The food here was really good! The jambalaya, voodoo shrimp, and shrimp & crawfish chowder were all delicious and full of flavor. The only thing I wasn't wowed by was the cabbage--it felt pretty plain compared to everything else. Our server, Kamela, was so nice, and I also appreciated the chef--she clearly puts love into her cooking, and it shows. This is definitely elevated comfort food, the kind of place I'll be coming back to. Honestly, if it were in a different neighborhood, I think it would be packed all the time. read more

Willows & Pine - Shrimp and Crawfish Chowder (BOWL) (Really good with bread as a dip!) - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Oakland, California

A friend of mine found out about this place through another friend so we figured we give it a try. We do a guys dinner month so this was on our list. I made reservations since there was 7 of us. We arrived on time and only waited a minute or so before they sat us down. The place isn't that big even though they have seating in the back so if you go there with 4 or more people definitely make reservations. Our waiter asked right away if we needed any drinks which was good. They don't have hard alcohol so all you get is beer, wine, sparkling, and some type of other mixed drinks. They only had a cabernet red wine so I ordered that, our group also ordered a mimosa, and a couple beers. The mimosa was a nice poor and it pretty good, and the wine was very good to. We ordered some appetizers right away. The apps we ordered were the Shrimp in Voodoo Sauce, and the Po Thang Sliders. The shrimp didn't have much flavor in it definitely not blackened. The sauce was just bland. The sliders were good and the sauce on it was tasty. Our entrees were the jambalaya, the Shrimp Etouffee, the Chilean Sea Bass, and the ox tails. They didn't have pork chops, chowder, or the short ribs. The jambalaya had good flavor to it but the spices were overbearing the dish. The shrimp etouffee had a great flavor to it and the shrimp were cooked perfect. The Chilean Sea Bass was cooked perfectly, light and tender, the spices were perfect, the greens although vegan tasted pretty good, and the cabbage was also cooked perfect. The short ribs were tender and fell off the bone, great flavor, and the rice went well with it. Short ribs and the Sea Bass were the best dishes. For our deserts we ordered the Banana Pudding Waffle, Peaches and Cream Bread Pudding, and the Strawberry dish. The Banana Pudding Waffle was outstanding plenty of flavor in it. The Peaches and Cream Bread Pudding was light and good flavor. The strawberry dish was ok, plenty of strawberries. just needed some type of strawberry syrup to go with it. All of our dishes were pretty big, definitely not short on food. We all took togo boxes. As for the service, our waiter was very slow on picking up any used or empty dishes and refilling our water glasses. The service overall was just slow. We would go back there to try some other dishes and see if the service would be better. read more

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We ordered takeout: the banana pudding waffle, salmon eggs benedict, and smothered potatoes. I had wanted to try the cornbread and sweet potato fries, but those were out of stock that day, so we got the potatoes instead. - Banana pudding waffle: I wish they included nilla wafers as that felt like a big missing component from the banana pudding flavor. I'm not a big fan of maple syrup personally. I also wish the banana pieces were cut smaller. This one was a little disappointing overall. - Salmon benedict: it had Hollandaise sauce, some salmon, English muffins, lots of liquidy egg. I enjoyed it overall, although I prefer my eggs more solid personally. - Potatoes: These were pretty good, though not particularly memorable to me. Food was good overall, though I wish there were even more savory and salty, not just sweet, vegetarian entree options. I do see they have added vegan chicken and waffles to the menu which I'd be interested in trying in the future. read more

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Had dinner here with dear family and loved every minute. The vibe feels like home. Service was impeccable on all points. THE FOOD....was off the hook good. Short ribs, collards not to soggy. The biscuits need their own restaurant they are sooooo good. Chicken pot pie made me want a nap. Going back for brunch soon and you should too!!! read more

Everything she touches is magic!!! She has a gift that can't be touched!!! I may be biased but you can't deny her food is really good.... read more

I was so excited to try Willows & Pine and it did not disappoint. Every time I step foot in this place, I feel like I'm at my Rich auntie house. Lol. It just feels like home, for real. The staff is great. I believe it is family owned and ran and it definitely has that feel. As far as the food......... the short ribs, TOP TIER! The Jambalaya, TOP TIER! The shrimp etoufee! My God! *licks lips* Everything is soooooooooooooooooo good and you can tell it was made with love. And don't even get me started on the dessert. They had a peach cobber bundt cake or whatever it was and I didn't need to scrape the plate trying to get every crumb like I did. The food can take a minute to come out and it can get pricey (be well worth it) so be prepared. It is best to make a reservation if you can, especially on the weekends. It gets busy. I've only been for dinner, but I hear the breakfast is really good too. Overall, Oakland needed this black-owned jewel. You won't regret coming here. I've returned serval times..... and with friends and family. read more

