Very nice service and enjoyed my time here. It's located in a nice little area of rock ridge called elmwood. The food was good. My friend said the salmon was great. My plate was alright, a bit dry for my taste and I would've liked more protein. A bit pricey as well. Overall a good spot. read more

Saffron Kitchen - Mediterranean Near Me - Oakland, California

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Great spot to grab a bite. Food was good. Didn't blow my mind but tasted good and was very much like eating a good home cooked meal. The place is great with big open patio just below street level. The one thing was that the service really was not great. Super friendly staff but hard to get them to come by. I think part is that they share tables. Never had someone come over to ask about the food. Or to offer a refill for ice tea. After sitting for awhile with my food finished I asked for the check. No one ever came by to grab my card so ended up paying on my phone, but got the job done. read more

Food & seasoning is very tasty but my chicken was slightly dry. The service was excellent. Cost is on the higher side. Location is convenient walkable from the Rockridge BART if meeting with friends from outside the area. My friends said they would return there again and was very happy with their salmon dish. I would return if I wanted to spend about $25/-$30person without drinks before tax. No appetizers, just lunch on a Sunday. The lunches included a side of veggies and rice. We ordered a separate salad that was also tasty. If the price was 25% lower, like $20 -$25/lunch, I would give it 5 stars. read more

We had the Mantu, Lentil Soup, Hummus and Butternut Squash Bolani and all of them were great! The waitstaff is attentive and helpful. They've recently expanded the restaurant, giving each table a bit more space which is nice. Love this place! read more

THIS... is miyeeeee plaaaace! Oh. Em. Gee. Lemme tell ya, lemme tell ya! Saffron Kitchen impresses like no other! I'm so incredibly excited to have Saffron's uniqueness in this neighborhood. Rockridge really needed something like this. Something fresh, hip, and authentic. I love it to pieces, bay-bee! First things first; the happy hour is the bomb.com! I'll admit that this is what got me hooked initially. The cocktails are strong, delicious, and made with love. The FOOD... dear Lordt. Mm hmm... Lord with that added T at the end. The food is the most flavorful. The seasonings, the spices, the consistency; all perfecto. You can get a nice sampling of some of their specialties from their happy hour menu. But, you mustn't miss out on having dinner here. The beef kabobs are my favorite item on their menu right now. The beef is just so tender and juicy. I love when they take them off of the hot skewer and put them on the plate. It doesn't get any fresher than that, baby! They are so damn flavorful and delicious. But, I could literally go on about several items on their menu. Their mantus are top tier. I'm talking melting in your mouth goodness. The house made middle eastern naan is to die for, especially when dipped in their chutneys. The samosas, the salmon, the shrimp skewers... I mean Geezus. Every single that I've put in mouth here has been sensational. Aside from the food and drink, the SERVICE is absolutely phenomenal! The staff is so amazing! Akbar and Abdul are so kind! They certainly run the place with passion and great direction. You will always find one of them there holding down the fort and making sure that everything is operating smoothly. My favorite bartenders Risa and Jargie are exceptional! They are so sweet and observant. I love chatting with them and they both know how to make a mean cocktail. The vibe is so awesome here. Low key but also elegant. I often come on week nights to wind down after work, and I always leave feeling so good and happy that I came. Yeeeaaah. This is my place. My local little gem. I am so grateful to have them in the neighborhood and I hope they stay around for many years to come! Thank YOU Saffron for being amazing! MUAH! read more

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Disappointing. Pricey but the food is mediocre. I've given this place a couple of chances and unfortunately it's just not good. The shrimp dish was under cooked and the chicken dish has hard chicken to chew. The vegetables that come with these dishes taste horrible and old like they just came out of a plastic bag! Ambiance is decent but food is subpar. Not going again! read more

Food - fantastic Service - excellent Ambiance - pleasant and attractive locale The Afghan and other new to us dishes were delicious. I recommend the lamb shank with some kind of incredibly delicious rice concoction. Pistacchio gelato also very good for desert. Lots of kebab choices too. Prices are high but they're high everywhere so whaddyagonnado? read more

