• Banner 1
  • Banner 2
  • Banner 3

Welcome to Shapeshifters Café

At Shapeshifters Café, nestled in the heart of Oakland, our story is one of transformation and flavor. We focus on fresh, vibrant salads and sandwiches, catering to diverse tastes with vegan options and hearty breakfast delights. Our cozy café, complete with a tranquil patio, is a welcoming space for friends, families, and those seeking a productive work environment. Patrons rave about our rich Vietnamese coffee and crisp sandwiches, where every bite is a balance of texture and taste. With a commitment to quality, sustainability, and community, we invite you to experience a culinary journey that reshapes your expectations of casual dining.

Shapeshifters Café: Reviews & Ratings

Jessica A.
Jessica A.

Stopped by for a quick bite and was not disappointed! The Vietnamese coffee was absolutely perfect--rich, bold, and just the right amount of sweetness from the condensed milk. It had that smooth yet strong kick that kept me energized all day. I paired it with their turkey sandwich on Dutch crunch, and wow--so good! The bread had that signature crispy, crackly top with a soft interior, and the turkey was fresh and flavorful. Topped with crisp veggies, creamy mayo, and just the right amount of seasoning, every bite was a delicious mix of crunch and tenderness. Great food, friendly service, and a cozy spot to relax. Definitely coming back for another coffee and sandwich combo!

Evan L.
Evan L.

Service was a little slow bc they only had one worker there but the food was excellent, the coffee was at a VERY good price and a generous portion. Got a $5 Vietnamese coffee and will def be back Patio is gorgeous

Sydney J.
Sydney J.

I am quite delayed in writing this review, but I had ordered a Too Good to Go surprise bag. The pickup experience was quick and friendly. I was given the following for my Too Good to Go: Pain au chocolat Croissant with powdered sugar Danish Chocolate chip scone I personally enjoyed the chocolate-containing pastries best, especially the scone since I prefer more of a crunchy texture over croissant-like flaky breads, although all were pretty good. It was great value for the amount of fresh and sweet pastries.

Tillman E.
Tillman E.

Everything was so delicious! They had free Mexican coffee to celebrate their 2 year anniversary. We also got avocado toast and a breakfast burrito. The drinks and food were all amazing, and it's a super fun/cozy ambiance. Can't wait to go back

Jwana P.
Jwana P.

Cute little hidden gem in Oakland. Private patio area for a chill day at the cafe. Free WiFi and easy street parking! Enjoyed a cafe latte on the patio area. Nicely shaded in case it gets hot! Staff were kind and inviting! Would recommend!

Patty P.
Patty P.

It was wonderful to go to the first Saturday Brunch at Shapeshifters. I had been to the Brewery and their events many times (check those out too) and really wanted to try more of their food. We got cold brew and a delicious, refreshing, fresh-tasting Watermelon Basil drink (so good). We shared the pesto corn salad, which was refreshing and yummy and I had the breakfast burrito and Cuban toast. The service was friendly and transparent, and even when they were busy they let us know what was coming to the table next and checked in on us. The space was really lovely and they have a great back patio too. Everything was delicious and I really recommend visiting!

Loren R.
Loren R.

I love the Saturday brunch on first Saturdays! The breakfast burritos are great and they usually have yummy specials on Saturday.

Lila L.
Lila L.

Shapeshifters Cafe is always my go to whenever I'm in the area. The pastries at are out of this world! I tried the croissant, and it was perfection - flaky, buttery, and perfectly sweet. It's clear that they use high-quality ingredients and put a lot of care into their baking. Their lavender latte is a blend of rich, smooth espresso with the subtle, aromatic hint of lavender was both soothing and invigorating. It's a must-try for any coffee lover looking for something special and unique. Shapeshifters Cafe is a gem that I can't recommend highly enough.

Joanna B.
Joanna B.

I first found this place on Too Good to Go. Clearly, most of us in the bay have passed them hundreds of times en route to Alameda. This is sort of on the way to the tunnel, sort of, yet parking was not a problem. It was totally hidden in plain sight . The Shapeshifter Cafe is not within Heritage Park. It is in/along Jack London yet totally Victorian, quaint and quiet. The pastries are amazing! I won't restrict my visits to Too Good to Go. I checked out their menu and they have some fabulous French Toast! This is for breakfast brunch and lunch.

Kevin W.
Kevin W.

Sometimes, there is nothing better than a good sandwich. When I get that craving, I usually like to go to Autobahn Cafe. Located a good 4-5 blocks away from Jack London Square, it's a nice walk and offers the perfect amount of time to decide what to get. The staff, although rotating a couple of times within these last few years, are always friendly without there being too much pleasantries. They serve very tasty sandwiches, breakfast burritos, pastries, and espresso drinks. I'm not the biggest fan of their dripped coffee, but oh yes for their lattes. They serve their sandwiches with nice quality ingredients and the portions are always just-right, enough to enjoy a beverage and a side of chips.

Location

Welcome to Shapeshifters Café, a delightful haven nestled in the heart of Oakland, CA. Located at 571 5th St, this charming eatery specializes in mouthwatering salads and sandwiches, offering a refreshing twist to your dining experience.

What truly sets Shapeshifters Café apart is its commitment to quality and variety. Whether you are craving a nutritious salad or a hearty sandwich, you’ll find an impressive selection that caters to various dietary preferences, including vegan options. The café radiates a cozy atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or even a productive work session, thanks to their free Wi-Fi and quiet ambiance.

  • Falafel Wrap: Experience a burst of flavors with a whole wheat tortilla filled with hummus, fresh veggies, and tzatziki sauce. All for just $9.95.
  • Caprese Sandwich: Choose your favorite bread and savor house pesto, fresh mozzarella, and sun-ripened tomatoes, complemented by a splash of balsamic vinegar at $14.00.
  • Grilled Portobello Burger: A delicious option at $8.95 that promises to delight your taste buds.
  • Breakfast Burrito: A morning favorite featuring organic eggs, your choice of meat, and fresh veggies for just $12.00.

Guests rave about the inviting space, excellent service, and unforgettable coffee. From a robust Vietnamese coffee that packs a punch to refreshing chai lattes, every sip is crafted to perfection. Patrons like Jessica A. have noted the deliciousness of their sandwiches, while others, like Sydney J., enjoyed the café's Too Good to Go surprise bags filled with delectable pastries.

The café also boasts outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your meal or drink in a picturesque patio setting. It’s a pet-friendly space, welcoming dogs, and features amenities like bike parking and street parking for added convenience.

Overall, Shapeshifters Café is more than just a place to grab a bite; it’s a community hub where comfort meet flavor. Join the crowd of satisfied customers who can’t get enough of this hidden gem. Bring your friends, family, or colleagues, and discover why people keep coming back for more!

For more information or to place a reservation, give them a call at (510) 836-1234.