I had been dying to go here. It's a beautiful space..some confusion between front and back of house. Manager seems to be walking around with a radio. The margarita was solid but I did order a caddilac and as usual they skimp on the Grand Marnier for upsell. The Mexican ceviche is yesterday's scraps with a lot of spice. The chips were good. I then tried the ceviche verde. The green sauce was very good but again uneven cuts of fish, this one was a bit fresher. I then tried the shrimp po boy..as you can see.. it looks like a sad dried out situation on a sesame bun. Look forward to ordering differently next time. read more

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We initially tried to go to Popoca, around the corner, which was slammed -- make reservations! --but this seemed like a fun alternative. So, you enter first through the cafe, which looks nice but seemed kind of quiet on a Friday night (not a surprise) - but then the hostess led us into the back room, which was much more bustling and liveley. We were seated in a comfy booth in the corner. Delicious modern Peruvian: lomo saltado, mango and avocado salad, polenta fries, coconut seafood stew, and duck tostadas. Fun cocktails too; I had a mezcal paloma. read more

My family of 25 guests enjoyed the banquet space at Bocanova. Our three course meal was excellent in so many ways! Laura and Mary provided excellent attentive service. The food, served family style, included a delicious salad; followed by a main course including a delicate fish that was out of this world, a tender beef that melted in the mouth, roasted potatoes, and Brussel sprouts; capped off with a desert of sweet treats. Thank you Martín for the lovely experience. read more

I'm so happy to have this restaurant in my neighborhood. The vibe is incredible. They have a variety of seating options, whether you want to sit outside, inside near the bar area, or in the back of the restaurant where it's more open and can accommodate larger groups. I've been there twice. The first time I had the burger, and the second time I had the cioppino. Both were excellent, and my friends really enjoyed the dishes they ordered too. I will definitly be back here many more times. read more

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Great meal and atmosphere! Enjoyed every dish. Highly recommend for desert chocolate croissant bread pudding. Service was on point too! read more

Bocanova - Fried cauliflower, chopped salad - Latin American Near Me - Oakland, California

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I've passed this restaurant a million times in downtown Oakland, but never really had a clue about it because it's kind of tucked back off the street. I thought the food was OK. Nothing razzled or dazzled me. The service was good and the ambience nice. I just wish the food was more exciting. We got there during happy hour so prices and portions were reduced. The restaurant is not cheap, so I expect better quality food. Not sure I'll be back. read more

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Our team hosted a private event at Bocanova and had an wonderful experience! Martin and the team were incredibly accommodating from the planning stage all the way through the evening. The food was delicious! (The empanadas and vegetable tostadas were a hit with our group) The service was warm and attentive throughout. Bocanova helped make a special evening even more memorable. Highly recommend for groups and events! read more

First, the food was delicious! We had Arugula salad that was crisp and fresh and seasonal. We also shared all our plates including a vegetable gumbo and a swordfish that we talked a lot about as we ate it and afterward. The space was lovely. We had chosen a particular spot with a nice-sized table but had to move for a large party at another table (they must have arrived after we left) so our table got a bit crowded with all our plates. Service checked in from time to time, especially towards the end but it was slow that Friday night so unsure as to why we waited for service periodically. Really recommend the food and it seems like cool events are happening soon! I suggest supporting this spot as it is so close to Bart and buses and in a part of downtown that needs a little more love. read more

My family and I had dinner at Bocanova last week. The restaurant was very quiet for the dinner rush, but it was our first time trying it out so we were excited. Unfortunately, not only did we have to wait a long time for our food to come out, the food served was lukewarm in temperature. We are not sure what happened. The place was practically empty except one other table. The Chefs were standing around in the open kitchen. My dad thought the portions were more small than average, including the tapas. read more

Beautiful setting with loads of fresh seafood on the menu. It was a bit pricey for two and we were both slightly hungry when we left but overall it was nice. Service was fast and the margaritas were yummy! read more

