• Banner 1
  • Banner 2
  • Banner 3

Welcome to Ain't Normal Cafe

Ain't Normal Cafe is a charming wine bar located in the heart of Oakland, California. Founded on a passion for quality and flavor, it stands out for its inviting atmosphere, where guests can enjoy both indoor and outdoor seating. The café offers a meticulously curated menu featuring exceptional coffees, including expertly crafted espresso drinks and delightful matcha lattes. Highlights include the delicious avocado toast and renowned baba ganoush, showcasing a commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients. With accommodating services like takeout, delivery, and dog-friendly seating, Ain't Normal Cafe is a gem where culinary creativity meets a welcoming community spirit.

Ain't Normal Cafe: Reviews & Ratings

sebin
sebin

My go to spot for Matcha when I'm in the area. I get Iced Matcha with Oatmilk & sweetened with simple syrup. Simple order but so good! (They also actually sift the matcha so def plus) The ambiance is cute little cafe with more sitting outside:)

Hailing W.
Hailing W.

室内空间小,仅有几张矮桌、几个面向街道的吧台位及一条稍高些的木质"站台",户外区域才是人们向往的最佳座位,虽然十字路口的车流较大,但晴朗的春日午后,沐浴在温暖的阳光下,其实并不觉吵闹,丝毫不会影响野餐般的惬意氛围 讨论度较高的几家咖啡烘豆商的产品,在这里都能买到,还有海鲜罐头、芝士熏肉拼盘和自然酒,吃饱喝足后,再浅浅进个货 酥皮点心和酸种欧包来自伯克利老牌Acme Bread Company,不失为保质保量的安全选择,午餐时段有法棍三明治,附近La Farine面包房做的法棍是我心中的东湾之最 Cappuccino 浓缩的品质不错,刚入口时还觉得有些平淡,浓度会慢慢地展现,酸苦均衡,苦味略突出,酸则属于后来居上,奶泡绵密,但融合度稍差,前半段分层明显,好在整体柔顺流畅 Mocha 甜、苦、酸按顺序依次出现,在腻与淡之间找到了平衡,轻薄中又不失醇香 Matcha Latte 鲜少有咖啡馆愿意选择品质上乘的抹茶粉作为原材料,也并不想为抹茶饮花心思,更突显出了这杯抹茶拿铁的含金量,宇治丸久小山园松柏,与奶特别适配,比较圆润的清苦,虽为薄茶,却带着些浓郁,融合度贼棒,从始至终都很顺滑,后期口留余香,毫无涩感,很喜欢! Savory Scone Jalapeño|Pecorino|Cheddar 外表烤出了一层脆壳,边缘已形成薄薄的焦化芝士脆片,整体的醒发并不好,内部吃起来有些绵绵烂烂的感觉,但墨西哥辣椒的辛香绝了,与意大利绵羊奶酪的浓香、以及咸甜交错的调味一起,碰撞出了更美味的配搭效果 Butter Toast Sourdough|Maldon Salt|Jam|Jammy Egg 老牌面包房的实力不容小觑,做出的酸种让人吃了还想吃,外壳偏薄,烘烤的火候和时间都非常厉害,酥酥脆脆,完全不硬,触碰到内部面包体的瞬间,感受到蓬松柔软,咀嚼之后发现其实还蛮有厚度的,弹性也足 用黄油煎至表面焦脆,轻轻一碰就往外滋油,真的太香太香,可惜海盐片撒多了,咸得很,店里的自制果酱有特色,清新自然的酸甜,伴随着浓郁的肉桂香气,跟梨子的沙质口感很配,溏心水煮蛋虽然缺少了流动性,但进嘴后还是保持了黏黏糊糊的状态,好棒!

savannah ..
savannah ..

probably the best high end, full service, gentro style coffee shop in Oakland proper. Excellent multiroaster program, and food that is surprisingly good! Best (and most loaded) avocado toast I have had in a long time, and in general people love the shmancy (and pricy) plates. Bonus points for out of this world baba ganoush, vegan options, and still serving soy milk (which continues to be the actual best barista milk, despite the oat mafia :-) ).

Felix W.
Felix W.

I got the standard espresso and their specialty espresso (+$2 upcharge). Both were very good. The specialty was a darker roast, smooth, not bitter or acidic, and had good chocolate and nutty flavor coming through (5/5). Their standard blend was a lighter roast, slightly more acidic (4/5). Would definitely come back.

Brian B.
Brian B.

Great place. Nice outdoor seating area. Some indoor seating but limited. Service was great and my espresso was perfect. The sign on the door said they served sandwiches starting at 8 am but I was there at 8:30 and they said they hadn't sliced the meat yet so couldn't sell me one. So, minus one star for not having the product but star added back because they slice their own meat. I'll be back.

Patrick O.
Patrick O.

So many options. Best scone I've had in a year? Tons of variety on the coffee and food front. Come here for retail coffee to find rare and unique sources and roasts. Just enough space to enjoy a quick bite. Not a place to do any focus work or work. Loud. Social. Small. No dedicated parking. Has restroom.

Location

Welcome to the vibrant world of Ain't Normal Cafe, a unique wine bar nestled in the lively district of Oakland, California, at 5701 College Ave. This charming café goes beyond typical offerings, providing a delightful blend of quality beverages, scrumptious bites, and a warm atmosphere that invites you to relax and savor each moment.

Ain't Normal Cafe stands out not only for its extensive selection of drinks, including beer and wine, but also for its commitment to excellent service and accessibility. With outdoor seating, wheelchair accessibility, and gender-neutral restrooms, this café ensures that everyone can enjoy the experience.

  • Highlights of the Menu:
    • Matcha Latte: Sourced from premium ingredients, expertly sifted for a smooth and creamy delight.
    • Avocado Toast: A fan favorite, unique in its execution and rich in flavor, making it a must-try.
    • Scones: The savory jalapeño-pecorino-cheddar scone features a perfect crust, offering a delicious companion to your beverage.
  • Customer Favorites:
    • From multiple reviews, it’s clear that patrons adore the baba ganoush, noted for its vibrant flavor and smooth texture, along with exquisite vegan options.
    • The café showcases a multiroaster coffee program ensuring diversity and quality in every cup, appealing to coffee enthusiasts.

As I enjoyed my visit, the ambiance wrapped around me like a warm hug. Light chatter filled the air, uplifting the café’s chic yet cozy vibe. Clean lines and stylish decor create an inviting backdrop for both solo visitors and groups. Customers can settle in with their favorite beverage, or even bring their furry friends along, as dogs are welcome here!

Whether you're in the mood for a cappuccino, a freshly prepared meal using quality ingredients from local bakeries like Acme Bread Company, or a refreshing cocktail, you’ll find it at Ain't Normal Cafe. And don't miss out on the interactive experience of enjoying this communal space, enhanced by free Wi-Fi and great service.

In a city filled with coffee shops and casual eateries, Ain't Normal Cafe has successfully carved out a niche that embraces creativity, quality, and community. Come for the drinks, stay for the atmosphere, and leave with a full heart — that’s the Ain't Normal promise!

To check out this delightful establishment, visit them at 5701 College Ave, Oakland, CA 94618, or call (510) 735-9990 for more details. Your next favorite café experience awaits!