We were just wandering around Jack London Square and didn't want a huge lunch. Bocanova was a perfect choice. The lunch choices were quite interesting and, more importantly, delicious. I didn't recognize some of the ingredients but everything worked perfectly. The staff was very attentive without being obnoxious. We would definitely return.

Oakland's Restaurant Week gave us a chance to try a lot of different food here. Mostly great and nothing regrettable!

First, warm and friendly from the front door; it has in-kitchen style seating, too, which looks a little in the way but probably a lot of fun if the place is rocking.

We were early, so no rocking; secured a good booth without a reservation at 5:45 pm on a Thursday (it got a lot busier after about 7:00). Very pretty place. We shared a bay scallop ceviche (the light but creamy sauce has a definite habanero bite), marinated Peruvian olives (very tart); comfort-food quinoa salad; a beautifully prepared hangar steak and perfect petrale sole (second best thing we had). A potato and mushroom side dish -- I agree the potatoes are spectacular, but they didn't seem to match with the mushrooms. Each was good, just a strange combo -- they didn't do anything for each other, and would've been better as two sides. The panko-breaded and lightly fried cauliflower in remoulade was the BEST thing on the plates tonight! Dessert was a decent enough banana cake with a buttercream dollop . . . good enough.

The server was fun to talk to, about cooking and wine and all things food. Reasonably priced, too. We don't make it up to Oakland too often, but this would be a place to return to.

I was exhausted after a long air flight, but excited to be with friends. This was one of the best dinners I have had in a long time. Do Not Miss the Pear Salad. Main courses were half chicken and scallops, and hard to believe that the vegetables were awesome. We shared Squash and Brussel Sprouts. I crave them right now.
Caveat: Difficult to hear when the room fills.

This place rocks. Get the potatoes and brussels sprouts. I like sitting out on the patio when it is warm enough. Great for dinner, but don't forget about brunch!