10 Queer Owned Restaurants in Oakland and San Francisco

Breakfast? Brunch? Linner? Despite Oakland and San Francisco being some of California’s queer hot spots, it can be surprisingly difficult to find local LGBTQ+ owned restaurants to support. We love a #ShopQueer moment and love the idea of our funds going towards keeping safe spaces open and thriving. From elaborate Thai dinners great for first dates to breakfast bagels after taking your dog for a Saturday run around the lake, we’ve got you covered with 7 Bay Area queer owned restaurants in Oakland, Berkeley and San Francisco.

FOB Kitchen, Oakland

FOB Kitchen in Oakland, California, is a vibrant celebration of Filipino food and culture, rooted in the ethos of pamilya — family that extends beyond blood ties. Led by Chef and Owner Anice Dulce, FOB Kitchen’s menu combines tradition with modern twists, offering a culinary journey that honors diversity and heritage. Recognized by the Michelin Guide and acclaimed by culinary critics, FOB Kitchen is more than a dining destination—it’s a space where guests, regardless of background, gather to embrace their identity, celebrate community, and savor the vibrant flavors of Filipino cuisine.

Learn more about FOB Kitchen on their website and Instagram. 

Boichik Bagels, Berkeley

Boichik Bagel’s in Berkeley is the culmination of a lifelong love affair with bagels, sparked by childhood memories of savoring New York’s finest delicacies. After relocating to the Bay Area in 2010 and lamenting the absence of authentic bagels, Boichik Founder Emily embarked on a five-year quest to recreate the flavors of her beloved H&H Bagels. Through experimentation and determination, she perfected her recipe, leading to the creation of her own bagel empire.

From humble beginnings with pop-up shops to the opening of her first brick-and-mortar store on College Ave in Berkeley in 2019, Emily’s Bagels has rapidly expanded to five locations across the Bay Area, with a dedicated factory in tow. 

Learn more about Boichik Bagels on their website and Instagram.

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Friends and Family, Oakland

Date night anyone? Oakland’s Friends & Family stands out for its cozy, sexy and inclusive vibe. This trendy spot offers top-notch cocktails, outdoor space and a food menu w plenty of delicious small bikes to snack on. With its modern, minimalist design, Friends & Family embraces a trendy vibe while supporting the queer community through through initiatives like the monthly shot special, Daily Affirmations, which supports recipients needing gender-affirming surgery. We love that Friends and Family offers a diverse events lineup, including queer speed dating and bingo nights, adding an extra layer of dynamism to the space that we can’t help but appreciate.

Learn more about Friends and Family on their website and Instagram. 

Tay Ho Oakland, Oakland

Located on the outskirts of Oakland’s Chinatown, Tay Ho Oakland beckons diners on a culinary journey through Vietnamese heritage. A mother-daughter team since 2010, Tay Ho’s menu has been inspired by the flavors of home, both in Vietnam and the Bay Area, celebrating the rich culinary tapestry woven by immigrant roots.

At Tay Ho Oakland, every dish is a tribute to ancestors and the cherished traditions passed down through generations. From aromatic Bún Bò Huế to comforting Phở, each bite evokes warm memories of family gatherings and holiday feasts. 

Learn more about Tay Ho Oakland on their website and Instagram.

Fluid 510, Oakland 

FLUID510 emerges as the creation of Richard Fuentes and Sean Sullivan, who were the creators of Oakland’s beloved Port Bar. Located on Broadway just a few blocks away from 19th St BART, FLUID 510 is an upscale, airy and versatile space with plenty of seating options, comfy lounge areas and of course, performance space. Home to drag shows and queer dance parties alike, FLUID510 is an inclusive dining and drinks option, offering elevated bar food, craft cocktails, and a world-class kitchen experience. 

Learn more about FLUID 510 on their website and Instagram.

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Third Culture, Berkeley and SF

Welcome to Third Culture Bakery, where love, resilience, and cultural fusion come together in every delectable bite. Founded by Chef Sam Butarbutar and Wenter Shyu, the bakery is a testament to their upbringing as Third Culture Kids, blending flavors from Indonesia and Taiwan with Berkeley’s vibrant spirit.

From humble beginnings as a two-person operation in 2016 to becoming a Bay Area sensation, known for the Original Mochi Muffin and butter mochi donuts, Third Culture’s journey has been fueled by passion and perseverance. With a commitment to heart, kindness, and integrity, Third Culture Bakery invites everyone to join the extended family and experience the love infused into every pastry. Find Third Culture in both Berkeley and San Francisco. 

Learn more about Third Culture on their website and Instagram.

Kitchen Story, San Francisco

Located in San Francisco’s Castro District, Kitchen Story offers a unique blend of California Cuisine and Asian influences. Renowned for its award-winning Bloody Marys and signature Millionaire’s Bacon, the restaurant has garnered widespread acclaim, earning accolades such as San Francisco’s People’s Choice at the Bloody Mary Festival and recognition in top publications and social media platforms.

At Kitchen Story, breakfast and brunch are transformed into culinary adventures, with American-style classics infused with an Asian flair. Indulge in favorites like the “Millionaire’s Bacon” and Bottomless Mimosa, while experiencing the warmth of the restaurant’s hospitality—a true “happiness-maker” that has made it a beloved destination in San Francisco and beyond.

Learn more about Kitchen Story on their website and Instagram.

Farmhouse Kitchen, San Francisco

Welcome to Chef Kasem Saengsawang’s culinary paradise, where spice reigns supreme and flavors dance with boldness. Chef Kasem “Pop” Saengsawang’s philosophy is simple yet profound: “The goal is to ensure people get enough spice.” From Thai street food to elegant entrees, every dish is infused with the vibrant essence of Thailand’s culinary heritage. The enduring power of spice and the eternal allure of Thai cuisine are our guiding principles.

Operating across multiple locations including San Francisco, Oakland, Menlo Park, Los Angeles, Portland, and soon Berkeley, Chef Kasem Saengsawang’s restaurants offer an unforgettable culinary experience.

Learn more about Farmhouse Kitchen on their website and Instagram.