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Brown Sugar Kitchen
Categories: Restaurants Soul Food Restaurants Breakfast & Brunch Soul Food, Breakfast & Brunch [Edit]
2534 Mandela Pkwy(between Campbell St & 26th St)
Oakland, CA 94607
Neighborhood: West Oakland
(510) 839-7685
- Hours:
Tue-Sat 7 am - 3 pm
Sun 8 am - 3 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Lunch, Breakfast, Brunch
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
1129 reviews for Brown Sugar Kitchen
Review Highlights
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"And the apple cider syrup was also perfect match." In 132 reviews -
"Blue Bottle Coffee - french press or espresso drinks." In 64 reviews -
"Mac n' cheese, was AMAZING sooo creamy and delicious." In 132 reviews
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- A Yelpy Insight: Vegetarians go nuts for this spot. See more places they like.
1129 reviews in English
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Review from The Couple's Experience A.
Oceanside, CA
5/25/2012 1 photo
The Womans Perspective: This restaurant was full when we arrived but there was no wait time, we were seated right away. Our order was taken right away, our drinks came right away and so did our food. I ordered the chicken & waffles which was beyond delicious. I give this place a 4.5 for atmosphere only because I think this place of business needs a larger place for its amount of customers but other than that the food gets 5 stars from me and so does the service! Everyone was nice and I would more than likely visit this place often if I lived in Oakland. I also highly recommend for people to visit this restaurant, it was a nice experience!
The Mans Perspective: Oh boy!, where do I start? First, I never would've thought that a JEWEL of a place would be so hidden in an industrialized part of town. We went on a Tuesday morning around 10am, the atmosphere was very nice, pretty crowded, but gives enough elbow room to get your grub on, if ya know what I mean. We were welcomed, and offered to sit at the counter along with the rest of the customers, or dine at a table. We chose table and were seated quickly. From the time I sat down, to the time I bit into that delicious chicken, only 10 minutes had past! The service was outstanding!, 5 stars, I ordered the Chicken & Waffles, with a side of Scrambled Eggs, and everything was cooked perfectly. I don't think I've ever had waffles made from cornmeal, but I know it was one of the best waffles I've ever had in my life! Food...5 stars. The atmosphere, I give 4.5. A good place for a party of 2, but anything more and you most likely will be a split party, just FYI. Overall, 5 stars and 2 thumbs up, for sure. -
Review from Amicus S.
San Diego, CA
5/23/2012
Judgmental Hospitality Student Quick Analysis:
Not better than Roscoes in my opinion. But it is pretty good stuff. -
Review from Drew D.
San Francisco, CA
5/23/2012
Food is always good. Sometimes Amazing.
Wait to get seated is long on the weekends. I can deal with that.
Waiting more than ten minutes after being seated to be acknowledged by waitstaff, then having to wait for more than an hour for an egg-tart, then another good fifteen minutes trying to get a check have put me off BSK. I don't want to commit almost two hours to eat breakfast/brunch.
The egg tart was amazing. -
Review from Chris L.
Chicago, IL
5/18/2012
FYI come here during the week at normal breakfast hours and you won't have to wait at all.
I have to say that I loved this place. Whenever I visit my relatives in the bay area, they take me someplace special and this was it. It was so good on our first visit that we came back the next morning. I've never done that before.
Their chicken & waffles is a must. Chicken is spiced and fried perfectly while the waffles are crispy and light and also perfect. Best. Waffles. Ever.
The next morning we came again. I got the BBQ shrimp and grits and my compadre got the smoked pork hash. Best. Grits. Ever. The shrimp was good but the BBQ seasoning was a little much and made it almost too salty. The smoked pork hash was good bu not spectacular.
But nothing really matters once you try their c&w. -
Review from David G.
San Francisco, CA
5/19/2012
This is a review for Brown Sugar Kitchen breakfast.
We came here for the second time this morning. The first time, about a year ago, I had the classic breakfast, which is the chicken and waffles. It's a very good dish.
Today, I didn't feel like a waffle, so I decided to go for the vegetable scramble, which comes with whole wheat toast and potatoes. I ordered a side of chicken apple sausage.
