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    Bocanova

    4.3 (309 reviews)
    Closed 11:30 am - 8:30 pm
    Updated 1 week ago

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    BOCANOVA ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Trendy
    Intimate

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    Recommended Reviews - Bocanova

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    Jessie H.

    Big group dinner here the other night for work that I really enjoyed. All of the dinner went good, the ambiance, professional service and pretty delicious food. I got the cioppino & it was not the best nor was it super deep in flavor but it was good enough with delicious garlic toasts! The appetizers were good, plus everyone else's food looked good too! The dessert was so amazing I love the guava cheesecake. I think it was one of the better tropical cheesecakes Ive had! They did great handling our big group too.

    Oysters
    Tiffany S.

    Fast and attentive service! Came here for happy hour- get the tacos, duck tostada was okay- skip the ahi tuna poke - more creamy and not a lot of fish. Portion for the poke was extremely small for happy hour. Oysters were good, but it would be helpful to know where it's sourced from on the menu!

    Chicano
    Taylor J.

    Bocanova is one of those places I've passed by so many times on my way home from work, but never visited. I recently changed that and made it in time for their happy hour. Started off with one of happy hour cocktails that was kind of like a pisco sour. Super yummy and refreshing. I followed this up with a jungle bird which was great. Very tiki-esque and yummy. I was definitely in lve with the color of it. Cute and pinky. For food, I had the mini ceviche tostada. Really great! Ceviche is my favorite kind of summer food. Next time ill ask for a few slices of jalapeno. Im a huge fan of spicy and a some extra spice would have been great with this. Finished off with another cocktail, no cue the name but it featured mezcal and and was on the sweeter side. This struck my girly bone since it did have a giant magenta ice cube in it. Really yummy. Great little Happy hour at Boca Nova! I enjoyed my time there and i love that this is right off Bart on my way home.

    Guacamole and chips
    D. Reneé B.

    A great location and extensive happy hour menu, but the execution missed the mark during this visit. Went to Bocanova with a friend before seeing a show at the Paramount and made reservations for 5 PM. We were seated immediately in the bar area. One thing to note is that the restaurant is not easily accessible without stairs, which could be difficult for guests with mobility issues or injuries. The layout was also a little confusing between the patio, bar, and main dining spaces. They offer happy hour daily from 3-6 PM, and the menu is actually pretty extensive with appetizers, salads, drinks, and small bites, so we decided to try several items. We ordered the Blue Crab Deviled Eggs, Beef Empanadas, Shrimp Empanadas, Guacamole & Chips, and Smoked Salmon Beignets. Unfortunately, most of the dishes lacked seasoning and depth of flavor. The deviled eggs mainly tasted like plain egg with a fish-forward crab flavor, and the chipotle aioli listed on the menu didn't really come through. The guacamole was very simple and mostly tasted like avocado with lemon, though the chips themselves were probably the best thing we had once salt was added. The smoked salmon beignets also fell short texture-wise. Instead of light and airy, they were very soft in the center and didn't have much smoked salmon flavor. The empanadas were dough-heavy, the shrimp filling had a rubbery texture, and the beef needed quite a bit more seasoning. After happy hour ended, we also tried the Poblano Cornbread and Mexican Caesar Salad from the main menu. The Caesar dressing unfortunately had an off-putting fishy flavor beyond what you'd normally expect from anchovy, and the cornbread had more of an egg-bite consistency than traditional cornbread. Service overall was okay, and the location is convenient if you're heading to the Paramount or downtown Oakland events. Overall, the concept and menu sounded promising, but the food execution during this visit just didn't come together for me.

    Ann C.

    Pleasantly surprised by this place! Heard it was pricey, which it is, but the quality ingredients seem to justify the cost. Big selection of seafood dishes. Great cocktails. Service was fine. Ambiance in the bar area was nice - interior design was good. They were also playing the World Cup on tv. Will definitely be back for happy hour.

    Happy hour!!
    Suechu T.

    This review is long overdue. My husband and I live within walking distance of Bocanova, and we've already dined here several times. I've also attended events here through my ceramic studio Kollektiv Clay, so I can say firsthand that both the staff and the owner are incredibly warm and welcoming. A couple of my all-time favorite dishes--the fried mushrooms and fried polenta--weren't on the menu during our most recent visit. I'm hoping they're just rotating dishes seasonally, because they're absolutely delicious and definitely worth ordering if you ever see them available. On this visit, we came for happy hour and stayed for dinner. My husband had a michelada and a beer, and I ordered a mocktail that was excellent (though I've also had their cocktails before, and they're fantastic). We started with the crab deviled eggs, which are always a must-order for me. Any of their ceviches are amazing. We also tried the fried fish sliders, which were very good, and the scallops, which were cooked perfectly. My husband ordered a dinner special--a hearty oxtail stew--and finished every bite. Other standout dishes we've enjoyed in the past include the fried cauliflower and their tacos. Everything we've had here has been consistently delicious. I was too full for dessert this time, but I've had the bread pudding before and would easily call it their best dessert. I highly recommend Bocanova. The food and drinks are excellent, the service is consistently top-notch, and the staff is genuinely friendly. It's a place we love supporting and returning to again and again.

