15 Best Restaurants in Orinda (CA)

Orinda is a picturesque city in Contra Costa County, California, about 22 miles east of Oakland. The town is known for its quiet, suburban atmosphere and scenic views.

After more than a century of slow growth, Orinda became a city in 1985. It is a relatively new city with a population of 19,475 and a reputation for having a well-run and stable municipal government.

In this family-oriented community, the tree-lined hillsides of the 12.8 square-mile City add to Orinda’s scenic attractiveness in contrast to the more metropolitan surroundings.

The city has beautiful parks and open spaces, including the 3000-acre Wildcat Canyon Regional Park.

Orinda is home to some of the best fine dining and food in the Bay Area. The town is known for its upscale restaurants, cafes, and many farm-to-table dining options.

Are you planning a trip to Orinda? Here are the top restaurants in Orinda, CA, for a memorable meal time.

Best Restaurants in Orinda

1. Village Inn Cafe

Village Inn Cafe

Kurt and Kathy Bellows opened the Village Inn Café, one of the top Orinda restaurants in 1986. It was first established in a little nook of the Village Square shopping area next to the Bank of America.

Kurt sold the establishment to Peter Leou, who assumed ownership of Village Inn Café on March 20th, 2018. As the proprietor of Geppetto’s Café and a longtime breakfast chef at various restaurants in the bay region, Peter was well-known in the Orinda neighborhood.

The takeaway selections are ideal for those who want a quick and simple supper, and Village Inn also offers delivery services for those who don’t want to worry about leaving the house.

This cafe offers an abundant array of meals, including crispy Belgian waffles, salad, eggs Benedict, a buttermilk fried chicken sandwich, two eggs breakfast, spicy tofu scramble with spinach and avocado, a vegetable patty, ham and cheese omelet, and country potatoes.

Village Inn’s operations and recipes have not altered; just a few new menu items have been added, and the standard of the ingredients has not. The people of Orinda have been incredibly hospitable, and Village Inn is looking forward to many years of providing services to visitors.

Village Inn operates on Tuesdays to Saturdays from 7 am to 3 pm and on Sundays from 7 am to 2 pm.

Address: 204 Village Square #2504, Orinda, CA 94563, United States. Phone: +1 925-254-6080.

2. Siam Orchid Thai Restaurant

Siam Orchid Thai Restaurant

Fresh food that is beautifully prepared and always meant to be shared is typically the focus of good Thai cuisine. The freshness of the ingredients, which comes from quick preparation, makes Thai food appealing.

The chefs at Siam Orchid in Orinda enjoy incorporating elements of Northern Thai cooking techniques, such as fresh ginger, tamarind (a fruit of an African evergreen tree used to impart a sweet, acidic flavor to cuisine throughout Southeast Asia), and turmeric.

This chic, well-known restaurant offers takeout, wheelchair-accessible services, a full-service bar, and unique Northern Thai food.

The distinctive menu featuring pad Thai, eggplant chicken lunch special, miso soup, Chiang Mai noodles, mango salad, and coconut soup was put together to showcase the unique presentation style of their meals and to encapsulate the essence of proper Thai food.

Come to Siam Orchid today, one of the best Orinda restaurants and experience Thai food that joys the senses.

Operating hours are from 11 am to 2 pm and 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm on Mondays to Fridays and Saturdays and Sundays from 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm.

Address: 23 Orinda Way, Orinda, CA 94563, United States. Phone: +1 925-253-1975.

3. Shelby’s

Shelby’s

Shelby’s is one of the best places to eat in Orinda, CA, and the spot for authentic Chinese Chicken Salad, delicious Dungeness Crab Cakes, and a variety of other gourmet foods from France, Germany, Italy, and California.

Shelby’s offers a comfortable atmosphere for exceptional wines from around the world, craft beers, handcrafted cocktails, and primarily organic, locally sourced food like beet carpaccio, corned beef and cabbage, house salad, and shoestring fries. It is located next to the famed Orinda Theater.

This restaurant’s inventive catering crew also offers catering services. The chefs strive to design a menu just for your occasion and your budget. They provide a vast range of French, German, Italian, and American food and cater your event from beginning to end.

Shelby’s operates daily from 11:30 am to 3 pm and 5 pm to 8 pm.

