Oakland's Chinatown has been a beacon of Asian culture and cuisine for decades. Yet, recent challenges, from safety concerns to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and a rise in anti-Asian sentiment, have cast shadows over its bustling streets. These factors have not only affected the local economy but also the community's vibrancy, leading many to seek alternatives.
Enter Alameda: A mere 2-3 minute ride through the Webster Tube reveals a world apart. Known for its safety, tranquility, and welcoming atmosphere, Alameda has emerged as the new go-to for Asian cuisine enthusiasts. The city's commitment to community policing and an engaged, tight-knit community feel have made it a safer and more attractive option for families, food lovers, and visitors from across the Bay Area.
Emerging from the Webster Tube, visitors are greeted by an environment that celebrates diversity and community, marking Alameda as a compelling destination for those seeking the rich flavors and cultural experiences once found in Oakland's Chinatown. In this new hub, the promise of safety combines with a rich array of dining options, drawing those eager to explore without concern.
Alameda's culinary scene is a vibrant testament to the richness of Asian cuisine, offering a diverse journey beyond the familiar. With over 19 Chinese and 17 Japanese restaurants at its core, the city presents an expansive menu that spans from the complex flavors of Burmese and Cambodian dishes to the delicate harmony found in Vietnamese, Korean, and Thai cuisines. The presence of specialty Boba shops, along with establishments serving Laotian, Indian, and even Hawaiian flavors, underscores a thriving interest in both traditional and modern Asian culinary practices. Alameda's food landscape is further enriched by various Asian fusion restaurants, where traditional flavors are reimagined with contemporary techniques, inviting diners into unique gastronomic experiences. This blend of authenticity and innovation, coupled with the city's commitment to safety and community, positions Alameda as a true celebration of Asian culinary diversity and a magnet for food enthusiasts across the Bay Area.
Within Alameda's rich culinary landscape, several restaurants stand as beacons of Asian cuisine, each offering distinct flavors and experiences. Burma Superstar immerses diners in the world of Burmese cuisine, with dishes that skillfully blend spice and umami for a memorable taste experience. For those drawn to the communal joys of Korean dining, Ohgane KBBQ x Vons Chicken provides an authentic Korean BBQ and crispy fried chicken experience that's hard to forget. Sidestreet Pho, meanwhile, captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine with its aromatic broths and fresh ingredients, offering an authentic slice of Vietnam.
In the realm of Chinese cuisine, Wild Ginger presents a diverse menu that spans the spicy flavors of Sichuan to the delicate touches of Cantonese dishes, catering to a wide range of palates. East Ocean Seafood Restaurant, known for its dim sum, stands out as a popular destination for a mixed audience, providing a lively setting perfect for those new to dim sum or looking for a familiar taste. Conversely, establishments like Chef's Wok and Pacific Lighthouse tend to attract more Asian clientele, offering traditional dishes that resonate deeply with those seeking the authentic flavors of their heritage. This diversity in dining options underscores Alameda's status as a vibrant hub for Asian culinary exploration, appealing to both adventurous foodies and those seeking the comfort of traditional Asian dishes.
Alameda's emergence as the "new" Oakland Chinatown signifies a shift towards inclusivity and diversity in the culinary scene. It stands as a testament to the Bay Area's evolving demographics and changing tastes, making it a true haven for food enthusiasts and a beacon of cultural celebration. In essence, Alameda embodies the spirit of Oakland's Chinatown, with a modern twist that makes it uniquely its own.