I had the beef korma, and it was super good and was even better than I expected . The place is also classy. I will definitely go there again to try other dishes . read more

Tried this place for the first time on a friend recommendation and it was awesome. The fusion of taste and spices were tantalizing to my taste buds. Definitely will come back, I'll be very casual. Our server was very attentive and insured that we wanted for nothing. Definitely will come back. read more

Saffron Kitchen - Mediterranean Near Me - Oakland, California

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It really pains me to write this but Saffron is no longer what it used to be. Not sure if they're under new ownership or not but my family and I have ordered takeout from here at least twice a month for a couple years now, spending well over $100 each time and I can confirm, it's not made with the same quality or authenticity as before. The kabob is now served with white rice instead of brown (their menu lists that it's served with brown rice), they're no longer served with a grilled/charred tomato, onion, and bell pepper, it's now a mixed vegetable medley that I assume is either frozen or prepackaged, they have forgotten our bread the last couple of orders, our most recent order of butternut squash came without yogurt even though we added the meat/yogurt option, and the fried items taste like they were made with old oil. Bummer. read more

Saffron is a lovely inside/outside space, on College Avenue. We attend the church across the street and finally got a chance to visit Saffron. Very attentive service, nice setting, delicious food. We got three "mixed plates"=the appetizers (huge and delcious); the small mezze; and the kabobs (nicely grilled, esp. the shrimp). The plating was stylishly modern and the windows to the street gave a constantly changing view of Rockridge. Just an all-around delicious and friendly restaurant! read more

Omg. Omg. Omg. YUM. Saffron Kitchen will be on a regular rotation for me going forward. I've only had Afghani food once or twice, but this is another level. The menu has plenty of options but they all fit onto one page; I am not a fan of menus that go on for 3-4 pages. Also, there are many beverage choices, and their cocktails are pretty good. The steamed dumplings - the Mantu - was heavenly. I am a discerning Chinese dumpling eater, and I was over the moon with every bite of this dish. I had to refrain from licking the plate. Of course, we had to have lamb, and we struggled to decide because there were so many options. We landed on the lamb kabob; my friend and I kept cutting the lamb into smaller and smaller pieces so we could have more and more bites to savor. Then we had a veggie sampler because we couldn't decide which veggie we wanted. We got to taste the eggplant, the spinach, and the butternut squash. Everything was great, but the butternut squash shined. The restaurant has so many beautiful spaces to dine. First, there is a fancy parklet and patio area set a level below the street for those who want to dine outside in the fresh air. Inside, there is a main dining section that is cozy and comfortable, with a decent bar. There also is a pretty stunning private dining room. The service was the highlight. Our server was extremely attentive, and other wait staff checked in on us. If you're not familiar with Afghan food, the staff will be more than delighted to explain it to you. You'll be missing out if you don't try it! Finally, the prices are incredibly reasonable for what they offer you. What a welcome addition to the community. read more

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We really loved our dinner experience here tonight. Driving home, we stumbled upon the restaurant simply because it was right next to where we parked. The patio was super clean and cute, and felt very comfortable even during winter. Staff was top notch. Everyone was very kind and friendly. The food could not be better. We had chicken, lamb, fillet, all cooked perfectly. Absolutely delicious. We'll be revisiting for sure, I'm so glad we gave it a try! read more

Very sweet older man was our server for the night. He might have been the owner. Welcoming vibes, smiled a lot, checked in on us frequently. Ordered the Combination Kabobs ($23). Comes with chicken and beef. The chicken was good, but the beef was likely overcooked and a bit dry. Baghlava & Ice Cream ($12) - nice combo of the warm baklava and cold ice cream. read more

Saffron Kitchen - Combination Kabobs ($23) - Mediterranean Near Me - Oakland, California

This restaurant was amazing! Food and drinks were delicious and our server was very kind as well. We don't typically eat a lot of lamb, but the rack of lamb just melted in our mouth. Would definitely eat here again! read more

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Love this place. Really hidden gem in Rockridge. Food is delicious. Service is good and friendly. read more

Gave us food poisoning. We know it was this meal for a fact. Spent $100 on a simple dinner for two people and ended up sick. We won't be back. read more