    Rush H.

    I visited Bocanova with my family hoping to watch some of the WorldCup games and we had a great time! We sat in their beautiful patio which now has two TV's showing every game and they've decorated it to match the theme. For food we had the Crispy Branzino, the Braised Beef Shortrib, the Lomo Saltado and the Peruvian Chicken à la Brasa, all were delicious and full of flavor. For drinks we tried their House Michelada, Avión de Papel Tropical, The Bocanova and the Pisco sour, all cocktails were tasty and well balanced and we also ordered one of their tequila flights because they pour Fortaleza as one of the shots! The service was really good and attentive without being intrusive, we felt taken care of the whole time we were there watching Mexico win! I would definitely recommend Bocanova is you're looking for a more upscale vibe without the price tag, they guys know how to treat you like family!

    Scallops
    Kristi C.

    Cute spot in downtown Oakland with a lively bar and large open restaurant inside. It's in the bottom of a highrise building and they utilize the space to create different areas. We entered through the patio space and were seated in the back dining room. It was a Saturday night and we had a reservation, not sure we needed one. There was a large bday party happening near us and that did take up a lot of space. My friend and I shared the empanadas, the Brussels sprouts and the scallops. Everything was well seasoned and well cooked. I loved the Brussels sprouts with a spicy kick. The wait staff was excellent, we went with all her recommendations!

    Ceviche Tostadas Verdes
    Dina A.

    Delectable food & beverages. Excellent service. Feel-good ambiance. Every dish we ordered here was perfectly seasoned -- from the ceviche tostadas verdes to the beef empanadas, the crispy brussels sprouts to the lomo saltado -- chefs were generous with the flavors! The churros were also fluffy and freshly hot out the fryer. But what ultimately elevated the experience was the Bocanova hospitality -- servers were great about checking in, and they never rushed us out of the establishment. We spent hours enjoying our food and drinks, and the Latin music set the upbeat mood perfectly. Must have foods: crispy brussels sprouts and the lomo saltado. If you like ginger -- definitely get the cocktail, El Diablo!

    Sharlene S.

    Stopped by for happy hour. Good times. Drinks- got wine and mocktail. My guest said the Jamaica was super refreshing. Food- we got shrimp sliders, fish sliders, Brussels sprouts, and guac + chips. The Brussels were my favorite, great flavor and cook. Love the cornmeal crust in the shrimp and chips were hearty and well seasoned. Service- we interacted with the bartender, server, and manager. All were friendly, attentive, and professional. helpful to each other as well. Space- love to high ceilings, great natural light and spacious. The place is huge. Two outdoor patios, main dining room, large bar, and casual seating area.

    Tatiana C.

    Awesome place to grab a bite to eat. I been here a long time ago at the old location & I didn't quite remember the food being this delicious. I fell in love with their beef empanadas right on the spot. My lomo saltado was delicious!! Better than the one I had at La Costanera. I would go back! A nice summer day you can sit outside! Oh yeah..the rum cake was soooooooooo delicious!!

    Fried cauliflower appetizer.
    Rick M.

    Food and drinks were fine. Service was not. We went to Bocanova for afternoon drinks and small bites and asked to sit outside, since they have outdoor seating and heat lamps. The request was met with visible attitude and an eye roll from the hostess. We asked for a heater. After about ten minutes, our server tried to light it--no luck. The hostess tried next--also no luck. There were several other heaters nearby, but no one offered to try another or followed up at all. If you're going to advertise outdoor seating with heat lamps, you should be willing and able to actually use them--without making guests feel like an inconvenience. To be clear, the drinks and food were not the issue--they were perfectly fine. And our food server was friendly and accommodating. But good food doesn't excuse bad service from the hostess or her attitude. Disappointing experience from a place we've liked in the past.

    Rib-Eye Lunch Special
    Latrese P.

    We celebrated my Grandmother's Birthday here. It was my first time visiting. I lucked up on a park on 11th right one the side across from the Marriott; otherwise, I would've had to walk a short distance. I was greeted by a really nice lady who happened to be our waitress as well. We had Beef Empanadas, Shrimp Empanadas, and Salmon Fritters for an appetizer which was good. They have a variety of menu options, but I opted for the lunch rib-eye special medium well and some fries along with a Shirley Temple. The portion was small, but it was cooked to my liking. The Seafood Cioppino and Fish-n-Chips looked really good. I'll try next time.