Alameda Asian Restaurants
| Name ▲▼ | Cuisine ▲▼ | Address ▲▼ | Highlight Review ▲▼ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burma Superstar | Burmese | 1345 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “I feel so lucky to live near a Burma Superstar.” |
| Ohgane KBBQ x Vons Chicken | Korean | 2211 S Shore Ctr Ste 160 Alameda, CA 94501 | “I think it's safe to say it's my favorite KBBQ spot now.” |
| Bowl’d BBQ Alameda | Korean | 2201D S Shore Center Dr Alameda, CA 94501 | “they all felt authentically Korean.” |
| Sidestreet Pho | Vietnamese | 2304 Encinal Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | “The food was flavorful and as close to authentic as you can get without it coming out spicy.” |
| Wild Ginger | Chinese | 1239 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “We stumbled upon Wild Ginger from an Instagram video saying they had the best noodles in the bay, and it was honestly true.” |
| Tasty Point | Chinese Fusion | 2412 Santa Clara Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | “large portion and yummy hot pot with mix of meat, veggies, ramen, egg, etc.” |
| WAKI Japanese Cuisine | Japanese | 1403 Webster St Alameda, CA 94501 | “I would like to take a minute to congratulate the staff for taking the time to understand how to produce the food of another culture. “ |
| Bhan Mae Vane | Laotian | 1511 Webster St Alameda, CA 94501 | “Our mouths were watering from simply reading the menu.” |
| The Noodle Lover Club | Asian | 1700 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “Fantastic find in Alameda! The food was amazing. The service was great. The ambience is comfortable and chill.” |
| SAGA Kitchen | Asian | 1707 Lincoln Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | “SAGA Kitchen is a pan-Asian food hall in East Bay that serves delicious Japanese and Chinese cuisine including sushi, ramen, udon, and dim sum.” |
| Phnom Penh House | Cambodian | 1514 Webster St Alameda, CA 94501 | “This is a family owned restaurant and that is the exact vibe you are going to get when you eat here. They serve delicious authentic south east asian food.” |
| Yojimbo | Japanese | 1221 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “Despite shrinkflation and rising cost of goods nearly everywhere you look, there is one thing that hasn't changed: the chicken teriyaki bento box here is still the biggest plate of food I've ever seen in the Bay Area.” |
| Kowloon Station 1 | Chinese | 1708 Webster St Alameda, CA 94501 | “Honestly, I thought it was a Chinese restaurant. But one look at the menu combos will tell you, this place offers healthy options with asian inspired flavors.” |
| Monkey Thai Restaurant & Bar | Thai | 2210 S Shore Ctr Unit H Alameda, CA 94501 and 1930 Main St, Alameda, CA 94501 | “Wow! This is one of the best Thai restaurants in the Bay Area.” |
| Pho Nation | Vietnamese | 1511 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “So it's Pho Nation pho the win! ...Sorry couldn't resist.” |
| Lao and Sushi Bistro | Laotian | 1305 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “I have tried to bring everyone I know here and come as often as I can because the food here is SO GOOD!” |
| Monkey King Pub & Grub | Asian Fusion | 1315 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 and 1708 Park St, Alameda, CA 94501 | “f you want to watch a game, and get down with food and drink this is the spot for you! The space has many chairs and tables set-up for large groups and couples. There are tables are outside! Wonderful place! Families welcomed!” |
| Hang Ten Boiler Alameda | Vietnamese Fusion | 2315 Santa Clara Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | “Asian Fusion and Cajun Boil at its finest! Since this establishment opened its doors in this little island town, it has provided many Alamedans and East Bay foodies a spot to satisfy their cravings.” |
| Hashi Gawa | Japanese | 2661 Blanding Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | “This place is a good lesson in not judging a book by its cover/a restaurant by it's location in a strip mall peppered with chains like Wingstop or Round Table.” |
| Utzutzu | Japanese | 1428 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “I have to say that I truly appreciate the level of care and the service provided. Every dish was really tasty and prepared in presented in an elegant and artful manner.” |
| May Thai Kitchen | Thai | 1319 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “I had called weeks in advance, arranged our reservation date/time with "PP" the chef and she was extra amazing. Additionally she listened to all my requests for family style kind of setting.” |