This breakfast was perfection on a plate:
- The eggs were cooked exactly right. Not too hard and not too easy. It is rare to get eggs that are cooked perfectly, but these were, and it made me realize how much I loved eggs when they are prepared correctly. The mushrooms and spinach in the scramble were a good complement, nothing too fancy but very tasty.
- The toast came buttered, with just the right amount.
- The potatoes were nicely crispy.
- The chicken apple sausage was browned, not undercooked.
The attention to detail from the kitchen this morning was something special. None of the things I ordered were particularly fancy, special, or that difficult to execute, but the whole thing was so well put together that, all in all, it was a pretty special meal, and the best breakfast I have had in a really long time.
My partner had the chicken and waffles today. He described the waffle as "fluffy and light" and was eating any chicken he could get off the bone by the end of the meal.
Service was very good, too.
$36 for breakfast for two (including coffee and tip) is a little high but I guess you get what you pay for. I'll try not to let another year go by before I make it back in to BSK. -
Review from Verissa S.
San Leandro, CA
Updated - 5/25/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Been here three times now, the wait was the longest this time around. Beware of the tall guy with the ponytail, he was rude while we had to stand waiting for our table...anyway, the food and our real waiter made up for it afterward.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/16/2011
A friend of mine requested that we eat here for breakfast today even though reading all the other… Read more »
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Review from christina m.
Oakland, CA
5/19/2012
I hate to be a hater, especially because I chose to go to this place for brunch with some friends (one of whom was visiting from out of town). I wasn't even mad that we had to wait like 45 minutes for a table (although, I felt bad about my friends complaining the whole time, since, you know... I picked the spot). I wasn't disappointed in my food because it was pretty bomb (I got chicken and waffles), and I wasn't all that surprised that the prices were a little steep.
What was kinda lame was that the server didn't know what veggies came in the omelet my friend wanted (and she ended up having to pick out all the onions and whatever other vegetable she didn't eat that the server failed to mention) and that they couldn't make my other friends egg over-easy. Isn't that pretty easy? Why couldn't the make it over-easy?!
We did get some sweet photos across the street in front of the Oakland graff mural. Represent. -
Review from Tamera G.
Oakland, CA
5/19/2012
Better than I expected, but not worth a long wait,
The food is really good & you can tell they work hard to keep their standards high. Service is good, but the place cold be a tad more welcoming.
Go early, avoid the wait & enjoy a good meal. -
Review from Jamie S.
5/13/2012 1 Check-in Here
Arrived around noon and put our names on the list. We settled ourselves in for a long wait, mostly because of the dire yelp warnings, with an iced coffee for me and an iced tea for Boyfriend. I love that they have a coffee bar separate from the restaurant so I can get my fix without having to wait. To my surprise, not much time had passed before our name was called. We were seated at a community table, which was cool with us, but I appreciated being asked beforehand as I'm sure many others would want a more private table. We were here for brunch though, not chatting. Let's get down to business.
We both ordered the chicken and waffles with a side of mac to share. I wasn't thrilled with the mac, but he loved it. That was whatever though cause the chicken and waffles were amazing! I loved the vinegar-y syrup that went with it. The waffle was super crispy and light and airy and all things a waffle should be when being paired with large pieces of fried chicken.
The only damper on my meal was halfway through our jovial, tipsy tablemates got replaced with two very pregnant, very momsy ladies who would not stop talking about babies! babies they had, babies their friends had, babies they were having, babies, babies, babies! Ugh, gross.
That was not the fault of BSK, though, since we agreed to communal table and that's just the way the cookie crumbles when getting sat with randoms.
Best way to enjoy Brown Sugar Kitchen? Grab a drink while waiting, order chicken and waffles, and ignore annoying conversation. -
Review from Alysia A.
Updated - 5/11/2012 7 photos
Of all the amazing places I wanted to visit while in the area, I knew that Brown Sugar Kitchen would be top on my list. I was almost worried it would not happen and then my morning date said she needed food, stat, so away we went to have a delicious brunch. To my surprise, Tanya was in and I got an incredible hug or 3 from her in which she excitedly told me she was just in O Magazine! I squealed and clapped. Then she sent over some beignets to the table, which was so gracious , and duh, delicious.
After my boobs were completely snowed on from the powdered sugar, we ordered some food. I got the egg breakfast with home fries and the what the hell are you kidding knock out bacon biscuit and of course, a side of bacon. My date got creamy as all get out cheese grits with poached eggs and toast.
