Hayward might not be a culinary destination like San Francisco or Berkeley, but you’ll likely find yourself hungry here eventually. Maybe you’re visiting after exploring the Hayward Shoreline, or perhaps you’re a resident in one of the growing neighborhoods. Either way, excellent dining awaits—here are the top spots to try.
Tin’s Teapot Bistro
$$ | (510) 881-0211 | WEBSITE
Tucked away in Hayward’s vibrant dining scene, the main draw at Tin’s Teapot Bistro is their excellent dim sum and the cozy atmosphere where you can forget you’re just minutes from the Bay Area bustle. But this bistro is open for all meals, and there’s a surprisingly extensive Cantonese menu. Dim sum (available throughout the day) features options like delicate chee cheung fun, crispy jian dui, and fresh char kway teow.
There are authentic dishes like salt & pepper pork chops and eggplant for lunch and dinner, plus jasmine tea to soothe the palate after the occasional oily bite. The chef’s special Qing Dynasty Mapo Tofu with minced chicken arrives with the right mild spice level and generous portions, while desserts like mango pudding provide a sweet finish.
With friendly staff and the owner available for private events, it’s a warm spot where every dish comes piping hot with layers of flavor, making it a must-visit despite the busy weekends.
ONCE Tea
$ | (510) 999-7883 | WEBSITE
ONCE Tea is pretty good when you’re thirsty, but like many things in life, is infinitely better when you’re craving something sweet. It’s also one of the few spots in Hayward serving drinks that actually taste fresh. There isn’t a ton of seating at this counter-service tea shop, and walk in on a weekday afternoon or weekend and it will be filled with students from the neighborhood.
Skip the regular milk teas on the menu in favor of the specialty flavors like oreo crème brûlée milk tea and avocado mango smoothie with crystal boba. Regardless of which drink you get, they’ll all have that nice chewy boba texture and enough sweetness to hit the spot.
Black Bear Diner Hayward
$ | (510) 670-9100 | WEBSITE
The Black Bear Diner Hayward offers a welcoming atmosphere with friendly service that accommodates all guests, including Spanish speakers. The restaurant has a classic-yet-comfortable feel—including the menu, which covers all the hearty diner bases like a solid meatloaf with mashed potatoes and a clam chowder that customers have enjoyed. The diner is spacious, with ample parking that tends to fill up around peak hours, plus a very accessible, kid-friendly layout.
It’s a great option for when you want to have a decent weeknight meal, or when you’re looking for a straightforward family dinner.
Lizetta’s Southern Soulfood & BBQ
$$ | (510) 333-2392 | WEBSITE
When you’re craving that authentic Southern comfort in the Bay Area, Lizetta’s Southern Soulfood & BBQ should be on your list. This spot really leans into the down-home soul food theme, so you’ll see checkered tablecloths, rustic wooden benches, and vintage food truck charm all over the place. But don’t let the casual setup distract you from how good the food is here, with amazing Lizetta’s wings, catfish Po’Boy, and beef brisket baskets.
The menu is hearty—besides their signature BBQ plates, you’ll find favorites like catfish, mac n cheese, and gumbo, plus a dedicated vegan section with options like vegan fried chicken and vegan jambalaya.
Sizzler
$ | (510) 783-0878 | WEBSITE
Tucked away in a bustling Hayward strip mall, walking into Sizzler feels like stepping into a time capsule from the 1990s. But in fact, this place has a legendary salad bar and reliably satisfying American classics. Their menu offers straightforward favorites, like a tender small steak, crispy fried shrimp, and a rich sundae for dessert. Plus, they also have standout dishes like creamy clam chowder and the steak and lobster plate if you want something more substantial.
It’s ideal for a family dinner or casual group outing where you can load up on garlic bread and reminisce about simpler times.
The Gurkha Kitchen
$ | (510) 963-5568 | WEBSITE
You might already know about the popular Nepali spots in the Bay Area, but The Gurkha Kitchen stands out as a warm, inviting destination. Unlike some of the more bustling ethnic eateries, this place feels cozy and personal, with soft lighting and comfortable seating that makes you want to settle in. There are dishes like the indescribably delicious momos with their spicy sauce, the unique thicker chicken tikka masala, and the slightly sweet naan.
