We love Diana, the bartender. Why? Because she makes a badass drink, is so dang sweet, and is personable & so fun to talk to. Beau, the busser-do-all-the-things, pretty much knocks our socks off. Oh, and the food is great and the atmosphere is so stylish and comfy. read more

If savory French toast with porcini mushrooms sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. It was disappointing for me. 1. Eggs were perfect - fresh farm poached eggs 2. Bread slices were thin, barely covered in custard and drenched in oil. 3. The salad was just ok - shaved Parmesan was a plus 4. My plate was covered in oil and it was the only noticeable item 5. Porcini mushrooms seemed overcooked, with hard, overly crisp stems and rubbery caps. 6. Restrooms are **awful** - I never comment on them but this place definitely needs to be mentioned. The salmon-colored stall partitions and old tile with stark, dark grout gave the restrooms a dated 1980s look. Let's focus on what mattered here- weird odor. Not coming back to this one. read more

See all

It's disappointing to find myself reevaluating many of my past reviews of Oakland restaurants. Over time, I've noticed a gradual decline in both food quality and service across the East Bay, particularly in Oakland. We stopped by on a Sunday for brunch and ordered two of their signature dishes. Unfortunately, the prices were higher than before, while the service was noticeably slower. It's still a pleasant spot with a nice atmosphere, but both the food and overall service seem to have taken a step backward since our previous visits. BB read more

I had eaten at Grand Lake Kitchen on Grand Ave years ago, but this branch in the Dimond district was new to me! They had special hours this Labor Day so met up with another couple for dinner. It was very quiet, likely because they're normally not even open on Mondays. It was still very pleasant and my friends and I enjoyed a great evening. I had the beef brisket dip and I was afraid that the amount of bread would overtake the meat, but it was perfectly balanced. I enjoyed every bite of the brisket with the caramelized onions! My husband had the American burger, and though he said he's had better, he was still satisfied with it. For sure the fries were good! I had a Ginger Julep that was refreshing, and we each had a donut for dessert (4 for $7.00!). Service was great, food came out quickly. I love it when everyone's food comes out at the same time so there's not the awkwardness of waiting for others to get their meals before digging in! This location used to be a Chinese restaurant that we used to patronize all the time before Covid. read more

See all

I really do like this place & food but there is one huge problem! Every time I go here I order something basic on the menu and a couple of basic drinks. But, after I get the bill I'm absolutely floored on how expensive my bill is! And, this is why I only go here a couple of times a year because that always reminds me lol. The prices are outrageous! Service is good. Please lower the prices, this is Oakland not S.F. nor do most of us get paid S.F. wages. Ambience is nice but, parking is an also difficult in that area much of the time. Those are two big negatives for me. Lower the prices and I'll give you guys a four no problem! read more

Saturday morning breakfast! Good food and great service on a Saturday morning at Grand Lake Kitchen in the Dimond. This location is easier to park and get a seat than the Lake Merritt location. I was with a group of 6 people and the service was attentive and prompt, the food recommendations were on point and we shared donuts for dessert, but they were gone so fast I didn't get a picture! read more

Grand Lake Kitchen - Dimond - Lamb - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

I came here to celebrate a family party, and my cousins rented out the back room for our group. The space comfortably seated about 20 of us, with room for even more, and it was perfect for a private gathering. My cousins put together a very thoughtful brunch, which made the experience feel extra special. The waitress was very attentive and regularly checked in to see if we needed refills. The food was served buffet-style and had a great variety, from potatoes to French toast. My personal favorites were the sausage and fried chicken--they were delicious. Overall, I'm so glad I got to make meaningful memories here with my family. I'd definitely love to come back soon to try more items from their regular menu. read more

Grand Lake Kitchen - Dimond - Buffet brunch (instagram: wooneats) - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

The food was so delicious and and excellent breakfast or brunch option. The staff were so friendly and helpful when we asked questions about the menu items. The restaurant was full of life and everyone there seemed happy so good vibes overall! read more

Grand Lake Kitchen - Dimond - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Oakland, California

Alright brunch food, albeit mixed results from the kitchen, in a chill atmosphere with seemingly little competition for tables. Not very knowledgeable bar/wait staff, from what I saw of the Sunday rotation. read more

Food was delicious! We both got chilaquiles, zero regrets. the service was great and speedy even though we went on a saturday (valentine's) for brunch! super clean place well accommodated. it's small but they have the set up where you don't feel overcrowded. would def recommend and visit again! read more