Address: 2 Orinda Theatre Square, Orinda, CA 94563, United States. Phone: +1 925-254-9687.

4. Casa Orinda

Casa Orinda

For the past 89 years, Casa Orinda has been serving the best Western and Italian cuisine in the region.

The health of its patrons remains a top priority for Casa Orinda, and they go above and beyond to make sure that they have a fun and safe evening out. In addition, Casa Orinda provides a speedy and welcoming takeout service.

The solid mahogany bar, hand-carved reliefs, Western relics, vintage Gun collection, and artwork all contribute to a fascinating and unwinding ambiance for your evening that the whole family can enjoy.

They are renowned for their fried chicken, prime beef, and traditional Italian pasta, chicken, and veal dishes, all created from scratch in their kitchen utilizing only the freshest, best-quality ingredients.

They make all their food to order using only the best ingredients and homemade sauces, dressings, and sides.

Casa Orinda has a full-service bar and serves exquisite food in addition to beverages.

They are open every Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 4 pm to 9 pm and on weekends from 4 pm to 10 pm.

Address: 20 Bryant Way, Orinda, CA 94563, United States. Phone: +1 925-254-2981.

5. Republic of Cake

Republic of Cake

Since 2009, Republic of Cake has earned a reputation as Orinda’s best bakery. Lindsay Kruljac, manager and co-owner of Republic of Cake as of 2017, is thrilled to realize her dream of owning a bakery.

By simply having a love for baking, this place was formed into the enterprise it is today. The bakers are talented and well-trained to make the best sweets for consumers.

This restaurant is women-owned and offers a range of dependable service options, including curbside pickup, delivery, in-store shopping, in-store pickup, takeaway, and same-day delivery. Debit cards and NFC mobile payments are fast and easy payment options.

Republic of Cake offers pastries like cupcakes, English toffee, cookie packs, cookies, and many other yummy treats.

Visit today and fall in love with their delicious snacks and trademark delights.

They operate Tuesdays through Saturdays from 8 am to 4 pm and Sundays from 9 am to 3 pm.

Address: 730 Camino Ramon Suite 196, Danville, CA 94526, United States. Phone: +1 925-254-3900.

6. Fourth Bore Tap Room and Grill

Fourth Bore Tap Room and Grill

The Fourth Bore Tap Room and Grill is a premier destination for fine dining and live music in Orinda.

As one of the best restaurants in Orinda, CA, this establishment features a stunning dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a fantastic scenic view of the city, a stylish bar and lounge area, and a private event space.

Fourth Bore’s vast menu provides crispy cheese curds, pulled pork nachos, fries, Philly cheese steak sandwiches, small kale Caesar, chicken wings, and a magnolia burger made with seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients.

The Fourth Bore is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion, enjoy a night out on the town, or relax and enjoy the best of Orinda.

They are open from 11 am to 9 pm on weekdays and 11 am to 10 pm on weekends.

Address: 2 Orinda Theatre Square Suite 134, Orinda, CA 94563, United States. Phone: +1 925-254-1183.

7. Serika Restaurant

Serika Restaurant

Serika is an exquisite Japanese restaurant that offers a wide variety of beautifully prepared dishes.

You’ll be taken aback by the great environment as soon as you enter; every element has been thoughtfully selected to create an air of sophistication and refinement, from the rich wood furniture and chandeliers to the plush fabrics and gentle lighting.

You can always opt for the takeout option if you don’t have time to dine in, and the delivery services here are also top-notch. Serika is all about fantastic customer service, so you are guaranteed to have only the best.

Whether you’re opting for the three-course set menu or indulging in a selection of small plates, you’ll be treated to dishes that are creative, flavourful, and beautifully presented.

The menu offers a range of classic Japanese dishes like sushi, sashimi, tempura, chicken teriyaki, agedashi tofu, and seaweed salad, as well as more contemporary interpretations, all of which are expertly prepared.

Standout dishes include the roasted quail with foie gras and truffle jus and the chocolate and hazelnut tart with coffee ice cream – but with everything on the menu sounding so tempting, you’ll find it hard to choose just one!

Serika welcomes guests from 11:30 am to 3 pm and 5 pm to 9 pm on Mondays to Thursdays, 11:30 to 3 pm and 5 pm to 9:30 pm on Fridays, 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm on Saturdays, and 12:30 to 3 pm and 5 pm to 9 pm on Sundays.