The food was good but idk some of the dishes that seemed like they would be really great were kind of boring? The prices were a bit high. but it's a higher-end restaurant so that kind of makes sense. I really liked the patio and the staff were really kind. read more

Truly an underrated gem!! Amazing staff and service as well as a beautiful space for a midday lunch/celebration or a romantic date night. The food is some of the best Afghan/Mediterranean food I've had and compares to home for me. I would eat here once a week if I could and there's nothing I wouldn't recommend!! I always can't wait to go back and tell other people about it in the area read more

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Food was incredible! We ordered the mixed appetizer platter and the mixed kabob platter. We loved the variety and everything was cooked to perfection. Server was very friendly and helpful. We ate outside and it felt like we left the Bay Area and landed in the Mediterranean for a great meal. We will definitely be back!! read more

What went well, you ask? EVERYTHING! I'm going back as soon as I can. Food, greeting, Attention, price. My salmon was exquisite. I would have paid twice as much at any other restaurant. Portion sizes were perfect. My guest from D C was incredibly impressed with his lamb dish. Wow!!!! read more

I would give Saffron Kitchen 20 stars if I could. The food and service from this place was absolutely phenomenal. Our household loves mediterranean food, so after a long day of shopping on College Avenue, it only made sense that we would stop here for dinner. The moment I walked in, I was awestruck by the beauty of the restaurant's design and architecture. The inside is absolutely gorgeous. The owner warmly approached me with a smile and took my order. He also patiently answered any questions that I had about the dishes and helped me make a decision about what to purchase. We settled on chicken and shrimp kebabs, as well as qurma. Everything was delicious! I can't wait to come back. read more

Surprisingly delicious! We have been meaning to try this place for a while now, and happened to be in Rockridge so stopped by for dinner. We ordered salmon kebabs, a number of different hardy lentil and potato soups, dumplings, a Mediterranean salad, and a number of other items. Everything was uniquely delicious and well seasoned. Service was prompt and attentive, and we enjoyed the outdoor seating. Don't miss it!! read more

Every time I've eaten here, I've left happy. First came here for lunch with a work group. I was blown away (those chutneys!). Since then, I've come back several times. Brought my wife, brought my mother... we all loved our meals. I've had the samosa, bolani and mantu apps. Main dishes, I've had the kabobs, shish leek and qurma dishes...all so good. I'll be there again soon... read more

Food was delicious and portions were large. Service was great - attentive staff with good recommendations. Ambiance was nice with modern touches and pleasant background music. read more

Food, staff, ambience is great David a bartender/waiter is divine The food is delicious and so healthy read more

Finally found authentic Afghani restaurant in Bay Area. Delicious fresh food full of flavor. Meat grilled perfectly. Very nice deserts. Very helpful staff. Nice place. read more

Service ok But food was bad. Really really bad approximation of Afghani food. Disappointed. read more

I got the charbroiled chicken kabob plate and my friend got the mantu and butternut squash with meat sauce. I realized I'm not a huge fan of charbroiled chicken because it tasted a bit burnt but that's just a personal preference. My dish was a little dry, but the sauces on the side helped with that. The mantu was delicious and I would highly recommend it. The lamb dumplings paired with this yogurt sauce were amazing--I don't think I've ever had anything like that before. I'm not particularly into butternut squash, so I didn't enjoy that dish as much, but I liked how creamy it was. read more

Saffron Kitchen - Mediterranean Near Me - Oakland, California

Good food and atmosphere - service was also very good. Prices are a little high for a couple of skewers. Convenient to BART

Lovely Afghani restaurant in Rockridge, steps from the bart station! Plenty of vegetarian options! For appetizers we got the crispy eggplant pakora with a creamy yogurt sauce, and potato bolani. I had trouble deciding what to get for main so went with the Vegetarian combo-- tasty and vibrant! I even enjoyed the leftovers later at home. Staff were attentive and helpful. The restaurant feels a bit more formal and prices align with that. I've already recommended this place to friends! read more