As to be expected, all of the above was fantastic, well prepared, and gone in minutes.
Thanks for always making me smile, Brown Sugar Kitchen. You have a magical place from energy, to great service, to sweet patrons. I love seeing your success!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/24/2010
as soon as i stepped up to the curb of brown sugar kitchen a man hollered out at me "hey! i like… Read more »
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Review from Frank W.
San Bruno, CA
5/4/2012
It's sad that I've lived in the bay area all my life and I JUST found out about this place. Brown Sugar Kitchen is really the definition of what soul food is and should always be. Roscoe's doesn't even come close to how delicious this place is.
The restaurant exterior is relatively plain; the building is painted a brownish color and there isn't very much indicating that it's a restaurant. If there wasn't a huge crowd outside all the time most people probably wouldn't even notice it. Nevertheless they don't really have an issue with popularity since the food speaks for itself.
While waiting you have access to a small cafe they have where you can get the normal cafe drinks like a latte or cappuccino that you can take to your table later. The restaurant itself isn't huge but the seats are spaced well enough to keep out of anyone's personal space.
The items that we ordered were:
Chicken and waffles
Blackened catfish sandwich w/ side of veggies
Mac and cheese
The syrup that came with the chicken and waffles was amazing because it tasted amazing over both the chicken and the waffle. The waffle was made with some kind of cornmeal and was light and crispy. The chicken by itself was spiced and cooked perfectly but with the syrup, orgasmic.
The catfish sandwich and the mac and cheese were damn good too but by the time I got to trying those I was too happy with the chicken and waffles to even care. The catfish sandwich was a special so I don't think they have it all the time but it was flaky and flavorful while the mac and cheese was a great side dish to the entire meal.
Probably the only thing bad about coming here is the wait. If you go on a weekend it'll be about 45 minutes to an hour wait and if you order chicken and waffles it's another 30 minutes. If you decide to come here make sure to be in a patient but hungry mood. Trust me, your wait will be worth it. -
Review from Emily M.
5/11/2012
Finally visited the BSK! We don't usually go out to breakfast because of the wait, and we definitely had to wait an hour when we arrived at 10:30am on a Saturday.
However, the fried chicken and waffles with apple cider syrup were so worth it. My boy got a veggie scramble that was also amazing - the caramelized onions were the bomb. One of the guys next to us got shrimp and grits (a dish I love) and it smelled heavenly!
The local coffee was also good, as was the service and the green onion biscuit we took home. It's too far to visit often, but it was a great treat. -
Review from Amanda W.
Alameda, CA
5/22/2012
Came here for my birthday last Friday and it made my day!! It was the bomb. Had the chicken n'waffles and shrimp w/grits to split with my sister. We told the waitress we planned on sharing the plates. When she brought the food out it was already split for us. Cool, thanks! Both items we're delicious!! I can't wait to be back and try other items on the menu,especially the BBQ.
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Review from Lauren O.
5/5/2012 1 Check-in Here
Soulful deliciousness!!
I wish I could rate this gem with 4.5 stars because their food is fantastic. A minus .5 for the high prices.
The food!
Their waffles with the apple cider syrup are amazing. Its not too sweet or too savory which is an impressive feat. I also fell in love with the oyster po boy! I would recommend it to you all. I also liked the gumbo. Unfortunately I'm kinda picky about my gumbo, so this was not my fave. Personally I think the gumbo needed some spice and some creole sausage to take it to back to NOLA. Also the mac and cheese was good too. The powered sugar on the beignet was the beignets with their house jelly. A-may-zing! They are a must try.
Overall, I really liked the place and even though the price was kinda steep. I would recommend it to you all. -
Review from Tony L.
San Jose, CA
We just showed up and there are people out the door. Can't wait to get in!
This is by far THE BEST FRIED CHICKEN I HAVE EVER HAD. Our whole group ordered Chicken and Waffles, I also picked up some Mac & Cheese, which was delicious.
GO TO THIS PLACE and LOVE IT! -
Review from Ann L.
Heard about Brown Sugar Kitchen for years and finally tried it. Ate some oatmeal at home so I wasn't hungry when I went. Hate to be starving & having to wait. Drive from Fremont is about 30 min, FREE street parking in front & in the back of the restaurant.
