Our Expert's Take
Understory Oakland is quickly becoming a standout in the local dining scene, boasting an impressive rating of 4.8. The restaurant excels not only in its menu but also in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The generous portions of the oyster mushrooms highlight the kitchen's commitment to quality and presentation, making them a must-try for any mushroom lover.
Another notable dish is the vegan burger, which showcases the restaurant's ability to cater to diverse dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor. The boboto, a unique offering on the menu, is a delightful choice for those willing to step outside their comfort zone. Overall, Understory Oakland is a delightful destination for food lovers seeking both innovative cuisine and a friendly dining experience.
At a Glance
Pros
- Exceptional food quality with generous portions.
- Creative and unique menu items for adventurous eaters.
- Friendly and attentive staff that enhances the dining experience.
Cons
- Limited parking options in the area.
- Some dishes may not appeal to all diners due to their uniqueness.
What Diners Are Saying
"Great restaurant, would certainly return. Good food, amazing drinks, nice staff. The oyster mushrooms were amazing and a big portion size! Boboto was unique and delicious, and would recommend for the adventurous eater. The burger (made vegan) was good, and the fries with it were amazing (apparently they take 3 days to make!! 😱). Many vegan options. In terms of drinks, the tres leches matcha latte was one of the best drinks I’ve ever had, and the ube horchata was delicious too—but pretty grainy. The service and staff was great, they even let us stay a few mins past close. The only bad thing to say is that it’s a little pricey. Not crazy over the top, but on the higher end, especially with the +20% collective fee (unclear if you’re supposed to tip on top of that?? 🧐)."- Sue Flay
"Wonderful salad, refreshing, crisp, lemony dressing and just the right amount of zest I decided to mix the rest of the plate together. They supplied a side of onions & a green chile deeply marinated in vinegar followed by a red oil that was pretty mild. Delicious. The garlic tofu wasn’t overpowering and with an interesting medley of sweet, sour & hot - I chowed. The service is telepathic. The servers read my mind. Perhaps a better way to say it is, they’re highly observant and on the ball. I plan to visit again."- Krishna Shastry
"Been waiting for their fruitvale location to open up! We went during the soft grand opening and the food did not disappoint. We ordered the inasal and the kaldereta. The inasal took me back to the Philippines with that smoky char, annatto calamansi seasoning, and juicy interior. The kaldereta was some of the best I've had - tender meat with a strong umami tomato sauce. They also blessed us with the ukoy while waiting (though it wasn't very long!) and we loved it with that vinegar dip. Can't wait to come back!"- Rachel Patron
"Fantastic food, staff are friendly and helpful. I love this place for brunch with plenty of options for vegans and carnivores alike. The food is delicious, creative and made with love."- Lisa Pennes
"We loved Understory in the old location, and this one is even better. It’s a beautiful open space, the food is amazing, and the server/owners are very sweet. The co-op business model leads to an innovative menu drawing from various cultures and every dish has thoughtful touches. Try the tasting menu if you can’t decide what to order - it can be ordered omnivorous, vegetarian, or vegan."- Kira Dulaney
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there parking available?
Parking can be limited, so it's advisable to arrive early or consider nearby public transport options.
What is the dress code?
The atmosphere is casual, so feel free to dress comfortably while enjoying your meal.
What dish should I try first?
The oyster mushrooms are highly recommended, along with the unique boboto for those looking to try something different.