Willows & Pine - Dinner with Bae! - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Oakland, California

Even their house vinaigrette will blow your mind. Food was delicious! Service outstanding. And a very cool and chill Oakland vibe. Highly recommend! read more

Had a reservation, we had a blast that us ladies needed and it was overdue. Started off with chicken fried mushrooms that were crispy and delicious that was our appetizer to kick off our brunch. Between the 3 of us, we had 2 oxtails with grits and shrimp & grits. Entrees arrived steaming hot. Ooh la la. Our server was Bree, she came by to check on us. Josh answered our inquiries about this & that. The Owner even came by to chat with us. Whatta beautiful brunch we shared. Ambiance was delightful as DJ Jimmy played music softly to add a positive vibe as everyone dined. Laughter was all about as we were happy and sassy as well as everyone else. Great to be in amongst joyous company. As we left, we noticed Josh walked our buddy to her vehicle. What a gentleman. We'll be back soon to try Wednesday's Turkey Wings and Friday's Gumbo. We had so much oxtail, we took part of it home to indulge later. read more

Willows & Pine - Crispy fried mushrooms - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Oakland, California

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I went for Sunday lunch with friends. I had the shrimp and grits and it was really good! The portion was good. We were a party of 13 and they took good care of us. Others said their food was good too. I took the oxtails and grits to go. My family enjoyed it. I would come again. read more

Willows & Pine - Shrimp & Grits - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Oakland, California

Our friends heard about Willow & Pine and its Cajun/creole cuisine and selected it as our dinner spot for our next get-together. Located in the Dimond district on Fruitvale, we arrived at 5pm and were able to find street parking across the street in front of the restaurant. We were seated in the front room at a window table. Our server took our drink orders and I got a butterfly pea iced tea. It's a honey sweetened tea that was a cool purplish color. For starters, we shared sweet potato fries and we were going to get fried oyster mushrooms, but our server recommended the Po' Thang sliders. The sweet potatoes fries were crispy and tasty with the smoked buffalo aioli. The three sliders with the fried oyster mushrooms with pink lemonade slaw and smoked buffalo vegan aioli were so delicious. I could have eaten all three. I had the shrimp etouffee for my entrée. A dozen shrimp was in this savory red creole gravy with a large scoop of jasmine rice and a side bowl of collard greens. The sauce was so delish and having the rice sop up that sauce was wow! Shrimp was cooked perfectly. Chilean Sea Bass - fish was on top of Jasmine rice and covered with a Jamaican coconut curry sauce. Had a taste and the fish was moist and the curry was tasty. An entrée that one of us wanted was the pork chops, but they were out today. For dessert, we shared: Banana pudding waffle - house-made vanilla custard, bananas, whipped cream and honey butter sauce over a Belgian waffle. This was so delicious. Strawberry short cake - consisted of biscuits with strawberries, strawberries sauce and topped with whipped cream. This was very good but I enjoyed the waffle more. Friendly and helpful service in a nice decorated restaurant. Check out Willow & Pine for delicious Cajun/creole food. read more

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First time customer but definitely not my last. We ordered the French toast with peaches which was absolutely delightful. We also ordered the shrimp and grits dish which was really delicious. The portions are huge so we shared both dishes and had a to go box for each. Service was great too. read more

Willows & Pine - Menu - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Oakland, California

First time in yesterday. Came in for the smothered Turkey wing special. Greeted immediately by the bartender even tho she was busy. I absolutely LOVED that! As a fellow bartender in the industry, I've learned that acknowledgement of a guest entering your establishment is crucial. Well done! While waiting at the bar, another lady, I'm assuming she's a server, slim, chocolate sista, with braids, very pretty, took my order. She was so sweet! Checked back on me after a few bites (also very important step in this business) and remembered my maple lemonade I requested with my meal!!! The food was amazing! I will be back. Have my eyes on trying the pork chop next. Excellent work Willows & Pine read more

First off, I couldn't breathe after I finished my food. Good or great does not describe this food. I told my husband I believe that this is the best food I've ever eaten in my entire life. That is no exaggeration, I am not kidding. In fact, I'm actually scared to taste anything else in this place for fear that I am going to gain 45 pounds. We had the oxtail and grits and shrimp and grits. Not only was the food off the hook, the portions were out of this world. Thank you to this wonderful restaurant for fulfilling my comfort food fantasy. We will be back, I guarantee multiple times. read more