Got there about 8:50am on Sun 4/15/12 and the small place was filled up with a waiting list. Got on the list and had to wait only about 10 minutes. Wait after 9am looked pretty bad, 2 benches outside the place to wait. Got 2 seats at the counter.
I got Cornmeal Waffle w/ apple cider syrup $8 - takes some time to get the waffle, it's just one waffle, some butter, & the syrup. I thought the syrup was very sweet & not my favorite, but I didn't want to spend $2 more for Maple Syrup. Waffle was very light & crispy. I liked it. I'm going to try to find a cornmeal waffle recipe online & make my own at home.
B. got cheesy grits w/ poached eggs $8 - he liked it, I found the grits just ok, I'm not a fan of poached eggs.
One piece of Buttermilk fried chicken $4 - B. said it was the best fried chicken he's ever had. I found it was pretty juicy.
Coffee $1.84 - black coffee w/ cream on the side. More coffee offered if u want.
Charged our meal $23.75 before tip. Separate bathrooms - women's just one sink/one toilet from entrance turn Left.
I'm not in any hurry to return, too popular & expensive.
Seen on KQED Check Please. Check out the Oakland mural & street art across the street. -
Review from Suki B.
Oakland, CA
4/18/2012 1 Check-in Here
Hmmm, I've been holding off on writing a review for this place because I'm not quite sure how I felt about it...
First off, let me say the food was good...BUT, NOT that good! I can't believe people wait for over 2 hours (we did, it was my cousin's birthday lunch request)!! Maybe I was just annoyed because I was starving and I get quite irate when I'm hungry.
The good thing is they do have a bar area where they serve Mimosas and let me tell you, I did make use of that.
I guess I would like this place a good deal more if the wait wasn't so ridic!
Probably won't go back :/ -
Review from Scott C.
Olivehurst, CA
5/10/2012
I had heard from multiple sources the brown sugar kitchen was incredible. I got to celebrate my 15 year anniversary at work and my birthday at BSK and it was great.
I have only been there once, in search of shrimp and grits. I no longer will need a menu
-shrimp and grits
-biscuit and jelly
-seasnal fruit
-coffee
Dont let the price of those shrimp & grits scare you off. I am a large fellow yet I and my son didnt finish the bowl. It is one of those dishes you will have several bites of after you have said you were done. The staff knows this, so no one is in a hurry to bus your plate with food left on it. Topped it off with sweet potato pie with a festive birthday candle on it!
Things others in my party ordered and their responses-
-the special (smoked hash with eggs) - not a speck left on the plate! The baby loved it too
-chicken and waffles - Cant compare to Roscoe's, different style yet INCREDIBLE!!
-Eggs, bacon, toast, tea - Eaten here before, as good as I expected (Really, it is hard to get bored with this food and thats your best??)
So, if your anywhere near the maze in west oakland, stop in. Come midweek for best parking options, or be ready to walk a bit. Expect a line on the weekends, but remember:
NO ONE WAITS IN LINE FOR BAD FOOD!!! -
Review from Chris C.
4/2/2012
Fantastic! The only reason BSK doesn't get 5 stars from me is because it's pricey. I was almost put off by the prices, but then I ordered the chicken and waffles....I was in heaven! To this day, I have never eaten anything like it! It changed everything I thought chicken and waffles could be, for the better! The seasonings, homemade syrup; it was to die for!
The menu is on the smaller side, but I believe that may contribute to the quality of the food. They have clearly perfected their best dishes and we consumers reap the benefits. Even though on the expensive side, I still enjoy going here to treat myself. The food makes it all worth while! -
Review from Tina A.
4/4/2012
MMMmmm CHICKEN AND WAFFLES
came here for lunch on a rainy friday and it was a 30 minute wait for brunch for 2.
Chicken and Waffles
- Soft, light, fluffy, cornmeal waffles with a heaping of melted butter on top, so delicious. i just wish they gave a bigger portion because there is not enough waffle for the chicken. the waffles also went will with the pureed jam and apple cider vinegar
- fried chicken was well seasoned and mouthwateringly juicy, it was like a cleaner version of KFC...