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Love this place! The staff actually asked my name since I've been in to sit at the bar a few times! The bartenders are super nice. I've also met one of the owners, and you can see how passionate he is about this place. The food is excellent! Lomo Satado is spot on, and the empanadas and cheese quesadilla are both hits! Their cornbread is some of the best I've ever had. It's in the financial part of Oakland on 12th street, and it just doesn't feel like the locatioh does it justice. I hope more people can come out to enjoy happy hour here. The ambiance is nice, well lit, and very clean. It's a great go-to spot for me, and I always end up ordering food to go because it's that good! read more

After passing so many times, we decided to finally stop in and take advantage of their happy hour which is daily. MaryCarmen was our waitress and was very attentive, she made suggestions. Food is fresh and delicious. I highly recommend this hidden gem read more

Bocanova - Latin American Near Me - Oakland, California

Came here for my girls bday brunch. We ordered mimosas and some brunch cocktails first. The girl with the big curly hair came to deliver it but she dropped all our drinks next to us, they cleaned it up, she kept saying sorry, the manager came out and also said sorry. Usually when these things happen cause I use to be a server, we get it comped or our second drinks comped or a discount... at least something But we didn't get anything but our first round made quickly and they stained my white pants too. Two of my friends ordered another round of the same mimosa but it looked nothing like the first round or tasted like it. I asked the server and she said it's the same drink when it obviously was not. The only reason why I'm giving two stars was at least the food tasted good, but the whole beginning of our experience was a shit show. Definitely not coming back here. read more

Bocanova - Latin American Near Me - Oakland, California

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After a long day, Bocanova was exactly what I needed and Alejandro and the entire crew made the experience unforgettable! The ceviche was fresh and bursting with flavor, and the homemade guacamole paired with their warm, crispy house-made chips! Outstanding. Everything tasted thoughtfully prepared and perfectly balanced. Bocanova is a gem and if you're lucky enough to have Alejandro behind the bar, you're in for treat! read more

The Peruvian beef stir fry was a revelation perfectly cooked with a rich, velvety sage and also loved the Fried Calamari ; they were crispy, not greasy, with the sweet chile sauce on the side, everything was cooked to perfection. For dessert I had the Guava cheesecake it was delicious. This cozy spot has the perfect vibe for a date night dim lighting, soft music, and attentive but not intrusive service. My Waitress Nicole was the Best waitress and made sure I was OVERLY taken care of!! read more

Bocanova - Guava Cheesecake - Latin American Near Me - Oakland, California

Food wasn't the best at all. I couldn't eat my stomach was hurting. The shrimp that was dwn played was amazing. But everything else wasn't I am pretty disappointed. I told them it was my husband birthday and added to my reservation. Nothing happen. Big ass disappointment. Drinks weren't even good. I wouldn't recommend this place. read more

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My wife and I went to Bocanova for lunch on a Saturday afternoon and we were pleasantly surprised by such an amazing location with the perfect patio setting overlooking the downtown. The service was impeccable. The drinks were on point and the food was absolutely delicious. We are telling all our friends about this place the experience of the food, drinks and atmosphere were perfect. What a hidden gem in downtown Oakland. 5 stars for Bocanova! read more