Hayward isn’t exactly overflowing with authentic Nepali restaurants, but this is where you can have a memorable meal with friends who appreciate bold flavors, or introduce visiting relatives to something different after a day exploring the East Bay.
Paris Baguette
$$ | (510) 274-5233 | WEBSITE
Paris Baguette is a go-to spot with fresh bread and cakes that are full of flavor. Like the flaky croissants, which have buttery layers that practically melt in your mouth. This space is cleaner than it might look from the outside, but it’s cozy even on a weekday morning. Regulars grab their reliable café lattes, while newcomers discover the amazing strawberry cakes.
And for anyone looking for something sweet to start the day (but not too sweet), we like to begin with a simple croissant and finish with a slice of that strawberry cake.
SushiLand
$$ | (510) 481-7000 | WEBSITE
SushiLand is a reliable sushi spot in Hayward, and since it has a clean environment and a small separate room with tables, it works for bringing small kids so the noise doesn’t bother other diners. There’s a variety of sushi with fun rolls and great presentation, all reasonably priced for the already high sushi prices in the area. It’s all fine, but our favorite activity here is to enjoy the chill atmosphere and appreciate the patient, respectful staff while navigating the limited parking.
Pizza Hut
$ | (510) 886-4111 | WEBSITE
On paper, Pizza Hut might not seem like a likely candidate for one of Hayward’s best restaurants. It’s a national chain (not exactly known for culinary innovation), and operates from a straightforward storefront in a suburban shopping plaza. But the food here is surprisingly good: the personal pan pizzas are perfectly sized with a satisfying crust, and come in several classic toppings. Plus, there’s a variety of family bundles, like the well-priced chicken parm melt combo.
Order in advance and be prepared for some upselling on extras since they’re quite enthusiastic about add-ons.
Oscar the churro man
$ | (510) 472-4895 | WEBSITE
This is a churro-centric sidewalk stall with a simple setup near a supermarket and a casual, no-fuss ambiance. So yes, this place is a rather humble operation, but it’s also charming and the churros are pretty great. The churros are made by hand (each batch is freshly fried) and you get your choice of taking them hot and crunchy or letting them cool down to a doughy interior—both ways are delicious.
And while they have quick and easy transactions with cash or Zelle, they also have Oscar himself on hand to serve up the goods.
Straw Hat Pizza
$ | (510) 265-0111 | WEBSITE
Straw Hat Pizza is a local pizza destination for anyone scouring for a noteworthy family-style pie. Inside this clean, welcoming spot with bright lighting and a casual soundtrack, you’ll see a handful of families digging into the lunch buffet and maybe some regulars grabbing their favorite slices. And those generously topped pies, along with the attentive service, make this a good lunch idea for something reliable.
The classic cheese pizza is great, but if you want some meat involved, get the chicken bacon ranch pizza.
Caspers Hot Dogs Foothill
$ | (510) 581-9064 | WEBSITE
If we could only use one word to describe Caspers, it would be “classic.” The entire menu is built around perfectly executed hot dogs with that signature snap and juicy flavor everyone raves about. The friendly staff—both new faces and veterans who’ve been there for decades—will customize your dog exactly how you want it, just like they’ve been doing since the late 1970s.
The dining area feels like a delightful time capsule, with that good old-school atmosphere that makes you want to linger even though it’s perfect for a quick bite. But beyond the consistently delicious food and welcoming vibe, the experience itself should convince you to visit this Hayward institution. Every visit feels authentic and satisfying—like stepping into a local favorite that still puts out quality food with awesome, pleasant service.
El Taquito Restaurant #2
$ | (510) 397-2505 | WEBSITE
The standout at El Taquito Restaurant #2 is the pozole, because, well, it’s the best thing here. This clean and friendly Mexican spot has a flavorful pork broth pozole that sets it apart in Hayward. You can also get enchiladas, crispy fish tacos, or a chili rellano burrito for vegetarians. This place gets busy on weekends, but that’s nothing compared to what you’ll see during lunch hours.
