That moment of dread: ‘We’re sixteen, where can we eat?’ Forget the calendar chaos of coordinating. Now you need a spot that actually fits everyone—and doesn’t disappoint. Plus, you’d rather not watch your most budget-conscious friend pale at the bill. Here, places that handle the crowd without the cringe.
The Office
$ | (541) 315-2382 | WEBSITE
You just finished cheering on your favorite team at the local game, and after three hours of excitement, you’re all definitely ready to unwind. The Office should be your go-to spot for a relaxed group outing in Oakland. You’ll settle into the comfortable booths and order their signature tacos, available with classic fillings like seasoned beef or grilled chicken. They’re flavorful, satisfying, and only $3.75 each.
Dutch Bros Coffee
$ | (877) 899-2767 | WEBSITE
Another morning, another chance to debate the merits of cold brew versus blended drinks. We’re not here to start a coffee war, but if you’re pro-blended (or simply tired of your morning brew being a bland, uninspired cup), take your family outing to Dutch Bros Coffee. This is hands down the most reliable spot for great coffee and smoothies in the area, with a fantastic friendly staff vibe throughout. You’re also well-positioned for all things Oakland adventures afterwards.
SOL De Sutherlin
$ | (541) 459-3590 | WEBSITE
You’re exploring the Oregon coast, and by 1:00pm it’s becoming clear that if you don’t find some authentic Mexican food soon, your taste buds might just stage a protest. Head to SOL De Sutherlin, find a spot at their colorful patio, and be ready to enjoy some incredible veggie fajitas. They’re also wonderfully accommodating with dietary restrictions, so you can bring your dairy-free needs and know they’ll handle them perfectly.
Del Rey Cafe and the Loft
$ | (541) 672-1522 | WEBSITE
Del Rey Cafe and the Loft is a breakfast spot in Oakland, with a cozy bar upstairs that will mostly be occupied by regulars grabbing coffee and families enjoying weekend brunch. The portions are decent, and we’d recommend getting the gluten-free options and whatever special the kitchen is running that day. Come with a few friends, and prepare to all leave satisfied with the consistently good food and warm service.
Oakland Tavern
$ | (541) 802-1018 | WEBSITE
Oakland Tavern is a rustic tavern-slash-all day hangout spot right in the heart of town that somehow also feels like a cozy community hub. During the day it’s usually pretty lively, so you can pretend you’re in a classic American tavern (not just another bar), chatting with friendly locals and maybe playing some pool. Unlike typical taverns though, Oakland Tavern has food you’ll actually want to eat (try the Reuben sandwich) plus great, inexpensive beer on tap.
Tyee Landing
$ | (541) 459-7705 | WEBSITE
Oakland isn’t exactly overflowing with riverside dining spots, but Tyee Landing is the standout. It’s perched along the scenic Umpqua River, and while the indoor space with its cozy wood stove can fill up, the deck patio offers picnic-style seating and is a perfect place for a relaxed, view-filled meal. During a typical visit, you can expect most of their local beers to run around $6-7 a pint, and the menu is straightforward yet satisfying, hitting all the right notes.
We always begin with the smash burger and those top-notch fries.
Dakota Street Pizza Company
$ | (541) 459-0005 | WEBSITE
Any one of the family-friendly spots in Oakland would be a solid pick for a group meal that won’t break the bank, but Dakota Street Pizza Company should be your first choice. You’ll get a table right away, you can share everything from the Mammoth pizza to the bone-in wings, and the food is going to make you question how you ever settled for frozen pizza as a decent option.
Jalisco Cravings
Look, we’re not going to pretend that the food is the reason you’re at Jalisco Cravings. There’s huge portions, multiple salsa options, carne asada galore, all of which are perfectly acceptable, satisfying and appropriately affordable. More importantly, there’s fast and friendly service, of which it is possible you are contractually obliged to appreciate. The place is great, a total road trip stop, and a whole lot of fun.
Java Break
$ | WEBSITE
Unlike the typical coffee chain, Java Break has actual character, including a spotless interior and convenient windows, perfect for quick stops and multiple cups of coffee. If you’re coming here, you’re coming for the drinks, and you better make sure everyone knows the deal. Slow service at times, kind workers, and we hope you like blended mochas. These folks do not rush, but that’s probably because they’ve managed to come fairly close to comfort.
Papa Murphy’s | Take ‘N’ Bake Pizza
$ | (541) 459-1249 | WEBSITE
If you’re near Oakland, Papa Murphy’s is absolutely the spot. They’ve built a loyal following for basically one thing: take-and-bake pizza. There’s great customer service as well, but let’s be real, we know what you’re here for. Once you’ve picked up your order, there’s a variety of dietary options, including keto, vegetarian, and gluten-free pizzas that are some of the best around.
The atmosphere is always welcoming and fun, with a friendly crew that’s accommodating and thoughtful, even helping with heavy orders. They’re flexible and kind about rescheduling pickup times, and they’ll let you know about any deals to save money. The place never seems to have parking issues, no matter when you go.
Wailani shave ice and island grindz
$ | (541) 236-5089 | WEBSITE
You’re really more of a garlic chicken person than a shaved ice person, but the shaved ice is at the other end of the counter and the family next to you has already ordered three bowls. Wailani solves these group eating problems. You can get exactly what you want—whether it’s a huge BBQ plate or just a shaved ice dessert—so you don’t have to deal with menu debates or dessert-skippers. You can still all grab a table outside and play games while you wonder why all casual meals can’t be this fun.
Huele a Tacos
$ | (541) 315-2748 | WEBSITE
Ideally, you’d be able to pull off a quick, satisfying meal on the road with authentic flavors that hit the spot. Problem is, your best highway option is a fast-food drive-thru and you’re craving something with actual character. Head to Huele a Tacos instead. This Mexican spot near the interstate has outdoor seating that’s spacious enough that you won’t feel cramped, and their generously-portioned burritos and nachos come out to under $15 a person.
Winchester Pub & Grill
$ | (541) 673-2042 | WEBSITE
If it’s a welcoming local spot you want, Winchester Pub & Grill delivers. An Oakland staple that’s filled with regulars who actually live nearby, we could enjoy their plentiful food and friendly service all day here if we could. You should probably (definitely) plan to arrive early because every other local is also here on the weekends.
Romulo’s Mexican Grill
$ | (541) 802-1004 | WEBSITE
Romulo’s Mexican Grill is where to go when you’re driving through Oakland and need something to satisfy that serious hunger. They have queso birria tacos, and almost anything on the menu will stand up to the miles in your rearview mirror. None of the tacos, enchiladas, or vegetarian options are over $14, and you will almost definitely have some leftover for the road.
Yummy House
$ | (541) 459-9393 | WEBSITE
The best part of a family meal at Yummy House is the generous portions, where even your pickiest relative will find something they’re into. The second best thing about Yummy House is their fast service, which runs from open to close every day, with attentive staff who check on you regularly. It involves hot, large dishes like World Wonton soup and Orange Chicken, with perfectly steamed rice and crispy pot stickers that make the whole experience worth the drive.
Si Casa Flores
$ | (541) 315-2900 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking for authentic Mexican food at a price that won’t make you wonder if you should have just driven to Mexico instead, Si Casa Flores is the place to go. It’s a spacious, wheelchair-accessible restaurant in Sutherlin, with consistently clean dining areas and welcoming service as the main form of atmosphere, which is ideal for families that care more about tasty meals and large portions than having a fancy dining room to eat in.
