Discover Arizmendi Bakery on Oakland’s vibrant Lakeshore Avenue, where fresh-baked wonders draw crowds daily.
This worker-owned gem, inspired by Basque cooperatives, crafts artisan breads and rotating pizzas that keep locals lining up.
Since 1997, its commitment to quality ingredients and community vibes has turned quick stops into daily rituals.
How Arizmendi Bakery won locals’ hearts
Picture this: back in 1997, a group inspired by Berkeley’s legendary Cheeseboard Collective launched Arizmendi on Lakeshore Avenue, naming it after Basque priest José María Arizmendiarrieta.
This wasn’t just any bakery, it was a worker cooperative, where staff own and run the show together.
That democratic spirit resonated in Oakland’s tight-knit neighborhoods, fostering loyalty beyond mere dough.
Lines formed fast for hot-from-the-oven sourdoughs and surprise pizzas, word spreading like wildfire among families and foodies.
By baking daily with seasonal twists, they nailed that fresh, healthy appeal locals craved no chains could touch.
Always a line, but it moves quickly! as one fan gushed about English muffins and baguettes.
Pizza slices wowed with crisp, airy crusts and vibrant toppings, earning spots on “best of Oakland” lists.
Their co-op ethos added heart; customers felt good supporting ethical eats amid corporate giants.
Today, it’s a ritual morning for pastries, lunch for pizza, cementing Arizmendi as Lakeshore’s beating heart.
Even kids’ wiki pages buzz about its co-op magic, drawing generations.
Fast service, vegan options, and that unbeatable sourdough tang? Pure local catnip.
Food Highlights
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Pizza of the Day: Daily vegetarian masterpiece on thin organic sourdough crust with seasonal veggies, oils, and herbs – must-try for its fresh, balanced flavors that reviewers call “really good” with crisp, tasty crust. 🍕
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Veggie Pizza Slice: Hearty slice packed with garden gems like cauliflower, leeks, pine nuts, and pesto – super popular for fresh ingredients and no-flop chewiness, fans rave about. 🥦
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English Muffin: Chewy, flavorful staple straight from the oven – locals love it for grab-and-go perfection with fast, friendly service. 🧁
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Vegan Scone (Tue-Thurs): Flaky, fruit-packed treat that’s dairy-free – a hit among vegans and pastry hounds for its moist crumb and bold taste. 🌱
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City Bread & Batards: Rustic loaves with hearty wheat vibes, hot mornings and afternoons – essential for toast obsessives praising the signature chew. 🍞
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Cherry Corn Scone: Sweet-savory combo of cherries and corn in a buttery scone – crowd-pleaser per customer faves, ideal for coffee dunking. 🍒
Atmosphere
Step into Arizmendi and feel the buzz of a community hub alive with chatter and oven aromas.
Grab-and-go energy rules, with lines that zip thanks to efficient co-op teamwork.
Bright, welcoming space screams neighborhood favorite, perfect for quick chats or park picnic prep.
It’s casual Oakland charm – fresh, friendly, unpretentious.
Bottom Line
Visit for co-op fresh pizza, vegan pastries, crisp sourdoughs, ethical vibes, and unbeatable local love all under $10 slices!
Your taste buds will thank you. 💥
Address: 3265 Lakeshore Ave, Oakland, CA 94610
📞 (510) 268-8849
🕔 Tue-Fri 7 AM–7 PM, Sat-Sun 8 AM–7 PM (closed Mon)