Oakland's Burdell, a gem on Telegraph Avenue, has snagged the coveted title of "Restaurant of the Year," an accolade that has the East Bay food scene buzzing. Chef-owner Geoff Davis, with his homage to soul food, conjures up a memorable blend of nostalgia and culinary innovation. He incorporates California ingredients and old family recipes into his dishes that boast both heart and high technique, as per Food & Wine magazine.
Riding on critical acclaim, Burdell marks its first anniversary on September 9, a milestone heralded on their Instagram with a Fish Fry celebration, setting the scene for community festivity reminiscent of backyard gatherings and neighborhood camaraderie. Davis’s restaurant isn't just about the food; it's about injecting 'grandma energy' into every aspect, from 70's-inspired decor to vintage Pyrex plates, channeling the spirit of the family and a time less complicated, the kind of authenticity that can't be manufactured but must be lived, a sentiment echoed by Davis himself.
According to CBS News, Davis opened up about the struggles of navigating the restaurant business in a post-pandemic landscape, despite the high fives and enthusiastic pat on the backs. "It's an amazing honor," Davis said, "Just really exciting for the team, and for Oakland, that we have one to hang on the mantle, you know?" even as he admits to the tough reality, "We certainly aren't crushing it, you know? We've been really fortunate with some awards this year and it's been really awesome, but I don't want to give any illusions that we're, like, completely fine."
But Burdell isn't only winning hearts with food and style; Davis has baked social justice into the very crust of his enterprise. A 20 percent service charge is levied to ensure fair and equitable pay for his team, dispelling the antiquated system of tips that once reinforced social disparities. According to Food & Wine, this model reflects a dedication to employee welfare and social consciousness, setting a standard that may inspire a broader industry shift. With a slew of innovative soul food dishes like smothered pork chops and barbecued shrimp paired with carefully selected wines, Burdell is a place where every bite and sip tells a story of heritage, carefully honed craft, and a forward-thinking ethos that might just be the secret sauce to their success.
