Wahpepah’s Kitchen
3301 East 12th Street, Oakland, CA 94601
Hours open
Monday:
Closed
Tuesday:
Closed
Wednesday:
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday:
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday:
11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday:
11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday:
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Photos
Location & Phone number
About the Business

Wahpepah’s Kitchen is a unique and culturally significant institution located in Oakland, California. Founded by Crystal Wahpepah, a member of the Kickapoo nation of Oklahoma, this restaurant aims to acknowledge the stolen land on which we live and reconnect with Native food ways. Crystal's deep connection to her culture and community is evident in every dish she creates.
Situated in the Fruitvale Plaza near the Fruitvale Bart station, Wahpepah’s Kitchen offers a diverse menu that changes with the seasons. Crystal's commitment to using Indigenous ingredients from sources she has a personal relationship with sets her cuisine apart. Her work goes beyond catering events - she also educates communities on the health benefits of Native food ways and the importance of reclaiming ancestral knowledge.
Crystal's expertise has been recognized with awards and features in prominent publications. She has spoken at various forums, ranging from local community settings to tech companies and educational institutions. Her dedication to promoting food sovereignty and sustainability in Native and Indigenous communities is evident in everything she does.
Wahpepah’s Kitchen is not just a restaurant, but a portal to a more ethical and sustainable way of nourishing ourselves. Keep an eye on this institution, as Crystal has big plans for the future that will continue to honor her culture and heritage.
Reviews
"My server handled an entire room during a busy lunchtime shift while keeping her cool! I opted for Tacos and was able to mix it up with 1 Pulled Bison and 2 Smoked Squash served with a fresh wild green salad. Wapepah’s blue corn bread is a beautiful grainy texture and pairs great with Warm Berry Pudding. Wait…. Don’t leave without getting Frybread! Its delicate crispy exterior is perfectly balanced with its soft warm freshness, topped with a buttery finish!"
"Amazing taste of Native American dishes, served up for either lunch or dinner! I’m a fan of the rabbit tostada. It serves one, and is quite flavorful. Also, try out the salmon dip for something a little bit warm, to start off. Bike parking is available by the bike station (FREE) or bike link lockers. You can also just BART there, as it’s a multi-development station w/other stores nearby"
"Yummy unique dishes & friendly service! Table favorites were the smoked rabbit tostada, wild rice fritters, fry bread, and mole. And not to be forgotten is the maple latte! All dishes were great to try but some lacked in flavor slightly. We made a reservation for Sunday lunch and were sat at a beautiful big wooden table!"
"I’ve been wanting to try this place forever. It exceeded my expectations. Everything was incredibly fresh and flavorful. Here is what I ordered: 1. Elderberry Hibiscus Tea - great combination of sour and sweet. 2 Sweet potato Taquitos- perfectly cook and come with a variety of sauces. 3. Bison Fry Bread- beautifully prepared, flavorful and filling. 4. Blue Corn Mush - this way I could describe this is a blue corn pudding with fruit on top. The texture was new to me, but I really enjoyed it. It was not overly sweet. This was a lot of food so I took most of it home. Easily could’ve shared what I ordered with a friend. The place was packed when I went and I understand why. Very excited to go back and try more off of the menu. Must try if you are in the bay."
"This place was amazing! It was our first time trying authentic Native American Cuisine. I have never had bison before and it was so tender and juicy. First time tasting elder berry and that was a shock to my pallet. I would definitely come again when I’m in town. My only complaint was not having extra napkins with my food. Yes I could have asked but most places I eat they just offer extra napkins!"
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