Northern California Culinary Adventure: Exploring Oakland, Berkeley & Sonoma’s Best Eats and Wineries

Embark on a delightful journey through Northern California’s vibrant food scene and picturesque wine country. This comprehensive guide recaps my recent trip to Oakland and Sonoma, highlighting my absolute favorite culinary discoveries and must-visit wineries. For more recommendations from my previous visit, be sure to check out this post detailing last year’s San Francisco adventure!

My partner, Connor, and I recently embarked on a fantastic Labor Day weekend escape to Oakland, California, where we had the pleasure of visiting my older sister, Alessandra, and her husband, Cassidy. If you’ve been keeping up with my adventures on Instagram, you might have caught glimpses of our relaxed itinerary and, of course, the incredible food we indulged in. It was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with family and explore a dynamic region.

During our stay, we also had the immense joy of meeting Kona, their rescue German Shepherd. Kona is, without a doubt, one of the sweetest and most affectionate dogs imaginable – a truly lovable addition to the family, though her charming personality is just a bonus to our culinary tale!

An unexpected BART closure that very same weekend meant we didn’t venture into central San Francisco at all this trip. However, I truly didn’t mind. Oakland and the neighboring Berkeley area are treasure troves of unique places to explore, and perhaps even more importantly, an abundance of incredible dining experiences. This delightful turn of events actually provided the perfect excuse to dive deeper into these vibrant communities, and it certainly gives me a compelling reason to plan a return visit soon!

Our days were wonderfully low-key and relaxed, a much-appreciated change of pace from our usual routines. We spent time enjoying scenic hikes, discovering the most picturesque dog park imaginable situated right on the bay, and hosting a delightful outdoor BBQ. A highlight of the trip was our day trip to Sonoma, where we savored exquisite wines and indulged in unforgettable meals. It was a vacation filled with good company, beautiful scenery, and, as you might guess, an abundance of delicious food. This trip was exactly what the doctor ordered – literally! I even managed to cross a few culinary gems off my personal bucket list.

Sonoma: A Day in Northern California Wine Country

Saturday brought us to the famed Sonoma Valley, a region synonymous with exceptional wines, stunning landscapes, and a relaxed, sophisticated charm. This marked both my and Connor’s first time experiencing Sonoma, and we were utterly captivated. The combination of world-class wine, fantastic food, and breathtaking scenery made for an unforgettable day. What’s not to love about such a perfect blend?

We focused our visit on two distinguished wineries, conveniently located directly across from one another, allowing for an effortless tasting experience: Jacuzzi Family Vineyards and Cline Cellars Vineyard & Winery. Both establishments generously offer complimentary wine tastings, and the quality of their selections was truly impressive, showcasing the best of Sonoma’s terroir.

Jacuzzi Family Vineyards

Jacuzzi Family Vineyards offered a unique and delightful twist on the typical wine tasting. Beyond their excellent wines, they also host olive oil and vinegar tastings. We were absolutely blown away by some of the incredibly interesting and innovative combinations we sampled. Imagine the bright, citrusy notes of blood orange olive oil perfectly paired with the rich, sweet undertones of chocolate balsamic vinegar – an utterly incredible and unexpectedly harmonious flavor explosion! It’s an experience that truly elevates the senses and provides a deeper appreciation for the versatility of these culinary staples.

Cline Cellars Vineyard & Winery

Just a stone’s throw away, Cline Cellars Vineyard & Winery provided another fantastic tasting experience. Their diverse portfolio of wines impressed us, but a particular standout was their Zabaglione. This exquisite dessert wine was so delightful that we purchased two bottles to bring home! A little insider tip for fellow wine enthusiasts: Cline Cellars’ Zabaglione is also available at Trader Joe’s, making it an accessible and affordable indulgence to enjoy even after your trip.

The Girl and the Fig: A Sonoma Dining Essential

After a morning of touring vineyards and soaking in the serene beauty of Sonoma, we made our way to downtown Sonoma Square for lunch at the renowned Girl and the Fig. My sister’s ability to secure a very late lunch reservation at the last minute, just a few days prior, was nothing short of miraculous given this restaurant’s immense popularity. I had been hearing rave reviews about this iconic Sonoma establishment for years, so my excitement was at an all-time high. Thankfully, it not only lived up to but exceeded all my expectations, delivering an absolutely delicious and memorable meal.

Have I ever confessed my profound love for figs? I am, without a doubt, a huge fig fanatic! If I could consistently find them in abundance (and resist devouring them within seconds of purchase), I swear this blog would be overflowing with countless fig-centric recipes. Naturally, dining at a place called The Girl and the Fig meant a fig dish was an absolute non-negotiable. We enthusiastically ordered and shared their exquisite Fig and Arugula Salad for the table. This masterpiece featured delicate house-cured pancetta and a rich port wine vinaigrette, creating a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and peppery notes that delighted every palate.

For our individual entrees, the culinary delights continued. I particularly recall a magnificent heirloom tomato, fresh corn, and basil cream pasta, bursting with the vibrant flavors of summer and a creamy, herbaceous finish. Another unforgettable dish was an amazing pork belly tartine, beautifully adorned with pickled red and green tomatoes, among other delectable accompaniments, creating a symphony of textures and tastes.

Despite our satisfying entrees, we simply couldn’t resist the allure of dessert. We opted to share a ridiculously rich Chocolate and Salted Fig Caramel Trifle. This decadent creation was crowned with freshly torched soft meringue, adding a delightful textural contrast and a hint of smoky sweetness. While perhaps more akin to an Italian budino or a velvety mousse than a traditional trifle, its taste was nothing short of heavenly. The combination of deep chocolate, sweet and salty fig caramel, and ethereal meringue left an indelible impression. I’m already planning to recreate this masterpiece next year, assuming I can source fresh figs! Hold me to that challenge! Regardless, I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to The Girl and the Fig if your travels take you to Sonoma anytime soon – it’s an essential culinary experience.

