Discover Why This Oakland Soul Food Restaurant is Topping Food & Wine’s Best U.S. Eateries List!

OAKLAND, Calif. – Imagine enjoying a dish of Wild Steelhead salmon or a hearty beef cheek pot roast in a cozy restaurant that feels just like a family gathering. That’s the charm of Burdell, a soul-food spot in Oakland’s Temescal neighborhood, which also pays tribute to its roots.

Chef Geoffrey Davis has created a warm and inviting atmosphere at Burdell, where nostalgia meets delicious food. Recently, Food & Wine named it the number one restaurant on its Top 15 US Restaurants list for 2025. This recognition follows its 2024 title as Restaurant of the Year.

Davis founded Burdell in 2022, starting with pop-up events focused on local produce and soul food inspired by his grandmother’s cooking. The décor features vintage dishware and a retro stereo that might remind you of happy family gatherings. His dishes reflect a culinary journey that pays homage to Black food culture while using fresh, local ingredients from farmers’ markets.

In a recent interview, Davis shared insights into his culinary philosophy. He believes in the power of seasonal cooking and emphasizes that there isn’t a single signature dish at Burdell. Instead, the menu changes based on what’s available each week.

“The food is the soul food I grew up with. It’s diverse and rich. We’re blending traditional flavors with modern techniques,” Davis explained.

His love for Oakland is evident. He sees the city as a symbol of hope and progress, especially for communities of color. While Oakland may sometimes get negative press, Davis is proud to showcase its beauty and vibrant food scene. “We want to highlight the great restaurants here and the community that supports them,” he added.

The atmosphere at Burdell is as much about the music as the food. The restaurant plays soul music, reminiscent of the tunes that filled his grandmother’s home. “It’s a way to keep those memories alive,” he said, highlighting how music adds to the familial feel of his restaurant.

Interestingly, recent statistics show a growing trend in soul food dining. A survey from the National Restaurant Association indicates an increasing interest in ethnic and regionally inspired cuisines. This aligns with the resurgence of soul food, which is not just comfort food but also a celebration of culture and history.

If you’re curious about the notable buzz surrounding Burdell, it’s located at 4640 Telegraph Avenue in Oakland. The restaurant is open Wednesday to Saturday from 5 PM to 9 PM and offers brunch from 11 AM to 2 PM on Sundays, with a Sunday dinner service from 5 PM to 8:30 PM.

To explore more, you can follow Burdell on Instagram.

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