Traveling Across The Globe At Juhu Beach Club

When defining Oakland’s restaurant scene in 2013, the one word that kept popping into my mind is soul - the soulfulness of dishes, the soulful vibe of a restaurant, chefs who were cooking from their heart and soul.  Never was that more evident than at the vibrant and energetic Juhu Beach Club in the Temescal District.

Chef Preeti Mistry has found the perfect home for her style of cooking.  The talented chef, who many may be familiar with from her stint on “Top Chef,” takes guests on a trip with her to Mumbai, but in a playful manner.  You get a sense of the flavors that Chef Mistry grew up with in India, and the food she enjoyed eating, by what she offers at Juhu Beach Club.  From the signature pavs (think of them as an Indian version of a slider), to the whole chicken leg, an assortment of salads and other smaller plates, each dish is filled with flavors taking guests to another part of the world.  Many dishes have an extra kick of spice, but even the more mild ones provide a fresh and unique look into modern Indian cuisine, through the vision of Chef Mistry.

While dishes at Juhu Beach Club may seem simple, they are truly filled with so many different textures, and flavor profiles that are distinct and truly unique.  There is also a California appeal, as Mistry uses sustainable produce, and local and organic ingredients whenever possible.  You may not see dishes like butter chicken or tikka masala, but that is part of what adds to the appeal of the restaurant.  There is a sense of what’s familiar, but also, something new and adventurous that touches new taste buds.  

Named after Chef Mistry’s favorite city beach in Mumbai, the decor and ambience at Juhu Beach Club is fun and relaxed, a place for solo dining at the counter, or in a larger group, with grandparents and kids alike.  While there is no sand or beaches, the bright colors and music playing from the speakers brings you to a beach-like setting, where you can kick back, relax and let the flavors from Chef Mistry’s small kitchen take you to a place far away.

It’s that vibe and the wonderful food and friendly service that bring me back to Juhu Beach Club, one of my best new restaurants of 2013.  Juhu Beach Club is located at 5179 Telegraph Avenue in Oakland.  Hours are Friday and Saturday for lunch from 11:30am – 2:30pm and Tuesday-Saturday for dinner from 5:30-9:30pm.