Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in Oakland | Upscale Italian Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in Oakland | Upscale Italian Food

• The Cheese Board Collective — Italian · rated 5/5: This vibrant, community-focused hub pulses with the energy of live jazz and the irresistible aroma of sourdough crusts bubbling with artisanal cheeses. Each day celebrates a single, thoughtfully composed vegetarian pizza topped with seasonal ingredients, offering a communal experience where locals gather on the sidewalk to enjoy fresh slices or take home parbaked pies crafted for every dietary preference.
• Shan Dong Restaurant — Chinese · rated 5/5: This spirited neighborhood haunt invites guests into a bustling atmosphere where the golden crunch of garlic-parmesan fries and the savory aroma of bubbling red pie pizzas create an instant sense of comfort. Vibrant, artfully composed salads like the "Kitchen Sink" and "Zoodles" offer a fresh, crisp counterpoint to indulgent plates of buffalo cauliflower and warm potatoes dipped in rich aioli, making it a versatile destination for both light bites and hearty, shared feasts.
• Arizmendi — Italian · rated 5/5: This bustling worker-owned cooperative hums with a communal energy, drawing neighbors in with the irresistible scent of sourdough crusts and seasonal vegetables roasting atop their signature daily pizza. Golden-hued morning buns and crusty artisanal loaves spill from the ovens, creating a warm, flour-dusted sanctuary where the craft of traditional baking meets a vibrant spirit of togetherness.
• Rose Pizzeria — Italian · rated 5/5: Rose Pizzeria captures a playful elegance where the table is quickly filled with vibrant plates of silky burrata paired with cherries and tins of premium anchovies that spark the appetite. The room hums with energy as thin, blistered crusts emerge from the oven, topped with everything from spicy pepperoni and fresh basil to the simple, molten perfection of a classic cheese pie. It is a spirited destination that transforms a casual meal into a sensory celebration of bold, bright flavors and timeless comfort.
• Caffe Chiave — Italian · rated 5/5: Sun-drenched and soulful, this intimate neighborhood gem hums with the rhythmic hiss of the espresso machine and the inviting aroma of freshly baked pastries. Guests settle into cozy corners to enjoy artisanal brews and crisp, pressed paninis, finding a tranquil escape that captures the effortless grace and lingering warmth of a classic European cafe.
• Lucia's Pizzeria — Italian · rated 5/5: Step into a sun-drenched corner of Italy where the crackle of a wood-fired oven sets the rhythm for an evening of rustic indulgence. The kitchen honors tradition through the bold simplicity of the Cosacca, bright with garlic and sharp pecorino, and the velvety Norma, where fried eggplant and salty ricotta salata melt into a rich, bubbling tomato base. It is a vibrant sanctuary for those seeking the authentic soul of the Mediterranean, one charred and blistered crust at a time.
• June's Pizza — Italian · rated 5/5: The intoxicating aroma of charred sourdough and bubbling cheese spills from the wood-fired oven, drawing guests into a space where industrial grit meets artisanal warmth. Each hand-stretched pie emerges with a perfectly blistered crust, topped with a rotating tapestry of seasonal ingredients that turn simple local harvests into elevated, soul-warming comfort.
• Cheeseboard Pizza — Italian · rated 4/5: The air hums with the vibrant energy of live music and the irresistible aroma of sourdough baking in high-heat ovens, drawing a lively crowd to this beloved communal landmark. Each day brings a seasonally-inspired pizza creation atop a perfectly charred crust, best enjoyed with a side of roasted garlic and a generous drizzle of their signature zesty green sauce. From crisp, garden-fresh salads to inclusive vegan and gluten-free options, every slice captures a spirited celebration of artisanal baking and neighborhood connection.
• Fellini Coffee Bar — Italian · rated 4/5: Stepping into Fellini Coffee Bar feels like a transportive escape to a mid-century Roman piazza, where the rhythmic hiss of the espresso machine and the warm glow of polished brass create a backdrop of cinematic elegance. Guests linger over velvety cappuccinos and buttery, golden-brown pastries at the marble counter, soaking in an atmosphere that celebrates the art of the slow morning and the vibrant energy of Italian café culture.
• Red Tomato Pizza House — Italian · rated 4/5: This lively neighborhood cornerstone hums with the warmth of a busy kitchen, where the aroma of hand-tossed dough and simmering sauce sets the stage for a quintessential pizza feast. Whether you’re craving the smoky tang of a Summer BBQ pie or the garden-fresh crunch of the Farmer’s Market specialty, every slice arrives laden with premium toppings and bubbling cheese, creating a communal dining experience that feels both indulgent and familiar.
