Brenda's Oakland

“One of my favorite spots in Oakland for brunch. The food is always delicious and doesn't disappoint. In highly recommend the freshly baked beignets. Service was great and the server checked up on us a few times throughout our meal. The place has a relaxed vibe inside and really nice patio outside. So, if you haven't been, check it out!”

“Go to Brenda’s for an absolute feast! Brenda’s is legendary for a reason, and we definitely hit the high notes of their menu, indulgent, and soul-food energy. If you’re looking for a brunch that feels like a warm hug (followed by a very necessary nap), Brenda’s French Soul Food is the gold standard. Our recent spread was a deep dive into the best of New Orleans-inspired comfort, and it did not disappoint. We had a sweet start and you can’t go to Brenda’s and skip the beignets. We opted for the flight, but the Apple Beignets stole the show. Imagine a pillowy, golden-fried dough stuffed with a warm, spiced apple compote—it’s essentially a handheld autumn dream. For brunch we tried, * The Hangtown Fry: A classic California-Gold-Rush-meets-Bayou dish. The crispy oysters paired with eggs and bacon create a salty, briny richness that is surprisingly balanced. * Fried Chicken Benedict: The chicken was perfectly seasoned with a crunch that stands up to the hollandaise. It’s decadent, heavy in the best way, and everything a Benedict should be. * Catfish and Grits: A southern staple done right. The catfish was flaky and golden, but let’s talk about the real MVP: the grits. > Pro Tip: Whatever you order, make sure there are grits on the table. They are creamy, buttery, and arguably the best in the city. They aren't just a side; they’re a "must-have" experience. Brenda’s continues to prove that soul food isn't just about the calories—it’s about the craft. Between the sweet crunch of the apple beignets and those life-changing grits, this is a brunch worth every bit of the inevitable wait time!”

“Had a great time with my wife at Brenda’s for brunch! I love their biscuits and gravy really really good and the ex Benedict was amazing as well too. Definitely would recommend a little bit pricey but that’s just the Bay Area.”

“The Oakland food scene is alive and well. This is one of those must visit spots in city with ever growing culinary scene. Brenda’s is a great mix of Cajun and country flavors in one place. Everything from breakfast to dinner is done with taste bud enhancing fair. Our group tried a great mix of Brunch, and no one left unfulfilled. Standard country breakfast of bacon and eggs was good, the home made jam took it that extra step to outstanding. The Grillades and grits was a Cajun hit. The beef was fork tender and the creole gravey was a perfect blend of sweet and savory. Add the perfectly cooked grits and a cream biscuit and I was back in Louisiana having breakfast in the French Quarter. The Hush Puppies were soft on the inside with a perfect crunch. Our group had a variety of entree’s and are included in the attached photos By the way. If you eat here and don’t leave with powdered sugar on your shirt and lap, you missed the best beignets in the city. We will be back, I’ve heard the Seafood Gumbo is the best west N’Orilns 😋”

“Let me start with the positives. The gumbo was good, the fried oysters were prepared perfectly. Now the bad, the beignets were completely wrong and tasted like the oil they were fried in. I've been to Louisiana dozens of times and have had beignets every time. These were not beignets, they were dense and heavy. The biggest disappointment was they were a buy one get one free. I threw them out.”