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I loved Bocanova of old, and was so sad after they closed down years ago. So when I saw it had reopened, I was beyond excited! We came here on a Thursday night and the restaurant was half full at best. Our waitress seemed pretty attentive and even gave us some suggestions when we ordered. I wanted the steelhead salmon ceviche, but she told us it wasn't very flavorful and suggested we get the Mexican ceviche instead. I really wish I had stuck to my guns because the Mexican ceviche was largely baby bits of shrimp and a shit ton of tomatoes. Did it have a kick? Yeah, a little bit. Would I ever order it again? No. We had also ordered the deviled eggs, which she forgot to put in. We ended up sitting for nearly 30 minutes between getting the ceviche and her coming to check on us, when we mentioned the eggs, to which she had a confused reaction saying 'oh you ordered that?'. So the deviled eggs came out at the same time as the empanadas and cioppino. The deviled eggs were fine, but hardly worth the price. The empanadas were tasty, but they were sitting on sauce, and by the time they made it to our table, the bottoms were soggy. Unsure if that's because it had sad too long or they need to plate differently? Now, the cioppino. We had asked the waitress whether we should get the stew, the scallops or the cioppino, and she said the cioppino was a special and limited and we should absolutely get that. Oh boy. It was so bad that we ate the little bit of crab (a couple of chunks and a crab cake that was soggy) that was on top, and that was that. The waitress came back and asked if she should box the rest up and we said no, and told her not to recommend this to anyone. It was basically a bunch of bits of tomatoes filling up the entire soup bowl, topped with the soggy crab cake and a couple of chunks of crab. Cioppino is supposed to be a seafood stew. This was not that. You can maybe say this was their take, but it was terrible. I did order the bread pudding for dessert, hoping it would at least be vaguely reminiscent of the old restaurant, and thankfully it was. It wasn't quite as great, but close enough. I'll go back at some point and try other things, and hopefully the food will be better, but for now, I wouldn't recommend this new iteration. read more

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Maybe the waitress should consider getting another job. From the moment my coworker and I walked in we felt unwelcomed. Even though there were only 2 other tables during lunch time. When we asked her about the huacatay dressing and what it tasted like she said she didn't know and suggested we basically look it up. It was only because we asked the bus staff for a sample that we were able to try this mayo green like dressing. Our waitress didn't know if it was a quarter or a half or a full chicken based on the two prices and seemed generally pissed off that we ordered dessert with our meal. Also, she didn't write things down and constantly asked us what we ordered. Please, if you can't remember just write stuff down! The chicken was overcooked and pricey. They weren't willing to give me more sauce on the side. The tres leches was not that good and was rather plain, I wanted to really taste the Leche and the cake, but it just tasted like non fat milk on some sponge cake. My coworkers salad was a meh, but her bread pudding was a solid 5 stars. The crab deviled eggs were 3 stars. Not really any flavor or spices to it. Like I said, the service was awful. We won't be back. read more

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My experience in this place was excellent, it is a super delicious food, spectacular drinks and the attention of the staff was wonderful here I celebrating my wedding dinner. It was something great!! All my guests were delighted. Thank you, Bocanova read more

Bocanova once located at Jack London Square (closed 2017) is back and now located at 1111 Broadway in Downtown Oakland. The new spot is beautiful, bright and open with 2 outdoor patios, with bar, lounge area and cafe up front. Bocanova offers Latin American-fusion cuisine with emphasis on various seafood dishes including ceviche, pan roasted mussels, and simply prepared fish dishes. For those not into seafood, they have plenty of intriguing meat dishes with vegetarian options so there's something for everyone. Items ordered first visit: THE ARGENTINO BURGER - chimichurri, mushroom, crispy onions - a nicely prepared and flavorful (you can taste quality) burger with fries - 4/5 FRIED FISH CREOLE - coated with cornmeal and fried atop a bit of rice with mussels and shrimp in a spicy tomato broth. Seafood nice - Personally, thought broth was a bit bland and would've liked it a tad thicker. Even accompany with a slice of bread as you're left with plenty of broth left over. 3.75 - 4/5 TRES LECHES CAKE - Coconut, matcha and mango - light, with mango compote and toasted shaved coconut - my dining buddy and I thought it 'ok' - 3/5 stars Dishes are good for sharing family-style so you can sample more dishes if you can't decide! Service was friendly, staff welcoming, With so many menu options for brunch, happy hour, daily specials and all day menu I would definitely return. I'm already eyeing my next dish: ceviches, duroc pork, liberty duck, clam chowder... Pricing seems to be in-line with like restaurants so average per person for lunch: 2 dishes (1 seafood), drink and dessert $37/person with t/t Located near the 12th Street BART station. Metered street with garage parking in the area. read more

