Café Gabriela

https://onthegrid.city/oakland/downtown-old-oakland/cafe-gabriela

On the Grid : Cafe Gabriela

"From the coffee to the fresh baguettes served on their sandwiches, this Filipina Bay Area woman owned café is all about serving only the freshest, locally sourced produce and products. The Café is known for their adobo inspired pulled pork sandwich and their knack for never skimping on the portions. You can get their adobo style pulled pork sandwich or dry cured salami sandwich matched with a side salad tossed in homemade balsamic dressing and chunks of mozzarella cheese for a full spread. Definitely stop by if you want a taste of local, homemade goodness." - Pitch Interactive

https://www.theinfatuation.com/san-francisco/guides/best-lgbtq-owned-restaurants-san-francisco-oakland

12 Standout LGBTQ-Owned Restaurants In The Bay Area

"Since its inception more than a decade ago, Old Oakland Filipino spot Cafe Gabriela has been a hotbed of culinary and revolutionary fervor. Named for Gabriela Silang, an 18th-century rebel commander of a Filipino independence movement, this small-but-mighty spot does a brisk lunch business serving Oakland workers, and it’s notable for devoting the time and labor to roasting their own small-batch coffees. With Filipino sandwiches like a pulled pork adobo cheek-by-jowl with American classics—turkey with cranberry, anyone? - this is an immigrant- and LGBTQ-owned enterprise with an altar dedicated to 60 ways to build community and a birdcage full of poetic affirmations. The first order of business is keeping everybody fed, body and soul." - peter astrid kane

View Postcard for Cafe Gabriela

"Cafe Gabriela, Downtown Old Oakland by Pitch Interactive. From the coffee to the fresh baguettes served on their sandwiches, this Filipina Bay Area woman owned café is all about serving only the freshest, locally sourced produce and products. The Café is known for their adobo inspired pulled pork sandwich and their knack for never skimping on the portions. You can get their adobo style pulled pork sandwich or dry cured salami sandwich matched with a side salad tossed in homemade balsamic dressing and chunks of mozzarella cheese for a full spread. Definitely stop by if you want a taste of local, homemade goodness."

Oakland

https://www.theinfatuation.com/san-francisco/reviews/cafe-gabriela

Cafe Gabriela Review - Old Oakland - San Francisco - The Infatuation

"Since its inception more than a decade ago, Old Oakland Filipino spot Cafe Gabriela has been a hotbed of culinary and revolutionary fervor. Named for Gabriela Silang, an 18th-century rebel commander of a Filipino independence movement, this small-but-mighty spot does a brisk lunch business serving Oakland workers, and it’s notable for devoting the time and labor to roasting their own small-batch coffees. With Filipino sandwiches like a pulled pork adobo cheek-by-jowl with American classics - turkey with cranberry, anyone? - this is an immigrant- and LGBTQ-owned enterprise with an altar dedicated to 60 ways to build community and a birdcage full of poetic affirmations. The first order of business is keeping everybody fed, body and soul." - Peter-Astrid Kane

Austin Lin-Truong

Google

The pork adobo aroma draws you in as the kamustska sign greets you warmly. The staff provides nourishment alongside a compassionate good morning. Nothing quite like supporting local to remind you that it is more than okay to be present.

Gabrielle Hernandez

Google

I love this spot. I ordered catering from them a few months ago for an event in Downtown Oakland and the participants absolutely loved the sandwiches. The staff is super kind and was able to cater to our group’s dietary needs. I was back in the Bay for a conference and finally got to try one. I got the pulled pork adobo sandwich and it was divine. The person working there was so sweet and gave me a water bottle for free when I told them that I was leaving for home! I’m from the East Coast but I visit the Bay 1-2 times a year. I will absolutely make it a point to come here every time I come back to the Bay. I’ll be daydreaming about that sandwich until I can get another one!

Google

If I could give 10 stars I would!! The sandwich and drinks where so good!! Definitely not sharing next time! And the owner is nothing short of the best!