See all

"GOOD FOOD IS MY FAVORITE THING" I struggle packing a lunch each day besides that I enjoy eating good food not prepared by me ! I ordered door dash delivery. GRAND LAKE KITCHEN serves yummy lunch food items. The CALI MIXED BOWL is full of lemony goodness on top of a bed of peppery arugula with soft pita bread slices. The salad ia VERY, VERY GOOD add a side of tuna or chicken salad. ENJOY !!! Treat a friend it's too good to share. :-) I also ordered on a different time the YADI sando it includes cranberry sauce, pickles, pickled onions, tomato, avocado, turkey, lettuce a spicy mustard and mayo ... it's one of those "Heck Yeah!" moment :-) PACKAGING: simple plain brown bag UTENSILS: and napkins not included FOOD: super delicious DELIVERY: fast PRICE: reasonable "People who love to eat are always the best people." Julia Child read more

See all

We live in the neighborhood and used to order takeout from here all of the time but the prices keep going up and the portions have gotten so small it's actually insulting. I ordered hanks plate this morning and was barely given one egg worth of scrambled eggs, and the toast slices are half the size they used to be. Charging $25 for this is genuinely insane. My spouse also ordered the burger and the patty was super over cooked and dry. Huge bummer. read more

Grand Lake Kitchen - Dimond - Hank's Plate - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Oakland, California

A nice floor layout and large enough for party seating, a specialty bar set in the neiborhood blurring lines of Lurrel and Diamond district parts of Oakland as far as atmosphere goes. We came on a mid-afternoon and had a choice from a brunch and diner combination menu. I had a unique dish that was a tortilla breakfast type dish. Who dosent like nachos? This was something simular however no . The poached eggs where cooked perfect and I was glad I ordered an additional on because two would not have been enough for the ample amount of chips. The black beans in this was enough to complete the Latin recipe configuration close to nachos, but the picked onions was a complement to the eggs and . I suggest asking for a side protein because without it most carnivores like me would not consider it enough or filling. My partner was on her second day of being underwhelmed with "standard dishes" that you expect more from a resturaunt but still ate her French toast out of hunger rather than liking the dish. As thick as the bread was I imagine she left full but the batter seemed lacking of any vanilla, nutmeg or cinnamon which are traditional as I know it. From the one bite I had I suggest trying the savory French toast which seems like good ingredients listed on the menu. I almost ordered it. This will be a place that I will return to try other dishes and the bar . read more

See all

Food was fresh and good. Ambience is pretty decent. Service was okay. Some items which I had decided to have were only available after 5 PM that was annoying. When you have a kitchen, how hard it is to make. read more

So I did return because I couldn't stop thinking about the potatoes (see photos) and I'm really glad I did! This branch of Grand Lake Kitchen has now become a regular brunch spot, and is helpfully open on holiday Mondays. Service can still occasionally be off, like totally forgotten coffees or those aforementioned flaky servers, but the food consistency makes it worth it. Must add that the outside seating is really pleasant and shady with comfy seats as well as being dog-friendly. read more

See all

The food was great honestly, I don't normally eat american brunch but it definitely gave me high expectations. Every dish was made really well and the burger was the best. The only issue was the Vicious Salad, could've used more dressing but I hadn't realized there was really crispy bits of bacon towards the end so maybe that was why. Service was ok! We noticed our server read out specials to other customers rather than us, but at least she was nice! 5/5! read more

Grand Lake Kitchen - Dimond - Burrata, Viscious Salad , Americana Burger , Warm Prosciutto !! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Oakland, California

Excellent place to have breakfast and lunch. Comfortable outdoor patio. The best thing about this place is the strong mai tai cocktail. Uber/Lyft is needed after 3. One time I ordered 2. Drank them and stumbled to a bar across the street and drank 3 more before retiring for the evening. Mai tais and the French toast breakfast keep me coming back.. read more

Enjoyed a Saturday dinner out with a group of friends. Wasn't very busy for a weekend evening and the ambiance was low key. I had the white linen, which was average for a cocktail. I did enjoy the Yadi sandwich with side of broccolini. It was huge and very filling! We shared the chicken wings to start and donuts for dessert, which were average. read more

Grand Lake Kitchen - Dimond - Wings - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Oakland, California

I had breakfast here earlier in the year and it was so good. It was a warm day we sat outside. I can't remember specifically what I got but I remember it being delicious and the bill being super expensive but totally worth it. It must've been breakfast food I remember that I had an omelette with like spinach and the works. I would come back for sure, but I would make sure to bring extra change. Also, I remember that the orange juice was so refreshing here. I believe it was fresh squeezed.. I will return for sure! read more

