It wasn’t so long ago that there weren’t many restaurants in Livermore, CA. However, a recently remodeled downtown and growth in the region has lead to a spurt of new restaurants. The following are my list of the best restaurants in Livermore, organized by cuisine type.
American
I’m not entirely sure what American cuisine is, but I’m pretty sure Zephyr Grill & Bar qualifies. Everytime I’ve gone there they’ve had good salads, steaks, and sandwiches. Personally, I consider Zephyr above the pricier Wente Vineyards too.
Breakfast
I love going to Railroad Cafe for lunch (to eat breakfast). They have a lot of selections that aren’t on your typical IHOP menu. The only annoying thing about this restaurant is that they only take cash.
Burgers
This one’s a no brainer. First Street Ale House isn’t just the best pub in Livermore, they have the best burgers, and quite honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever had a better burger in my life. The burgers are huge 1/2 pound burgers, and the California Burger is probably the best. Just make sure to go early, they’re regularly packed.
Chinese
It really depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for a finer dining experience, Uncle Yu’s is the best choice in Livermore. It’s not authenticate Chinese cuisine, but they use the best ingredients and offer good wine pairings with their dishes.
If you’re looking for take out or delivery, New Oceanic is the hideaway that’s best in Livermore. Everything tastes fresher and a little bit better than your typical greasy Chinese take out. Also, it’s a great price. Most lunch meals are $5.50.
Greek / Mediterranean
This was the toughest call on the list. I really want to say the hideaway Piccola Casa is the best in Livermore, but despite their advertisements, I don’t think I can call it a Mediterranean restaurant. The best in Livermore is the truly Greek restaurant of Demitris Taverna in downtown.
Indian
Unfortunately, Livermore is a tad light on Indian cuisine. Sansar in downtown Livermore is really your only option, but it’s a good option. Not the greatest Indian food on the planet, but not bad in anyway. Personally, I prefer the lunch buffet since you’ll get a variety of dishes to try. My personal favorites are the Chicken Sag and Butter Chicken.
Italian
I gotta admit, I’m not the biggest fan of Italian food. It’s a little bland to me, however I don’t mind going to Melo’s Pizza and Pasta. I guess I’m a sucker for the personal pizzas and prefer it over the fancier Strizzi’s in downtown.
Japanese
All I gotta say about Kawa Sushi is Sushi Boat. One hundred pieces of sushis, sashimi, and rolls on one giant boat for you (and hopefully some friends). The best sushi in Livermore and a fine array of other dishes for the non-sushi crowd.
Mexican
Like Chinese food, it depends on what you’re looking for. For a nicer dining experience, check out Los Vaqueros Grill & Bar. The entrees are great, but what everyone loves are their sides. You can get mashed sweet potatoes, blue cheese salads, or even green chile soup (you can get rice and beans too if you want). For a quick bite, the best taqueria in Livermore is Taqueria Consuelito. Head there for lunches on Wednesday for $1 taco day.
Sandwiches
Home made sandwiches just like mom uesd to make, but better. O’felias Kitchen serves up some great sandwiches and they bake their bread daily. You can even smell the fresh baked bread when you walk in.
Thai
There are two restaurants in Livermore that really stand out and it’s a tough call. My personal opinion is that Star Anise wins on on slightly higher quality dishes, in particular the curry dishes and appetizers. Lemon Grass wins on a slightly larger menu of dishes. So it depends on your mood and the group you’re with.
Vietnamese
It’s amazing that 5 years ago, there were no Vietnamese restaurants in Livermore, yet now we have four. The best is Saigon Cafe in downtown Livermore. Quite honestly, I can’t recall a better Pho in the East Bay. Their soup base is just a bit tastier than everywhere else.
Special Category: Donuts
I have throw a special shout out to Donut Wheel in Livermore. They’re a Livermore institution. There’s a great nostalgia going in there, like you’re going to a shop from the 60s. Best of all, they’re open 24 hours.
