Welcome to Saffron Kitchen
Saffron Kitchen, located in Oakland, CA, is a Mediterranean restaurant and cocktail bar with Afghan influences. Offering a wide range of amenities, from wheelchair accessibility to outdoor seating and happy hour specials, Saffron Kitchen caters to a diverse clientele. Not only does it provide delicious pescatarian options, but it also accommodates various dietary preferences, including options for those who prefer compostable containers and plastic-free packaging. With a classy and intimate atmosphere, this restaurant is perfect for romantic dinners or group outings. The fusion of Mediterranean and Afghan flavors creates a unique dining experience that will leave you craving for more.
- 5940 College Ave Oakland, CA 94618 Hotline: (510) 735-9220
Located in Oakland, CA, Saffron Kitchen is a hidden gem that brings together the flavors of Mediterranean, Cocktail Bars, and Afghan cuisine. This unique blend of flavors creates a dining experience that is truly unforgettable.
Saffron Kitchen stands out for its commitment to customer service, offering a wide range of amenities such as reservations, delivery, takeout, and even catering options. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and provides features like closed captioning on TVs and gender-neutral restrooms, ensuring that everyone feels welcome.
One of the standout features of Saffron Kitchen is its dedication to sustainability. They offer plastic-free packaging and provide reusable tableware, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious diners.
The menu at Saffron Kitchen is diverse, with options for pescatarians and a range of dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From the casual yet intimate atmosphere to the top-notch service, Saffron Kitchen is a must-visit for anyone looking for a truly special dining experience in Oakland.

I was just walking by getting about a boba when I came across this place. Not familiar with Afghan cuisine so I cant comment on authenticity but the food was so good! I got the spinach qurma with lamb. It wasn’t gamey at all and the meat was super tender. Tasted kinda like palak. I also liked the fact that it was not overly greasy! I would definitely return again to try other items on their menu The pretty patio area is also a big plus ????

The Lamb was tender, moist and plentiful. Their bread was especially tasty. The rice was flavorful, but somewhat dry - I should have asked for some extra gravy. I'm sure the friendly staff would have brought it quickly. I liked the table setting including a table covering made of actual cloth. Nice touch.

The service was very good. The waiter was smart and know about the food. Nice place to have lunch or dinner... I would definitely come back.

Spinach qorma is great -- the lamb is so tender! Not spicy if you have a low tolerance :) And the butternut squash side is amazing, so flavorful and sweet

What a yummy new addition to Rockridge! We ordered the dumplings and the veggie combo platter and both were unique and delicious! It came with some yummy sauces and the portions were quite large for the price. The owner and waitresses were so friendly as well and the service was fast. Highly recommend trying out this new spot for something different and delicious!

I absolutely love this restaurant! The food is incredibly delicious, flavorful, wholesome, and nutritious. The menu is huge! The service is friendly and the chefs frequently come out to chat with customers and even take orders! They have a full bar and can make any kind of cocktail, there is ample outside seating as well as inside seating. The food is a combination of Indian, Asian and Mediterranean because it is Afghan food! A gem in Rockridge, for sure. I'm already looking forward to my next meal here!

Delicious food, great service, nice setting! I took two friends there for birthday lunches during the week. We had a great experience and will go back.

The food and service were amazing at Saffron Kitchen! My family and I ordered and shared lamb kabobs, beef, chicken and an egg plant dish. All were so tasty, full of flavor. The staff were so welcoming and warm, including the owner. It was our first time here tonight but we would love to return! The ambiance was lovely, especially the patio area where we sat. Perfect for a summer lunch or dinner.

Great food, lovely atmosphere, solid service. The cocktails and mocktails were very interesting and unique and tasty. The pakoras were thick and fluffy with a crispy outside. The flatbread was soft and airy and buttery with the 3 super flavorful chutneys. The dumplings were similar to other cuisines but had some very unique sauce flavors and there was quite a lot of nice ground lamb inside. And the chicken and steak shish kebobs were quite good.

Lovely Afghani restaurant in Rockridge, steps from the bart station! Plenty of vegetarian options! For appetizers we got the crispy eggplant pakora with a creamy yogurt sauce, and potato bolani. I had trouble deciding what to get for main so went with the Vegetarian combo-- tasty and vibrant! I even enjoyed the leftovers later at home. Staff were attentive and helpful. The restaurant feels a bit more formal and prices align with that. I've already recommended this place to friends!