Food good. Service not so good. Parking=nightmare. Then, we waited 20 minutes for a table to open. After being seated, it took another 20 minutes to get waters. It was 42 minutes for our food. When the food arrived...the kid's menu French toast was TINY-a mini half-slice. My son was very sad after waiting over an hour. Salad was excellent and the eggs Benedict was great, but we won't be back based on service. read more

Service is top tier! our server was so nice. Love the space and the addition of the shop of unique (locally made) items. And food was delicious. We ordered a mix of brunch and lunch items and it was more than enough. We did the $40 fried chicken deal and it came with 2 sides. Definitely a must come back. read more

See all

The server straight screams in my ear and across the table. Food is ok. I asked the server for a box and he completely ignored me and then came back with a box. Like he really couldn't say anything? But I will say the art throughout the restaurant is stunning and original read more

I needed to plan and book a last minute holiday party for my company. GLK's event staff was quick to get back to me and the Dimond location was the only restaurant I reached out to that was able to meet all our needs. Their online portal was also super helpful in the planning stages but there was admittedly a point where I was panicking a bit because the initial person I was in contact with went silent. But everything ended up going well and we most definitely enjoyed our evening. I had never been to either GLKs before but will undoubtedly visit again! The quote for our event was beyond reasonable and the food and drinks were delicious. The space was beautiful and roomy despite there being other large parties present, and the bar selection was impressive. I appreciated that my request to add a small blurb on our menu for the evening was granted and our waitress was attentive, responsive, and remembered everyone's orders very well. read more

The food is very tasty, the service attentive and prices reasonable. However reservations are highly recommended on the weekends read more

Grand Lake Kitchen - Dimond - Sunday special avocado toast and spring salad - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Oakland, California

Came on Mother's Day with my family and had an amazing night. We came in late and the service was still amazing! Very grateful for the staff for serving us and the food was fresh and delicious. This was my first time trying them and I will definitely be back. Thank you once again . read more

This place gave me food poisoning...my kids chicken was cold as if they just pulled it out from refrigerator. Sister in laws burger was still pink on the inside. My steak had no seasoning. read more

Grand Lake Kitchen - Dimond - Cold chicken that was popped in microwave - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Oakland, California

We just had a 40th wedding anniversary event at Grand Lake Kitchen in the Dimond neighborhood, Oakland. Everything was wonderful! From the event coordinator, Jennifer, to the food and wait staff. We felt well cared for before, during and after the event. We had about 33 adults and 5 kids(including toddlers). Event room accommodated us well with a blocked off area just outside double doors into main dining room that had a nice open space and the buffets tables. The wait staff made sure we stayed well stocked at the juice/mimosa table and buffet. Food was wonderful. I chose a little bit of breakfast items and some lunch items as we are having brunch. Everyone was very happy with the selections. I highly recommend GLK for your event or even just stop by for a meal. Plenty of parking in the neighborhood also. Being right off I-580 was very convenient. read more

See all

We always have a solid meal here. Last time we tried a few things we have never had before anywhere - chicken confit and smoked salmon ravioli- and they were excellent. read more

First visit to Grand Lake Kitchen in the Dimond district. Have been to the location on Grand many times and enjoyed the busy urban environment there, as well as the menu. The menu at Dimond location is similar but not an exact match. The ambiance is totally different, feels more like a local neighborhood diner with families and fit to the demographics in this area. Service was excellent and we thoroughly enjoyed the artichoke appetizer, eggplant parmesan (which was a step up from a traditional preparation), and the boozy slushies were fun and refreshing. Will definitely visit again! read more

Grand Lake Kitchen - Dimond - Grapefruit Boozy slushy - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

Came here during Oakland Restaurant Week (ORW) and my overall experience was average. Service was good, came in during a Saturday early evening and was not too busy. The space is also pretty big. Parking was a little bit of a struggle, but as expected. Eventually found parking a couple blocks away. Grilled Asparagus- the asparagus was cooked perfectly! And the capers and Manchester cheese gave it the right amount of saltiness and crunchiness. The truffle creme was a little too strong for me, but if you like truffle, you'll love it. Gnocchi- the addition of the pistachios and feta was perfect. I liked the pesto sauce, i just wish it was a little thicker because it didn't coat the Gnocchi as much as I wanted it to which left some of the Gnocchi feeling a little dry sometimes. Donuts- the Donuts were SO good. Definitely must try. The perfect size, amount of sugar and cinnamon, and texture. It was definitely enough to share with at least one other person. Dimond 75 - was really good! Pork belly confit - i didn't try it, but the review was that while the pork belly was good, the bed of beans felt a little random Seared ahi- didn't try it, but review was that the fish was good. read more