    Lunch menu

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    We went there to celebrate my friend's Birthday. Food was delicious, service was great!

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    Page 5 of 8

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    Ask the Community - Bocanova

    Anything on the menu gluten free?

    We have many gluten free options, The chicken a la Brasa, the scallops, the steaks, salads and others are all gluten free.

    View All 2 Questions

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    Limón - Lomo Saltado

    Limón

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    1.0 mi
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    While I was in Oakland, I finally got the chance to try the Oakland LIMÓN! I absolutely LOVE the…read moreLIMÓN in San Francisco... it's literally one of my favorite restaurants! So when I found out there was one in Oakland, I had to go try it! When we got there, we were greeted and seated really quickly, which was a plus! I ordered a cup of their sangria, and of course, it was delicious. Anytime I come to LIMÓN, the sangria is a MUST! Normally, my partner and I get a pitcher to share, but this time I just got a cup, and it was still so refreshing and good. We ordered the Saltado de Pollo, which was good, but I have to say, I still think the original Lomo Saltado with beef is WAY better! We also got the truffle mac & cheese, and it was delicious. It wasn't too creamy or too dry.., it was just perfectly cheesy! The Chicharrón de Pollo was SO good! The chicken had a really good crunch, and it comes with this delicious lemonade sauce that you dip the chicken into. Definitely a must try! One thing I really love about LIMÓN is how fast everything comes out. If you're hungry, this is definitely a great spot because your food comes out quickly, fresh, and delicious! The staff was also really kind and helpful. There's plenty of seating and a beautiful bar if you want to come in for a drink and some food. It's a great spot for lunch, dinner, or even a date night! Overall, I had another great experience at LIMÓN, and the Oakland location did not disappoint! I'll definitely be back!

    Not going to lie, having Limon right underneath my building is dangerous. This hands down is one of…read morethe best restaurants in the east bay because it offers delicious food, amazing service, and has a nice size interior. I've been here for happy hour, which has a bunch of great small plate and drink options. This time I came for dinner and tried the mixto rocoto with red snapper, calamari, shrimp, and porteno leche de tigre. I love the acidity in the dish to the point where I wanted to drink the entire sauce by the end of it. Also tried the half chicken that came with a side of fries and salad. Probably one of the best rotisseries I had. If you're here for drinks definitely try the pisco sour. You really can't go wrong with anything on the menu.

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    Popoca Oakland - Ceviche

    Popoca Oakland

    4.4(279 reviews)
    0.1 miOld Oakland
    $$$

    What a great dinner I had at Popoca! It was a great little intro to Salvadorian cuisine!…read more After perusing the menu, it was so hard to choose, but Popoca had the right solution! A super affordable tasting menu that for only $80 a person and it was such a great value. Started with the fried chicken and guacamole. Now, im not a guac girl, but this was so flavorful and delicious. I really enjoyed it! We also had the pupusas (duh!), the trout (so delicious), veranito loco, and flan for dessert. The most interesting part of the meal was in the middle of it, they served a dish of fruit and veg in a fresh crema. Perfect palate cleanser and super unique! The customer service was absolutely great! Our server answered all of our questions! Great Great Experience over at Popoca, food was great, service was awesome and best of all....they played a ton of Spice Girls. Warmed my millennial heart right up!

