Best Upscale Vietnamese Restaurants in Oakland | Upscale Vietnamese Food

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

• Great China — Chinese · rated 5/5: This refined destination elevates traditional flavors into a sensory feast, where the centerpiece is the legendary Peking duck with its mahogany, lacquered skin carved tableside. The air hums with the energy of shared plates, from the refreshing, translucent snap of the signature "Double Skin" noodle salad to the decadent richness of sautéed crab meat tucked into pillowy steamed buns. Each dish, whether a bowl of aromatic wintermelon soup or golden, honey-glazed walnut prawns, reflects a masterful balance of texture and tradition in a sophisticated, light-filled setting.
• 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.
• Phnom Penh — Vietnamese · rated 5/5: The air at Phnom Penh is thick with the intoxicating scents of lemongrass, pungent prahok, and toasted coconut, drawing diners into a vibrant space where the bold, layered flavors of Cambodia take center stage. Golden-fried appetizers and stuffed chicken wings offer a satisfying crunch that transitions into the complex, citrusy depths of traditional sour soups and zesty, herb-brightened salads. Every dish celebrates a delicate balance of heat and acidity, providing a soulful culinary journey that captures the true essence of Southeast Asian hospitality.
• Banh Mi Ba Le — Vietnamese · rated 5/5: The air inside this bustling Vietnamese deli is thick with the irresistible scent of freshly baked baguettes and savory grilled meats, drawing in crowds for a taste of authentic street-food artistry. Each sandwich is a masterclass in texture and balance, layering crisp, airy bread with rich pâté, tangy pickled vegetables, and a bright spark of fresh cilantro and chili. It is a vibrant, high-energy destination where the humble banh mi is elevated through bold, traditional flavors and a commitment to perfectly executed ingredients.
• Holy Basil Pho — Vietnamese · rated 5/5: This lively destination pulses with the aromatic energy of fresh herbs and sizzling woks, inviting guests into a modern space where traditional comfort meets bold, contemporary flair. Golden, glaze-kissed wings and crisp lotus root salads offer a playful symphony of heat and texture, while inventive plates like smoked salmon onion pancakes and savory beef carpaccio create a spirited dining experience. Each visit serves as a vibrant celebration of Southeast Asian-inspired flavors, perfect for those seeking a creative and flavor-forward escape.
• Phở le — Vietnamese · rated 5/5: The air at Phở Le hangs heavy with the intoxicating perfume of star anise and slow-simmered beef marrow, drawing diners into a vibrant space where tradition is served by the bowlful. Silky ribbons of rice noodles swim in a rich, golden broth, waiting to be layered with fistfuls of fresh basil, crunchy bean sprouts, and a bright squeeze of lime for a masterclass in Southern Vietnamese comfort.
• Super Duper Burger — American · rated 4/5: The rhythmic sizzle of the flat-top grill and the irresistible aroma of searing beef fill this vibrant, high-energy space, where the classic American burger is elevated to a craft. Golden, toasted buns cradle everything from juice-dripping double patties to herb-infused chicken caprese and melty grilled cheese, creating a bustling neighborhood hub where every bite feels like a celebration of simple, honest flavors.
• Banh Mi Bite — Vietnamese · rated 4/5: Banh Mi Bite serves as a vibrant neighborhood crossroads where the irresistible scent of garlic-parmesan fries and spicy buffalo cauliflower fills a space buzzing with casual energy. Crisp, colorful Mediterranean salads and refreshing zoodles offer a bright counterpoint to artisanal red and white pies pulled bubbling from the oven with perfectly charred crusts. This eclectic spot invites diners to linger over shared plates and inventive comfort food, creating a dining experience that is as fresh and modern as it is deeply satisfying.
• Nabolom Bakery — American · rated 4/5: The air at Nabolom Bakery is thick with the comforting, tangy perfume of fermenting sourdough and the irresistible scent of butter caramelizing in the oven. Sunlight catches the flour-dusted crusts of rustic boules and the golden, shatteringly crisp layers of brown sugar morning buns, inviting guests to savor the contrast of a chewy, salt-flecked focaccia or a buttery, chocolate-filled croissant. This neighborhood gem celebrates the soulful artistry of the oven, where every loaf of braided challah and airy brioche is a testament to the timeless ritual of artisanal baking.
• Pho Ao Sen — Vietnamese · rated 4/5: The air at Pho Ao Sen is thick with the soul-warming fragrance of star anise and slow-simmered beef, drawing diners into a space where authentic Vietnamese comfort takes center stage. Oversized bowls of pho arrive brimming with silky noodles and tender cuts of marbled brisket and steak, perfectly complemented by the satisfying crunch of golden-fried wings and hand-wrapped spring rolls bursting with fresh herbs. It is a vibrant culinary sanctuary where the art of the long-simmered broth meets the bright, crisp textures of traditional street-food favorites.