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Just okay with several annoyances. The okay part is the food and quiet ambience. I had to ask for water 3 times No complimentary bread on table We were splitting an entree but not provided with additional plate Bloody Mary very heavy on worchester sauce. Won't return read more

Fantastic staff, Great Happy hour and yummy food. Try their special cocktail by master mixologist, Jesse. We will definitely be back. read more

Saffron Kitchen - Yummy - Mediterranean Near Me - Oakland, California

A Magical Evening at Saffron Kitchen Saffron Kitchen truly exceeded my expectations and delivered the most top-notch dining experience I've had in quite a while. From the moment I approached the entrance, standing outside in the chilly night air and light rain while waiting for my dining companion, a kind and welcoming gentleman invited me inside to wait in the warm, cozy, and spacious dining area. As I entered, I noticed my dining companion was already seated at a lovely window-facing table for two, beautifully adorned with fresh linens, utensils, and a carafe of water. The service throughout the evening was consistently friendly and attentive, with at least four different staff members seamlessly working the dining room as an efficient and cheerful team. They were engaging and accommodating without hovering or making us feel rushed, even though it was a pretty full house. Making reservations for a Friday night was definitely the right call (thanks to my dining companion who made them that very afternoon). The staff was incredible, and the food was equally amazing. I ordered the vegetarian combo, which included deliciously prepared vegetables--perfectly seasoned butternut squash, spinach, and eggplant--each served as separate helpings alongside fluffy basmati rice and delectable naan bread. My dining companion opted for the king salmon kebabs, which were infused with an incredible grill flavor and served with a different type of seasoned basmati rice and naan bread. Alongside our meals, we received condiments of mint, a tangy tzatziki-like sauce, and a spicy sauce--perfect for dipping our bread or adding a delightful kick to our dishes. We started our meal with their house-made red sangria, which was fresh, delicious, and beautifully complex with notes of citrus, brandy, and triple sec. We lingered over dessert, savoring the Firni, a creamy, fresh, and delicately sweet pudding with a satisfying crunch from almonds and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios on top. Everything was fantastic, and the impeccable service only elevated the experience. We were so impressed that we've already made plans to return later this month with our spouses for a double date! If you're looking for an extraordinary dining experience, with lovely staff, a clean, warm, relaxing vibe and delicious, freshly prepared Mediterranean dishes, Saffron Kitchen is the place. read more

Had a great lunch today, ordered a few dishes and everything came out delicious Service was good and quick, even though a few groups of people came at the same time. If you are in the area, this is great stop for lunch or dinner read more

Saffron Kitchen - Food was so good, we cleaned out our plates - Mediterranean Near Me - Oakland, California

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Mediocre food at overloaded prices! The ambiance is ok and the waiters are polite. The combo platters are the best deal. If you get individual dishes, they cost 20% more than the platters read more

The food is delicious, and the ambience is wonderful. Lovely owner who comes to check on clients and we also get takeout all the time and always really good with very generous portions. Such a great addition in Rockridge. read more

Can't believe it took so long for me to discover this fantastic Afghan/Mediterranean restaurant located in Rockridge. The aushak dumpling was so soft/chewy/flavorful and the lamb kabob tender/juicy. I don't know how they do it. They bring you a saucer of three different chutneys, each amazing in their own way. You'll have to resist the urge to take each one as a shot. Only downside is parking can be difficult in this area, so you may spend some time driving down residential side streets. Sorry no pics, ate too quickly. read more

So incredibly delicious!!! I thought about my meal there for weeks after and even ordered takeout. Everything is so tender and well-seasoned. I've tried the salmon, koobideh, and mantu. Bread comes with main dishes and was crispy and soft and fragrant. Literally everything was exceptional. read more

Yes, another solid restaurant for me. I had the Lamb and Spinach Qurma and it was good. I did add one of the three starter sauces (yogurt) for the lamb and that enhanced the flavors. My hubby had the Combination Kabob and he liked it. However, he does prefer the Kabobs at Persian Nights Restaurant in Oakland. The Eggplants Pakora was perfectly creamy and fried. Lastly, I love that the restaurant is spacious, it set a nice mood for me to connect with my bestie. Note: They have a $25 corkage fee. read more