Jennifer Haut

Google

Great little cafe/lunch spot in Oakland. Sandwiches were so tasty and the staff were super friendly! We ordered the half sandwich and half salad combo and the prices were so reasonable. Perfect amount of food . My son had the pulled pork adobo sandwich and I ordered the soppressata with mozzarella and we were both so happy with our meals. Limited space for dine-in but I still highly recommend!

Charlotte Taylor

Google

We ordered catering for an event at work and Cafe Gabriela was amazing to work with–kind, responsive, flexible, and the food was absolutely gorgeous and soo delicious. I HIGHLY recommend their charcuterie boards, and their sandwiches (fantastic bread!) were also delicious. We're excited to continue going to them for our catering needs, and I'm excited to visit on my own as well!

Allen White (KLOVER NELLA FACTORY)

Google

Hi honestly this was amazing. Pulled pork sandwich: little dry, thought it was going to be covered in Sweet BBQ Sauce, but I like this plain option. Also do a hot bbq version for people who like spice. I also had the iced chai latte, wish it was sweetened with sweetener. A little watery for me. I also had a vanilla and a chocolate alfajores. Caramel surprise with one of them. The value of everything I overall love. Will definitely be coming back.

Chelsea Chamroeun

Google

they offered to make a vegan sandwich! it was absolutely bomb. perfectly toasted bread, arugula, cranberries, onions, almonds, balsamic, i forget what else.. but it was GOOD. super friendly and quick service. of course, i love the story behind the place and what they stand for, too. my only qualm is that they still have a covid-style walk up window, which i wouldn't mind if it were for health concerns, but they asked if i wanted to sit inside, so i don't get the point... it seems unnecessarily inconvenient & it also meant i couldn't go in & put my own milk & sugar in my coffee (it was still tasty, but i would have preferred more milk, my tummy gets upset by coffee easily lol)

Andy Sherbondy

Google

Fresh brewed coffee, and a fantastic breakfast sandwich! Simple place with minimal seating in front, but fantastic food in the back. If the breakfast sandwich and coffee don't buckle your knees , I'm afraid to venture at what would.

Stephen Y.

Yelp

This is a good spot to get lunch if you're working in Oakland; to begin with, the half salad/half sandwich combo is 10.75 pretax; not bad. As for the actual food: The caprese salad's vinaigrette is okay. The ratio of tomato to mozzarella is a bit off (more mozz appreciated), but the ingredients are fresh and the salad is fine overall. The basil is julienned, which I suppose helps with flavor distribution. The pulled pork adobo sandwich is the star of the show, with extremely tender, juicy meat and large chunks of cooked onion. The meat juices soak through the baguette, which is nicely fresh, toward the end, reminiscent of a french dip. As is common in southeast Asian cuisine, there is sugar cooked with the meat; for adventurous cooks, try extra helpings of that in marinade. It helps there, just as it did here. The onion isn't caramelized; it's stewed, which is the correct choice for this sandwich. This all results in a tantalizing smell and a reputation amongst your coworkers for finding good places to eat.

Chad M.

Yelp

Finally made it in for some sandwiches. Service was fantastic. The two people working greeted us and were very nice. Adobo was the favorite. Of the three sandwiches. The onions were so good! The Turkey and the Soppressata were good sandwiches. Smaller. Balanced. Nothing special imo. I would prefer Modgilianis or Rattos for a non Adobo sandwich.

HarleLeviathan ..

Yelp

I came across this little cafe completely by chance, I got off bart and it was the first restaurant I came across and the menu looked simple yet fresh and well thought out so I thought why not? I had no expectations upon entering the cafe but I was greeted by the very pleasant cashier who welcomed me warmly and took my order. I ate in the cafe and my food was out surprisingly fast. I ordered the pulled Adobo pulled pork sandwich and a chai latte, both of which really hit the spot. The sandwich was rich in flavor, had perfectly cooked sautéed onions and plentiful pork and is priced well below the going rate for a sandwich these days. The cafe seems to have quite a few faithful regulars who know the staff well which filled the cafe with friendly chatting. The ambiance felt very homey and overall my experience was excellent. If you're in the area I highly recommend stopping by this cute cafe.