• Marzano — Italian · rated 4/5: Sun-drenched flavors and the comforting hum of a bustling kitchen define this vibrant Italian escape, where the air is thick with the intoxicating scent of charred wood-fired crusts and slow-simmered pomodoro. Guests gather around rustic tables to share hand-stretched pizzas topped with jewel-toned tomatoes and silky ribbons of pasta tossed in fragrant herbs, all served with a soulful warmth that feels like a homecoming. It is a place where the simplicity of the Mediterranean meets modern elegance, turning every meal into a spirited celebration of tradition and taste.
• Jupiter — Italian · rated 4/5: Jupiter pulses with a convivial energy, drawing guests into a space where the comforting scent of wood-fired potatoes and bubbling beer-and-cheese fondue fills the air. It is a sanctuary for communal dining, where friends gather over shared plates of smoky BBQ riblets and crisp, herb-dusted bruschetta to toast the evening in a setting that feels both vibrant and timeless.
• Victory Point Cafe — American · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams into this lively social sanctuary, where the rich fragrance of locally roasted coffee blends seamlessly with the irresistible aroma of hand-stretched pizzas emerging hot from the oven. Between bites of artisanal sandwiches and shared snack bowls, diners can explore a curated selection of craft beers and honeyed meads that elevate casual gatherings into spirited celebrations. It is a space designed for lingering, where the sweetness of fresh pastries and the warmth of communal tables create a welcoming backdrop for laughter and connection.
• Enoteca Molinari — Italian · rated 4/5: Soft candlelight flickers against rows of curated vintages in this intimate sanctuary, where the rhythmic clink of wine glasses and the hum of warm conversation set a soulful, inviting pace. Silken ribbons of house-made pasta and rustic small plates celebrate the vibrant simplicity of Italian flavors, perfectly complemented by a deep list of regional wines that invite guests to linger long into the evening.
• Flavor Brigade — American · rated 4/5: Flavor Brigade serves as a vibrant neighborhood oasis where the frosty allure of hand-scooped Italian ice provides a colorful, cooling reprieve from the afternoon sun. From the signature Mummers Mix to overflowing quarts of silky, fruit-forward flavors, each spoonful offers a nostalgic burst of sweetness that transforms a simple frozen treat into a quintessential summer memory.
• Italian Homemade Company — Italian · rated 4/5: This lively, flour-dusted eatery captures the soulful energy of a traditional Bolognese kitchen, where the rhythmic thrum of pasta machines and the rich aroma of simmering slow-cooked sauces fill the air. Guests watch as skilled hands transform simple ingredients into silky ribbons of fettuccine and golden, griddled piadinas, each dish served with a rustic simplicity that honors the timeless heritage of Italian home cooking. It is a vibrant neighborhood hub where the warmth of a shared meal and the honest flavors of handmade dough create an experience that feels both deeply personal and wonderfully communal.
• Mama Oakland — Italian · rated 4/5: This intimate neighborhood gem wraps guests in a soulful embrace, offering a curated three-course experience that balances rustic comfort with polished culinary artistry. The air hums with conversation as plates of silk-smooth pesto gnocchi and golden chicken milanese emerge from the kitchen, each dish a testament to the beauty of vibrant, seasonal flavors. From the bright tang of grilled citrus and burrata to the velvety finish of a vanilla panna cotta, every meal unfolds like a celebrated family tradition in a space that feels both sophisticated and like home.
• Espresso Roma — Italian · rated 4/5: Stepping into Espresso Roma feels like entering a sun-drenched corner of Italy, where the rhythmic hiss of the steam wand and the deep, nutty aroma of dark-roasted beans create a bustling sanctuary for conversation and craft. Patrons linger over velvety lattes and golden, flaky pastries at marble-topped tables, soaking in an atmosphere that balances old-world charm with a vibrant, intellectual energy. It is a neighborhood anchor where the simple ritual of a perfectly pulled shot becomes a moment of quiet reflection or a catalyst for spirited connection.
• Belotti — Italian · rated 4/5: This intimate sanctuary celebrates the soulful artistry of Northern Italy, where the rhythmic dusting of flour and the aroma of slow-simmered ragus set the stage for an exceptional pasta-centric journey. The kitchen masterfully hand-folds delicate parcels of agnolotti and casoncelli, serving them alongside robust ribbons of pappardelle and silken bigoli tossed in savory duck sauce. Each plate is a vibrant tribute to tradition, inviting guests to linger over velvety burrata and artisanal antipasti in a space that feels both sophisticated and deeply welcoming.
• Cafe Milano — Italian · rated 4/5: Sunlight dances across a space where the aroma of bubbling red and white pizzas meets the crisp, garden-fresh allure of vibrant Mediterranean and zoodle salads. The kitchen masterfully balances playful indulgence and wholesome fare, serving up everything from golden waffles paired with crackling wings to artfully deconstructed cobbs and ever-evolving burger creations. It is a welcoming neighborhood sanctuary where the comfort of a classic omelette and the spicy zing of buffalo cauliflower create a flavorful tapestry perfect for any time of day.