| EOS Sushi | Japanese | 1711 Webster St Alameda, CA 94501 | “Everything felt like it was slightly elevated from your typical sushi restaurant, while still being comfortable for families.” |
| Roll & Bowl | Asian | 2302 Encinal Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | “We ordered Beef Bone Marrow Soup and Spicy Beef Bone Marrow Soup. Both are so delicious! Very rich and big portions. My husband is not a big fan of noodle soup, but he finished everything. Good service too. We will be back.” |
| Poke Salad | Poke | 2680 5th St Alameda, CA 94501 | “As many many reviewers have mentioned, Poke Salad is an incredible value. While the amount of protein probably matches the amount of that at Poke Koma, Poke Salad is extremely generous with all its toppings.” |
| KoKoLo Donburi & Grill | Japanese | 1518 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “The food is dependably good and the ambiance is relaxing. Whomever's playlist was audibly drip, drip, dripping through the inconspicuously black, mesh grill of the speakerboxx has great taste.” |
| East Ocean Seafood Restaurant | Chinese | 1713 Webster St Alameda, CA 94501 | “I don't get around these neck of the woods too often, but maybe I really should. A Chinese buddy treated us to lunch here, and man, it was so so good.” |
| India Palace | Indian | 737 Buena Vista Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | “India Palace is like a warm hug. After such a rainy/cold winter, it has been such a great find!” |
| Rang Dong Restaurant | Vietnamese | 660 Central Ave Ste C Alameda, CA 94501 | “I've gone here many many times throughout the past 3 years and this is my absolute favorite pho spot on the island!” |
| Honolulu BBQ | Hawaiian | 845 Marina Village Pkwy Alameda, CA 94501 | “We will definitely come back here for more large platter needs!” |
| Ramen Hiroshi - Alameda | Japanese | 1241 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “It's always a great time for Ramen in Alameda...and delicious ramen at that!” |
| Mandro | Chinese | 1321 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “We love their Bingsoo and Mochi/Grass jelly bowls! Service is great too. Sitting area is very clean!” |
| Koja Kitchen | Korean | 2680 5th St Ste D Alameda, CA 94501 | “Koja Kitchen is comfort food done right!” |
| Toomie's By Thai Golden Rice | Thai | 1433 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “My favorite dish was the glass noodle pad thai. It almost tasted like egg noodles. The tofu tasted soft and the chicken was tender. The bean sprouts gave it this crispy taste while the ground peanuts gave it this crunchy taste. When you mix the noodles and everything together with the sauce, it blended nicely and it was delicious.” |
| Sushi House | Japanese | 2375 Shoreline Dr Alameda, CA 94501 | “This place is super great for sharing! My family of 6 came to this location and we all picked out rolls and shared. The rolls themselves are quite large and super filling.” |
| Koharu Japanese Cafe | Japanese | 1707 Lincoln Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | “Alameda is starting to open up more Japanese curry restaurant, and I'm LOVING it.” |
| Poke Koma | Hawaiian | 1354 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “Best poke in Alameda! Always super fresh fish and generous toppings! This is our go-to dinner when no one feels like cooking or it's too hot outside.” |
| Sushi & More | Japanese | 1245 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “Love the food and the fresh fish Service was impeccable and ambiance convivial I will go back for sure” |
| Orchid Pavillion Cafe | Chinese | 1540 Webster St Alameda, CA 94501 | “My favorite Chinese take-out in Alameda!” |
| Little Joe's Express | Chinese | 1410 Encinal Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | “My husband and I get take out from Little Joe's almost once a week- it's that good! “ |
| Shirasoni Japanese Restaurant | Japanese | 2660 5th St Ste A Alameda, CA 94501 | “Shirasoni Japanese Restaurant, you had me at teppanyaki! And when the cuisine is so lovingly crafted on a live and hot hibachi grill as it was at our most recent visit to Shirasoni Japanese Restaurant then you have us as loyal customers for life!” |
| Ark Chinese Restaurant | Chinese | 1405 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “Hand-pulled noodles, dumplings & other Chinese favorites provided in a simple, cozy dining room. One of my favorite restaurants in Alameda. I'd go with my mom, my husband, and friends. Nothing has or should ever change because it is so lovely!” |
| Sachi Sushi | Japanese | 1707 Lincoln Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | “ummy yummy yummy. One of the best places for Sushi in Alameda, and don't forget there's three other restaurants(together it's named Saga Kitchen) with it too!” |
