Awaken Cafe & Roasting

I’ve always loved Awaken since moving to downtown Oakland. The espresso is top notch, there’s plenty of space to sit inside, and the Adirondack chairs out front are a sweet place to sip and people watch. Recently they upped their bagel game and do yummy egg and cheese and salmon bagels.

Awaken Cafe ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Vibe & Workflow: Awaken hits all the marks: consistent service, great atmosphere, and serious coffee. If you’re working on a laptop (especially with a glossy screen), you’ll appreciate the thoughtful lighting and tinted windows—no glare here.

Great place. Will definitely be back. Bagels are closest to NY bagel I’ve had in the Bay Area. Staff is great. Very friendly. @Timothee review, “tall white guy” is really a sweet person, perhaps it was you or an expectation of what “friendly” should be. Others, don’t be dissuaded.

Awaken Cafe is a gem in Oakland! The space is clean and thoughtfully designed, with different seating zones that make it perfect for both getting work done and just hanging out. The ambiance is warm and inviting, and the coffee—made from their own roast—is excellent.