A North Beach Staple is Now Open in Oakland

In the 1950's Giovanni Gianni, (Papa Gianni) moved his family to America and in 1956 opened the first espresso house on the West Coast on Vallejo Street in San Francisco.   Now 50+ years later, a cult following and several Bay Area locations, it is fitting that food mecca, Oakland gets a location.  Last evening Caffe Trieste had their grand opening party!  As I pushed through the jammed packed cafe, I felt has if I were on a movie set.  Papa Gianni and the the North Beach Band with the Giotta Family Singers were singing classic Italian songs, glasses were raised, couples were dancing in place, (as there was no room for large movement.) and excitement and joy was in the air.  As I looked at the beautiful honey colored wood cabinetry, exposed beams and the shiny stainless steel hood, I couldn't remember what existed before Caffe Trieste moved in. ( I had to ask...this use to be two small store fronts, one was a mailbox shop and I am still not sure of the other business.) With Caffe Trieste open to 10 pm Monday-Thursday and until 11 pm Friday - Sunday, folks will have a relaxing and affordable place for a snack, espresso or glass of vino.  Go Oakland!