    What's sexier than a cheese pull?…read more A cheese pull with meltingly tender lengua! Pop-up turned brick and mortar, Popoca is serving up Modern Salvi Cuisine with California ingredients and fine dining techniques. The seasonal menu emphasizes wood-fired cooking. For parties 2 or more, they have a shared, for lack of better words, tasting menu for $80 pp. Full bar available. Rezzies are a must on the weekend! Back patio is TT friendly but kindly note it's communal tables. F O O D * Pollo "Campero": Chicken wings, lime, panela, hot sauce made en casa, escabeche (3 pc-$17): https://tinyurl.com/2brx7bbu - Added an additional piece for $5.50 An nod to the Guatemalan fried chicken chain that became widely popular in El Salvador, the chicken wings are brined and double fried. They're served hot and crunchy but I wished the sweetness from the panela came through and the hot sauce had more heat. I mean, they were tasty but given the mad hype, I expected more. * Pupusa de Lengua: Beef tongue, queso, recaudo ($11 x2): https://tinyurl.com/2wuk2m7x Made from scratch with nixtamalized heirloom corn, the masa was crisp on the outside and soft inside, with a warm, earthy corn flavor and smoky char from the grill. Generously filled with stretchy, molten cheese and tender, beefy lengua....it was BOMB. To nitpick, I wish the curtido (cabbage slaw) had more acid and the salsas were punchier to cut through the richness. I don't know any place in the bay that offers pupusa de lengua so it's a must order if you love lengua. * Bistic Encebollado: Grilled New York steak, bbq shallots, cherry tomatoes, recaudo, onion crema, loroco, sesame ($63): https://tinyurl.com/3bvfan6t Initially, I was bummed to learn they no longer serve their lamb neck but one bite of the bistic, lamb what? The beautifully cooked steak was incredibly tender and flavorful, with a nice smoky char from the grill. The recaudo added an earthy flavor, while the sesame brought a delicious nuttiness. * Arroz ($8) To cheap to pay $17 for a side of rice and beans, we just ordered a side of rice...perfect for two to share. Savory and lightly spiced, it went well with the steak and soaked up all those flavorful juices. S E R V I C E Friendly hostess. Service could have been better, we barely saw our server so couldn't order additional cocktails. Prompt food service. A M B I A N C E Industrial-chic with high ceilings, exposed brick walls, and lush greenery. There's two separate indoor dining areas, one with the bar. Back patio is partially covered. P A R K I N G We easily found street parking on a Saturday evening. Overall, it's no surprise that Popoca has been featured in numerous lists including Bon Appétit, SF Chron Top 100, and NYT...and have been recognized by the Michelin Guide. Aside from an pop-up in LA, they're the only resto in the entire state serving Modern Salvi Cuisine, bringing a unique dining experience in The Town's food scene.

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    Mägo - Umami Mart sake dinner: anticucho

    Mägo

    4.3(304 reviews)
    1.7 miPiedmont Ave, North Oakland
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    Columbian-by-way-of-California fine dining. Part of what makes the restaurant so special is that it…read morewelcomes children and families. On the level, the food warrants 4 stars, but this restaurant is uniquely child-friendly and worth spotlighting for that reason. The 3+ hour tasting menu is an experience to behold. We saw that there is a children's price online, so we included our almost-ten year old in the reservation. Everyone -- the adults in our party as well as the servers -- felt a bit of trepidation when we sat down, but all turned out well. He read a book between courses and watched the food being cooked in the open kitchen. Our party had a lively conversation throughout and the servers -- who were very friendly -- jumped in and out. At one point, we turned around to find a low shelf with Dr. Seuss books, which we learned belonged to the chef when his kids were younger. It felt symbolic of the whole attitude of the place. Regarding the menu, I will briefly say that it was excellent. All dishes were superbly executed, though a couple perhaps needed a bit more imagination. For example, the black garlic and harissa that garnished the lamb felt very "on-trend," rather than something unique to this restaurant. That said, it was delicious and the flavors were well-paired. The children's menu turned out to be identical to the adults' in terms of dishes and proportions. Not everything appealed to our plucky nine year old's palate but he did indeed eat most of what was put in front of him. Mägo makes a welcoming entrée to fine dining for young eaters. I love forward to returning with my family on the future.

    My friend brought me here for dinner, and I was really excited to try it. We also got the drink…read morepairing and that was really fun. I really liked the first several courses as they were really fun, creative and beautifully presented. When we got to the proteins, it was honestly quite underwhelming for me. It was almost disappointing. The first protein was a local seabass with a cashew (or walnut?) sauce but the sauce was so incredibly salty that it had a bit of a bite to it so needless to say, got rid of the sauce to eat the fish. Fish was also a bit dry. The next was lamb 2 ways. It was fine but also just a piece of grilled steak on the plate and a merguez sausage stuffed pepper. The stuffed pepper was fun but neither of the these 2 things were mind blowingly good or creative. The lamb plate looked so boring that any home cook can do it. Overall, proteins were a miss for me. My friend got the cheese plate, it was fine but I don't think it's worth the extra add on. It wasn't anything super special. Then the dessert which is usually my favorite part of the meal. First was a roasted strawberry and a milk ice cream dish that was delightful and beautifully presented. The second was a small bite with compressed melon and a financier. The financier was even saltier than that fish. Definitely used salt instead of sugar. Not sure how that was missed but it was probably the most disgusting "dessert" I've eaten at a restaurant. Thus, the 3 stars because it was truly disappointing that the meal ended on a salty note...literally. Service was fine. Wasn't the most outstanding, it feels like some of the staff members didn't know the menu super well and certainly didn't seem confident in telling us what we were eating and drinking. The drinks were really tasty though, got to try a large variety of things I probably wouldn't try on my own. Really wanted to love this place as the dinner started off strong but didn't end well. With the drink pairing on a weekend night, absolutely NOT worth your money.

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