You absolutely cannot do better than Rio California in Preservation Park, downtown Oakland. Get there on time when it opens as the patio fills up fast. This park is a serene little jewel smack in the middle of downtown Oakland and hardly anyone but nearby workers and Brazilian fans know about it.
The coxinhas (chicken croquettes) and seafood lemon risotto are excellent, but it’s the feijoda (Wed and Thurs ONLY) that brings us back. This is the only restaurant feijoda we’ve had that tastes exactly the way our Brazilian friend from Goias, made it (albeit one doesn’t need that much farofa - Rio puts a big spoonful on the side but don’t use more than half of it!).
Good daily specials, too.
The order line moves fast as most people know what they want. We suggest standing off to the side and perusing the menu, then get in line and order. With multiple people you can have one person stake out a table (all seating is outside on the patio) and defend it against all comers [grin].
RIo California
1233 Preservation Park, Oakland (no reservations, alas)
Menu: Lunch menu Rio California
I’d second Iyasare although the food is much better when Chef Kamio is there. I’m not as in love with his other chefs. Also, the menu at lunch is more limited. Don’t miss the Kakiage Tempura, especially if you add the shrimps.
Iyasare
1830 Fourth Street, Berkeley
Lunch menu Iyasare