See all

Me and my husband loves this place a must try. Parking is rough out here but this location is not as busy than the lakeshore one

First thing I noticed was how nice, bright and open the dining room is; plus we were greeted immediately and shown to our table. Coffee was first on the agenda then a dive into their menu (which has something for everyone!). I am "into Benedicts so I went with the House Specialty Pastrami Benedict and was not disappointed. My friend went with Paul's Plate (if memory serves) which is 2 eggs any style, bacon and potatoes (that are smashed then fried). Both are fantastic options since we came for Brunch. We will be back for a few lunch items soon ;) PS: we just had to add 4 fresh donuts to our order to share; delish!! read more

I love this place. A great variety of menu items to suit all tastes. High-quality food. Great wait service. Comfortable establishment. Nice outdoor space. Only down side is the parking sometimes. They also have another location on Grand by the lake. read more

See all

We stopped by Grand Lake Kitchen recently for a late lunch, and it was a pleasant experience. We had a group of 6 people and were able to get seated quickly. I think it was helpful that we stopped by at a less busy time. Customer service was attentive and friendly, but they are strict about not allowing brunch food orders after 3pm. I ordered a GLK Green Goddess Salad with no tomatoes and it was tasty and the basil vinaigrette was good. I finished the salad completely, and felt pretty full. We also shared some mini donuts, which were warm and coated in cinnamon sugar, and I enjoyed that as well. We were able to take our time and did not feel rushed during our meal. I will say a lot of the entrees and menu options were priced a bit high. My salad was $18, and there is an additional cost for adding protein ($6 for chicken). Overall, we enjoyed our lunch and it worked well for a spontaneous, group outing. Parking can be limited depending on when you go, although there is metered, street parking nearby - it was $3 per hour when we went. Recommend checking out GLK - Dimond if you're visiting the area or hanging out nearby. read more

We had a work function there and staff were super pleasant. Food was tasty but greasy. Mocktails were so nice. The lay out is very spacious . We had a back room that opens out into the main room. read more

GLK in the Dimond is absolutely a gem! There is both indoor and outdoor seating. The restaurant has an old school/ modern vibe . The wait staff is fantastic and super attentive. The food is fantastic. Will definitely return soon. read more

Grand Lake Kitchen - Dimond - Avocado toast with salad & potatoes & French toast with apples - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Oakland, California

I really wanted to like this place. We ordered the 5 piece fried chicken meal. Minus one star, the chicken was disappointing. It wasn't greasy but was a little overcooked. I found the skin and meat lacked favor and I made the comment of Popeye's fried chicken was better. Minus another star for their service. It was not busy when my group of 3 arrived, but the service could have been better. There was a lady next to us who was visibly frustrated that the server had ignored her. When it was time for us to pay, it took us a while to flag someone down. For as busy (not) as they were, the attentiveness of the wait staff could have been better. read more

I'm not typically a brunch person but GLK does it right. The egg benedicts are a hit and don't disappoint. This time especially good was the Florentine with the green sauce on top. Unfortunately they seemed to get rid of the arugula salad for regular lettuce salad. GLK bleu cheese burger was grubby, seasoned very well, and packed with flavor. The cooks hit the temp of the burger as requested so kudos Bloody Mary was bold with lots of spices, definitely didn't taste like standard bottled stuff. The picked veg was fine, not very briney which I prefer. read more

See all

Kudos to this staple expanding and opening this newer location. This is solely a dinner review and the moral of the story is... ehhhh, stick to brunch. My group of 7 was all disappointed with dinner. The place is super cute, large and takes reservations - all great things. They're going for that upscale, hipster diner with some classic diner eats and some elevated options. Their famed brunch menu looks awesome. The dinner menu has a bit of everything, but nothing landed. And it's not cheap, mind you. From the healthy chickpea stew to the various pastas and the pastrami sandwich; the sentiment was all the same... "pretty uninspired." Even the donuts for dessert were eh.. to the point that our group of 7 left 1 of the 4 behind. The perfectly fried fries and brussel sprouts were the two dishes that stood out. It wasn't busy and service was slow and unengaged. Overall, dinner was a pass for the price point, keep it to brunch. read more

See all

I'm embarrassed to say that I've lived near this place for a long time and just never noticed it. I've gone to their other location and always liked it but parking is a hassle there. I had their salad with hummus, which was fresh and fine, and beyond reasonably priced . I sat on the dog friendly patio with my friendly dog, and they brought out water without even being asked. I've been to a lot of the restaurants on MacArthur on the other side of Fruitvale, but for some reason hadn't crossed the road. Will be back. read more

Grand Lake Kitchen - Dimond - Patio - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Oakland, California