| Kitchen Of Alameda | Chinese | 1727 Webster St Alameda, CA 94501 | “When it comes to dim sum in alameda, I think this place is better than chefs wok and east ocean.” |
| Spice I Am | Thai | 1353 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “Every time I visit downtown Alameda this is my go-to restaurant.” |
| BB Bowl | Korean | 2601 Blanding Ave Ste B Alameda, CA 94501 | “BB Bowl is really the dark horse of Korean food on Alameda. Koja and Bowl'd BBQ get the buzz because they're expanding from successful Oakland spots, but BB Bowl and Jong Ga House are our consistent winners for local Korean restaurants.” |
| Mint Leaf Vietnamese Restaurant | Vietnamese | 831 Marina Village Pkwy Alameda, CA | “This place was a surprise! My regular Pho restaurant was closed down the street, so the group suggested Mint Leaf down the street. To my surprise, I now have a new regular Pho go to spot in Alameda.” |
| Bucket O' Crawfish- Alameda | Vietnamese Fusion | 1919 Webster St Alameda, CA 94501 | “With big hot saucy grins and belly full of beer, we assured her we would be back with the rest of the gang. I hope this place does well because this Asian/Cajun fusion in Alameda could become a monthly destination for us.” |
| Yue Club | Chinese | 1707 Lincoln Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | “Yummy! I've literally been craving dim sum for weeks and Yue hit the spot. I ordered the shrimp balls, Hong Kong Har Gow, and potstickers. Everything was cooked to perfection and despite the fact that I was about 45 min late to pick up my order, everything was still piping hot.” |
| Yo Sushi | Japanese | 807 Marina Village Pkwy Alameda, CA 94501 | “The place has a large selection of rolls ! Probably the largest selection I have seen compared to other alameda sushi spots. |
| Up 2U Thai Eatery | Thai | 1405 Webster St Alameda, CA 94501 | “My wife, who just moved from Thailand 4 years ago after 30+ years of living in Bangkok, and I pick-up regularly from Up 2U. In the last few weeks, we probably do pick-up at least once a week, sometimes twice a week.” |
| Hong Kong City Restaurant | Chinese | 1425 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “Growing up, I always thought Chinese Food was ALWAYS better in Oakland, than Alameda. Seems times have changed... 12 of us ordered 12 main entrees, and we finished nearly all of it!” |
| Shanvi Indian kitchen & Grocery | Indian | 2536 Santa Clara Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | “The smell of Indian spices was intoxicating even after a full meal. I scurried into the store to explore what was inside. Right when you enter you find yourself in an Indian market with the kitchen straight ahead.” |
| Xing Yuan Chinese Restaurant | Chinese | 839 Marina Village Pkwy Alameda, CA 94501 | “A small little humble Mom & Pop Chinese restaurant located on the west end offering consistent delicious meals through the years. I can't believe I haven't left a review prior. So glad I'm doing this now as the reviews are long over due.” |
| Chong Qing Noodles House | Chinese | 1635 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “The broth here is the real star of the show. The meat is braised to make the soup and the flavor is so rich and delicious. We added their chili oil in and it made it even better. “ |
| Bacogai | Vietnamese Fusion | 2651 Blanding Ave Ste E Alameda, CA 94501 | “This place has been sitting in my bookmark but I guess they're all over IG now. Let me tell you, they were boooooomb! Such a refreshing take on Vietnamese cuisine.” |
| Dragon Rouge Bistro Alameda | Vietnamese | 2337 Blanding Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | “Overall - outside dining was perfect with the Park Street Bridge and the estuary as a backdrop. Beautiful August evening in the 70s also helped. Tasty reasonable food and excellent service.” |
| Fikscue Craft BBQ | Asian Fusion | 1708 Park St Ste 120 Alameda, CA 94501: | “'ve waited many hours in many lines for BBQ joints in Texas and Cali and this one takes the cake for me. Fikscue is the ultimate culmination of Bay Area - fusing American BBQ with an Indonesian twist. How could you not love this? “ |
| Gim's Chinese Kitchen | Chinese | 2322 Lincoln Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | “Their menu says since 1953- and I can tell you from this ohana generation - it's perfected and on point with freshness, presentation, quantity and a great price point- that I am sold on ordering from here from now on!” |
| Chefs Wok | Chinese | 1821 Webster St Alameda, CA 94501 | “There are a few dim sum lounges in Alameda but this location is, for me superb. I knew the food was going to be great because there is always a line to get in and the parking lot would be full.” |
| Kobe-Ya | Japanese | 2300 Encinal Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | “Hands down best bento box place! “ |
