Peter Gamez of Visit Oakland Explains Why This East Bay City Is Becoming One of the Nation’s Top Dining Destinations

city. Diners benefit with incredible, diverse, tasty cuisine made by chefs from around the world and across the county who now reside here. Allow me to share some of my personal discoveries:

Casual ROASTED & RAW by Chef Imani Greer, where bowls of plant-based delights shine https://www.roastedraw.com/

Cocobreeze Caribbean Restaurant and Bakery by Chef Anna Goodridge takes you on an instant vacation to Trinidad where love & soul steer the menu. https://cocobreezeco.myshopify.com

Fine Dining

ACRE by Chef Dirk Tolsma, where local and sustainable are the orders of the day https://www.acrekitchenandbar.com

CoCo Noir Wine Shop & Bar by Alicia Kidd, where wines by African American & female producers are showcased https://www.coconoirwine.com

To delve further into Oakland’s restaurant scene, I recently for the San Francisco Bay Times spoke with Peter Gamez, who is the CEO and President of Visit Oakland. He spoke with me not only about Oakland Restaurant Week, but also about the things he loves and is excited about in the “510.”

Liam P. Mayclem: What is Oakland Restaurant Week (ORW) all about?

Peter Gamez: Oakland Restaurant Week is a celebration of our diverse, vibrant culinary scene that takes place from March 16–26. The event is designed to build awareness for our amazing restaurants, shine a bright light on our talented chefs, and welcome people to Oakland to eat, drink, and repeat as they feast their way through The Town.

Liam P. Mayclem: What are some of the highlights on ORW menus?

Peter Gamez: With over 110 restaurants participating in Oakland Restaurant Week, the list of highlights is very long.

One of the most amazing things about Oakland Restaurant Week is that, because our culture is so diverse, there are all types of cuisines shared and special offers at very authentic restaurants. The restaurants are offering great value menu prices at $15, $25, and $35 for lunch and $35, $45, and $65 for dinner. Some restaurants have two-for-one offers, free appetizers with an entrée, and other discounts available. There really is something for everyone in Oakland!

Liam P. Mayclem: There are many rising star chefs in Oakland. Whom should we be excited about?

Peter Gamez: We are excited about all the chefs and restaurants in Oakland. Our Restaurant Week is a great opportunity to discover local hidden gems and experience awardwinning restaurants—from neighborhood favorites like Sweet Fingers, Pomella, and Mela Ethiopian to our (continued on page 36)