Caden L.

Yelp

If you're looking for the juiciest pulled pork sandwich in the world that's made with lightning speed stop by Cafe Gabriela! I was in the mood for a tasty sandwich and decided to check this place out. Just from smelling the aroma outside of the cafe I knew this place was a gem. We need more pinay owned businesses because this sandwich was delicious! The bread was soaked with the juices from the pulled pork making it flavorful and soft. The pulled pork was so tender, there was an even amount of lean meat to fatty meat. The onions were grilled to perfection, a delicious addition to the sandwich. The man taking my order was a very kind older gentleman who was very patient. The service was quick and efficient. I had my order in under ten minutes! In addition to the wonderful service, this cafe is also pro social justice, you can find many posters plastered on their store front!

Sanny V.

Yelp

Everything was delicious and fresh! I really enjoyed the sandwich and the tomato salad. I love that they seasoned the tomatoes! Delicious! The cashier was super nice and sweet made everything more enjoyable.

Titus W.

Yelp

When I first stepped in, I felt like I was walking into my own house. I felt like a part of a family. I ordered a pulled pork sandwich, which is to live for oh my God the pork was properly cooked the tenderness and the bread served on it was absolutely a symphony. I had a bag of jalapeño chips and some orange juice. I mean, you must do yourself a favor and get to 988 that's where Café Gabriella is located right next to the Marriott I give this a six star not a five star. The sports sandwich is enough to eat and quite a nice size but absolutely done to perfection. I drive the six bus right across the street from it. My name is Captain. I hope you come by. You will do yourself a favor.

Elaha R.

Yelp

Me and my mom came back to CA after about 3 years, and we had some business to do here in Oakland in the morning and didn't have breakfast or coffee; we were walking around trying to find a simple place to sit and eat/drink and my mom noticed this little shop on the corner of Broadway and 10th street. We came inside and checked out the menu, the guy at the counter was so sweet and patient with us and gave us some suggestions. We ordered the Peppered Turkey with Cranberry, a Moroccan Mint Iced Tea and a medium roast hot coffee. The iced tea and coffee are great but the Peppered Turkey with Cranberry sandwich was AMAZING. Definitely coming back here the next time we're back in California. Much love to this shop, the owners and employees.

Yuliana Suleidy M.

Yelp

A must try place !!! I'm having a cup of fresh coffee with this amazing breakfast sandwich

Angie C.

Yelp

We had Cafe Gabriela cater a teacher appreciation luncheon and everyone loved it! The pulled pork sandwiches were a hit. The different options were all amazing. Everything smelled and tasted incredible. I loved my tomato mozzarella sandwich which came with a salad and tasty dressing. Every box lunch container had a little Cafe Gabriela sticker inside so you could feel the personal connection and it felt 100x better than any other box lunch I've had. The sandwich was well-composed and was cut in half for easy sharing. Highly recommend this place for lunch ordering for your group!

Patricia T.

Yelp

I heard about Cafe Gabriela through the Oakland Asian community and I'm glad I did, because I can't imagine my lunchtime without it. Cafe Gabriela has friendly and lightning-fast service, the MOST delicious food, and probably the best pulled pork sandwich I have ever had. I always get a half sandwich and salad, which is so affordably priced it blows my mind every time I order from here. I've now had the pulled pork sandwich and the tomato / mozzarella sandwiches. Both are truly some of the best sandwiches I've ever had, and make the most satisfying lunches. I've made a mess eating these lunches at work, which I am NOT ashamed of, but I'd recommend asking for utensils if it does bother you :) The folks here are exceedingly kind and helpful. One time I tried to order a half sandwich and half salad, both tomato and mozzarella, and the folks at Cafe Gabriela just asked me if I wanted a tomato mozzarella salad with some bread. (Yep.) I got my salad and some perfectly toasted pieces of bread on top. Exquisite. I can't wait for my next lunch here, and encourage you, dear reader, to go here for lunch sometime as well! It's always a great time to patronize a local Asian business.

