The spirit of sharing great food with great company is alive and well here in Oakland. And yes, you’ll absolutely find special occasion restaurants made for memorable meals in this city. From the waterfront charm of Jack London Square to the eateries along Piedmont Avenue and the foodie scene of Temescal, this town knows how to plate up something worth celebrating. Planning a birthday bash, an anniversary dinner, or a reunion that needs some wow-factor? Whether it’s California cuisine, Afro-Caribbean fusion, or Michelin-starred marvels, we’ve got the perfect spot. Scroll down and book your table today.
Koreatown-Northgate stands out with several high-capacity venues like Calabash and Hofkuche, both known for their unique food offerings and fun atmosphere.
The Lakeshore district is also a popular choice for gatherings, thanks to flexible spaces like the Caña Cuban Parlor & Cafe.
Downtown Oakland has elegant settings like CoCo Noir Wine Shop & Bar and Penelope for more upscale events.
Venues with event packages can cost around $25–$65 per person, while larger or premium locations with minimum spend options range between $3,000 and $6,000 per session. Hourly hire fees can start at around $160 and climb to $500 per hour for large-capacity venues. (All data from Tagvenue.)
Oakland offers a wide mix of restaurant venues including Caribbean eateries, Indian bistros, BBQ joints, wine bars, and seafood spots. This diversity makes it easy to match your celebration to a specific cuisine or vibe.
In most cases, the hire fee or minimum spend includes exclusive use of the space and staff, with many restaurants also providing in-house catering, bar service, tables, and chairs. Some venues may offer custom menus or allow you to bring your own decorations, especially for special occasions like birthdays or engagement parties.