WELCOME TO LION DANCE CAFE!

 
 

WeLCOME TO LDC, IT’S A PLEASURE TO HAVE YOU.

If it’s your first time dining with us, here are a few things we would like to share with you:

  • A little about us: We opened in September of 2020, after operating for over 7 years as a successful pop up. Due to Covid-19, we first operated as a takeout window only. It did not stop us from receiving immediate critical acclaim! After a full year in 2023 of operating as full-service a celebrated (and Michelin guide-listed) restaurant, in 2024 we are going back to our pop up roots with a more-than-just-counter-ordering model, so that we may continue to focus on bringing you the high quality food LDC has become synonymous with, without raising our prices.

  • So how do I order? Whether you are here to dine onsite or get takeout, follow these easy steps:

    1. Order and pay upon arrival at the front counter;

    2. Either be seated, or (if there is a delay for a table, or if ordering takeout) kindly wait in our colorful outdoor parklet for an update from our team

    3. Our team will bring your order out to you as soon as it is ready, and (if dining onsite) check to see if you would like to order anything else.

    4. Sharing is caring to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone in this limited space. Kindly vacate your table once you are done enjoying your meal so that the next party may be seated. Our team will take care of bussing for you!

    … Now a bit more about LDC:

  • We are a farm to table restaurant. The chefs/owners personally shop at local farmers’ markets up to 4 days a week for only 4 days of service, to bring you the best produce that they are most inspired by, grown by farmers that we have built relationships with over time. For these reasons, our menu may change without warning.

  • We also make most of what we serve from scratch! Our breads, pastas, plant-based mayo, and even our ferments, aminos... We have yet to hear of another restaurant in the U.S that makes their own douchi, doubanjiang, taucheo, koji, chye poh, and so much more. Despite its tiny size, the kitchen is like a fun lab bursting with culinary projects. It’s a labor of love, that can be tasted in every bite.

  • Our beverages: The same care goes into curating our exciting drink list. Sanzo, Calicraft and Teaphile are AAPI owned, and our wines are all vegan, natural, and all sourced from makers systemically marginalized in their field (women / LGBTQIA+ / Black / Indigenous / People of Color). They are also very delicious, and we are happy to assist with any pairing suggestions by the glass or bottle!

  • Allergens: We exclusively cook from plants, meaning our entire menu is vegan. “GF” denotes dishes that are made without gluten, “NF” dishes that are made without nuts, and “SF” without soy-based ingredients. However, we are not an allergen-free facility and have to refuse service to guests with severe allergies. Our FAQ can be found here. Please always let us know of any dietary restrictions or questions you may have prior to ordering!

  • Ordering: Our “small plates” section can be enjoyed as apps or shared sides (we love sharing and trying as many dishes as possible whenever we go out!), and the rest of our menu features our entrees and desserts.

  • Last call! Our kitchen closes at 8:30pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and 9:30pm Fridays and Saturdays. We welcome walk ups up to 30 minutes before then, as space allows.

  • LDC Merch: interested in wearing our eye-catching tees, totes, pins and more? Ask your server about our merch!

  • Solidarity: LDC is queer and POC immigrant owned, and employs and supports other queers, POC and immigrants. We believe in solidarity, radical hospitality and mutual aid, and offer hot meals at no charge to our less privileged guests. If you wish to make a contribution, it can be done at the bottom of this page. We are also a partner of Dining for Justice. A 1% surcharge is added to our checks, which goes toward supporting their program to keep Oakland fed. Your participation is voluntary, let us know before settling your check if you wish to opt out.

  • Community agreements: We put a lot of care into providing you with the most enjoyable experience possible. In return we kindly ask that you treat our team, neighbors, and space with respect. Please only use they/them pronouns when referring to our staff, unless you know their personal pronouns. Enjoying your meal with us? Tips are greatly appreciated and entirely split between all our employees.

  • Any other questions? Our team is here for you, and our extensive FAQ can be viewed here.

  • Follow us on Instagram! Click here to see our weekly market hauls, specials, new dishes, and more.

Thank you for choosing LDC, we wish you an enjoyable meal with us and look forward to seeing you again!