Pulled Pork Po Boy
- juicy tender meat in the standard po boy setup, it was flavorful and I was glad that it was not dripping in grease. it was a decent sharable size as well
Mac and Cheese
- very bland, they could have at least added some salt and pepper to that
I'd come back for the chicken and waffles, but i would have to run a mile or 2 before doing so. -
Review from Sherilyn T.
Oakland, CA
I'm on the quest to find the best fried chicken and I must say BSK is so far at the top of my list. There was quite a wait for this place, but after 45 mins of waiting, we got sat at the counter - probably the best seat in the house. You get to see the cooks in action and they hand you the food instead of giving it to the servers. We ordered the beignets which were yum - not cafe du monde yum, but still very yum. Then out came the chicken and waffles. I'm not big on sweets in the AM, but definitely you need the waffles to complement the chicken here. I love that they put herbs into the batter. The chicken was super moist and delicious. However, it was a bit salty after a couple of bites, which is why you need the waffles to help ease the saltiness. Maybe they make it salty on purpose? I must say, $15 for chicken and waffles is pricey, but I'm all for supporting MWBE, especially ones in Oakland! Keep up the good work BSK. I'll be back. Gotta also try their BBQ place now.
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Review from Christopher L.
Mesa, AZ
3/21/2012 1 Check-in Here
1.5 HOUR WAIT FOR... BREAKFAST?????
NO WAY!
But yes. We did! We waited. BEST WAIT OF MY LIFE. Had a chance to chat with my friends even more, for what was sadly, my last meal in the bay area. :( Also, UNLIMITED COFFEE WHILE WAITING. REALLY REALLY REALLY good coffee!!!! I had like.. 8 cups.. The barista was about to cut me off.
Baked goods! Cake!
Finally when seated, I ordered Mac & Cheese to go with my Chicken & Waffles.
HOLY SMOKES. BOTH WERE INCREDIBLE.
The Mac & Cheese was.. creamy, and quite the flavor party!
The waffles were so light and delicious! Apple Cider Butter!
THE CHICKEN.
OHHHH HOLY CLUCK, HOW CAN CHICKEN TASTE SO GOOD? I mean.. this is call collect and tell the family.. SRRY, NOT COMING HOME, FOUND A PLACE THAT DOES CHICKEN RIGHT.
So yeah.
Brown Sugar Kitchen, you have my heart, and you'll always be in my Chicken Head. -
Review from Rayna A.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 3/18/2012
Soaked in buttermilk - the southern way.
Chicken is fried in brown rice oil - healthy alternative.
Bones - left on plate.Listed in: 2012: 100 review challenge, Bone Sucking
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/18/2009
Organic, free range, local, soul food-- awww yeah!
My breakfast date flaked on me, but after reading… Read more »
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Review from Cynthia P.
Alameda, CA
4/21/2012
Was dying to try the chicken and waffles after hearing about this place. First time we came here, it was so crowded we ended getting a little sampler to go. Second time we were prepared for the wait and was able run a quick errand at nearby Ikea so the wait didn't feel very long.
Delicious menu items you must try:
- Waffles: Personally, i can do without the chicken, it was good but not spectacular. But the waffles are AWESOME! I've never had waffles like these before, not heavy but light and crispy and airy.
- Chicken and Shrimp Gumbo: Really full and rich taste, liked how they put okra in it
- Beignets: Delicious with the jam. -
Review from jenny s.
Oakland, CA
3/29/2012
I can't really say anything remarkable that hasn't already been highlighted.
I'm sure the wait is long, but get up early! I work baker's hours so getting there by 9:30 is really not a problem, and on a Tuesday no one waited at all for a table. My friend the birthday girl and I got to relax after our meal, drink delicious Verve coffee, and muster up the stamina to roll our asses to the car.
Chicken and waffles: Good lord yes
Mimosa: Obviously
Coffee: Superb
Wait staff: Super friendly and efficient.
Just resist the urge to press snooze and get in there, already. -
Review from Stephen K.
San Francisco, CA
3/17/2012
Don't even bother going here on the weekend.
BSK, it's time to start taking reservations to manage wait time. It would also be nice if you answered your phone. -
Review from Velia V.
Oakland, CA
3/15/2012
I was really looking forward to trying this place out for months. There's always a huge line which made me believe that this place had to be good. I have to say, I was a bit disappointed. The line was definitely long and I had to wait over 45 minutes to be seated, which I knew in advance this was going to happen. Not that big of a deal. One thing that really bugged me was that I only drink decaf coffee and they didn't have that brewed. I had to settle for a decaf americano and it was more expensive. Everything was expensive.
