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Millennium Restaurant Review: Oakland’s Vegan Fine Dining Pioneer

  • Writer: Corey Jones
    Corey Jones
  • Apr 27
  • 2 min read

After two decades in San Francisco, Millennium Restaurant has cemented its status as one of the best vegan restaurants in the Bay Area from its new rustic-chic Oakland home on College Avenue. Helmed by Chef Eric Tucker—a legend in plant-based cuisine and author of The Artful Vegan—this Michelin-recognized vegan spot proves that ethical dining can be decadent, creative, and deeply satisfying.


Why Millennium Stands Out

  • Only upscale vegan restaurant in Oakland with national acclaim

  • 5-course "Taste of Millennium" menu showcasing Chef Tucker’s innovation

  • Locally sourced, sustainable ingredients (many from Northern California farms)

  • Rustic-chic ambiance with a sunlit patio and warm service


The Dining Experience: California Vegan, Elevated

The Oakland location (5912 College Ave) blends coastal California ease with fine-dining rigor. Dark wood accents and farmhouse-chic decor set the stage for dishes that are visually stunning and layered with global flavors.


Must-Order Dishes

Starters

  • Scallion Griddle Cakes (GF): Kalbi-glazed king trumpet mushrooms atop crispy cakes with kimchi cucumber salad and porcini-sesame-chili crisp—an umami bomb.

  • Coriander & Arborio Crusted Oyster Mushrooms (GF): Orange-ginger-chile jam and toasted sesame elevate this textural masterpiece.


Mains

  • Red Wine & Miso Glazed Lion’s Mane Mushroom: Dirty rice cake and seitan sausage étouffée deliver Creole-inspired depth.

  • Filipino-Style BBQ Glazed Tempeh (GF): Banana barbecue sauce and garlic fried rice reimagine classic adobo with smoky-sweet brilliance.


Dessert

  • Cherry Hazelnut Brownie (GF): Sea salt ice cream cuts through the fudgy richness perfectly.

  • Sesame Cardamom Cake (GF): Rose cream and citrus gelee make this unforgettable.


The Chef: Eric Tucker’s Plant-Based Vision

A Natural Gourmet Institute alum and mycology enthusiast, Tucker treats vegetables with the precision of French haute cuisine. His signature dishes (like roasted pumpkin tamales with cashew crema) blend ethnic techniques with Northern California’s bounty.

Pro Tip: Visit Tuesday-Thursday for à la carte options or Friday-Saturday for the 4-course prix fixe ($72). Don’t miss Happy Hour (Tue-Fri, 5-6:30 PM) for small plates and craft cocktails.


Final Verdict

Millennium Restaurant isn’t just for vegans—it’s for anyone who appreciates bold flavors and artful plating. Whether you’re craving innovative mushroom dishes or globally inspired desserts, Tucker’s team delivers one of Oakland’s most memorable meals.

Book ahead. Come hungry. Leave converted.

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