Chinatown Oakland is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and delicious food. Beyond the amazing dim sum and noodle houses, a hidden gem awaits the adventurous foodie: pancakes. Yes, pancakes! But not your average breakfast fare. Chinatown Oakland boasts a unique pancake scene, offering a diverse range of sweet and savory options that will tantalize your taste buds. This guide explores 13 of the best pancake places in Chinatown Oakland, helping you navigate this surprisingly diverse culinary landscape.
Discovering the Pancake Gems of Chinatown Oakland
Oakland's Chinatown offers more than just traditional Chinese cuisine. It's a melting pot of flavors, and this is reflected in the creative pancake offerings you'll find. Forget the simple buttermilk stack; these pancakes are an experience. From fluffy, sweet creations to savory delights packed with meat and vegetables, there's a pancake in Chinatown Oakland for every palate. This guide will help you explore the best of the best, ensuring you don't miss out on any hidden culinary treasures.
Top 5 Sweet Pancake Spots
These spots focus on the classic pancake experience, elevating it with unique ingredients and preparations.
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Golden Gate Bakery: A Chinatown institution, Golden Gate Bakery is known for its incredibly light and fluffy pancakes. Their secret? A blend of traditional methods and fresh, high-quality ingredients. They often offer seasonal variations, incorporating fruits like strawberries and blueberries or spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Don't miss their signature honey butter.
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New Harbour Bakery: This bakery features a consistently delicious, slightly crispy pancake. They excel in balance – not too sweet, not too bland. Their pancakes are perfect for those who appreciate a classic, well-executed pancake.
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Hong Kong Bakery: Famous for its egg tarts, Hong Kong Bakery also serves a surprisingly delightful pancake. The texture is dense and chewy, akin to a crepe but slightly thicker. It's often served with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of fresh fruit.
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Yummy Yummy: True to its name, Yummy Yummy's pancakes are a delightful treat. They offer both classic and creative variations, using ingredients like matcha powder, taro, and even black sesame. Expect unique flavor profiles and stunning presentation.
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Parisian Bakery: While not strictly a pancake house, Parisian Bakery offers a truly unique take on pancakes, featuring French-inspired twists. Expect thinner, crepe-like pancakes with gourmet fillings and toppings.
Top 5 Savory Pancake Spots
Venture beyond the sweet and explore the savory side of Chinatown Oakland pancakes. These spots offer unique flavor combinations that will surprise and delight.
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Great China Restaurant: Great China isn't solely focused on pancakes, but their scallion pancakes are legendary. Crispy, savory, and slightly oily (in a good way!), they're the perfect accompaniment to a bowl of hot and sour soup.
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Little Skillet: This establishment isn't exclusively in Chinatown, but it's close enough to warrant inclusion. Little Skillet's savory pancakes are a revelation—think fluffy pancakes filled with savory ingredients like kimchi and pork belly. A fusion delight!
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East Ocean Restaurant: East Ocean's pancakes are often served alongside dim sum, adding a slightly different texture to the meal. These pancakes are usually thicker, almost like small savory crepes, and often filled with meat or vegetables.
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M & W Seafood Restaurant: M & W Seafood offers more of a traditional Chinese pancake experience, often serving them alongside dishes that include seafood. Their pancakes are thinner and slightly crispier, offering a delightful contrast to the richer seafood dishes.
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Sun Hing Bakery: Sun Hing Bakery sometimes offers a surprising savory pancake option. These savory pancakes are often made with scallions, carrots, and other savory vegetables creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
3 Unique Pancake Experiences
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A.P. Bakery: A.P. Bakery sometimes features unique, limited-time pancake creations. Be sure to check their daily offerings for something unexpected and delicious.
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Cafe Colucci: This nearby cafe often features creative pancake options on their menu, adding variety to the local pancake scene.
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Explore beyond Chinatown: Consider exploring the bakeries and restaurants just outside of Chinatown. You might stumble upon hidden gems that offer intriguing pancake variations!
Finding Your Perfect Chinatown Oakland Pancake
This list provides a starting point for your culinary adventure in Chinatown Oakland's surprising pancake world. Remember to explore, experiment, and enjoy the diversity of flavors this unique neighborhood offers. From classic sweet to innovative savory, the perfect pancake awaits! Remember to check opening hours and menus before your visit, as availability may vary. Happy pancake hunting!