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Tonight I treated my family from out of town to dinner at W&P. The service was excellent. We ordered an array of meals from the menu. The food was presented nicely, the flavors were spot on, and my family members who are true foodies and I couldn't stop praising everything we consumed. The Navy bean soup was an absolute treat. The shrimp and crawfish chowder was flavored to perfection. The chicken fried mushrooms (spiced just right) were crispy and flavorful. The black eyed peas, rice accompanied by cabbage with a kick was delicious. The jambalaya and shrimp etouffee gave the folks in New Orleans a run for their money. Oooohh so good. Don't sleep on their biscuits. You won't be disappointed. read more

I'm giving this experience a 2/10 for several reasons. I was genuinely excited to try this establishment because of what I saw on TikTok, but what I experienced was honestly really disappointing. We sat down at 11:55 AM and didn't receive our food until 12:55 PM. Our server brought us lemonade, but at no point did anyone provide an ETA on our food, explain the delay, or offer any type of accommodation for the wait. What stood out even more was that the owner was present in the restaurant the entire time and never checked on a single table. As an owner I would have communicated with my guests or have the servers do so. I wouldn't walk past them, not say a word. The restaurant only had four tables occupied, so it wasn't busy. After waiting nearly an hour, my girlfriend's fried oyster mushroom entrée still wasn't hot, and the cabbage was overly salty. After that long of a wait, you would at least expect fresh, hot food. On top of that, our server never checked back in with us or offered drink refills throughout the visit. Overall, I was really disappointed by both the customer service and the food quality. I try not to publicly criticize Black-owned businesses because, as a woman of color, I understand the importance of supporting them. But accountability matters too, and this experience simply did not meet expectations. Especially with the owner present, it felt like there was a lack of care and urgency toward the customer experience. Acknowledging the delay and communicating with your guest, would have been great. I truly hope improvements are made because the potential is there. read more

Customer service was great. The food portions are very hefty. I loved the culture of the story behind the restaurant all over the walls. read more

Willows & Pine - Catfish and greens - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Oakland, California

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I was headed home on 580 one evening and wanted to grab dinner first in this corner of Oakland near the hills. I've actually never been on this side of Fruitvale Ave, only the part around the Bart station, which is very Hispanic. This part in the hills, not so much. This place hit my feed back in 2024. Sit down Soul Food that has an upscale tinge but still quite casual. Great local story of a family that migrated from the South in the 1930's to escape racial oppresion and started a new life in West Oakland. There the grand parents opened a neighborhood store and eventually some local kitchen. All that eventually got phased out through development and this is the newer generation of that family trying to do something in the same town. Gotta respect that. The menu is actually quite small, but I think they have certain specials on certain nights. Like I would have wanted to try their seafood gumbo but I think it is only on Fridays. They also do brunch on the weekends that I've heard are quite buzzin'. Shrimp/Crawfish Chowder ($10/cup/4*) Very creamy with a standard chowder consistency. Very flavorful maybe even a tad salty. But definite garlic presence with all that creaminess. And serious chunks in this chowder like a handful of medium sized shrimps, just a few hits of small crayfish meat and substantial chunks of potato and carrot. The shrimps were just okay to me, but it is the part that'll fill ya up. The crayfish is what made it special that I wished there were more of it, but kinda expected. And their cup size is larger than most, that to me it is almost meal sized, and they even have a bigger size. This was so filling that I could only eat half of my entree. Smothered Pork Chops ($32/4*) These were just regular smaller diner style pork chops, just lightly seasoned and lightly pan fried without any coating/breading. So pretty plain but still decent. The mashed potatoes and gravy is where this place can separate themselves from other soul food joints. Here they have a lighter and more elegant hand than say a typical divier joint. Here the potatoes were super smooth and light, almost fine dining mashers. And the gravy was much lighter to where when it tops the meat, you can see through it and see the meat. Most other gravies it tends to smother the meats, covering it almost entirely. And it was supposed to come out with their brussel sprouts but they were out, so I chose their collard greens. And theirs were perfect to me, cooked down til soft but not totally mushy, still had some structure. And the leaves were cut in a uniform manner, so I'm gathering that someone back there has some good kitchen cred. For a first visit I was pretty impressed. Just curious to see how they evolve and hoping to see it firsthand. read more

Willows & Pine - Pork Chops - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Oakland, California