The place was super small and honestly this did add a bit to the excitement, made me feel like I was about to venture into this amazing culinary experience that only locals knew about. Until of course, I started to feel like people were breathing on my shoulders.
I ordered the pork hash with poached eggs and my friend ordered the waffles and chicken. My food was just okay (way too salty and the pork was overcooked), my friend let me take some bites of his waffles and chicken and it was much better than mine, but still wasn't that great. I wish the waffles were thicker (they don't even give you a full waffle, it's more like 3/4 of a waffle. The waffle was so thin and crispy. Felt like I was eating rice paper but cornmeal flavor). I've had better at other places and didn't have to spend so much. The servers didn't seem like they had much experience. I probably will not be going back or recommend this place. -
Review from Daniel S.
San Jose, CA
3/5/2012
I first learned of this establishment when my ex-girlfriend was flipping through the channels of her television and she ended up watching an episode of "Check Please". She and I had always been interested in trying out soul food and she knew that I wanted to make a stop at Rascoe's House of Chicken-n-Waffle's when I was visiting L.A. Unfortunately, my buddy George, who I was visiting didn't want to take me there because he said, "Roscoe's is in the ghetto part of the city". For the most part, I took his advice and we decided to stick with establishments that were in safer neighborhoods.
"Check Please", is an interesting show on television, which three guest reviewers pick out and discuss their favorite restaurant establishments. Moreover, the guests try out the restaurant recommendations, and they give each other their opinions on the establishment. BSK, was loved by all the guests, which is very rare to see on the show.
So then, on that weekend, we were off to Oakland on Mother's day to BSK.
Right when we pulled up to BSK, we saw a huge crowd waiting outside. We proceeded to walk inside this establishment to see what the hype was all about, and we noticed the decor inside was very attractive. "How long is the wait", we asked the hostess. "It's going to be a 1 1/2 wait", she replied.
My ex-girlfriend and I are very patient people, and we knew it was the weekend of Mother's day. Thus, it didn't phase us one bit. We were on a mission to have some Chicken-n-Waffle's no matter how long the wait was!! Furthermore, we just sat down and ordered some coffee, which was strong and black (the way I like my men....joking). The coffee was above average but the beignets we tried were mouthwatering.
Finally, we were both seated in a nice and cozy table next to the window. We ordered more coffee and decided to try their freshly squeezed orange juice...AMAZING! Our waitress was very cute and polite, and she was full of tattoo's, which was pretty cool because BSK is all about diversity. Of course, we ordered the chicken-n-waffle plate...PRICELESS!!
Honestly, this establishment is phenomenal. Customer service is excellent and the food here is out of this world...DELICIOUS. -
Review from Ron L.
Oakland, CA
3/18/2012
This Saturday morning, my wife and I tried Brown Sugar Kitchen. After years of being a vegetarian, I am happy to say that I am no longer a chicken and waffles virgin. The crispy waffles were pretty amazing with the brown sugar syrup, fried chicken and tabasco. But, I have to say that the chicken's sweet seasoning did not really do it for me. I think that a more savory and crispy skin would have been much better. This is only the beginning. Listen up other chickens and waffles out there, I'm gonna find you!
We also had the cheesy grits with poached eggs. Unfortunately, the eggs were cooked through, so we couldn't mix some creamy yolk into the grits. There was a fierce draft running through the place this morning, and it wasn't long before the grits were icy cold. Feedback: How about serving the grits in a hot bowl and not overcooking the poached eggs?!
The coffee was deliscious and they were good on the refills. I had previously bought Verve's Brown Sugar Kitchen blend for home, and enjoyed it.
I think we'll be back eventually. They have beignets which my daughter loves, and I wouldn't mind having the waffle again without the chicken though (as another reviewer mentions). -
Review from Jamie F.
Berkeley, CA
3/16/2012
Chicken and waffle, $15
Ginger beer, $3
In a word: lessthan900
My friend and I had actually come on a random Friday morning a few months ago, only to be told that there was a 45 minute wait. So we left for a cafe near our school instead. This time, we went at 9:30 on a Friday morning and were seated within 10 minutes of going inside. That was pretty awesome. There was nothing special/spectacular about the service though; it was fine.
