pork and tender turkey/ham); the best greek salad (so light and tart and juicy and fresh!); the best meatball (such savory, homey textures!); the best pesto. I am always on the lookout for good pickled things and would literally buy their house-cured peppers in bulk if I could. But also, I think I’d prefer coming back as often as possible :)

“Our goal is that you leave happier than when...

Ever since Lucky House Thai in Berkeley closed down, I have been on the hunt for a new restaurant to worship, and Modigliani fits the bill. The food is nothing short of impeccable, they make everything in-house minus their bread, and the effort and love is palpable. Some of my favorite Modigliani makings are the hot sauce (a 7-pepper blend that, if the owner Gerry is to be believed, takes ages and tons of labor to make), the capicola (a three-week brine is required IIRC), and the pesto sauce (so basil-heavy, that it's a deep forest green; Gerry does not skimp). I am so consistently impressed with their stuff, that I have made it a mission to try every single sandwich on the menu, and to make a tier list.

The food is enough to earn my fanfare, but Modigliani does not stop there. Gerry, Linda, Charlie, and this other gentleman whose name escapes me all take such excellent care of their customers. They appear genuinely happy when I show up to the café. If they notice me standing around the condiments area, they will refill the hot sauce. They will crack jokes to entertain me while they prepare my food.

Give them a visit. You...

I work in the area and I always smell this amazing smell and I followed my nose and lead me into Modigliani cafe. My nose did not let me down! This place is delicious!! I ordered the meatball sub. Hands down best meatball sub I’ve had in the east bay! I don’t even know where you can go to get one besides subway. The meatballs were well seasoned and the ration to cheese and sauce was perfect. Not only was the food outstanding- but the service and staff are amazing. Jerry is such a good sincere person. He puts a lot of love and care into his food and establishment. He is so generous and kind and very enjoyable to talk to. He let us try his amazing seasonal chili! And he makes his own hot sauce. 10/10!! I will 100% be back to try everything slowly. You should def check this place out - not many places left like this that serve good honest food. Absolutely try his in house brined bacon too!! I’m hungry just typing this up. ** this is my second review - I went back and tried the pepperoni roll and the Cuban! Holy cow!! Amazing!!! 10/10!! Very good Cuban! And that’s...