• Wescafe — Vietnamese · rated 4/5: Wescafe serves as a sun-drenched neighborhood retreat where the deep, toasted aroma of artisanal espresso blends seamlessly with the refreshing, kaleidoscopic colors of made-to-order smoothies and cold-pressed juices. The inviting atmosphere encourages lingering over hand-crafted wraps and pressed sandwiches bursting with garden-fresh flavors, offering a vibrant sanctuary for both a focused morning ritual and a relaxed midday escape.
• Monster Phở — Vietnamese · rated 4/5: Steaming bowls of aromatic broth take center stage at this vibrant Vietnamese destination, where the air is perpetually perfumed with the comforting scent of star anise, charred ginger, and slow-simmered marrow. Guests dive into oversized portions brimming with silky rice noodles and tender proteins, personalizing each bite with a vibrant garden of fresh basil, crisp bean sprouts, and zesty lime for a soul-warming experience that feels both communal and deeply personal.
• Le Pho — Vietnamese · rated 4/5: Steaming bowls of fragrant broth take center stage at this vibrant Vietnamese eatery, where the air is thick with the comforting scents of star anise, charred ginger, and slow-simmered beef. Guests customize silk-smooth rice noodles with heaps of fresh basil and bright lime, creating a personalized symphony of herbaceous flavors amidst a space that hums with the sound of clinking spoons and satisfied slurps. This soulful retreat celebrates the restorative traditions of Southeast Asian comfort food, inviting diners to lose themselves in the deep, complex layers of a perfectly balanced bowl.
• Super pho — Vietnamese · rated 4/5: Steaming bowls of aromatic broth take center stage at this vibrant neighborhood haunt, where the fragrant scent of star anise and charred ginger invites guests into a world of soul-warming comfort. Silky rice noodles and tender proteins are elevated by a colorful tapestry of crisp bean sprouts, fresh basil, and zesty lime, offering a deeply satisfying experience that balances rich umami depth with bright, herbaceous notes.
• Joe's Pho — Vietnamese · rated 4/5: Stepping into Joe's Pho, guests are greeted by the irresistible scent of caramelized fish sauce and aromatic basil wafting from a kitchen dedicated to the art of vibrant Vietnamese comfort food. The experience is a symphony of textures, where shatteringly crisp golden egg rolls and zesty, glaze-coated chicken wings find their perfect counterpoint in the delicate, pillowy softness of traditional rice cupcakes. It is a lively neighborhood sanctuary where bold, authentic flavors and a welcoming atmosphere transform a casual meal into a soulful celebration of Southeast Asian flavors.
• The Bureau 510 — American), Salads, Sandwiches · rated 3/5: Stepping into The Bureau 510 feels like discovering a vibrant urban secret, where the air is thick with the scent of sizzling burgers and the buzz of a community gathering over shared plates. The kitchen reimagines nostalgic comfort through a global lens, stacking bold flavors into towering creations like the London Bus or the herb-brightened Bánh Mi. It is a soulful destination where inventive ingredients and a relaxed, modern atmosphere come together to create a dining experience that feels both familiar and entirely new.
• Phosho Dough — Vietnamese · rated 3/5: Phosho Dough invites diners into a vibrant, modern space where the comforting aroma of star anise-scented broth mingles with the irresistible sweetness of freshly fried treats. Guests can tuck into steaming bowls of aromatic pho brimming with bright herbs before transitioning to artisanal, pillowy doughnuts that offer a playful, sugary finish to the meal. It is a soulful destination that masterfully bridges the gap between savory tradition and whimsical indulgence, making every visit feel like a discovery of unexpected yet perfect pairings.
• Nom Nom Banh Mi — Vietnamese · rated 3/5: The irresistible aroma of freshly toasted baguettes and savory grilled meats spills onto the sidewalk, inviting guests into a vibrant space where the spirit of Vietnamese street food comes alive. Each sandwich is a symphony of textures, layering rich pâté and tender proteins like lemongrass beef or succulent grilled pork with the bright, cooling crunch of pickled vegetables and fresh cilantro. It is a bustling destination where every bite offers a perfectly balanced explosion of heat, salt, and sweetness, providing a quick yet deeply satisfying culinary escape.
• Lucky Three Seven — Vietnamese · rated 3/5: This vibrant corner hub pulses with neighborhood energy, drawing crowds with the irresistible aroma of garlic fried rice and sizzling Filipino soul food. Every plate is a celebration of bold, home-cooked flavors, from the shatteringly crisp lumpia to the iconic G-Fire chicken that coats the palate in a perfect harmony of heat and sweetness.