• Bobby G's Pizzeria — Italian · rated 4/5: Step into a vibrant neighborhood haunt where the enticing aroma of golden-crusted flatbreads and savory zaatar invites you to linger over a table of shared plates. The kitchen elevates classic comfort with crispy, golden arancini and fragrant truffle fries, while their signature stuffed breadsticks and succulent wings provide a satisfying, hands-on feast. Every dish, from the garden-fresh salads to the earthy sautéed vegetables, captures a playful yet sophisticated approach to the modern pizzeria experience.
• Emilia's Pizzeria — Italian · rated 4/5: Emilia’s Pizzeria pulses with the energy of a classic neighborhood haunt, where the irresistible aroma of blistered dough and savory tomato sauce draws guests into a space filled with warmth and laughter. Artisanal pies like the spicy Gina Calabrese and the crispy, thin-crust Hoboken emerge from the oven with perfectly singed edges, offering a masterclass in balanced textures and bold, nostalgic flavors. Whether diving into the soulful O.G. or the garden-fresh Veggie, diners find a sanctuary where every slice celebrates the timeless craft of the perfect pizza.
• Nick's Pizza — Italian · rated 4/5: The irresistible aroma of blistered crusts and simmering sauce spills onto the sidewalk, drawing guests into a lively space where artisanal pizzas are elevated to a neighborhood art form. Savory layers of spicy hot coppa, earthy spinach, and fragrant herbs crown perfectly charred dough, while thoughtful vegan creations ensure every palate finds a slice of comfort amidst the warm, bustling atmosphere.
• The Star — Italian · rated 4/5: Bathed in the warm, golden glow of low-slung pendants, this neighborhood jewel invites guests to linger over tables laden with seasonally inspired plates and artisanal cocktails. The atmosphere hums with a sophisticated yet soulful energy, where every bite captures the essence of refined comfort and every glass raised feels like a celebration of the everyday.
• Agrodolce — Italian · rated 3/5: Agrodolce captures the vibrant spirit of the Sicilian coast, inviting guests into a space where the golden crunch of frittura mista and the delicate perfume of fried zucchini blossoms evoke a sun-drenched Mediterranean afternoon. The kitchen masterfully balances the bold, "sour-sweet" harmonies of its namesake through traditional staples like rich eggplant caponata and silken beef carpaccio, creating a sensory journey that feels both deeply rooted in island heritage and refreshingly contemporary.
• Gioia Pizzeria — Italian · rated 3/5: The air at Gioia Pizzeria hums with the warmth of a roaring wood-fired oven and the lively chatter of a neighborhood gathering place. Artisanal pies emerge with perfectly charred, blistered crusts that cradle vibrant sauces and molten cheeses, offering a masterclass in the delicate balance of crunch and chew. It is a soulful destination where the simple joy of a shared pizza and a crisp glass of wine transforms a casual meal into a spirited celebration of Italian tradition.
• Luca Cucina — Italian · rated 3/5: Luca Cucina invites diners into a sun-drenched space where the comforting aroma of toasted garlic bread and slow-simmered broths fills the air. Vibrant, garden-fresh salads like the jewel-toned beet and classic Caprese offer a crisp, colorful counterpoint to steaming bowls of traditional Stracciatella and hearty minestrone. It is a sanctuary of simple, soul-warming flavors that celebrates the art of the starter, turning nourishing soups and crisp greens into a lingering, heartfelt dining experience.
• Heroic Italian — Italian · rated 3/5: Step into a vibrant space where the air is thick with the savory perfume of truffle-infused salumi and freshly baked focaccia. This modern Italian enclave transforms the art of the sandwich into a gourmet experience, layering premium imported meats and artisanal cheeses between crusty, hand-crafted bread. As day turns to dusk, the mood shifts to an intimate trattoria where guests linger over silken, hand-rolled pastas and curated Italian vintages amidst a backdrop of rustic-chic charm.
• Cafenated Coffee Co. — Italian, Chinese, Mexican, Japanese · rated 3/5: Step into a sun-drenched sanctuary where the comforting aroma of freshly roasted beans creates a cozy retreat from the outside world. Whether savoring a velvety, pure espresso or a surprisingly deep decaf blend, every sip offers a taste of liquid utopia designed for total indulgence. It is a vibrant neighborhood haven where the simple pleasure of a perfectly crafted cup brings a sense of effortless joy to every morning ritual.
• Mezzo — Italian · rated 3/5: Mezzo serves as a sun-dappled neighborhood retreat where the comforting steam of artisanal soups and the rich aroma of a bustling coffee bar invite guests to linger over their midday cravings. The kitchen transforms fresh, seasonal ingredients into vibrant chef-curated salads and bespoke sandwiches, offering a personalized culinary experience that pairs perfectly with a crisp local craft beer in the golden afternoon light.