Oakland & Berkeley: A Foodie’s Paradise Unveiled

While Sonoma provided a serene escape, Oakland and its neighbor Berkeley offered a vibrant tapestry of culinary delights, from casual taco joints to sophisticated modern dining. I relished the chance to revisit some old favorites and discover exciting new establishments that have quickly become staples for locals. The food scene here is incredibly diverse and constantly evolving, reflecting the rich cultural fabric of these East Bay cities. Here are some of the standout places that made our trip truly delicious:

Cholita Linda // OAKLAND (4923 Telegraph Ave.)

After an invigorating afternoon hike, we stumbled upon Cholita Linda, a wonderfully fun and casual taco spot that perfectly captured the relaxed Oakland vibe. The charming outdoor seating, featuring cute vinyl-topped tables, immediately caught my eye and invited us to linger. I savored every bite of a perfectly crafted carnitas taco, a delightful explosion of tender, flavorful pork. My only regret was not ordering more – a common dilemma when faced with such deliciousness! I’m already looking forward to my next visit to try even more of their tempting offerings. This place is a true gem for authentic, satisfying tacos.

Penrose // OAKLAND (3311 Grand Avenue)

Our second evening in Oakland led us to Penrose for dinner, an experience I thoroughly enjoyed. This restaurant excels in crafting smaller, exquisitely prepared plates using incredibly seasonal ingredients, which means their menu is ever-changing and always fresh. The atmosphere was sophisticated yet inviting, making it perfect for an intimate dinner or a lively gathering with friends. While the specific dishes we savored have likely evolved with the seasons, the emphasis on quality ingredients and innovative preparation is a constant, ensuring a memorable dining experience every time.

Xolo Taqueria // OAKLAND (1916 Telegraph Avenue)

Confession time: we found ourselves at Xolo Taqueria late one night, after enjoying some craft brews at a cool brewery bar in downtown Oakland. And once again, I experienced the familiar regret of not ordering *more* tacos. I can personally vouch for the unparalleled deliciousness of their ‘vampiro’ taco – an absolute must-try for any taco aficionado. The pollo taco was equally outstanding, showcasing perfectly seasoned chicken and fresh toppings. Xolo is the ideal spot for satisfying those late-night taco cravings with truly authentic and flavorful options.

Duende // OAKLAND (468 19th Street)

Duende, located in downtown Oakland, offers a captivating modern Spanish culinary experience. It’s one of my sister’s absolute favorite restaurants, a testament to its consistent quality and innovative approach. Their menu changes frequently, which speaks to their commitment to seasonality and creativity. While I can’t recall the exact names of all the dishes we enjoyed due to their dynamic menu, I can confidently say that every single plate was a delight. The paella de carna, in particular, left a lasting impression with its rich flavors and expertly cooked ingredients.

Curbside Creamery // OAKLAND (482 49th Street)

Tucked away in the cutest little alley just off a bustling main street, Curbside Creamery is a charming haven for dessert lovers. They specialize in gourmet ice cream, delectable ice cream sandwiches, and creamy soft serve. My personal favorites were the sophisticated Bourbon Whiskey Vanilla and the classic Vanilla Malt Ball, but honestly, I wanted to try every single flavor! While you’re in the area, be sure to stroll around the corner to Doughnut Dolly, where they hand-fill fresh donuts to order – a perfect complementary treat!

Bette’s Oceanview Diner // BERKELEY (1807 4th Street)

Bette’s Oceanview Diner is nothing short of an institution in the Berkeley area, a timeless establishment that beckons you to return again and again. They are legendary for their pancakes, especially their famous soufflé pancakes, which are an absolute revelation – light, fluffy, and utterly divine. I particularly adore their breakfast special, a generous plate featuring two of their special pancakes, perfectly cooked eggs, and your choice of sausage or bacon. A pro tip: ask for their slow-cooked scrambled eggs for an incredibly creamy and flavorful experience. It’s truly the best of both worlds! This place gets packed, so try to visit on an off-day or during an unconventional time to avoid long waits.

Rick & Ann’s // BERKELEY (2922 Domingo Avenue)

Another beloved breakfast institution in the Berkeley area, Rick & Ann’s rivals Bette’s with its own incredible offerings. Their blueberry pancakes were simply divine – plump, juicy blueberries nestled in a fluffy pancake, cooked to perfection. Beyond pancakes, they excel in omelets and offer unique, intriguing dishes like their “red flannel hash,” a vibrant and flavorful medley of fresh beets, sweet potato, new potato, onion, and savory bacon. The atmosphere is super cozy and classically charming. Like Bette’s, Rick & Ann’s is incredibly popular, so planning your visit for an off-peak time is advisable to fully enjoy this Berkeley classic.

Lush Gelato // OAKLAND (4184 Piedmont Avenue, plus two other locations)

Lush Gelato is a true standout for its incredibly creative craft gelato. Stepping into their shop, I was overwhelmed with the desire to try every single flavor on their menu, and I happily sampled almost everything because choosing was nearly impossible! While every flavor is exceptional, I was particularly impressed by their stout beer gelato with rich chocolate waffle cone pieces – a surprisingly sophisticated and delicious combination. Another highlight was the luscious creme fraiche and balsamic strawberry gelato, which was exquisitely creamy and perfectly balanced between tart and sweet. Lush Gelato truly pushes the boundaries of traditional gelato flavors in the most delightful way.