| Yellowtail Japanese Bistro | Japanese | 1332 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “This review is long overdue--5 stars for service, food quality & menu options.” |
| Pho Anh Dao Alameda | Vietnamese | 1919 Webster St Alameda, CA 94501 | “As an Alameda resident, this place has stood the test of time for me and my family. Plus, the Pho is an extremely good value compared to many other Pho bowls on the island.” |
| Vietnam House | Vietnamese | 1529 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “BTW, local people eat here not tourists....many are AAPI/Vietnamese.” |
| Genghis Khan Kitchen | Chinese | 1540 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “This is now my favorite Chinese restaurant in Alameda. Huge portions, extremely tasty food! “ |
| Pho Sinh | Chinese | 1434 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “Actually a very great bowl of (I think) Northern style pho :) Ive been back here many times over the years, and now live in the Westminster/Garden Grove area down in Southern California where there are MANY pho restaurants; very few of them compare to the unique taste here at Pho Sinh.” |
| Sushi King | Japanese | 1650 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “Sushi King restaurant is one of the BEST sushi spots I've eaten at in many, many years! It's clean and cozy, and their service is repeatedly satisfactory; the staff is always friendly, and their menu selections are one-of-a-kind. “ |
| Dragon Village | Chinese | 642 Lincoln Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | “You know what people say about those hole in the wall type places: some of the best food you will eat come from these type. Please try them.” |
| Pacific Lighthouse Restaurant | Chinese | 1051 Pacific Marina Alameda, CA 94501 | “Service is great, so is the food. Never a wait. My favorite local Dim Sum spot.” |
| Bluefin Sushi Thai | Thai/Japanese | 3211 Encinal Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | “Being able to get a little Thai and a little Japanese is amazing, and the food is delicious. Service is fantastic and the ambiance very relaxing. Love Bluefin!!” |
| i-Tea | Boba | 1626 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | “This milk tea is better than any milk tea that I drank in Taiwan.” |
| Top Up | Boba | 650 Central Ave Ste G Alameda, CA 94501 | “What do you do when you spend a day in Alameda and you rarely go to Alameda? Find the best boba spot in town obviously! I had heard great things about Top Up and was delighted to find that it lived up to the hype. Why? Service as great, menu is diverse with unique offerings, and their drinks are delicious!” |
| Sakura Restaurant | Japanese | 2408 Santa Clara Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | “All the food was so scrumptious and it came out pretty fast no waiting for us and the service was nice and attentive. Definitely recommend if you want a nice quiet dinner. Also, it's kid friendly as well.” |
| Panda Express | Chinese | 2630 Fifth Street 40 Alameda, CA 94501 | The food was hot and flavorful as always. I was impress by how quick the service is. The place is quick and affordable now. Prices in Bay Area is high so I gotta that that into consideration. |
| Yifang Taiwan Fruit Tea | Boba | 409 S Shore Ctr Alameda, CA 94501 | My favorite boba on the island! The toppings and drinks are always consistent and the variety YF offers in general is almost unparalleled. |
| Bober Tea & Coffee | Boba | 825 Marina Village Pkwy Alameda, CA 94501 | “Very pink when I first stepped in and it felt like a tea garden which was pretty cool. I love the quotes they have around the shop, it was nice to read while waiting.” |
| Ding Tea | Boba | 1342 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | Overall, service was great and drinks came out fast. The store is HUGE and so cute!! Love the white interior and chandeliers! Reminds me of Christmas ahaha. |
| RareTea | Boba | 2670 Fifth St Ste C Alameda, CA 94501 | My husband loves this little spot! He likes there brown sugar boba with the Thai tea. He's been stopping here pretty often when we shop in the area. |
| Gong Cha | Boba | 1501 Park St Alameda, CA 94501 | My go-to spot for consistently good bubble milk tea. They use quality ingredients and their tapioca boba pearls are cooked/made just right, with the perfect bouncy texture. |
| Happy Lemon | Boba | 2321 Santa Clara Ave Alameda, CA 94501 | This is one of the nicer Happy Lemons I've been to. It's a bit hipstery, a bit happy happy. Lots of wood and nice finishes on the walls and tables and stuff. Feels airy--nice place to relax unlike many packed boba places. |
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