Zocalo Coffee and Kitchen — Restaurant in Oakland

1 year in, and I'm confident this is the greatest daytime work/study spot in all of the East Bay. You want to be here on a rainy day.

Just a 15min walk or 7min scooter ride from Laney College, Zocalo in Brooklyn Basin is aesthetic, spacious, and delicious. My wife and I wanted to get some work done one afternoon, and we popped in to get creme brulee lattes (iced is the way to go) and a BLT.

Weekend brunch here is absolutely underrated - chefs do a fantastic job. I've tried a couple different things (including weekday lunch) and while food costs a more on par with a restaurant than a cafe - the generous slices of bread, and the perfectly fried potatoes put this place over the top of many other go-to spots in Oakland. Paired with weekend mimosas and board games to rent - this place is an absolute vibe.

Check their hours! If they were open later - I think this spot could be an excellent evening study cafe/bar (like Mother Tongue on broadway, or Social Study / The Interval in SF). It's added to our list and we'll cozy up here again whenever we need a relaxing cafe date. Thank you Sara & the Zocalo team for bringing beautiful cafe...

My family and I came on opening night for their happy hour service! All new menu and a full cocktail menu. All the staff is so sweet and super friendly!

For drinks, we got Florence and the bird of paradise. Both were so good, but if you must choose, try the Birds of Paradise!

For food, we tried a bit of everything! Starting we got the roasted Brussels sprouts (my personal favorite! The best Brussels sprouts I've had!), Fries ( definitely get the cajun seasonings added), mussels for 2 (was enough for 3), Tartine of Oxtail (not enough! I could have ate the whole pot!), the sliders are also a must try! ( they come in sets of two So definitely the pork belly and the fried chicken)!

For dessert, we also got one of everything! They serve chocolate pot de crème, crème brulee, and Affogato, which are all delicious! But hands down, the crème brûlée was...

I really want to like this place but... The atmosphere and location are great - super appreciate the outdoor tables and there is almost always space to sit down. However, there is absolutely NO Gluten Free option on the menu (really? In the bay area? in 2025? come on...) and the espresso drinks often taste burned... and for a $6 coffee + tips, it should be perfect. Also, it's nice they allow dogs inside but sometimes you find the missbehaved dogs that bark indoors and they are a true pain - and the staff says nothing. It doesn't help the vibe to have a barking dog sitting next to you while you are trying to...