01
Classic local institution
Casa Orinda
Orinda Crossroads Area • Classic Western-Style American Restaurant • Historic Landmark
A long-running Orinda standby known for hearty, old-school comfort food and a Western ranch-house vibe.
Casa Orinda is the place locals name first when you ask about Orinda dining, thanks to its throwback cowboy décor and generous, nostalgia-leaning plates. Fried chicken, prime rib, and hearty pastas anchor the menu, backed by a strong cocktail list that suits the dim, clubby bar. It is ideal when you want a leisurely, slightly indulgent dinner that feels rooted in Orinda’s history.
02
Best date-night pick
Shelby's
Orinda Theatre Square • Mediterranean-Leaning Californian Bistro • Best Date-Night Pick
An intimate Theatre Square spot pairing seasonal California cooking with Mediterranean touches and a relaxed, candlelit room.
Tucked into Theatre Square, Shelby's feels polished without being stiff, with a menu that runs from crisp salads and seafood to pastas and well-executed meat dishes. Plates are composed but not fussy, leaning on good produce and bright Mediterranean flavors. It is a strong choice before a movie at the Orinda Theatre or for a low-key date night that still feels special.
03
Best for families
Piccolo Napoli
Downtown Orinda • Neapolitan-Style Pizzeria • Best For Families
Casual, kid-friendly pizza spot turning out thin, blistered pies and unfussy Italian comfort dishes.
Piccolo Napoli is where Orinda families gravitate for weeknight dinners and post-game pizza. The focus is on well-charred, Neapolitan-style pies with simple toppings, backed by pastas, salads, and a few approachable mains. Service is brisk and friendly, and the easygoing room makes it comfortable to roll in with kids or a big group without overthinking the night.
04
Neighborhood Thai standby
Siam Orchid Thai Restaurant
Orinda Village • Casual Thai Restaurant • Go-To For Weeknight Takeout
Low-key Thai favorite offering generous curries, noodles, and stir-fries that locals rely on for sit-down meals and takeout.
Siam Orchid is one of those unpretentious spots that quietly becomes part of your weekly rotation. The menu hits all the expected notes—pad thai, green and panang curries, satay, and spicy basil stir-fries—done consistently well and served in hearty portions. Dine in for a relaxed, no-rush meal, or call ahead for reliable takeout on nights you do not feel like cooking.
05
Lively pub pick
The Fourth Bore
Near Orinda Theatre • Lively Gastropub And Taproom • Happy-Hour Favorite
Bustling gastropub with craft beers, upgraded bar food, and plenty of energy before or after a movie or game.
Sitting just off the Orinda Theatre, The Fourth Bore brings a welcome dose of buzz to the town’s evenings. The tap list leans local and changes often, paired with elevated pub fare like burgers, wings, big salads, and shareable appetizers. It is an easy meet-up point for friends, with enough TVs for sports without losing the laid-back Lamorinda feel.