About Ain't Normal Cafe

If you’re in the mood for a relaxed hangout spot in Oakland, Ain't Normal Cafe on College Ave is the place to be. This cozy coffee shop vibes with a laid-back atmosphere, making it perfect for casual gatherings or solo sips of your favorite brew. The cafe offers a variety of options, including coffee, wine, and even beer, so there's something for everyone. Whether you're a vegetarian or a comfort food lover, their menu has you covered with delicious offerings like small plates, prepared foods, and quick bites, ideal for a low-key meal or snack.

One of the highlights of Ain't Normal Cafe is its flexible service options. You can enjoy your meal in their welcoming dining area with the option to sit outdoors when the weather’s nice. If you're short on time or just prefer staying in, delivery and takeaway options are available for your convenience. Plus, they have dine-in service for those who prefer to stay and relax a bit longer.

What makes Ain't Normal Cafe stand out is the great balance between casual comfort and the opportunity to sip on some delicious drinks. Whether you’re looking for a pick-me-up in the form of coffee or winding down with a glass of wine or beer, they’ve got it. Happy hour food and vegetarian options make it an ideal spot for a quick bite or a longer hangout. Located at 5701 College Ave, Oakland, CA, it's a perfect stop to enjoy great food and drinks while soaking in the relaxed vibe.

Gallery

Business Info

Service options

+ Outdoor seating

+ Delivery

+ On-site services

+ Takeaway

+ Dine-in

Highlights

+ Fast service

+ Great coffee

+ Great tea selection

+ Serves local specialty

Popular for

+ Breakfast

+ Solo dining

Accessibility

+ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

+ Wheelchair-accessible seating

+ Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Offerings

+ Alcohol

+ Beer

+ Coffee

+ Comfort food

+ Happy-hour food

+ Prepared foods

+ Quick bite

+ Small plates

+ Vegetarian options

+ Wine

Dining options

+ Breakfast

+ Lunch

+ Catering

+ Dessert

+ Seating

+ Table service

Amenities

+ Toilet

Atmosphere

+ Casual

+ Cosy

+ Trendy

Crowd

+ LGBTQ+ friendly

Planning

+ Accepts reservations

Payments

+ Credit cards

+ Debit cards

+ NFC mobile payments

+ Credit cards

Parking

+ Free of charge street parking

+ Paid parking lot

+ Paid street parking

+ Parking

Pets

+ Dogs allowed outside

Hour time open

Right Now :

Monday: 07:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Tuesday: 07:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Wednesday: 07:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Thursday: 07:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Friday: 07:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Saturday: 07:00 AM - 06:00 PM
Sunday: 07:00 AM - 06:00 PM

5701 College Ave, Oakland, CA 94618, United States

Reviews

Strong espresso, nice curated drinks, and an extensive selection of wine and champagne sold to-go. Sandwiches appear to be thoughtfully crafted, and are a cinch to grab to go. Perfect as you’re near the train. Pricing is premium, par for the course at this big corner. Music is solid, staff are cued in to their work and having fun.

- Barry Hashimoto -

Very limited sitting inside, but lots of outside seating on the corner of Miles and College Ave. For highly discerning mocha connoisseurs, the mocha here will rank about a 4/5. For the rest of humanity, this is a 4.7/5 mocha. You’ll be satisfied either way. Going to try their egg and biscuit next, which is only really available before 11 AM

- Vineet Sinha -

Potentially the best coffee shop in the entire Bay area. They're serving some of the highest quality beans you can find. If you are into specialty coffee there is simply not a better place to go. The pricees can be high but they match the high quality and are completely valid. It's amazing to see people complain about an extra dollar for oat milk, etc. I imagine these same people have no issue dropping 18 bucks on a glass from a $13 a bottle of grocery store wine at dinner. This place is a gem.

- Matt -

Exceptional coffee and delicious food options, friendly staff and a great spot to hang out.

- Phoebe Montalvo -

This is a really special spot. First, the coffee: they source excellent high quality beans from a variety of interesting roasters. Beans from as far away as Korea or the Netherlands are ALWAYS fresh. Seriously, I've never pulled a stale bag from their shelves. They also have a lovely collection of teas. I've eaten several nibbles from the cafe and they are always straightforward and delicious. Finally, they have a fun assortment of wines on offer, with thoughtful tasting notes. I've attended a wine pop up here and it was lively with -of course- great wines and tasty bites. They know how to highlight the coffee they serve with well executed pour overs and I've enjoyed the rare espresso drink I've ordered as well. Last but not least, the staff is always warm while being incredibly efficient. I never feel rushed and they're always happy to have a quick chat. I'm probably here at least once per week. This place is a true Oakland gem.

- Nytasha Tarver -

Delicious babaganoush toast! Also maybe the best scone I've ever had. Great place to study or work if you have a full charge. No outlet and music is a bit loud, but there's free wifi and bathroom. Minimal indoor seating. It's a bit expensive but worth it.

- ACACIA SHYR -