On to the food- overall, it was not bad. I think the waffle was fried? I've never had a fried waffle. I guess fried because it tasted kind of like a doughnut. The chicken was kind of dry, but fried chicken is fried chicken...which is delicious. Also, there was some really good apple cider syrup (which was actually reallyyy watery...?) that went well the chicken and waffle.
My friend and I got the same thing, so we split the bill. It ended up being $22 per person (including tax+tip). And honestly, I don't think it was that worth it. I'd rather go to 900... ;)
Also, given the set-up of the tables in the restaurant, I would not recommend coming as a party of 3 or more. Your wait-time would probably increase by 20 minutes. -
Review from Dee S.
San Francisco, CA
3/18/2012
I love this place! The wait feels never-ending! But when your name gets called for a seat, you'll just wet in your pants of excitement. I've been to NOLA 2x, once around the time of oyster season (oysters galore baby)! I've been searching for the best oyster po-boys outside of NOLA and Brown Sugar Kitchen has it here! Be ready to come out 10lbs heavier ;]
I've tried many dishes here, but my favs keep me coming back!
Oyster Po-Boy: small delicate fried oysters breaded with cornmeal. The oysters ooze in your mouth. The slaw is refreshing and not too overpowering (not like Bakesale Betty's slaw)
Waffles: I looooove crispy waffles. By far the best I've had. I actually order this without the chicken. I feel the chicken is not as flavorful nor crispy enough to eat with the waffles.
Grits: Good and cheesy.
the home baked goods are also awesome.
I hope the SF location on Third St will be as good as the original!!!! -
Review from Lindy D.
Millbrae, CA
5/10/2012
I had a wonderful lunch at Brown Sugar Kitchen last week. I don't eat much meat or fish, so I had the black eyed pea side salad, a side of smoked yams and shared an order of cornbread with my friend. Everything was delicious; especially the smoked yams.
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Review from Jen L.
3/18/2012 2 photos
I've passed this place so many times and didn't even know it was there! We finally came after hearing many great reviews from foodie friends. Parking can prove difficult especially when it's crowded on the weekend, but we were lucky enough to get a spot right out front. Try to carpool if you're coming in a group.
And be prepared to WAIT - bring a book or something or get ready to have a nice, long conversation with your buddies. The wait is no joke. On a Saturday at about 11am, the wait for 2 is about 45-60 min. Then it's another half hour wait to get your food, esp. if you order the waffle. After all the waiting, the hash that husband got and the chicken and waffle specialty did not cut it for us. The hash was good and flavorful but nothing special. The fried chicken was delicious - moist, tender, well seasoned, but I did not like how the cornmeal waffle tasted. The consistency and texture of the waffle was almost crispy which is weird when I am used to fluffy waffles. I also wasn't a fan of the apple syrup. The only thing I would come back for is the fried chicken.
The service was okay - friendly and attentive. We came on the day they were getting photographed for Oprah (so I overheard). It's cool that such local places are getting noticed. I noticed that there are a lot of locals but also some tourists visiting.
Personally, for the wait, food, and the price, i would take my time and money to 900 Grayson, which I prefer in terms of the Chicken/Waffle. -
Review from V J.
Fort Washington, MD
5/9/2012
I was in the San Jose area visiting friends and we decided to check out Brown Sugar since they had been hearing about the place but had never been.
We planned on eating plenty so we made it an early lunch and had only eaten fruit that morning so we could have plenty of room for what we anticipated as a filling meal.
We were sadly mistaken....
We arrived and were immediately seated on a Friday afternoon which was a good thing. Albeit we may as well had been diing with the couple next to us because that's how close the tables are together. And then as soon as we saw our menus and the expensive a la carte options we were a bit turned off, yet we didn't let that deter us.
We started off with the chicken and waffles which is where it also ended. The waffles were very "airy" and to be so large were completely unfilling. The chicken was moist but tasted like nothing, not bad, not good, just like nothing.
In fact by the time it was done and we paid our ridiculously high tab for the little amount of items we had ordered we were still hungry and sittng at the table discussing where we could stop for a smoothie or something.