Gogo A.

Yelp

This is one of my favorite spots for a quick breakfast or lunch in Oakland. Quality ingredients. Friendly staff.

Kristine G.

Yelp

Pulled pork adobo sandwich is superb! Arugula salad is also good. Will definitely come back. Thank you!

Marnie L.

Yelp

This place is a gem! Super reasonable prices and both the sandwich and the salad tasted fresh and fabulous. The folks inside were really nice too. Highly recommended!

My C.

Yelp

Sandwich had a Sunnyside egg and a fried egg....arugula salad with oil dressing, Parmesan cheese, and a thin slice of ham. It was good, but could use some black pepper. Tried the mocha coffee iced drink too...not bad. Service was quick. People were friendly.

Esther N.

Yelp

Discovered this amazing place while staying at the Marriott across the street for a conference. The owner and staff are extremely kind and friendly. I got the New Orleans coffee, the Chai latte w/expresso added--both with oat milk--and the fried egg sandwich with tomato & shaved parmesan. They use really quality beans and roasts. As for the sandwich, so simple yet so flavorful! The bread is perfectly toasted and fresh and the tomatoes were so juicy. Can't wait to come back and visit!

Nam D.

Yelp

Amazing fried egg breakfast sandwich. Delicious ingredients served on a fresh baguette. Very good pour over with their house blend as well. On top of the delicious food and coffee, the owners of the shop are truly kind and caring people.

Rachel M.

Yelp

Lots of pinay love for this flavorful minority woman-owned gem in downtown Oakland!! Cafe Gabriela was founded in 2010 by Penny Baldado, a formerly undocumented, queer immigrant from the Philippines. The name was centered and inspired by the courage and actions of Gabriela Silang, a Filipina revolutionary who led a revolt against the Spanish colonizers. In the in-person work days, I used to venture to this cute cafe, sit by the window bar, and enjoy a delicious flavorful pulled pork adobo sandwich and fresh tomato mozzarella salad while admiring the socially relevant art on the walls. I also remember having some of the best lugaw (Filipino porridge) I've ever had here- it was a daily special and I miss it so much! Penny and her team are always so friendly and efficient- I'll have to pay them another visit soon!

Nga M.

Yelp

I absolutely love the staff at this establishment. They're so kind and friendly. It makes for a nice break in the day to stop by for a drink and/or bite. Like everyone else I recommend the pork adobo sandwich and caprese salad! It's so flavorful, fresh, and filling. And another bonus is that it's only $9.50! What a steal! From the past review, it seems they have not raised their price in at least 7 years! That is unheard of. They're also social justice oriented. They definitely are a staple in this community. Come by to support them! FYI, they no longer provide seating so this is a take-away establishment.

Ebony I.

Yelp

I left my review elsewhere but i wanted to make sure this place gets their flowers everywhere. the staff is especially kinda I got the fried egg sandwich with turkey and tomato and it was so good. if this place has 1 fan, its me. if this place has no fans, im de*d. 10/10 honestly

Anna Vy V.

Yelp

Had them cater for a corporate events with charcuterie boards and it was amazing! Love the two different boards that we had

Cube A.

Yelp

Friendly people! Best pork adobo in the universe!! Go meet Penny, he is a riot! I want to go everyday!!!

Beth L.

Yelp

Food: The juicy pulled pork adobo, sautéed onions, and nicely toasted baguette made for a delightful combo. The iced Moroccan mint tea was great for the hot weather today. Wait: ~10 min to get my food Service: 10/10 there's only 1 person manning the cashier and kitchen but he knows what he's doing and does not make you wait long PS: unless you prefer eating with your hands, ask for a fork because the pulled pork will fall out of the sandwich. coming back for the 1/2 sandwich 1/2 salad combo next time!

Matthew M.

