From fat, juicy dumplings and hand pulled noodles in piquant savory sauce to unique saccharine treats and imported tea blends, an array of delectable delights and sights can be found in Oakland's historic Chinatown. Here's where to get eating.
Traditional fresh noodles and dumplings are made by hand in the open kitchen at this East Bay staple. The Mandarin menu, from owner Charles Hung, is wonderfully consistent. Gorge on thick, chewy hand-pulled noodles mixed in sesame paste or topped with the restaurants's signature chicken.
This tiny shop is loaded with platters of chow mein, stir fry and entrees like salt-and-pepper shrimp, but it's the gooey pork buns with generous filling that explains the long line outside. Portions are massive, so make sure you come hungry.
This East Bay shop specializes in Chinese and Taiwanese tea styles, with a collection of quality loose-leaf options ranging from white and oolong to pu-erh and longjing. Arrive with a list of ailments, and the staff can recommend leaf combos to help cure them.
Make your own fortune, sample hot-off-the-machine treats and watch workers mix batter and fold cookies by hand at this Oakland mill. You can even grab a bag of misfortunes (broken cookies) for a great deal.
An eclectic crowd gathers at the Golden Bull to enjoy classic Moscow mule and greyhounds. With a pool table, friendly patronage and solid acoustics for music, the atmospheric lounge is a local favorite.
East Bay residents flock to this hot spot for Hong Kong-style cuisine with a diverse menu including noodle soups, rice dishes and curries, plus a slew of hot and cold desserts like egg puffs with ice cream and crepes. Best of all, it's open until 1:30am daily.