Address: 2 Orinda Theatre Square #118, Orinda, CA 94563, United States. Phone: +1 925-254-7088.

8. SAFFRON Indian Restaurant and Bar

SAFFRON Indian Restaurant and Bar

Nothing compares to a delicious Indian lunch. The combination of the spices, flavor, texture, and colors results in something exceptional. Indian cuisine is frequently quite complete and robust, making it the ideal dish to eat on a chilly winter day.

Indian cuisine at its finest is prepared with fresh ingredients and cooked gently to let the flavors mingle. Dine in and enjoy Saffron’s neat atmosphere or order takeouts and the delivery service.

Are you looking for the best of India on your plate? Saffron Indian Restaurant and Bar is an excellent option if you want a delectable Indian meal, including butter chicken, samosas, biryani, garlic naan, papadam, paneer bhurji, and lamb chops in a chic environment.

Saffron is proud of its culinary heritage and treats cooking as a labor of love. They want you to take your time and enjoy the chefs’ painstakingly crafted, slowly cooked delicacies.

They are open on Mondays from 4 pm to 8:30 pm, Tuesdays through Thursdays from 11 am to 2 pm and 4 pm to 8:30 pm, weekends from 11 am to 2 pm and 4 pm to 9:30 pm and on Sundays from 11 am to 2 pm and 4 pm to 9 pm.

Address: 2 Orinda Theatre Square #153, Orinda, CA 94563, United States. Phone: +1 925-217-1211.

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9. La Piazza

La Piazza

La Piazza, one of the best restaurants in Orinda, CA is well recognized for its welcoming atmosphere and delectable cuisine, which draw repeat business.

The Orinda Theatre is direct across the street from this restaurant, so you can stop by before or after the movie to taste delectable pasta produced in front of you in an open kitchen, along with fresh pizzas baked in a wood-burning oven, a great wine list, and tasty dessert.

La Piazza provides outdoor seating that is perfect for enjoying sumptuous meals. With menu options like polenta, ribollita soup, carpaccio Cipriani, and Margherita pizza, takeout and delivery services are usually the most convenient because you can enjoy them anywhere.

Also, don’t forget to check out the weekly changing specials, which usually include fresh fish.

They are open Sundays through Thursdays from 4 pm to 8:30 pm and on weekends from 4 pm to 9: 30 pm. La Piazza is closed on Mondays.

Address: 15 Moraga Way, Orinda, CA 94563, United States. Phone: +1 925-253-9191.

10. Petra Cafe

Petra Cafe

There is no finer dining experience in Petra Cafe than enjoying a meal overlooking the stunning Orinda horizon.

Each dish on the Petra Cafe’s menu is expertly balanced in terms of flavor and freshness. Particularly remarkable is the fish, with the catch of the day consistently being a delicious alternative.

The cafe has a large outdoor seating area accessible for wheelchair users. The restaurant also has a ramp leading up to the main entrance, making it easy for wheelchair users to enter and exit the cafe.

This Orinda restaurant offers delicious chicken, gyro, lamb souvlaki, calamari salad, oasis grill, tuna salad, shawarma plate, zucchini, baklava, hortobita wrap, chicken rice soup, eggplant salad, and falafel.

The ideal setting makes one of the best restaurants in Orinda, CA, to go for a date night, business lunch, or a night out with friends.

Petra Cafe operates daily from 11 am to 8 pm.

Address: 2 Orinda Theatre Square #105, Orinda, CA 94563, United States. Phone: +1 925-254-5290.

11. Baan Thai Restaurant

Baan Thai Restaurant

One of the best places to eat in Orinda, CA, is Baan Thai. This restaurant serves tasty, genuine Thai cuisine in a stunning and distinctive Thai style. Baan Thai offers catering, carryout, and dine-in services.

Two distinct areas in the Baan Thai restaurant may accommodate a group of up to 50 people or a romantic evening out. This Thai restaurant also provides delivery services, takeaway, and dine-in options.

The vast menu of Baan Thai Restaurant features both classic and contemporary dishes like chicken satay, Tom kha seafood, basil salmon, steamed dumpling, and meang kum, which are inspired by Thai cuisine. A large selection of wine and champagne is also available at the restaurant.

