The East Bay is buzzing with a variety of new culinary establishments, with fresh offerings popping up across Berkeley, Oakland, Piedmont, and Richmond. From unique ice cream flavors to authentic international cuisine, the latest openings promise to delight food enthusiasts.
In Berkeley, Forest Tea Bar has opened its doors on July 15, 2025. Previously operating pop-ups under the name Three Tea Bowls, this brick-and-mortar location specializes in small-batch, stone-milled matcha sourced from a family-owned tea farm in Uji, Kyoto. Guests can enjoy beautifully crafted beverages, including hojicha and taro matcha lattes, as well as ceremonial matcha served over ice. For now, the cafe welcomes visitors from Friday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 2628 Shattuck Ave.
Also in Berkeley, The Fruit Tree has introduced fresh fruit juices just in time for the summer season. Opening on August 5, 2025, this Downtown Berkeley spot offers elixirs such as the Summer Breeze, a blend of strawberry and watermelon juice with hints of lavender and honey. Other refreshing options include blue spirulina lemonade and an immune-boosting spicy ginger and lemon blend, located at 2027 Kala Bagai Way.
For ice cream lovers, Melt Me has made its debut in Berkeley as of July 24, 2025. This innovative ice cream shop aims to stand out with flavors that go beyond the traditional. Signature scoops include Thai tea with brown sugar mochi and blue jasmine with passionfruit swirl. Customers can also explore a surprising concoction of cheddar cheese and walnut praline among the offerings, with classic vanilla available as well. Melt Me is located at 1918 Martin Luther King, Jr. Way.
On July 8, 2025, Pizzeria Da Laura expanded its presence with the opening of Mercatino by Pizzeria da Laura, an Italian market adjacent to the popular pizza restaurant that is celebrated for its multiple World Pizza Championship wins. This new venue offers a variety of wine, pantry goods, house-made items, including fresh pasta, sauces, and even a pizza counter at 2049 Shattuck Ave.
Another development in Berkeley is the Middle East Cafe, which opened on July 8, 2025. The owners of Middle East Market have taken over the former El Patio space, aiming to expand their offerings with a full bar and a menu focused on Persian cuisine. Following a soft opening, the official grand opening details are expected to be announced soon. The cafe is located at 2056 San Pablo Ave.
Transitioning to Oakland, Alta Vina opened its doors on July 15, 2025, in Jack London Square. This new wine tasting room spotlights Californian winemakers and provides a casual atmosphere adorned with mint green accents, exposed brick, and natural wood. Here, guests can indulge in a variety of wines while enjoying games, including Oaklandopoly, in its inviting outdoor parklet, situated at 420 3rd St.
Good Times Oakland debuted on July 29, 2025, marking the transition of a previously online-only bottle shop to a physical location in North Oakland. With plans for a bar and kitchen in the future, this retail spot specializes in wine, beer, spirits, and cider from around the globe. Customers can browse take-home bottles or join one of the wine, beer, or cider clubs at 6369 Telegraph Ave.
On July 24, 2025, Kien Svay Cafe opened near Clinton Park, serving authentic Cambodian takeout. This casual eatery offers street food classics such as lort cha (stir-fried pin noodles), papaya salad, and beef sticks over rice at 609 E 12th St.
Also on July 24, Mugunghwa launched its second location in Oakland, finding a home in the former Hancook space. Known for its delectable Korean dishes, patrons can stop by for favorites like Korean fried chicken, bibimbap bowls, and mul naengmyeon (chilled noodle soup) at 4315 Telegraph Ave.
9jagrills, which started as a food truck serving Nigerian street food, has successfully transitioned to a full brick-and-mortar restaurant in Oakland, opening on July 25, 2025. Its diverse menu features jollof rice, grilled catfish, chicken suya, and much more, with a full opening planned for August 2 at 303 Broadway.
Puerto Rican Street Cuisine, Oakland’s sole full-fledged Puerto Rican restaurant, opened its doors in mid-July 2025 under the leadership of acclaimed chef Eric Rivera. Highlights from the menu include pernil, mofongo, and arroz con gandules, with options available for take-out and catering at 1430 23rd Ave.
A familiar name in the plant-based dining community, Souley Vegan, celebrated its reopening on July 5, 2025, after a two-year hiatus at a new location in Jack London Square. Known for its soul food, the restaurant offers dishes such as Cajun vegan linguine, brown sugar candied yams, and jambalaya arancini at 101 Broadway.
Lastly, Str8 Flame, an artisan burger food truck, has launched in Oakland as of July 15, 2025. Known for its burgers served with house-made sauces and fresh pasta salads, this mobile eatery promises to deliver flavors on the go.
Piedmont has also welcomed a new eating option with Greek Wonders, which has commenced Wednesday night dinner deliveries. This Greek cultural organization focuses on fresh, simple meals with vegetarian and vegan options, delivering enticing dishes such as melitzanosalata. Orders can be placed online each Saturday, expanding culinary choices across the East Bay.
Lastly, Richmond’s culinary scene has been invigorated with two recent openings. The Knot Club, a rebranded event venue located at Point San Pablo Harbor, reopened on July 15, 2025, with limited hours, providing a waterfront bar experience featuring small bites and board games. Visitors can enjoy eclectic decor and scenic views at 1900 Stenmark Dr.
In a sweet twist, The Salty Pup has also opened its doors at Point San Pablo Harbor, where both humans and their furry companions can indulge in treats. Featuring pastries, sweet beverages, and ice cream for guests while offering dog-friendly goodies like crispy cod skin and peanut butter bacon treats, The Salty Pup is sure to become a favorite stop for pet owners at 1900 Stenmark Dr.
With such a diverse and tempting array of establishments opening their doors, food lovers in the East Bay have plenty to look forward to in the coming weeks. Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing beverage, satisfying dessert, or an entire meal representing a different culture, the culinary landscape continues to grow richer and more exciting.
image source from：berkeleyside