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We hit the jackpot when we landed seats at Willows & Pine! We had a bit of a wait (what great restaurant doesn't have one?) but we were also met with a warm greeting. The chowder was some of the best we've ever had. Hot, well-seasoned, creamy deliciousness with tender potatoes and perfect shrimp. A tastebuds' treat all by itself! But no, we didn't stop there. I had the jambalaya - filled with tender chicken, shrimp and sausage. It has a bit if a kick to it but the seasonings were all perfectly appointed. My husband ordered the pork chop dinner with mashed potatoes and braised Brussels sprouts. He fully enjoyed his meal - well not fully, I kept also dipping in his plate. Food - hot, fresh, amazing! I love, loved how that many customers that came in seemed to be family or at least repeat customers, and staff gave attention and time to everyone to ensure a pleasant dining experience. We were too full to attempt desserts but you can bet when we are back in the Bay, we will drop in on Willow & Pine. In the meantime, if you are anywhere close, go check them out. You will not be disappointed! Bravo Chef & Family! read more

Willows & Pine - Jambalaya, Shrimp and Crawfish Chowder (CUP), Pork Chop with Potatoes and Brussel Sprouts. - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Oakland, California

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I dined here for the first time this past weekend and the only pleasant person was the young man (I believe the owner's son) who provided the best customer service. Greeted us with a smile and advised we would be seated as soon as he cleaned our table. There was a young lady who had the worse attitude that made me want to pay for my food and walk out without eating it. Yes! It was that bad!! Over the phone AND in person. The food wasn't that bad, but I don't think my hard-earned money will continue to support this establishment. When leaving the restaurant, I said goodbye to the manager or owner and she said, "Have a nice day" and didn't even look up at me nor did she say thank you. Wow! All in all, the food was ok, but the service was terrible. It's not hard to smile and be nice. read more

So so so good! The sea bass was INSANE, so tender, juicy and flavorful. I was supposed to share with others at the table but I ended up eating most of it! The fried Brussels sprouts were perfect. Crispy and perfectly sauced. Our table shared all of the dishes we ordered and every single one was delicious. The smothered pork chop, the chicken pot pie, the grilled cheese with braised beef... The staff are friendly and super helpful. This is simply an absolute gem of a restaurant. read more

Took my son here for Father's Day brunch. The food was amazing: oxtails and grits, banana pudding waffles, peach cobbler waffles, strawberry shortcake waffles, chicken fried mushrooms, beef bacon, caramel apple waffles, we had it all!! The mimosa's (peach and lychee) were great as well!! Very friendly staff, felt like dining with family!! read more

This reflects my first visit with friends who had dined at least one or more occasions. I enjoyed a most amazing dining experience. We arrived at the start of dinner service. Comfy seating, pleasant hostess and server. Amazing menu selections. I had Brussel sprouts (enough to share), navy bean with kale and turkey soup (5), and the special of the day- turkey wings with dressing and a side (I chose cabbage). We asked for cranberry sauce. Someone whipped up some home-made, tangy, super delicious cranberry sauce! Of course, I had to take some home. The bowl of soup was deeeelicious and filling- but, still had some to take home! Yes! The portions are generous... As the restaurant began to fill up with diners (on a Wednesday evening), our server was noticeably busy, but also attentive to the needs of her diners!!!... It was a most enjoyable evening with family and friends... My first visit, but, definitely not my last read more

I went here for a Sunday brunch about three weeks ago OMG, the oxtail and grits the homemade biscuit. I'm telling you it is so good.

If you haven't tried this yet you should! The food is delicious, the staff was great. The chef came to our table to greet us and the atmosphere was great! Will definitely go back! read more

5 stars all around. Food was delicious, well seasoned, and portions are huge. My hard to please husband and child devoured their meals. And the desserts- omg. Not sure if it's all the time- but Friday night there was a Dj playing good music, not too loud at all- perfect background ambience. I'll be back with the rest of the fam. read more

The food was so good! We had a big team lunch there and shared around bites, so it felt like I got to try half the menu. I want to go back just to order the Chilean sea bass or blackened catfish. The owner/head chef came out and talked to our group, told us about the restaurant and her community involvement. It also seems like a great place to host an event and she mentioned they do catering. I highly recommend it. read more

Compliments to the head chef and Oakland native owner for the all the delectable food and for hosting a friend's birthday. Everything was so rich in flavor, and refreshing to find in somewhat the rougher parts of Oakland and an calming ambience to go along with it. read more