• The Phoenix Pastificio — Italian · rated 3/5: Sunlight dances through flour-dusted air in this artisanal sanctuary, where the rhythmic hum of pasta-making transforms simple grains into golden, hand-cut masterpieces. Guests are enveloped in the comforting aroma of slow-simmered sauces and freshly baked sourdough, finding a seat amidst rustic textures to savor bowls of silk-smooth pasta that celebrate the soulful alchemy of traditional craft.
• Cactus Taqueria — Mexican · rated 3/5: Sunlight streams into this vibrant neighborhood haunt, where the rhythmic chop of fresh ingredients and the sizzle of carne asada on the plancha create a lively backdrop for a casual feast. Each hand-rolled burrito is a masterpiece of flavor, bundling smoky grilled meats, succulent shrimp, or herb-roasted vegetables into a warm, satisfying embrace that captures the soulful essence of authentic Mexican street fare.
• RareTea — Chinese · rated 3/5: This vibrant tea sanctuary invites guests into a world of kaleidoscopic colors and playful textures, where velvety snow creams crown jewel-toned fruit infusions. Each handcrafted sip offers a refreshing escape, from the smoky richness of caramelized brown sugar boba to tropical elixirs featuring silky coconut noodles and aromatic, slow-dripped Vietnamese coffee.
• Sheng Kee Bakery — Chinese · rated 2/5: The air is thick with the comforting aroma of toasted sesame and sweet yeast as guests navigate a golden landscape of pillowy buns and intricately layered pastries. Each bite offers a nostalgic journey through traditional Taiwanese baking, where savory pork floss and velvety taro fillings are encased in buttery, hand-crafted doughs. This bustling neighborhood staple invites a sense of discovery, transforming the simple act of picking up a morning treat into a vibrant celebration of heritage and artisanal craft.
• Top Dog — American: This iconic, no-frills institution hums with a gritty, authentic energy, where the enticing aroma of charred sausages and toasted buns draws a constant crowd to its narrow, poster-lined counter. Diners savor the satisfying snap of perfectly grilled links dressed in sharp mustards, experiencing a timeless slice of street-food culture that feels both nostalgic and vibrantly alive.
• Iniburger — American: This vibrant, modern eatery reimagines the classic burger through a lens of global inspiration, serving up a colorful parade of gourmet sliders on pillowy brioche buns. Each bite-sized creation bursts with bold, inventive flavors—from zesty international sauces to perfectly seared patties—inviting guests to curate their own diverse tasting adventure in a lively, casual setting.
• Bongo Burger — American: This vibrant neighborhood staple hums with energy as the smoky aroma of flame-grilled patties wafts from the open kitchen, inviting diners into a space that feels both nostalgic and alive. Each burger is a masterclass in casual comfort, featuring juicy beef nestled between toasted buns and piled high with crisp, vibrant toppings that celebrate simple, honest flavors.
• Pho 84 — Vietnamese: Steaming bowls of aromatic broth take center stage at Pho 84, where the air hangs heavy with the comforting perfume of star anise, charred ginger, and marrow-rich beef simmered to perfection. Guests customize their experience with vibrant platters of Thai basil and sharp lime, adding a fresh, herbaceous crunch to the silky ribbons of rice noodles that anchor every meal. This lively neighborhood retreat offers a soulful escape, inviting diners to find comfort in deep, savory flavors that feel like a warm embrace.
• MintLeaf — Indian: MintLeaf invites diners into a vibrant sanctuary where the fragrant aroma of lemongrass and fresh mint fills the air, setting the stage for a masterclass in Vietnamese textures. The kitchen artfully balances the crunch of golden, hand-rolled imperial rolls with the delicate, translucent snap of chilled spring rolls packed with succulent prawns and creamy avocado. Sizzling claypots of mussels arrive at the table amidst a parade of herb-forward dishes, offering a refreshing and authentic journey through Southeast Asian flavors in a bright, contemporary setting.
• Tay Ho Restaurant — Vietnamese: Tay Ho Restaurant captures the soul of Vietnamese tradition, where the fragrant steam of simmering broths and the rhythmic clinking of chopsticks create a lively, inviting sanctuary. Masterfully crafted rice rolls, translucent and silky, arrive adorned with a confetti of crispy shallots and vibrant herbs that awaken the palate with bright, clean flavors. It is a place where the simplicity of fresh ingredients meets time-honored techniques, offering a dining experience that feels both deeply comforting and brilliantly authentic.
• Cam Anh — Vietnamese: This bustling Vietnamese gem hums with the energy of a neighborhood favorite, where the scent of freshly baked baguettes and aromatic herbs fills the air. Crispy banh mi sandwiches are layered with savory meats and bright, crunchy pickles, while steaming bowls of noodle soup offer a comforting embrace of deep, complex flavors. It is a vibrant destination where traditional street food soul meets a welcoming, no-frills atmosphere, perfect for a quick and flavor-packed escape.