WORKER OWNED RESTAURANT & COMMUNITY SPACE

3340 International Blvd. - Oakland, CA

Ohlone Territory

OUR VIBRANT FLAVORS

Understory's menu is a curation of offerings that celebrate the labor and culinary traditions unique to our Collective Members' backgrounds.

Our menus are strongly influenced by the seasons, with a strong emphasis on vegan and gluten-free options.

COMMUNITY OFFERING

We offer a pay-what-you-can dish on all of our menus for all to enjoy regardless of ability to pay. Our current Community Offering is Lugaw - a savory rice porridge with mushrooms, scallions, and chili oil.

NO ONE WILL BE TURNED AWAY FOR LACK OF FUNDS.

Understory is an award-winning worker-owned and community-built restaurant grounded in collective action where we use food, culture, and collaboration as tools for resistance.

In an industry defined by exploitation—where workers are underpaid, overworked, and excluded from decision-making—we are carving a different path deeply rooted in solidarity, cooperation, self-determination, and community care.

We are majority queer owned, offering a vibrant and inclusive space where everyone can enjoy themselves, connect, and build community resilience.

photo by Parchita Studios
photo by Parchita Studios

NOW OPEN IN THE HEART OF OAKLAND'S FRUITVALE DISTRICT

Come visit us
CAFE | TUES-FRI
9AM-2PM
DINNER | WED-FRI
5-9PM
BRUNCH | WEEKENDS
11AM-3PM

Understory is a gem! The community vibe and delicious food make every visit special. Their catering services are top-notch for events too!

★★★★★

Alex T.