Here's what you need to know this week about Oakland's food scene: a long-standing Mexican restaurant in Old Oakland is closing after 14 years, a deli in Uptown serving Mediterranean cuisine is no more and an East Oakland spot serving traditional Mexican dishes is moving to a bigger place.
Closing
Old Oakland
Tamarindo Antojeria (468 8th St.)
Hoodline veteran tipster Al M. told us that Tamarindo is set to close at the end of the year after 14 years in the neighborhood. According to a sign posted on its windows, the restaurant is available for private bookings throughout December. Limited weekend bar hours will remain until the end of the year. The last day of full dinner service was on November 30.
At the restaurant, dishes were served in classic "antojeria" (small plate) style and meant to be shared for a social dining experience, as one would find on the streets of Oaxaca or Mexico City's markets, according to the restaurant's website.
"We have made so many friends throughout the years and would like to thank everyone for your loyal patronage," restaurant owners and mother-and-son team Gloria and Alfonso Dominguez wrote in a statement. "We would also like to give a special thanks to our staff that has grown with us and been essential to realizing our family dream."
Uptown
Billy's Snacks & Deli (1938 Broadway)
In Uptown, Al discovered that following the departure of Donut Savant, Billy's Snacks & Deli has shuttered, in preparation for the building's demolition. The deli served a selection of Mediterranean food such as falafel dishes and sandwiches.
Moving
East Oakland
Mi Zacatecas (9896 MacArthur Blvd.)
Eater reports that Mi Zacatecas is leaving its current East Oakland spot to open at 6633 Bancroft Ave. There, the Mexican eatery will not only have a bigger home but also plans to extend its hours. Currently, plans are set to open in January with indoor seating for about 20 people.
Chef and owner Cecilia Chairez raised funds on Kiva for a loan of $6000 to build out a new kitchen, buy furniture for eating areas, and purchase signs for the new location. The money will also be used to secure permits and insurance. The project was fully funded.
Thanks to tipster Al M.! Have you noticed a new addition to (or subtraction from) Oakland's food landscape? Text a tip and a horizontal photo to (415) 200-3233.