I'm not sure if we caught them on a bad day or if some of these rave reviews are from individuals who aren't use to well seasoned food, specifically a chicken and waffle style spot or what. But needless to say Brown Sugar would not be added to my tourist attraction list if I authored one. -
Review from M L.
San Francisco, CA
5/7/2012
I just moved to oakland from San Francisco and am so happy to have found this place. I know I'll eat here for many many meals to come. I tried the following:
Chicken & waffles (of course)
Shrimp & grits
Beignets
Such a great food experience and I would recommend any of the above dishes to my friends! Can't wait to try the other items on the menu.
No doubt a long wait to get seated on the weekends - just adjust expectations and attitudes accordingly and you'll be fine :) -
Review from Adamma I.
Oakland, CA
2/24/2012
I have conflicted view points about this place.
Pluses
Part of revitalization and expansion of thriving businesses in West Oakland
Clean cheery interior
Multi cultural and generational staff
The cooks were were young and not mexican (I am not a racist I just have noticed an increase in Mexican uh chefs in every restaraunt from Kwik way to Wendys to even Sushi Joints)
Seasonal and oraganic ingrediants
Price is on par with other establishments in this genre
Cons
Tasted nothing like any Southern Cooking. Southern Cooking thats tasted from old aunties, uncles, grand parents on Christmas and Thanksgiving.
And it had me wondering what made it be that flavorful? Was it the chemicals and additives and such that gave it that ole time taste?
Was in the innocence of my pallete?
Was it tastebuds that had been untainted by cigarettes?
Was it the pain of slavery and the struggles of finally being free?
Will I do it again?
Uh yea I just no longer have the delusions its gonna taste like Auntie Mae's cookin. -
Review from Sistapino S.
Tiburon, CA
Updated - 2/27/2012
I LOVE to support local business, especially "minority owned", so I am a patron there... BUT only for the grits! I went a few weeks ago and I have to say I'm not impressed. Not worth the wait. Waffles are oily, the biscuits are too dense and dry. The service not so friendly. The shrimp and grits were completely over cooked so my shrimp was rubbery rather then light and smooth. Way over priced for the quality. Oh and take out was extremely slow I should have just waited for a table.
OVERALL: I'll stop in for grits if I'm too lazy to make them myself.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/29/2009
We had breakfast on a Sunday about 1 or so... I just have to say the BBQ Shrimp and grits are… Read more »
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Review from LakeshoreGlitterati S.
Oakland, CA
2/14/2012 1 Check-in Here
Are you f-in' kidding me with this place?
I am soooo tired of these pseudo-"soul food" joints that over-charge for food that my Nan could cook better, with ingredients that muck up the delicious recipes of the south!
I went in here and first of all, they only have a limited menu, seasonal, I understand. The cheapest WHOLE MEAL (not a side) was the chicken and waffles which was $15. Okay...so I get it and then they bring me this Apple Cider Vinegar syrup (have you ever tasted ACV???? It's like burning cyanide mixed with apple juice. GROSS) and then they have the nerve to charge me an extra $2 for regular maple syrup?!?!?!
KILL YOURSELF. I am serious, I am not going back to any of these little faux-mom and pop places that thrive on the back of generations of African American work and good cooking, to turn it around and make a profit for sub-par food.
I simply refuse. -
Review from Mykia F.
Oakland, CA
4/30/2012
Best damn chicken and waffles I ever had. The waffles were so light and crispy, the chicken was juicy and seasoned to perfection. I can not wait to go back and try the cheddar grits they looked realy good.
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Review from Betty C.
3/5/2012 1 Check-in Here
I was really looking forward to the shrimp and grits but the waitress said they don't serve that on Saturdays! bummer! I ended up ordering the grits with egg which was good but not the same.
Staff was really friendly. I like the mix of booths and tables. Chef Tanya was there and the kitchen is open so you can see what's happening behind. The hubs mentioned how calm everyone was (the antithesis of hell's kitchen =)
Definitely get the fried chicken and waffles, waffles are excellent! Chicken was well seasoned too.
Sweet tea is not like southern sweet tea, very mild and sweeten with Stevia.
Expect a wait! We got there at 1:20pm and were seated around 1:55pm because of a couple of folks who didn't want to wait any longer.
Right outside the restaurant is a really nice paved boardwalk/garden to walk around while you are waiting!