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I was excited to go to this restaurant and was disappointed in the experience. My friend ordered the sea bass. The sea bass portion was EXTREMELY small and sat on a huge pile of rice. It was also too expensive for what you got. My friend asked why it was so small and she was told that it was 6 ounces and they could show her "the box" it came in. Lol, yeah, it might have said 6 ounces but they only served her 4 ounces!!! The service took a long time and it wasn't that busy on a Friday evening. They were out of the chowder and a few other items and we were told that because they are a small restaurant they don't always have everything on the menu! Really?!? I tried the gumbo and was under whelmed! Again very expensive but not well seasoned. The country fried mushroom slider was delicious. Also is it a new trend to have a DJ playing loud music in restaurants so that you can't talk or hear yourself think ? Why? It seems to be a Black restaurant trend. I don't have the same experience in other restaurants unless it's Mexican and there is a mariachi band there. It does not add to the ambience and I personally haven't returned to those restaurants that continue to blow my eardrums out. As for this restaurant, perhaps they save their dishes for their brunch on Sundays. I'll never know though as I will not be returning. When I ate at her spot when she was in Jack London Square, it was a wonderful experience and the food was so so good!!! I wanted to have same experience with her new place. read more

Great service and food love the drinks also. The customer service and food portions was top tier

5 stars for the oyster mushroom "fried chicken" slider. a cute addition to the neighborhood. friendly, family-run spot.

This place came highly recommended by a friend of mine from Oakland. When I tell you that this place reminds me of mama's house on New Year's Day, Christmas Day and Thanksgiving I mean it. I had the short ribs with rice and greens. Needless to say everything was tender, savory and deliciously divine! I will be back with 10 family members in tow. See y'all soon! read more

The food is AMAZING!! You can tell that every dish that comes out of the kitchen is made with pure love!!!

My friends and I went out for an overdue an overdue girls night out. We couldn't have selected a better restaurant to break bread! The atmosphere, food, customer service, vibes, and hospitality were all top tier! When I tell you that we tried almost everything on the menu, and did not have one complaint. My all time favorite was the seafood chowder and the peach mimosa! The staff welcomed us in with open arms and we enjoyed great conversation with the owner and had the pleasure of touring this beautiful establishment. I highly recommend and we will be returning for brunch! Oh and I can't forget to mention that my friend wanted brussel sprouts, and they were out as we did visit later in the evening. However in stead of dissappotiment, they went to the store to grab more just for her at the end of the night and they were definitely worth the wait! Now where do they do that at Thank you all so much for making our evening one for the books and warming to our souls. God bless you all and all of your future endeavors! read more

I went in today at approximately 2:30. I asked for an order of Chicken Pot Pie. This was a dish I'd eaten several weeks ago and, have had the dish 4 times since. Today I was told that it would be ready at 5:00 p.m.. I call at 6:55 to order the Chicken Pot Pie. I was told that, "it was not on the menu today!" If it wasn't on the menu today then why tell a customer that it wouldn't be available until 5:00? Somebody in the kitchen should have known that there would be an issue providing this particular item today. The staff should have been informed so that the customer isn't given erroneous information. Will I ever come back for this dish? Not before calling! For a relatively new Black Owned business this is not a good look. I've been telling people how good the Pot Pie is and chances are it wasn't available if and when they ordered it. Be consistent and honest with a customer! I'm now researching frozen chicken pot pies I know will be available at Safeway! I can buy several and save myself a headache. We have to do better. Proper planning is critical! read more

After walking a whole block in heels...I was just turned away for the second time....kitchen closing over an hour before the listed closing time....being that this is my second time; I'm finding really easy to say there will not be a third time as I've given up. read more

OMG the shrimp and grits have savory flavor and fried mushrooms taste like chicken! My meal is Fantastic! Ambience is Great! read more

The food was delicious and the portions were a lot. The service was good and nice ambiance.

Loved it! Very good food, service, and ambiance to say the least. I had the jambalaya and red beans and rice in which both were on point. One thing I quickly noticed with the jambalaya was that they didn't skimp with the meat. It was how a jambalaya is supposed to be. All in all, I highly recommend this establishment and I definitely plan on returning soon. read more

Willows & Pine - Jambalaya and Red Beans & Rice dishes - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Oakland, California

The food was delicious! The prix fixed brunch is more than enough to serve two to three people. It was my first time visiting, I was really unsure if it was a seat yourself kind of deal when my party and I first walked in. We stood at the counter for a minute before being greeted. The vibe was very relaxed and family oriented. I would go back again for the food even if it was for take out. read more

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Came at opening for brunch; no reservation because there were none available. Seated in 1min. Order taken in 10min. Out of beef bacon; opted for hot links. Ordered pomegranate lemonade, side salad as a starter, vegan chicken and waffles, brioche caramel apple french toast, and eggs. Great price point. The family history on the back of the menu was inspiring. Very nice interior. R&B music. Servers were kind. Food came 26min after ordering. Everything came out at once. Had a side salad that I wish could've came out sooner. The whip on the french toast was good; it was a lot. There wasn't much batter on the toast. Great thick brioche bread. Good food. The dinner menu looks great too. Want to try again. read more

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