Yelp

Catering Review: if you're looking for a caterer, you don't need to look anywhere else because Penny and the Cafe Gabriela team will hook you up with whatever you need, and it will be amazing! The catering menu doesn't include any vegan or gluten-free items, but don't let that stop you because they can go off menu and make what you need. We ordered 120 box lunches and included each of the four sandwiches on the menu. For the vegan attendees, Penny made a vegan sandwich that I (controversial yet brave) might've enjoyed more than the pulled pork adobo sandwich! It was a tomato and arugula sandwich that was sweet (from the dried cranberries and balsamic vinegar) and crunchy (from the almond slivers) and really satisfying! Working with the cafe on the order was really easy because they were responsive to emails and very flexible with ordering options. Delivery was on time, and everyone loved the boxed lunches! We can't thank Penny and their team enough for providing such an incredible feast for our event and we will absolutely work with them again the next chance we get!

Kim K.

Yelp

I found this Gem on accident. Food is amazing! My husband loved the Turkey & Cranberry Sandwich. My self & two friend were enchanted by the Tomato, Mozzarella, Balsamic Vinegar Sandwich. We were in Oakland almost daily for almost a month , could not wait for lunch to grab a sandwich. Or four. Once they ran out of bread but were happy they are doing so well. I live about 45 minutes from them but would travel for their sandwiches.

Nate H.

Yelp

Great food at a great price. Customer service was wonderful. Highly recommend that pork adobo sandwich.

David N.

Yelp

Why do I love Café Gabriela? Café Gabriela is a woman owned LGBTQ business. It is a local small and busy store started with a vision by an undocumented immigrant from the Philippines. It's founder, Penny Baldado, moved to the U.S. from the Philippines in 1999. She started bussing and waiting tables at a Filipino restaurant eventually working her way up to become a chef. However, Penny envisioned a green café, which would give back to the community and help protect the environment. She took community college classes to learn how to run a business, applied for grants and loans. She started Café Gabriela in 2010. Café Gabriela is named after Maria Josefa Gabriela, a Pilipina hero who fought against the Spanish in the 1800s. She has inspired a lot of Filipinos, women in particular, to fight against oppression. The store is well known for it's delicious sandwiches; the pulled pork adobo and the peppered turkey and cranberry. They come with small side seasonal salad. What I love is his Penny and the Café Gabriela staff is how they give back to our community. Beyond words, they have supported undocumented workers and their families. Advocating their human and social rights. When the COVID-19 created this unprecedented time and closed the store, Penny continued to pay the wages and benefits to the staff. Meanwhile, they prepared and delivered food to those hungry and afraid to leave there homes. And Penny has helped me too. She is my friend. I love Penny and the Café Gabriela.

Ali A.

Yelp

Looking for a fresh lunch that uses quality ingredients in downtown Oakland? Look no further, Cafe Gabriela has you covered. It's a cute little cafe and lunch spot on Broadway. You can't really go inside and you have to order off a mic at the door because of the pandemic which was a bit confusing to me at the start because there was no one inside. Anyway, I tend to like seeing the interior of a place and that normally factors into my rating but not today. I tried the 1/2 sandwich 1/2 salad combo and it was an excellent lunch. It was a refreshing meal. The ingredients felt fresh, the amount of food was good and I enjoyed my meal. I also tried their choco alfajores which I didn't really like, so I wouldn't recommend that. Everything else was spot on though.

Ed U.

