photo: Christina Mitchell
The first Umami Burger opened in Los Angeles in 2009, and my first visit was about a year later. Now, there are 13 locations in LA, three in the Bay Area and one in Miami. As of last week, Oakland has its own location in Uptown. When I had lunch with a friend the other day, I ordered The Prosperity (Bulleit Rye, Averna Amaro, Ginger Beer, $10), which was dark, fizzy and boozy. We actually sat at a communal table and shared starters with the other group: Fried Pickles ($4), Tempura Onion Rings ($4.50), Smushed Potatoes ($4.50) and my favorite, Truffle Cheese Fries ($5.50). Each Umami Burger location has its own unique burger, and Oakland’s is doused in housemade chile con queso and chorizo fundido sauce. I had a bite of my friend’s burger which was tasty, but I actually preferred The Manly Burger (Beer-Cheddar cheese, bacon lardons, smoked-salt onion strings, house ketchup, mustard spread, $11). It was a good choice because the textures and flavors came together but never overpowered the house-ground beef. The only thing I was missing was the freshness of lettuce, but I would definitely order it again. Be sure to save room for dessert because they are made by Gregory’s Gourmet Desserts, which is just around the corner. We ordered the sweet-tart Key Lime Pie and the warm and gooey Peach Cobbler, which were both absolutely delicious. The desserts are going to be changing frequently, so you should definitely ask what’s on the menu.
2100 Franklin St, Suite 2190, Oakland
Christina Mitchell
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