If you’ve been paying attention to the 925 lately, you know the dining scene is doing a lot more than just “keeping up.” From the massive hype surrounding the arrival of Original Joe’s to the recent, ultra-swanky debut of Stereo 41, our corner of the East Bay is officially in its “main character” era.
But the momentum isn’t slowing down. Whether you’re looking for a late-night cocktail in Orinda or world-class jazz in San Ramon, here are five of the most exciting restaurants opening soon across the 925.
1. Meyhouse (San Ramon)
Meyhouse, the Turkish-inspired concept that has already made waves in Palo Alto and Sunnyvale, is bringing its unique blend of “meyhane” (social dining) and live jazz to San Ramon.
Expect an upscale atmosphere where meze-style shared plates—think fresh seafood and coal-grilled meats—combine with the energy of live performance.
The official ribbon-cutting is set for April 22, 2026, so mark your calendars for some Mediterranean magic.
Read our previous coverage: Meyhouse, San Ramon’s Upscale New Turkish Jazz and Food Club, Is Opening Soon
2. Oceania Fish Bar (Walnut Creek)
When the beloved Walnut Creek Yacht Club sailed into the sunset, the community was left wondering who could possibly fill those “big boat shoes.”
Enter the Ghaben family—the same team behind the vibe-heavy Lita and the newly opened Stereo 41. They are totally gutting and reimagining the space into Oceania Fish Bar.
While it’s still in the heavy construction and planning phase, the vision is a seafood-forward “fish bar” that will likely bring the same high-energy, modern aesthetic the Ghabens are known for. It’s a massive project that involves expanding the building’s footprint and adding a second floor, so it might be the most anticipated transformation in downtown.
Read our previous coverage: New Details Emerge on the Restaurant Replacing Walnut Creek Yacht Club
3. Sorso Bar and Bites (Orinda)
For years, people told Daniele Carsano that Orinda was “too quiet” for a lively, upscale cocktail lounge. He’s about to prove them wrong.
Sorso Bar and Bites is taking over the former Starbucks space in Theatre Square, aiming to give locals a reason to stay in town for nightlife instead of heading to Oakland or Walnut Creek.
The concept is “Italian tapas”—think seafood crudos, pressed sandwiches, and classic cocktails. It’s designed to be the perfect post-movie spot where the community can gather around beautiful plates and drinks.
Read our previous coverage: An “Interesting” New Bar and Restaurant is Coming to Orinda Theatre Square
4. Mt. Diablo BBQ (Lafayette)
The corner of 3422 Mt. Diablo Blvd. has been a bit of a “revolving door” for smokehouses lately, but Mt. Diablo BBQ is looking to break the rumored curse.
Led by the Ingram family—barbecue royalty from Gilroy—this new spot plans to bring serious low-and-slow expertise to downtown Lafayette.
Taking over the spot formerly occupied by All the Smoke and Horn Barbecue, the Ingrams are hoping their family-style approach and deep roots in Northern California barbecue will finally stick.
Read our previous coverage: https://bayareatelegraph.com/2026/03/15/a-new-bbq-restaurant-is-replacing-horn-in-lafayette-and-we-got-details/
5. Rancho Cantina (Danville)
Danville’s downtown is getting a taste of Lafayette’s wood-fired expertise. Rancho Cantina, which has been a staple on Mt. Diablo Blvd. for over a decade, is officially expanding to a second location in Danville.
Known for their wood-fired proteins and authentic enchiladas, the new spot will mirror the original’s core menu but feature a larger bar area—perfect for the Danville crowd.
Read our previous coverage: https://bayareatelegraph.com/2026/03/15/an-often-overlooked-lafayette-restaurant-is-expanding-with-new-location/
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