In 1991 I graduated from the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco. I went on to manage restaurants for the next 13 years. In 1995, I was hired on at Neiman Marcus where I spent 9 years as one of the managers for their three restaurants in Union Square. There, I met my dear friend Diana Parker, the general manager of food service.
Since I left Neiman's, Diana and I try to meet once a month to hang out and try a new restaurant. The other day we tried, Tamarindo Antojeria Mexicana.
Nestled in Old Oakland at 468 8th Street is this gem of a restaurant. Visually this small establishment had me hooked once I entered. The exposed brick and the warm colored walls, the solid wood tables and the beautiful Mexican angels sitting over the kitchen area.
We were immediately served water (without having to ask) and our waitress, Norma, was friendly and helpful. Being the foodies that we are, Diana and I ordered half of the menu to try everything that caught our eye. The guacamole was flavorful and fresh, the tortilla chips were the best house-made I’ve had, and the Queso Fundido, (melted oaxacan cheese, with chorizo sausage and hand made tortillas) was decadent. Try the Sopecitos Surtidos, (small masa patties topped with various savories) and Tacos de Camaron, (crispy prawn tacos).
We were too full to sample their flan or Mexican hot chocolate, but were happy to have an old fashion Bubble Up in the bottle.
I am so happy to have restaurants like Tamarindo in Oakland. It is so nice to have a delicious meal minutes away from the office and home!
Tamarindo Antojeria Mexicano is open for Lunch and Dinner Monday – Friday and for Brunch and Dinner on Saturday. You can contact them at 510.444.1944 or at www.tamarindoantojeria.com.