Baan Thai Restaurant offers luxurious retreats for your palate.

Baan Thai operates from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm and 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm daily. They are closed on Mondays.

Address: 99 Orinda Way, Orinda, CA 94563, United States. Phone: +1 925-253-0989.

12. Genuine Goodness

Genuine Goodness

Fine eating somehow elevates the experience to a whole other level. Perhaps it’s the opulent setting, the attentive staff, or the delectable food. Whatever the cause, dining in Genuine Goodness – one of the best Orinda restaurants – is a memorable experience.

With options like takeaway and dine-in, Genuine Goodness has proved to be a local hangout for nutritious food like smoothies, soups, salads, and baked goodies.

The meals are, of course, the star of the show. Expect to find creative and beautifully presented dishes made with only the finest ingredients. Whether you’re a fan of seafood, steak, or vegetarian fare, you’re sure to find something to your taste.

Delicious grab-and-go sandwiches, seasonal soups, salads, smoothies, baked goods, and take-and-bake meals are Genuine Goodness’ specialty.

They operate Mondays through Fridays from 10:30 am to 5 pm.

Address: 21 Orinda Way G, Orinda, CA 94563, United States. Phone: +1 925-317-3348.

13. Europa

Europa

Europa, one of the top Orinda restaurants is a family-run restaurant and hof brau that has been dishing up delicious, home-style dishes for over 25 years, and it is less than a block from the Orinda Theater.

This Orinda restaurant offers a welcoming setting for families and business people, whether for lunch or dinner. Their sound-proofed, glass-enclosed playroom, which features play structures and video games, is a favorite among kids.

For those who appreciate good food and drink, Europa Restaurant is the perfect place to dine. The restaurant offers a wide variety of European cuisines like pastrami, turkey dinner, Reuben sandwich, and stuffed cabbage, as well as a selection of fine wines and spirits.

They are open daily from 10 am to 8 pm.

Address: 64 Moraga Way, Orinda, CA 94563, United States. Phone: +1 925-254-7202.

14. Hanazen

Hanazen

Few experiences can compare to dining at Hanazen in terms of sophistication. This Japanese eatery is well-known for its kaiseki cuisine, a style of multi-course dinner created to highlight the seasonal and freshest ingredients.

Hanazen offers both reservations and table seating. The reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, as the restaurant can get quite busy. And if you have a specific seating request, please let the host or hostess know, and they will do their best to accommodate you.

Every meal served to guests at Hanazen is handcrafted, including sushi, mackerel, special omakase, sashimi, and Botan shrimp. The restaurant offers a variety of kaiseki menus, each of which features a selection of small dishes that are each a work of art.

The food is incredibly fresh, and the chefs at Hanazen have a masterful understanding of how to bring out the natural flavors of each ingredient.

Hanazen operates Tuesdays through Thursdays and Saturdays from 5:30 pm to 9 pm and Fridays from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm.

Address: 87 Orinda Way, Orinda, CA 94563, United States. Phone: +1 925-254-3611.

15. Village Pizza Restaurant

Village Pizza Restaurant

Since 1984, Village Pizza has provided Orinda with delicious, locally-owned pizza. With delivery, takeout, dine-in, and wheelchair-accessibility choices, this relaxed, welcoming restaurant serve classic Italian dishes and entrees, including steak, ribs, and chicken.

This Orinda restaurant also offers the ideal ambiance for your occasion, including gatherings with family, friends, and co-workers, as well as birthday parties and celebrations for young sports teams.

The venue can handle large groups of up to 36 people, and they would be delighted to assist in making your special occasion enjoyable and memorable.

Italian-style pizzas, pasta, sandwiches, salads, and other dishes are available on the dine-in menu.

Village Pizza concludes our list of top restaurants in Orinda, CA. They are open Tuesdays through Saturdays from noon to 8:30 pm, Sundays and Mondays from 3 to 8:30 pm.

Address: 19 Orinda Way A, Orinda, CA 94563, United States. Phone: +1 925-254-1200.

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Plan a Trip to Orinda

Fine dining is a form of art, and Orinda offers fine dining at its peak.

From the moment you step into any restaurant in Orinda, you are enveloped in an atmosphere of relaxation and refinement.

A trip to this beautiful small town is another unique and exciting way to sample new dishes. Start planning a trip to Orinda today!