With attentive staff, quick service, and occasional free drinks, El Taquito Restaurant #2 has some of the most welcoming service in the Bay Area.
Pot Pie Paradise & Deli
$ | (510) 781-4994 | WEBSITE
Pot Pie Paradise & Deli is a quirky, casual spot with a menu centered around American pot pies and comfort food. There’s plenty to choose from, including the classic pot pie with its generous flaky crust and savory filling, and the beef chili that delivers a satisfying spicy kick. Leftovers are common, so it’s a solid weeknight option.
And since they do a brisk frozen pie takeout business, there’s usually seating available in the diner-gone-bonkers space with its saltwater fish tanks and plants everywhere.
Veggie Lee Restaurant
$ | (510) 785-7133 | WEBSITE
Veggie Lee Restaurant began as a modest spot serving the local Chinese Buddhist vegan community, and then evolved into a destination for plant-based cuisine. Fortunately, these exceptional vegetarian dishes now have a dedicated following and are available throughout the week. They’re prepared fresh throughout the day, a comforting sight thanks to the open kitchen view. Each dish is flavorful and satisfying, with a rich, slightly oily texture.
They feature standout items like TOON rice or a consistent favorite like fried salt and pepper mushrooms. When enjoyed on-site, the meals also make perfect foundations for exploring the array of vegan options on the menu.
Max’s Cakes
$ | (510) 397-6496 | WEBSITE
While there are other bakeries in Hayward, Max’s Cakes is the best at blending above-average desserts with a versatile atmosphere. This delightful bakery serves strawberry shortcake cupcakes, burnt almond cake, and custom cupcakes in a space that feels like a showroom for a cheerful kitchenware department. Are the festive decorations giving off a warm glow that’s exactly the type of welcoming you want for a family celebration? Yes.
Can you hear a table of parents discussing their kids’ favorite cupcake flavors? Also yes. This spot is cozy, but not so much that it would make a group of coworkers feel awkward about grabbing treats together.
Family House of Fish & Poultry
$ | (510) 886-4112 | WEBSITE
Family House of Fish & Poultry is a fried-food spot that really leans into the family-run comfort vibe: It has friendly staff, quick service, and a straightforward menu of perfectly cooked fish and poultry. Come here for the crispy catfish, snapper, or tilapia with that ideal breading—not too oily, never soggy—or the prawns that stay firm and flavorful.
The convenient drive-up service makes it easy to grab lunch or dinner on the go, with sides like crispy fries and refreshing coleslaw that round out the meal. Desserts, especially the sweet potato cake, are a sweet finish worth saving room for. While portions can feel a bit modest for heartier appetites, it’s an excellent choice for fast, delicious food that tastes like homemade, with parking and location adding to the hassle-free experience.
El Rey Del Taco
$ | (510) 397-1057 | WEBSITE
Finishing a super burrito (even with a hearty appetite) can be quite the challenge. Luckily there’s El Rey Del Taco, which offers some very good Mexican food by the takeout order. Yes, there’s limited seating and a small dining area, but the best is their carne asada super burrito—it’s similar to homemade cooking, with way more meat and an extra layer of flavor.
This location is counter-service, family-owned, and has a colorful setting for small groups that get tired of waiting at the busier spots nearby. But El Rey Del Taco is an especially good option when you just want to eat a burrito—like the carne asada super—in solitude at home.
Mountain Mike’s Pizza
$$ | (510) 487-6453 | WEBSITE
Mountain Mike’s Pizza is a reliable pizza joint with the familiar feel of a typical Hayward spot. Thankfully for any local, this welcoming and straightforward enough space is right in their neighborhood. At the counter, families order up the Mtveggiemore pizza with artichoke and sausage or the large hamburger pizza. And in the casual dining area, groups dig into slices loaded with generous toppings at reasonable prices.
The food might not become the main topic of discussion, but it’s delicious enough to fuel conversation over Mountain Mike’s pleasant service.