Yelp

Friendly. Very friendly here. And we're talking about Downtown Oakland, not exactly the happiest place on earth. I only caught wind of it (pardon the pun) when I saw a recent episode of "Check, Please! Bay Area" where the trio of effortlessly skinny people waxed fondly about the casual Filipino-inspired sandwich menu served up here. These restaurant segments are quite the commercials, aren't they? I actually zeroed in on the three salads and chose the $7.25 Arugula & Spring Mix (photo: http://bit.ly/2SQLn4T). The cherubic server asked straight away whether I wanted chicken for an additional $2. The small space was already full, so I took it away to enjoy on the waterfront. It was satisfyingly simple and simply satisfying with the greenery covered with cranberries and sliced almonds with the poultry just the right amount of protein (photo). The baguette slices were probably not necessary but yet another nice contrast in texture. For all that, it was their smiles and unflagging demeanor that linger in my memory. FOOD - 4 stars...a fine, fresh salad indeed AMBIANCE - 3.5 stars...clean but pretty compact SERVICE - 5 stars...cordial is an art in a place this small in Downtown Oakland TOTAL - 4 stars...coming back for a salad and a smile RELATED - Exploring Oakland? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: http://bit.ly/2ObVcpQ

Ben A.

Yelp

Recently stayed in Oakland at the Marriott across the street. After a cursory walk of the neighborhood looking for coffee, including a turn around in Chinatown, I ambled into Cafe Gabriela. Like many small coffee joints in this neighborhood, floor seating was at a premium... just a couple of tables along the narrow windowfront, juxtaposed to the counter guarding the employees and the coffee-makin' equipment from the Proletariat. I ordered a drip coffee, because there's no sense in ordering a latte or a frappalappaloozachinospresso if the coffee isn't good. Besides, I don't need the sugar. And like, when they say drip coffee... they mean drip coffee. My 100% compostable cup was placed beneath a filter and fresh ground coffee, then lightning hot water poured in. I watched in anticipation as my java dripped into the cup. What followed was an awesome cup of joe... and you can't beat fresh coffee with locally roasted beans. My associate ordered a ginger scone, and while I didn't partake, I could smell the sweet ginger and saw the healthy chunks of candied ginger baked right in. While I was standing there, a few local business regulars ordered up. The staff greeted each by name... kinda reminded me of my old corporate days and the little corner shops and places we often visited on breaks and such. Those days are behind me, but nice to see a great little shop knocking it out here in cheerful Oakland.

Tom B.

Yelp

What a nice place to get a coffee and nosh in downtown Oakland. Sure there's a Starbucks down the street one block away, and a Peet's one block up; but why not try a nice cozy independent coffee shop/cafe! I stopped primarily for a latte before heading for a meeting. Truth be known I actually went by Peet's first but couldn't tolerate the wait and/ or no place to sit as all were occupied. So I tried Cafe Gabriela. First off was the service, super friendly and cordial. I felt a real care for their customers, not just another notch for the day. And lots of regulars were stopping in to grab something and go. The latte was brought to me and it was scrumptious. Excellent robust coffee. It was just perfectly warm and just the right flavor. If anything the shop is very small with limited seating at narrow counters, yet you can sit and sip and watch the passing world on Broadway go by too. Definitely a place to stop at if you need a little 'pick me up' and nourishment.

Erin J.

Yelp

Total hidden gem! Picked up lunch after sweet green forgot my order. Got half sandwich / half salad - the tomato, basil, mozz w/ balsamic and arugula salad. Both so fresh and delicious! Super friendly staff with great recs too! I work down a the street and can't wait to come back.

Cheryl M.

Yelp

Cafe Gabriela is still a great place (after 9 years!) to grab a drip coffee, a variety of pastries and delicious sandwiches. Of course, the draw is their unique, pulled pork adobo sandwich or their lighter tomato-basil mozzarella sandwich drizzled with their freshly-made balsamic dressing...quite addictive When you walk in, you will always receive friendly and consistent service from the owner/sisters Penny and Pauline! They're both wonderful at supporting local businesses (and the community) from Starter Bakery, Wooden Tables alfajores along with serving their drip coffee...beans roasted in-house by the owner. Highly recommend stopping by for some goodies and genuine, friendly service...feels like family! :)

Tiffany T.

Yelp

Don't judge a book by its cover! At first glance this restaurant might not seem like a nice place to get lunch but it is a great hole in the wall spot! There is usually a line around lunch time but it moves fairly quickly. My favorite item to order is the sandwich and salad combo which totals a little less than $10. I really enjoy the pork adobo sandwich and the arugula salad. The half sandwich is quite small however they give a heft amount of salad. Together they make up a nice filling meal. I would definitely recommend this spot and try out the combo. FYI there is no restroom at the cafe however they can provide an access key to the Hilton next door.