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O M G! Doesn't get better than this! Brilliant food. Creative menu. Efficient, caring service. Very comfortable ambiance. Did I mention the drink menu? Excellent and delightfully varied mixed drinks and mocktails. Go. Go now! read more

Had a great dinner tonight. I had the scallops, my friend the seafood stew. Signature bread pudding is delicious and the Mexican ice cream on it is house made. Big enough for two. The drinks are tasty and well crafted. Service was attentive, but not intrusive. Beautiful setting. read more

Attended a work conference across the street at the Marriott, and wasn't impressed by their bar. So my adventure led me here. Super cute ambulance. I loved the murals and colorful light fixtures. The space is open, bright and very clean. I was slightly confused by the happy hour menu. Several of the food options were the same price as the regular menu?!? I selected the mezcal margarita and crispy shrimp taco. Loved watching the margarita prepared in front of me, by the server, Jose. He was amazing and super patient. P.S. the taste was spot on. The shrimp tacos could use some work. Perhaps the tortillas were overstuffed because they fell apart instantly. And the toppings were unique...carrots and capers that's a first for me. Overall experience.... very interesting. read more

Bocanova - Crispy tacos - Latin American Near Me - Oakland, California

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Decide to try a place my friend recommended and I was not disappointed. Bocanova was delicious. I got the Peruvian classic ceviche for an app and then decided to go for a chifa steak. Both were delicious and I got a couple of drinks. My favorite was the Broadway. The server Nicole was nice and very attentive. Will be back soon! Thanks! read more

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100/10 would absolutely recommend. The entire Bocanova staff is wonderful and the food is delicious. Our company has partnered with Bocanova for the past 3 years and we don't plan on changing restaurants any time soon. Martin, Victoria, Alejandro, and the entire staff are kind and always go above and beyond to ensure our events, meals, and experience is fantastic. The music and atmosphere is always on point. We love you BocaNova! read more

I was very disappointed with my first time at this establishment. The food was cold and I had to send it back twice. After I asked for a manager he came over and put his hands in my food and said "It's warm I don't know how much warmer it can get." I don't recommend coming here if you're in downtown oakland. read more

WOW!Stopped in before Crowded House concert at Fox wanted somewhere close to our hotel(Marriott City Center). We shared the Beef Anticuchos.Amazing!I got the Red Curry Peruvian Organic Chicken Al La Brass(came with small portion fried potatoes) and got a side of the Mexican beer braised beans.My husband got the Argentina Burger with fries and shared bread pudding for dessert. We both agreed best meals we had in quite awhile! Outstanding service too read more

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Their veggie option is very good. Fish and chips were very tasty. Atmosphere is very quiet inside the restaurant

Super kind people that work in Bocanova great service, the capacity is perfect for a party. The food and drinks are amazing. I love Bocanova!! read more

Bocanova - Lomo saltado!! It's one of my favorites that comes with fries and juicy vegetables .. - Latin American Near Me - Oakland, California

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This is a nice location. I prefer the outdoor area as well as the area by the large windows, there they have a view of a small waterfall/fountain. There's a bar, I didn't get a pic of it. The agua fresca for the day was papaya and piña it was refreshing but I was surprised it wasn't sweet. It was watery. I eat fresh pineapples almost everyday and the pineapples are always sweet. I was wondering if the fruit that was used wasn't ripe. Regardless it was a refreshing drink. I got fresh fish and garlic fries. Both were very good. The fish tasted fresh. Though the battered fish didn't have much flavor, the sauce was good. My husband ordered clam chowder. It was made with sweet potatoes. It was good just not great. My son ordered a chicken burger on brioche bread. He was happy with his order. I tried it, it was good. We'll have to come back and try the other meals. The staff was excellent in customer service. read more

Bocanova - Latin American Near Me - Oakland, California

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Was lucky enough to try this eclectic and delish restaurant while I was in town for business. My team was seated in the back room with plenty of natural light. I ordered the scallops dish which was delicious but not a great option if you're famished. The table had shared oyster mushrooms and fried cauliflower...even though I couldn't partake - everyone raved about both. We also ordered dessert. I ordered the vanilla ice cream with the cajeta sauce...OMG (drool). Must have! If you have a chance to check out this place...DO IT! read more

