Oakland Ambience
I'm planning to take my husband out on Saturday one weekend soon. From previous posts I've narrowed down the options to Jojo, Eccolo, Downtown (I want to go someplace new). We don't dine out often because his cooking is so darn good at home so when we go out, we want it just right. He's not into restaurants with too much attitude or places that seem stuffy. Can someone help with the ambience factor, I'm looking for something like Wood Tavern? Thanks!
By kateats
on Oct 8, 2008 06:59 AM
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Eccolo is in Berkeley, as I assume you know. If you want Berkeley there are tons of places. In Oakland, I like A Cote. I've never been to Flora, but it's on my list.
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Well, since some of your options are in Berkeley, why not consider Dig's Bistro which is a little more charming ambiance-wise than Jojo.
They are celebrating their one-year anniversary October 17th — 19th with a four course prix fixe meal complete with Navarro wine pairings ($75)
Even if you can't make it during that time frame, it is a nice place to add to your consideration.
http://www.digsbistro.com/
http://www.chow.com/places/12153
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Two places we like for the food and the look are B and Somerset. They are casual, yet serious about their food. I like B the most because I am addicted to the truffled French fries.
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B Restaurant & Bar
499 9th St, Oakland, CA 94607
Somerset Restaurant
5912 College Avenue, Oakland, CA 94618
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Steer clear of Downtown, my last two experiences there were underwhelming, at best...
I'm a big fan of Jojo, and would encourage you to try it...more recently we've been going to Flora, which I also recommend...
A couple of weeks ago, we tried Bellanico in the Glenview District on Park Boulevard...it was very good, and a nice, welcoming space; however, for purposes of your special occasion, be aware that they don't take reservations, so that there can be a wait for a table...
A place that's been around for a while, but is consistently good is Bucci's in Emeryville...
Have fun, and let us know where you land...
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I took my chances and called Jojo. We're in for this Saturday! Thanks for your help and I'll report back.
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Let us know about your dinner...I'm betting you won't regret it...
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You were right, I don't regret the meal at Jojo! The ambience was just what I was looking for although my husband would have preferred something a little more casual. We had grilled shrimp and halibut - my shrimp dish was tastier than his halibut but he got to eat plenty of both. I also had the pate appetizer which I really enjoyed and we ordered the special pear cake for dessert which was killer!
Thanks!
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link
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Jojo
3859 Piedmont Ave, Oakland, CA 94611
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