Silvia M.

Yelp

Recently worked with Penny (owner) for a catering order in SF for a happy hour of 50 ish people. Penny was so wonderful to work with, responsive and accommodating, and they delivered on time. People raved about the food!! The adobo sandwiches were the biggest hit but everything was delicious, multiple people inquired about the restaurant! Penny even put together a beautiful and bountiful cheese platter upon request. Very generous portions for both the sandwiches (cut into thirds) and pancit. Highly recommend for catering.

Cari A.

Yelp

Really convenient cafe across the street from the Oakland Convention Center. I have a friend that works in the area that recommended the place to me. I ordered the New Orleans iced coffee and an almond croissant. Both were good. Nice change from the catered food at the convention center. Pros: -POC staff -friendly staff -support local businesses instead of visiting the Starbucks across the street Cons: -n/a

Gina N.

Yelp

Love this place for my coffee & breakfast on the go at least once a week when I'm working. Service is always great, they know your name. Prices are reasonable. I always order my usual almond latte and veggie fried egg sandwich! The lunch is great as well. Can't go wrong with any of their salad and sandwich options. The adobo sandwich is a hit. Please come and support this local cafe. It's greatly involved in the community as well.

Eileen R.

Yelp

Food is excellent. The tomatoes were crisp they mozzarella soft. Their pulled pork adobo sandwich, DELICIOUS! Soft, tender 1/2 sandwich wasn't enough. Come and eat here, support small businesses. KABABAYAN!

Lois B.

Yelp

It's the Pork Adobo Sandwich that brings me back often to Cafe Gabriela. The baguette is fresh, the meat is tender and perfectly seasoned. The addition of the grilled onions makes the sandwich a totally delicious meal. I always order a Simple Salad as a side. I have never been disappointed when I stop by Cafe Gabriela for lunch. The owner(s) commitment to social justice is evident in the posters displayed exhibiting pride in the diverse communities that make up glorious Oakland. Cafe Gabriela is truly a special place. I am grateful it is surviving during hard times.

Marla B.

Yelp

So so yummy!! I got the 1/2 pulled pork Adobo sandwich with the 1/2 tomato & mozzarella salad. Amazing flavors. Great price under $10 for lunch!Service was super friendly... I had a little trouble finding it and figuring out where to park. At 10th st&Broadway there is a little pull out with curb marked red but you can stop quickly and pick up your food!

Jeremy B.

Yelp

Best columbian coffee in Oakland, hands down. This has been my go-to Café for the last several years. The Sopressata and Fresh Mozzarella is absolutely a must try. It goes great with a side salad and Maciatio. Cheers!

Sophia L.

Yelp

TL;DR great to grab breakfast PLUSES: + good latte + quick service + lots of variety on menu, great place to grab a quick breakfast! + support your local businesses!

Sheena C.

Yelp

I worked across the street from here for nearly a year and only recently decided to try this place when meeting up for a lunch date. For $8.25 you can have a half sandwich half salad lunch combo, which is an absolute steal considering the freshness and abundance on the plate they give you. The pork adobo sandwich was simple but flavorful, and the arugula salad came with a generous pile of dried cranberries and sliced almonds on top. It was a nice portion of a yummy and healthy meal. And the ladies are incredibly nice!

David A.

Yelp

This little cafe is located just down the street from my new office. I've been here a few times so far and each visit has left me wondering why I don't eat here more often. The first couple trips I went with the pulled pork adobo sandwich which comes on a fresh baguette. The pork is juicy and flavorful. I typically order the sandwich with a side garden salad which comes with a sweet vinaigrette. On my latest visit I was craving a breakfast sandwich and remember seeing the special listed on the board behind the counter. The fried egg sandwich hit the spot! Served on a baguette with arugula, ham and cheese. I ordered that along with an iced coffee which was excellent. The food is always fresh and tasty and staff is super friendly. Be sure to check this place out if you're in the area!!