Great spot! The food was really good, the drinks were just as good, and the service was amazing. The ambience was nice and welcoming too. Plus, they have happy hour seven days a week, which is a huge bonus. I'll definitely be back when I'm in town read more

Came in last night for the Sunday Supper pre fixe menu and it blew me away! The croquettes were delicious and the lamb was cooked to perfection. Our server was super friendly and helpful answering our questions. Overall a great experience, I'll definitely be coming back read more

Overall really have a lot they can improve on. We were one of 3 tables for a weekend dinner, with a reservation, and it took so long for everything. From bringing menus, getting water, getting drinks, bringing out food. There were many people working - we saw 2 people up front, a bartender, at least 3 different people bringing us food, and several folks in the kitchen. So puzzled why everything was so slow. But the main reason for the low review is the food - we used to love Bocanova when it was at JLS and managed to have a bunch of special events in their private room and dining room. Unfortunately, their food now is nothing like. We shared a few appetizers, had a variety of entrees, and 4 desserts. Before I would have enjoyed everything. This time the best I could come up with is that there was only one dish (dessert) that I really disliked. Considering their prices, and the fact that there are so many places we love to frequent in Oakland, we won't be back, read more

I was a frequent visitor of Bocanova in Jack London and was so sad when they closed. After finding out they opened back up recently on Broadway as first announced a few years back, I was so excited to go and get some of my old favorites while in town. Sadly, like most spots that were full of life and culture in Oakland, this new location is lacking that. I loved the Jack London location -- it was bright, on the water, always crowded, and surrounded by other things to do. This new location is dark and quiet. The service is still great as are the drinks, but the old menu needs to return ASAP. I got two of my old go tos (still great), which are the dungeness crab deviled eggs and patatas bravas. I wish the fish or fried chicken sandwich was still on the menu, but still loved the app/side i chose. My dad has been to the new location twice now and said the food was better the first time just a week prior than when we went. All in all, I hope the new location gains more traction as the weather gets warmer and the old menu makes a return quickly. read more

Food was tasty, but portions were small. A bit annoyed, they advertised a happy hour for their oysters (displayed it on my reservation confirmation), but then when we tried to order it they said the deal wasn't applicable that night. read more

This place doesn't taste Peruvian. some dishes are Mexican-ish, others are served with curry? Peruvian food is great, and this is sadly not. It was ok, but nothing tasted as described and nothing was worth ordering again. Very expensive also! Place is huge and empty, and the wait and bussing staff was friendly and great at their jobs. Management could learn a thing about public humiliation and not give the busser grief when their job is perceived as not good enough, when in fact all was OK with us, and the manager was the one who made things weird and embarrassing. There is no need to micromanage for the benefit of the customer when the customer is fine. read more

First and foremost the food is here is 10/10, let's just get that squared away up front. Couple that with the lovely ambiance, and their attentive yet not oversolicitous service and you've got yourself a wonderful place to have an amazing meal whether you're on a bestie date, communing with friends or on a romantic date. The cocktails are smooth, delicious and refreshing, especially. For dinner highly recommend the deviled eggs, we ate those so fast, I didn't get to snap a pic, the Mexican Cesar salad, Chicken a la brasa and the poblano cornbread, which was perfection. They close on the earlier side, likely because of their location downtown, so plan accordingly. The management and staff were approachable and warm, so if you're looking for a venue for a private party or event, I wouldn't hesitate to consider giving this place a shot. What a cool Latin American fusion culinary gem for the town!! read more

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Great spot for lunch or dinner! I've been to Bocanova several times and the service and food are always excellent. You can really taste the Latin American influence in every dish! We ordered the Fried Calamari, Lomo Saltado, Peruvian style chicken, empanadas, flan- everything was fantastic and full of flavor. They also have the best pisco sour in town! Def coming back! read more