Katherine B.

Yelp

Stumbled across this cafe because it's right across the street from the Oakland convention center entrance. Love that it's a Filipino cafe! Came in for a coffee and left with a coffee and some cookies. Haha, I have a sweet tooth so I ended up with 3 but hey who's complaining. I tried the lemon cookie, ube crinkle, and GF alfajores. Bomb dot com! Love the energy of the workers there. Definitely lively and friendly. It's like walking into a place and feeling connected to the staff. I'd def go back to try the adobo sandwich.

Jim W H.

Yelp

My wife who is Filipina, introduced herself to the owners in her native language. The owners suggested the Pulled Pork Sandwich and we ordered two and the words in English, was delicious. Yummy and made my day with the flavors. Love downtown Oakland and will return. Photo is one of a happy camper.

Alisa O.

Yelp

Every sandwich is delish, you can tell they use nothing but fresh ingredients. The staff is always super friendly as well!

Elizabeth T.

Yelp

My son took me out for coffee and he said he would take me to a great coffee place so we ended up with Cafe Gabriela. The coffee was indeed rich and you can taste the berries. We also grabbed 2 adobo sandwiches and the the service was top notch. Benny was very gracious and even came out to our car to thank my son for taking me to his coffee shop. Thank you Benny. We will be back

Franklin K.

Yelp

This is a fantastic little cafe! They were willing to serve me coffee even though they hadn't technically opened yet which says a lot. Ordered an Americano, and it's tremendous. It is so light and sweet. Bright notes of holiday cooking spices which have calmed down as the coffee has cooled. As a drip coffee drinker, this really tastes like a treat. It's so flavorful and rich. Even the texture of the drink has more of a full body than normal drip coffee without being overly intense. I will certainly be back here! Big fan!

Nobel V.

Yelp

3.5 I was fortunate to stumble upon Cafe Gabriela looking for a which lunch when I was in the area. This is a very nice and simple place with the feel of the Philippines inside. I really like the interior and seeing the variety of artwork on the walls. I ordered the Sotanghon noodle soup and what was apparently their staple, the pulled pork adobo sandwich. The Sotanghon soup was not bad. However, due to it being fattier and greasier than I was expecting, I was not able to fully finish the whole serving. The pulled pork adobo sandwich tasted good. My only issue was that some of the pork was a little dry. However, I do like the baguette they used, as it allowed the sandwich to not get very soggy as I was eating it with the sauce of the adobo soaking into the bread. Service was very nice and I enjoyed the conversation I had with the staff while they were preparing my order. I suppose it does help I am Filipino!

https://onthegrid.city/oakland/downtown-old-oakland/cafe-gabriela

On the Grid : Cafe Gabriela

https://www.theinfatuation.com/san-francisco/guides/best-lgbtq-owned-restaurants-san-francisco-oakland

12 Standout LGBTQ-Owned Restaurants In The Bay Area

View Postcard for Cafe Gabriela

Oakland

https://www.theinfatuation.com/san-francisco/reviews/cafe-gabriela

Cafe Gabriela Review - Old Oakland - San Francisco - The Infatuation

"Since its inception more than a decade ago, Old Oakland Filipino spot Cafe Gabriela has been a hotbed of culinary and revolutionary fervor. Named for Gabriela Silang, an 18th-century rebel commander of a Filipino independence movement, this small-but-mighty spot does a brisk lunch business serving Oakland workers, and it’s notable for devoting the time and labor to roasting their own small-batch coffees. With Filipino sandwiches like a pulled pork adobo cheek-by-jowl with American classics - turkey with cranberry, anyone? - this is an immigrant- and LGBTQ-owned enterprise with an altar dedicated to 60 ways to build community and a birdcage full of poetic affirmations. The first order of business is keeping everybody fed, body and soul." - Peter-Astrid Kane